"Unforeseen Gut Microbiome Effects of Common Food Preservatives"
A study by scientists from the University of Chicago has found that lantibiotics, a class of bacteriocins widely used as food preservatives, have potent effects on both pathogens and commensal gut bacteria, potentially disrupting the delicate balance of the gut microbiome. The research revealed that these lantibiotics, including the popular nisin, can kill both harmful pathogens and beneficial commensal bacteria, raising concerns about their impact on gut health. The study aims to better understand the antimicrobial properties of lantibiotics and their potential effects on gut health, while also exploring ways to counter their potential negative influence.