Taking a Phage out nature's book of wonders ...
Government scientists think the answer to pathogens on fresh fruit and vegetables is a viral species. Phages are viruses that infect and kill only bacteria. Because Phages are very selective about their host bacteria, USDA researchers think the viruses can be used to target and kill salmonella on fresh-cut produce without harming beneficial bacteria or the fruit.
Phage application could be a boon to super markets that already enjoy strong sales of consumer-convenient fresh cut fruits and vegetables.