Characterization of interactions between Escherichia coli O157:H7 with epiphytic bacteria in vitro and on spinach leaf surfaces

► Epiphytic bacteria reduced E.coli O157:H7 when co-inoculated on spinach leaves. ► Epiphytic bacteria increased E. coli O157:H7 on detached spinach leaves. ► A cellobiose wash solution decreased E.coli O157:H7 numbers on detached spinach. ► Growth reduction of E.coli O157:H7 was associated with competition for nutrients. ► Stimulatory epiphytes did not compete for carbon sources with E.coli O157:H7.