The biochemical characteristics of viable but nonculturable state Yersinia enterocolitica induced by lactic acid stress and its presence in food systems

•Lactic acid could induce Y. enterocolitica into VBNC state and VBNC state cells resuscitated in nutrient-rich media.•The ATP concentration and enzyme activity of VBNC state cells decreased, the ROS level of VBNC state cells increased.•Resistance of VBNC state cells to heat, high osmotic pressure and simulated gastric fluid changed.•The morphology and internal structure of VBNC state cells altered.•Ability of adhesion, invasion, motility and resistance to adverse environmental stress of VBNC state cells decreased.