Biofilm formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Pseudomonas stutzeri and biofilm removal efficacy of hot water were examined. Both strains show different biofilm formation in BH broth and mineral water, but only a slight difference could be observed. Both Pseudomonas strain grew better in BH broth than in nutrient-poor medium. Pseudomonas stutzeri grow better in mineral water than Pseudomonas aeruginosa. There was no difference in attachment concerning the surface quality of the stainless steel coupons, irrespective of the growth medium. Hot water treatment reduced the number of planktonic cells with 4.5–6 log cycles, the number of adhered cells with 4.2–4.9 log cycles, and the number of biofilm cells with 2–3 log cycles, which was not sufficient to eliminate biofilms from the surface.

Hot water treatment effectively reduced planktonic cells, adhered cells, and biofilm cells, but not enough to eliminate biofilms from surfaces.

Biofilm removal of Pseudomonas strains using hot water sanitation.

Key Takeaway: Hot water treatment effectively reduced planktonic cells, adhered cells, and biofilm cells, but not enough to eliminate biofilms from surfaces.