Using regression and Multifactorial Analysis of Variance to assess the effect of ascorbic, citric, and malic acids on spores and activated spores of Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris

The type strain of the species Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris (DSM 3922) and the strain CB1 (accession number: KP144333) were studied in this research to assess the effects of three weak acids (malic, citric, and ascorbic acids), pH (3 or 4), and spore status (spores, and activated spores). Acids were used to prepare 7 different blends, and the blends used to reduce the pH of Malt Extract broth to 3 and 4; then, media were inoculated with spores or activated spores, stored at 45 °C (optimal temperature for A. acidoterrestris growth), and analyzed immediately and after 2 and 7 days.