Cranberries Reduce Bacteria in Meat

Recent research from the University of Maine suggests that cranberries may help prevent bacteria from getting into your hamburgers this summer. The summertime warm weather means a big increase in individuals pulling out their barbecue grills and frying up burgers. Food-borne illness is a big problem in the United States, however, and individuals need to be especially careful with raw meat.

A press release states that an estimated 76 million cases of food borne illness and 5,000 associated deaths occur in the United States. Bacteria can grow quite rapidly in foods that are left at room temperature. In some cases, it is possible for millions of bacteria to develop in as short a time span as 15 minutes. Chemical additives are traditionally used to preserve food, but people are always looking for alternative and natural ways to preserve their food without having excess chemicals. New research suggests that at least for hamburgers, cranberries may be the answer.

The University of Maine research suggests that the combination of beef patties and cranberries may offer a unique line of defense against worrisome bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli and other types of food related bacteria.

Dr. Vivian Chi Hua Wu stated, "While last year our research proved that cranberry's antimicrobial effect offers a unique line of defense against food poisoning, this year we also focused on taste and found that it wasn't sacrificed. This is great news for consumers who are seeking natural alternatives to chemical additives in food. We have learned cranberries are a nutritional powerhouse offering many health benefits that are a great tool for food safety."

Previous research has legitimized the cranberry as a powerful nutritional source. This current research also shows that individuals don't notice a change in taste when cranberry is added to their meat. Last year, a study showed that cranberry added to meat that was infected with various types of dangerous bacteria significantly reduced the growth of Salmonella, E. coli, and other related bacteria. This study was presented at the Institute of Food Technologist (IFT). Tomorrow at the IFT, Dr Wu will present the new findings of the benefits of using cranberry.

Cranberry has long been regarded as a fruit that protects the human body from certain harmful bacteria that cause urinary tract infections (UTIs), stomach ulcers and gum disease. Cranberries have a powerful. According to the press release, cranberries perform a powerful "anti-adhesion" activity within the body due to a natural compound in the fruit called proanthocyanidins (PACs) that wards off bacteria. Cranberries contain more PACs and antioxidants than most fruit.

So, as you pull out food for your next barbecue, don't forget the cranberries!

Sources:

PR Newswire Press Release, http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/oceanspray/28679/