Traveling overseas introduces us to all kinds of food bacteria that can wreck havoc of the gut. But scientists have found that feta cheese made with raw sheep's milk contains a lactic acid bacteria which combats food poisoning. Small farms in traditional places like Macedonia and northern Greece don't use cheese and milk preservatives, and rely on this bacteria to give unique flavor. Now it's also being recognized as a natural antibiotic that can kill terribly debilitating poisoning like Listeria.

Interestingly enough, this friendly bacteria has a villainous side when encountered under different circumstances. The bacteria is called Enterococci and it's the same bacteria found with urinary tract infections and meningitis. It has shown up as a virulent strain in hospital epidemics.

Scientists are trying to find ways to harness the bacteria and use it for good, while minimizing the bad. Many scientists see the dangers of using additives and preservatives in foods, and they want to use the bacteria-fighting properties of enterococci instead.

So enterococci in my cheese? Yes, please. Enterococci during hospital surgery? No, thank you.

Source: Science Daily

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