Current knowledge on cryogenic microorganisms and food safety in refrigerators

With refrigeration and freezing functions, refrigerator aids in maintaining the flavor textural and nutritional value of food to the maximum extent, and inhibiting the growth and multiplication of microorganisms, thus is considered to be one of the best household food preservation methods. However, food-borne pathogens and spoilage bacteria (commonly called cryogenic microorganisms) have been generally detected in domestic refrigerators. An overview of diversity, outbreaks, virulence, antibiotic resistance, and survival mechanism of cryogenic microorganisms and correspondence food habitats in domestic refrigerators were provided in this review. Precautions for effective safety control of cryogenic microorganisms in refrigerator could be subsequently arouse. The survival of cryogenic microorganisms in refrigerators has become an important factor causing food safety issues. In view of this, an in-depth investigation and analysis of food safety issues caused by microorganisms in refrigerators were conducted in this review.