Biography:

Dr. Beuchat's research is in the area of food microbiology. Pathogenic bacteria under study include Salmonella, Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Listeria monocytogenes. Processes and technologies to eliminate or control the growth of these pathogens in foods are being developed and evaluated. Growth, survival, death of and toxin production by pathogens in foods as influenced by thermal treatment, pH, acidity, chemical preservatives, water activity and modified atmosphere are being studied. Research is also being done to develop a selective medium for preservative-resistant yeasts. New and conventional procedures for killing heat-resistant ascospores of molds in acid foods are being evaluated.