Impact of indigenous microorganisms on Escherichia coli O157:H7 growth in cured compost

► Our findings revealed that the growth of E. coli O157:H7 in compost was inhibited by indigenous actinomycetes and fungi. ► Dry-heat treatment results in a compost product resembling cured compost with different levels of indigenous microflora. ► Our results have direct impact on microbiological safety of compost being used for produce production.