Technological Applications of Macrococcus caseolyticus and its Impact on Food Safety

Macrococcus spp. are Gram-positive cocci that belong to the Staphylococcaceae family; they are closely related to staphylococci, but, unlike staphylococci, they are not considered as human pathogens. Macrococcus spp. are recognized as relevant veterinary pathogens, and their presence has been reported in food products of animal origin. Macrococcus caseolyticus, the most studied species of the Macrococcus genus, is associated with the development of aroma and flavor in fermented foods and is, thus, used as starter cultures in fermentations. However, certain important issues regarding food safety must be taken into account when employing these microorganisms in fermentations. Recent studies have reported the presence of genes associated with resistance to methicillin and other antibiotics in M. caseolyticus. This can be harmful to human health as these genes can be transferred to other bacteria present in the food, mainly staphylococcal species. This work, therefore, aims to highlight the importance of a more critical view on the presence of macrococci in foods and the possible indirect risks to human health.