A biocidal combination capable of sanitizing raw chicken skin

A combination of hydrogen peroxide, sodium bisulfate and thymol was found to be an effective sanitization agent for poultry processing. The MIC values for the hydrogen peroxide combination were two fold lower for broth cultures and three fold lower for surface attached organisms than the MIC’s for individual components against Escherichia coli or Salmonella typhimurium. Fractional Inhibitory Concentrations (FIC) indicated an additive effect for broth cultures, however, a strongly synergistic action against attached cells. Immersion of contaminated steel coupons in a 2500 ppm (based on peroxide concentration) solution of the combination eliminated both E. coli and S. typhimurium within a minute. This combination may be a safe and effective substitute for current antimicrobial compounds used in poultry processing.