PhageWarn – Development of a phage problem warning system for dairies using undefined DL-starter cultures

In cheese production in Denmark, a recurring problem is acidification problems during production. This lead, among other things, to longer production times, a fluctuating water content in the cheese and changes in the texture and taste. In the worst case, these problems can lead to pathogenic and harmful bacteria developing in the cheese. Today, the dairies in Denmark use an acidification test that can detect these acidification problems. However, the test is not able to predict when in the process that the problems will occur. 

By: Grith Mortensen

The PhageWarn project will develop mathematical models that - based on rapid analysis data - can predict when acidification problems will occur. The models are based on the knowledge of the starter cultures used in cheese production. Project participants expect to use 'receptor binding proteins' (RBP) to predict the acidification problems. In addition, HT-qPCR will be used to reduce the analysis time from 24 hours to 8 hours.

All in all, the purpose of the PhageWarn project is to develop mathematical model that can predict when acidification problems in cheese production occur. The model will allow the dairies to intervene in a timely manner, which will contribute to a better and less time-consuming cheese production.