Pseudomonas fluorescens in dairy products: a new case of blue mozzarella in Sardinia region

Abstract

Following a case of blue mozzarella occurred in Sardinia region, 14 isolates of Pseudomonas fluorescens have been isolated. Data analysis of pulsed-field-gel-electrophoresis profiles allowed to divide the isolates in two different clades, genetically unrelated. The presence of these two strains, deriving from nearby productions, confirmed the high diffusion of this microorganism. Multiples contamination sources (raw materials, processing surfaces and water supply) made this specie one of the most relevant of the dairy productions chain.