Effect of storage conditions (relative humidity, duration, and temperature) on the germination time of Aspergillus carbonarius and Penicillium chrysogenum

► Conidia of Aspergillus carbonarius and Penicillium chrysogenum, responsible for food spoilage, are disseminated in the air. ► The germination time of these airborne conidia is greater than that of fresh conidia grown in the laboratory. ► Relative humidity of the air, storage duration and temperature are important factors for explaining this increase. ► This effect should be taken into account for determining the mould free shelf life of food products.