Correlation between natural microbial load and formation of ropy slime affecting the superficial color of vacuum-packaged cooked sausage

: The present study outlines a comprehensive correlation between the natural microbial load, which is predominantly composed of heat-resistant sporous-forming Bacillus, and the changes in the original properties related to the superficial color of vacuum-packaged cooked sausages. For this purpose, microbial growth curves were plotted by stimulating the growth of the natural microbiota in sausage packages at different temperatures. The correlations were investigated during sample incubation by the instrumental evaluation of color and the ropy slime detection on the sausage surface. The entrance of the natural microbiota into the stationary phase (ca. 9.3 log cfu/g) resulted in changes in the superficial color, which was demonstrated by the discoloration of vacuum-packaged cooked sausages. Therefore, it seems to be a suitable borderline for predictive models applied in durability studies that aim to estimate the period in which vacuum-packaged cooked sausages keep their typical superficial color, anticipating product refusal in markets.