Importance of Enterococcus spp. for Forming a Biofilm

The aim of this study was to monitor the capability of Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium to form biofilms. Enterococci isolates originated from individual milk, bulk milk samples and environmental swabs obtained at farm level, dairy plant level including semi and final dairy products. Biofilm formation potential was determined by growing the tested strains in glass tubes containing BHI medium. The capability of forming biofilms was detected in 28% of Enterococcus spp. Strains. Higher number of biofilm forming strains of the Enterococcus faecium (33%) than Enterococcus faecalis (28%) has been registered. Isolates obtained at farm level were forming biofilms more often than isolates from plant level and in final products (cheese and curd cheese).