Extraction, Antibiofilm Activity and Characterization of Biosurfactant Produced by Limosilactobacillus reuteri IDCC 3701

Aims: This study aimed to extract and characterize a biosurfactant produced by Limosilactobacillus reuteri IDCC 3701, assess its emulsifying activity against crude oil, and investigate its antibiofilm properties against major foodborne pathogens. Methodology: The biosurfactant, named I-BS, was extracted from the cell-free supernatant of Limosilactobacillus reuteri IDCC 3701 using acid precipitation. The emulsification index, emulsifying activity, oil spreading test, drop collapse test, and microplate distortion assay were performed to evaluate the surfactant properties of I-BS. The antibiofilm activity of I-BS against foodborne pathogens was assessed using the Calgary Biofilm Device. Finally, the cell-free supernatant of Limosilactobacillus reuteri IDCC 3701 was subjected to GC-MS analysis. Results: I-BS demonstrated an emulsification index of 49.4% and emulsifying activity of 400.67, indicating its potential as an effective emulsifier for oils. Positive results were observed in the oil spreading test and microplate distortion assay, confirming its surfactant properties. Additionally, I-BS exhibited significant antibiofilm activity against foodborne pathogens. GC-MS analysis of the I-BS structure revealed the presence of octanoic acid, a surfactant compound. Conclusion: The biosurfactant I-BS, derived from Limosilactobacillus reuteri IDCC 3701, displayed promising emulsifying activity and demonstrated notable antibiofilm properties against foodborne pathogens. These findings suggest that I-BS holds potential as a lead compound for the development of novel anti-biofilm agents and additives in the food industry.