Effects of exposure to quaternary-ammonium-based biocides on antimicrobial susceptibility and tolerance to physical stresses in bacteria from organic foods
Strains from organic foods were adapted to benzalkonium chloride and hexadecylpyridinium chloride. Adapted strains showed cross-resistance to other biocides and antibiotics. Stress tolerance was not affected. Genetic determinants for efflux pumps were detected. Changes in membrane fluidity were detected in biocide-adapted strains.