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Inhibition of the growth of Escherichia coli isolated from 'Minas Frescal' cheese by Lactobacillus acidophilus

Escherichia coli is part of the normal facultative anaerobic microflora and one of the major enteric pathogens in the colon of animals and humans. In vitro trials were conducted to evaluate the level of antagonistic activity of five strains of Lactobacillus acidophilus with probiotic effect on Escherichia coli BIA 26 (STEC), which was isolated from 'Minas frescal' cheese. Inhibition assays were carried out using the double layer method in triplicates to evaluate growth inhibition zones. All L. acidophilus strains were capable to inhibit E. coli, with inhibition zones ranging from 12 to 15mm, but mostly around 14mm in diameter, and considered strong inhibition halos.

lactic acid bacteria; probiotic; antagonistic action; pathogens


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