Application of bacteriophages in the prevention of Bacillus cereus infection in potatoes

Background The main component of potatoes is starch, which can serve as an easy breeding ground for Bacillus cereus during storage. This can decrease the shelf life of potatoes and pose food safety issues. Methods This study isolated several strains of B. cereus from rotten potatoes in the market as well as one of their bacteriophages, Bacillus phage PHZU0001, from municipal sewage. The genome of Bacillus phage PHZU0001 was sequenced. The phage sensitivity to eight B. cereus strains was detected using plaque assay. Stability assays assessed the phage’s thermal and pH tolerance. Results The results showed that this bacteriophage had wide host range against B. cereus of different strains. Based on its genome sequence, this bacteriophage is from the Herelleviridae family. The biological characteristics of this bacteriophage indicated that it maintains stability at temperatures ranging from 23 °C to 50 °C and at pH levels ranging from 5 to 9. Inoculation of Bacillus phage PHZU0001 in potatoes effectively inhibited infection by B. cereus . Conclusion This study identified a bacteriophage with a wide host range against B. cereus with potential applications in food storage and food safety.