Do you get up early in the morning to pack fresh lunch for work so that it does not get spoilt? Well, soon this problem could be solved with a new discovery. Researchers at the University of Minnesota have discovered a natural preservative that could spell the end of rotting food.
They have pinpointed the substance that destroys the bacteria that make meat, fish, eggs and dairy products decompose. The preservative, called bisin, could extend the food's life for several years - and even work for opened bottles of wine and salad dressing. Bisin occurs naturally in some types of harmless bacteria. It prevents the growth of lethal bacteria including E-coli, salmonella and listeria. The substance could extend the life of a variety of everyday foods, which have strict use-by dates including seafood, cheese and canned goods.
The researchers have also claimed that in some cases these foods could last for years and may not even need to be kept in the fridge. The first products containing bisin are expected to be on the market within three years. However, Bisin will not prevent fruit and vegetables rotting as they decompose in a different way.
{{/usCountry}}The researchers have also claimed that in some cases these foods could last for years and may not even need to be kept in the fridge. The first products containing bisin are expected to be on the market within three years. However, Bisin will not prevent fruit and vegetables rotting as they decompose in a different way.
{{/usCountry}}Dr Dan O'Sullivan, an Irish microbiologist who works at the university, made the discovery by accident while examining a culture of bacteria found in the human intestine. "It seems to be much better than anything which has gone before. It doesn't compromise nutrient quality - we are not adding a chemical, we are adding a natural ingredient," the Daily Mail quoted him as saying."I
t's aimed at protecting foods from a broad range of bugs that cause disease," he added.