New Natural Preservative Kills Food-Born Bacteria

University of Minnesota researchers have discovered and successfully patented a natural preservative called bisin, which can kill food-born bacteria, including E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria.

A naturally-occuring lantibiotic, bisin is reported to be the first natural preservative capable of killing gram-positive bacteria.

“It’s aimed at protecting foods from a broad range of bugs that cause disease,” said Dan O’Sullivan, professor of food science and nutrition at the University of Minnesota. “Of the natural preservatives, it has a broader umbrella of bugs that it can protect against.”

Use of the natural preservative may be viable for a range of products, including meats, processed cheeses, dairy products, canned foods, salad dressings, and fermented beverages.

According to reports from The Telegraph, bisin could allow some products to remain on shelves for up to three years.