Deployment of a Novel Organic Acid Compound Disinfectant against Common Foodborne Pathogens

Background: The disinfection process represents an important activity closely linked to the removal of micro-organisms in common processing systems. Traditional disinfectants are often not sufficient to avoid the spread of food pathogens; therefore, innovative strategies for decontamination are crucial to countering microbial transmission. This study aims to assess the antimicrobial efficiency of tetrapotassium iminodisuccinic acid salt (IDSK) against the most common pathogens present on surfaces, especially in food-borne environments. Methods: IDSK was synthesized from maleic anhydride and characterized through nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy (both (1)H-NMR and (13)C-NMR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The antibacterial activity was performed via the broth microdilution method and time-killing assays against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella enterica, Enterococcus faecalis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (IDSK concentration range: 0.5–0.002 M). The biofilm biomass eradicating activity was assessed via a crystal violet (CV) assay. Results: The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of IDSK was 0.25 M for all tested strains, exerting bacteriostatic action. IDSK also reduced biofilm biomass in a dose-dependent manner, reaching rates of about 50% eradication at a dose of 0.25 M. The advantages of using this innovative compound are not limited to disinfecting efficiency but also include its high biodegradability and its sustainable synthesis. Conclusions: IDSK could represent an innovative and advantageous disinfectant for food processing and workers’ activities, leading to a better quality of food and safer working conditions for the operators.