Page 5 - Microbiology in workplace

P. 5

GMP Training – Microbiology in the Workplace by www.gmpsop.com

GOOD TO KNOW – SPORES

Bacteria are usually vegetative cells that can grow and reproduce easily.
However, some bacteria and fungi can form chemical and heat-resistant spores
when the conditions surrounding them are harsh. They are most commonly
found in soil organisms, like Bacilli and Clostridia.

Spores do not grow or reproduce. Instead, they lie dormant until environmental
conditions are conducive to growth. When this occurs, a spore will germinate
and form a vegetative (growing) cell.

Spores can survive extreme heat, drying, or exposure to toxic chemicals, such
as disinfectants. For example, the spores of Clostridium Botulinum can survive
boiling for several hours. Most spores can withstand temperatures of 80°C for
several minutes, whereas most vegetative (growing) cells are killed by
temperature of about 60°C

Because spores are so difficult to kill, they need to be excluded from product.
This is normally achieved by protecting the manufacturing environment from
outside dirt and air. As germination may be triggered by brief exposure to heat,
water, or by mechanical forces, manufacturing facilities should also be kept
dry.

Roles of bacteria and fungi
Micro-organisms are essential for your health. The normal flora that covers your
skin and internal surfaces prevent disease-causing micro-organisms from taking
over.

Bacteria and fungi play a vital in the decomposition of all organic matter,
returning carbon, nitrogen, and other essential elements back to the soil.

Bacteria and fungi also play important roles in industry, for instance, in the
production of food, vaccines, and antibiotics. Probiotic bacteria, which can be
found in yoghurt, helps the body remove cholesterol. Yeasts, a type of fungus,
are used in the production of bread and alcohol. Moulds, another fungus, make
penicillin.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10