Adherencia de Escherichia coli Patógena a Superficies Agrícolas en la Producción de Melón Honeydew: Formación Potencial de Biopelículas

Adherence of Pathogenic Escherichia coli to Agricultural Surfaces in Honeydew Melon Production: Potential Biofilm Formation

Abstract

The consumption of Honeydew melon has increased worldwide; however, its production can pose a public health risk if contaminated with pathogenic bacteria such as Escherichia coli, which are capable of forming biofilms on agricultural surfaces. The objective of this study was to evaluate the adhesion capacity of pathogenic E. coli strains isolated from different points in the Honeydew melon production system in Hermosillo, Sonora, on materials commonly used during harvest and packing. Four representative strains and one control strain were selected, and their Adhesion was assessed on cardboard, polyethylene, polypropylene, and melon rind at different contact times (3, 6, 12, and 24 hours). Quantification was performed using standard microbiological techniques and statistical analysis, including one-way ANOVA and multiple linear regression. The results indicated that the type of strain did not have a significant effect on Adhesion, whereas surface type and contact time were determining factors. Polypropylene and polyethylene surfaces showed significantly lower bacterial retention. These findings underscore the significance of surface material in biofilm formation, suggesting that the use of low-bacterial-affinity materials may enhance food safety, particularly during the harvesting and packing stages.