Bacillus cereus is a facultative aerobic, gram positive, motile and spore forming bacterium. This type of bacteria forms heat-resistant spores and secretes two types of toxins: heat-sensitive entero toxin and heat-resistant emetic toxin. Therefore, it causes two different intoxications caused by these toxins in humans.

In the natural environment, microorganisms are naturally present in foodstuffs or come from contamination due to external factors. Especially after the plants' self-protection systems stop after the harvest, the microorganisms are activated immediately in the pores of the plants. In animal products, during the slaughter, because the animal's defense system stops, microorganisms move into action. Bacteria that begin to develop in the skin, hair, intestines and internal organs of the animal are transmitted to the meat.

Apart from these natural contamination, microorganisms are also spread to foods through soil, air, water and materials used or through humans. In order to prevent this situation, feces should not be used as fertilizer, the working environment and air in food establishments should be clean and moisture-free, the water used should be disinfected and micro-organisms should be disinfected, the materials used should be dry and clean and employees should be prevented from contacting with food as much as possible.

If foodstuffs are found under conditions under which microorganisms can grow, the risk of microorganisms infecting food is very high.

Bacillus cereus bacteria are very common in nature. It can be found in dust, soil and water, and in green and decaying plants. Cereals, dry foods, meat and dairy products, vegetables and other foods can easily develop these bacterial spores. Bacterial spores, which are resistant to high temperatures, act immediately if food is not stored under appropriate conditions and start toxin secretion. In this way, they cause food poisoning. This type of poisoning occurs most often in dishes made with rice.

 

In advanced laboratories, bacillus cereus bacteria are analyzed in microbiological analyzes. During these studies, the relevant standards are complied with.