ε-Polylysine hydrochloride can reduce microbial contamination in edible fungi, primarily due to the following characteristics:
1. Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial Activity
ε-Polylysine hydrochloride exhibits significant inhibitory effects on various microorganisms, including Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, yeasts, molds, and some viruses. This broad-spectrum antimicrobial property enables it to effectively inhibit the growth and reproduction of harmful microorganisms during the storage and processing of edible fungi, thus reducing the risk of contamination.
2. High Safety Profile
ε-Polylysine hydrochloride is a nutritional preservative that can be fully digested and absorbed by the human body, breaking down into lysine, an essential amino acid. This ensures that while reducing contamination in edible fungi, it poses no harmful side effects to human health. Moreover, it has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), further confirming its safety.
3. Good Thermal Stability
The processing of edible fungi often involves heat treatment. ε-Polylysine hydrochloride maintains its antibacterial properties even under high-temperature conditions, allowing it to continuously exert its antimicrobial effects throughout the processing stages, ensuring the quality and safety of the fungi.
4. Excellent Water Solubility
ε-Polylysine hydrochloride has good water solubility, which allows it to distribute evenly during the storage and processing of edible fungi, thus enhancing its antimicrobial effect.
5. Environmentally Friendly
As a bio-based preservative, ε-Polylysine hydrochloride is more environmentally friendly compared to traditional chemical preservatives. Its use can reduce environmental pollution, aligning with the modern food industry's goals of green and sustainable development.
Thanks to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, high safety, good thermal stability, excellent water solubility, and eco-friendly nature, ε-Polylysine hydrochloride plays a crucial role in reducing microbial contamination in edible fungi. Proper application of this preservative in the storage and processing of edible fungi can effectively enhance their quality and safety.