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Abstract
The growth rates of four strains of Vibrio parahaemolyticus were measured and compared
in a model broth system. The results for the fastest growing strain, based on 77 combinations
of temperature and water activity (aw) using NaCl as the humectant, were summarised
in the form of a predictive mathematical model. The model, of the square-root type
includes a novel term to describe the effects of super-optimal water activity, and
can be used to predict generation times for the temperature range (8-45 degrees C)
and water activity range (0.936-0.995) which permit growth of Vibrio parahaemolyticus.
Predicted generation times from the model were compared to literature data, using
bias and accuracy factors, for both laboratory media and foods. The model was shown
to give realistic growth estimates, with a bias value of 1.01, and an accuracy factor
of 1.38.