MICROBIOLOGIA E TECNOLOGIE AGROALIMENTARI

Module MICROBIOLOGIA AGROALIMENTARE

Knowledge and understanding: At the end of the course, students will be able to describe the cytological and physiological characteristics of microbial cells, understanding the role and potential uses of microorganisms in agri-food biotechnology.

Applying knowledge and understanding: The knowledge acquired will enable students to understand, interpret, and manage the factors that influence the development of microorganisms in complex matrices.

Making judgments: Students will be able to make judgments and will acquire critical thinking through the adoption of diversified teaching methods, including, in addition to lectures, seminars with experts, classroom discussions, technical visits, and the preparation of scientific or laboratory reports, offering students multiple learning paths.

Communication skills: Students will acquire and be able to use appropriate terminology to address the fundamental topics of agri-food microbiology.

Learning skills: The course aims to provide students with useful tools to continue their studies independently and ideas for connections with other subjects in the program.

The course comprises 21 hours (3 ECTS credits) of lectures and 42 hours (3 ECTS credits) of laboratory exercises and educational visits.

If the course is delivered in blended or remote mode, appropriate adjustments may be made to the above to ensure consistency with the syllabus.

There are no prerequisites. However, basic knowledge of biology and general chemistry is required.

Attending the classes is not mandatory, but strongly recommended, as it facilities the learning process and contributes to the achievement of the learning objectives.

Microbial morphology and cytology (cellular forms, cell structure). Overview of microbial taxonomy. Microbial metabolism (respiration and fermentation). Microorganisms as agents of food transformation and production (dairy products, baked goods, alcoholic beverages). Microorganisms as agents for enhancing soil fertility and in biological wastewater treatment.

1.     “Microbiologia generale e agraria” seconda edizione. Biavati B., Sorlini C. CEA Casa Editrice Ambrosiana (ISBN 978-88-08-18113-8)

2.     “Microbiologia agroambientale” Biavati B., Sorlini C. CEA Casa Editrice Ambrosiana (ISBN 978-88-408-1383-7)

Other teaching materials for students, available on the STUDIUM platform, include:

- Copies of PowerPoint presentations presented during lectures and seminars.

- Scientific articles and other teaching materials, including links and/or scientific articles for consultation.

The student must respond fully, coherently, and comprehensively to the topics asked during the exam.

Oral Exam: The oral exam is individual and will test the student's reasoning and ability to connect the acquired knowledge.

Project Evaluation: Group PowerPoint presentation: Each group will present a PowerPoint presentation on a topic of their choice, and their organizational and presentation skills will be assessed.

The evaluation follows the scheme reported below:

- Failed: Knowledge and understanding of the topic: significant shortcomings and inaccuracies. Ability to analyze and synthesize irrelevant, with frequent generalizations. Use of references: completely inappropriate. 

- 18-20: Knowledge and understanding of the topic: very modest with evident imperfections. Analysis and synthesis skills: barely adequate. Use of references: just appropriate. 

- 21-23: Knowledge and understanding of the topic: knowledge is slightly above the minimum acceptable level. Ability to analyze and synthesize: a fair ability to analyze and synthesize information, presenting arguments logically and coherently. Using references: uses standard references.

- 24-26: Knowledge and understanding of the topic: good knowledge. Analysis and synthesis skills: good analytical and synthesis abilities; arguments are presented consistently. Using references: use of standard references. 

- 27-29: Knowledge and understanding of the topic: knowledge more than good. Ability to analyze and synthesize: considerable abilities of analysis and synthesis. Use of references: the topic has been explored in depth.

- 30-30 cum laude: Knowledge and understanding of the topic: excellent knowledge. Ability to analyze and synthesize: excellent abilities of analysis and synthesis. Use of references: important insights.

Learning assessment may also be carried out online, should the conditions require it.

To ensure equal opportunities and in compliance with current laws, students may request a personal interview in order to plan any compensatory and/or dispensatory measures based on educational objectives and specific needs. Students can also contact the CInAP (Centro per l’integrazione Attiva e Partecipata — Servizi per le Disabilità e/o DSA) through the referring professor within the department (https://www.cinap.unict.it/content/referenti).

Comparison between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cellular structures

Functions of cellular structures

Taxonomy 

Main microbial groups of food interest

Organic matter cycle