Benjamin Somerton
Doctor of Philosophy, (Food Technology)
Study Completed: 2014
College of Health
Citation
Thesis Title
Effect of cations on biofilm formation by Geobacillus species and Anoxybacillus flavitlermus dairy isolates
Read article at Massey Research Online: 
Heat-tolerant bacteria grow on the internal surfaces of heated regions of milk powder manufacturing plants. These bacteria often contaminate milk powder and may reduce its quality. Mr Somerton investigated the effects calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium ions have on the growth of heat-tolerant bacteria. He found that high sodium, together with low calcium and magnesium concentrations, inhibited the growth of heat-tolerant bacteria. He concluded that there is potential for milk powders with high sodium, low calcium, and low magnesium concentrations to have reduced numbers of heat-tolerant bacteria. These milk powders would be of a high quality and sell for high prices.
Supervisors
Professor Steve Flint
Professor John Brooks
Dr Denise Lindsay
Mr Eddie Smolinksi
Associate Professor Jon Palmer