Foods in modified atmosphere packages are conducive to the growth of which microorganism?

Foods in modified atmosphere packages (MAP) are designed to extend shelf life by altering the composition of gases in the package, typically reducing oxygen levels. This environment can be especially conducive to the growth of certain anaerobic bacteria, one of which is Clostridium botulinum.

Clostridium botulinum thrives in low-oxygen conditions, making modified atmosphere packaging a risk factor for its proliferation. This bacterium is responsible for botulism, a severe illness that can occur when food containing its toxins is ingested. In contrast, other bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella are typically found in aerobic conditions and are more associated with other types of food safety issues but do not specifically require a modified atmosphere for growth. Listeria monocytogenes can grow in a variety of conditions, including at lower temperatures, but it does not particularly thrive in the anaerobic environments that MAP creates.

Thus, the environment created by modified atmosphere packaging is particularly suitable for the growth of Clostridium botulinum, making it crucial to be aware of this risk when using such packaging methods.