Microbial Spoilage of Foods

"The loss of food due to microbial spoilage has economic consequences for the producers, processors and consumers. Except for sterile foods, all foods harbor microorganisms. Food spoilage stems from the growth of these microorganisms in food or in due to the action of microbial heat-stable enzymes. New marketing trends, the consumer's desire for foods that are not overly processed and preserved, extended shelf-life, and chances of temperature abuse between production and consumption of foods have greatly increased the chances of food spoilage and, in some instances, with new types of microorganisms. The major concerns are the economic loss and wastage of food. New concepts are being studied to reduce contamination as well as control the growth of spoilage microbes in foods. The book should prove to be an useful source of information for the students of food microbiology, food science and technology, food biotechnology, agriculture, horticulture, food and nutrition, hotel and catering management and other food-related courses."