Predictive microbiology combined with metagenomic analysis targeted on the 16S rDNA : A new approach for food quality

The food spoilage process is mainly caused by alteration micro-organisms and classical culture-based methods may not be relevant to understand the modifications of the microbial ecology in food products. Metagenomic analysis targeted on 16S ribosomal DNA can elucidate microbial community structures at a muche higher resolution than was previously possible. Combined with predictive microbiological models, a new approach was investigated to take into account bacterial populations dynamics in perishable foods under different environmental conditions. White pudding samples, a typical Belgian pork meat product, were packed under food wrap (atmospheric air condition). Durability studies were conducted at 4°C, 12°C and a dynamic temperature profile according to the NF V01-003 standards (4°C (1/3 of the shelf life) - 8°C (2/3 of the shelf life)) during 15 days. The effect of organic acids was also investigated using a lactic acid (1.8% w/w) treatment. At each day of the trials, classical microbiological (total flora) and 16S rDNA metagenomic analysis were carried out on all these samples. For the metagenomic analysis, a sequencing library was generated, targeting the V1-V3 region of the 16S rDNA. The two major bacterial populations were thus identified (Psychrobacter sp and Brochotrix thermosphacta) and predictive microbiology models used to assess the growth parameters. Cardinal parameters for temperature were collected on the two main bacterial species. The model was validated using the data obtained at a dynamic temperature profile. The results of the simulations for Psychrobacter sp and Brochotrix thermosphacta show a good compliance between predicted and observed data. Compared to culture based methods on selective media and previous independent culture techniques, metagenomic analysis combined with predictive microbiology gives more valuable information, and could be considered as a technological breakthrough to control the quality or for accurately determining shelf life.