Inactivation of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in biofilm on stainless steel by treatment with an alkaline cleaner and a bacteriophage

Abstract

The alkaline pH, in combination with hypochlorite, in a commercial cleaner is responsible for killing E. coli O157:H7 in biofilms. Treatment with bacteriophage KH1 reduces populations of cells attached to coupon surfaces but not cells in biofilms.