Staphylococcus aureus 2064 growth as affected by temperature and reduced water activity

Based on 247 growth data, the growth of S. aureus 2064 in dependence on temperatures (8-50°C) and a^w values (0.999-0.83) was described. Optimal values of a_w at all studied temperatures were determined by using Gibson model. Its compatibility was confirmed by several statistical indices, e.g. root mean square errors (RMSE 0.003-0.138), standard errors of prediction (%SEP 0.6-17.5). Cardinal values for S. aureus growth (T_min =7.7°C, T_opt =40.6°C, T_max =46.7°C, a_wmin =0.808, a_wopt =0.994, μ_opt =1.97 1/h) were determined by using CM model with indices RMSE=0.071, SEP=17.5%. Our findings can provide relevant growth information that can be used in S. aureus exposure assessment or in validation of other data regarding the growth of this opportunistic pathogen in foods.