Germination inhibition of Bacillus cereus spores: impact of the lipophilic character of inhibiting compounds

► The impact of a range of organic acids and structurally similar alcohols was tested on Bacillus cereus spore germination. ► Lipohilicity is an important determinant for the ability of organic acids and alcohols to inhibit spore germination. ► Effectivity of the various compounds is largely dictated by spore membrane interference. ► Germination inhibition by accumulation of lipophilic compounds in the inner membrane is reversible and can be circumvented. ► Accumulation of short- to medium-chain lipophilic compounds in the inner membrane does not affect membrane integrity.