Lactic acid bacteria metabolites for mycotoxin biocontrol in food
Leveraging novel metabolites from lactic acid bacteria (LAB), this solution offers an innovative biocontrol strategy to prevent mycotoxin contamination in food, enhancing food safety through eco-friendly methods.
Overview
This technology leverages metabolites produced by lactic acid bacteria (LAB) as a novel approach to control mycotoxigenic molds, thereby preventing mycotoxin contamination in food. Given that LABs are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) and naturally occurring in food, they present a promising biocontrol strategy. This innovative method aims to enhance food safety by utilizing microbial metabolites as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional chemical treatments.
Technical specifications
The research focuses on identifying antimycotoxigenic metabolites from novel LAB isolates sourced from agro-industrial waste. Initial studies have shown significant antagonistic activity of certain LAB strains against mycotoxigenic molds. Key steps include:
- Cell-free supernatants testing for antifungal and antimycotoxigenic properties.
- Transcriptomic analysis to identify metabolites responsible for this activity.
- In vitro production of identified metabolites guided by gene sequences.
- Physicochemical profiling and validation in real food products to confirm safety and stability.
Technology readiness level
Currently at Technology Readiness Level 3, this solution has demonstrated feasibility in lab settings with significant antagonistic effects against molds. The next phases involve detailed characterization and validation in food products to assess its practical applicability and effectiveness.
About Universidad de Costa Rica
Universidad de Costa Rica is a comprehensive public research university headquartered in San José and the country’s principal generator of research. Its on‑campus research complex, the Ciudad de la Investigación, co‑locates institutes and shared labs next to the main campus, streamlining joint work and facility access. Industry engagement runs through PROINNOVA for IP, licensing and collaboration, while AUGE offers incubation and acceleration that connect companies with prototypes and talent. Projects are supported by national funding via the FEES mechanism coordinated by CONARE and by competitive programs from MICITT. Standardized material‑transfer processes further de‑risk partnerships and speed execution.
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