Growth and cell morphology of listeria monocytogenes as affected by various concentrations of NaCl and KCl

Abstract

In this study, the effects of various concentrations of NaCl and KCl on the growth characteristics and cell morphology of L. monocytogenes were evaluated. It was found that L. monocytogenes can grow in the presence of 1-9 % NaCl and 1-11 % KCl. The higher the concentration of NaCl used, the longer the lag phase induced. In addition, it was observed that L. monocytogenes tolerate KCl better than NaCl when using the same percents in broth. Microscopic analyses of L. monocytogenes following incubation revealed cell elongation under high salt conditions. The beginning of filament formation was apparent at 5 % NaCl and 7% KCl with an increase in filament length with increasing salt concentration.