Question

At what temperature microorganisms stop their growth?

Answer 1

Bacteria can exist as vegetative cells or as spores, depending upon species. Also death of bacteria ( cells and spores) is dependent on the combined effect of specific temperature and the time it is applied.

1. Except some thermostables, most cells will be killed at 161 F or 71 C in 16 seconds ( pasteurization temperature and time for milk).
2. All bacterial cells will be at 100 C or 212 F within 5 sec.
3. Except for heat resistant spores, all types all spores will be killed at commercial sterilization ( depend on time and temperature combinations).[ over 100 C under pressure].
4. All spores will be killed by sterilization ( 121 C for 15 min).