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01.09.2023 - Foods

Bacillus cereus – Underestimated Pathogen

Bacillus cereus is a bacterium that occurs ubiquitously in the environment. Animal and plant foods can be contaminated through soil, dust, and wastewater.

If contaminated food is stored at temperatures between approximately 7 and 50 °C, Bacillus cereus can multiply. Even heated or pasteurized products can contain high levels of Bacillus cereus, as Bacillus cereus is able to form heat-resistant endospores. With increased germ load, various toxins are formed, which can cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea when ingested.

The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) recommends several hygienic measures to keep the multiplication as low as possible.

Further information can also be found in the BfR leaflet on Bacillus cereus.

At BAV Institute, we regularly conduct tests for presumptive Bacillus cereus and other pathogenic microorganisms. We provide you with quick and reliable results.

If you have any questions, our customer service representatives are happy to help.