Differences in the antibacterial activity of nisin and bovicin HC5 against Salmonella Typhimurium under different temperature and pH conditions

Aims: To compare the action of nisin and bovicin HC5 in combination with EDTA on Salmonella Typhimurium under different environmental conditions.

Methods and results: Salmonella Typhimurium was treated in BHI broth containing EDTA (1·5 mmol l(-1)) and nisin or bovicin HC5 (200 AU ml(-1)) under different pH and temperature conditions, and according to a central composite design with two factors (temperature and pH). Cell viability was evaluated on plate count agar for 48 h. The combination of nisin or bovicin HC5 with EDTA was able to inhibit the growth of Salmonella, but the temperature and pH conditions promoting inhibition were distinct for each bacteriocin. Nisin was bactericidal over a broad range of temperature and pH, while bovicin HC5 was bacteriostatic in most conditions and bactericidal only in specific conditions (pH >6·0 and temperature >30°C). Salmonella Typhimurium did not show tolerance to bovicin HC5 or cross-tolerance between these lantibiotics.

Conclusions: Nisin and bovicin HC5 both inhibited the growth of Salmonella, but the activity of each bacteriocin was differently influenced by environmental conditions.

Significance and impact of the study: Nisin and bovicin HC5 have the potential to inhibit the growth of Salmonella, but environmental conditions should be considered to establish optimal conditions for its application.