Bacteriocidal surfaces and articles with attached bacteriocin

Abstract

Articles and surfaces are disclosed having antimicrobial activity. Also disclosed are methods for treating surfaces and articles to confer antimicrobial activity. Such articles and surfaces are particularly adapted for food contact use, such as food preparation or packaging. Antimicrobial activity is conferred by applying molecules of a polypeptide bacteriocin, e.g., nisin, such as by contacting the surface or article with a liquid solution of a bacteriocin or bacteriocin mixture. The bacteriocin molecules are attached to the surface or article via any means enabling the molecules to subsequently detach and lethally interact with susceptible bacteria deposited on the treated surface or article. Such detached bacteriocin molecules can also kill susceptible bacteria present on foods or other substances that contact the surface or article. Attached bacteriocins are stable to drying, water rinsing, and freezing, even for long periods.