World Phage Day: Celebrating a Century of Bacteriophage Discovery

Every October 22, is World Phage Day, a day dedicated to one of nature’s most powerful allies against resistant bacteria. Bacteriophages or phages, are the most abundant biological entities on Earth and offer a natural, chemical-free way to combat harmful pathogens like Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes, which pose major challenges in today’s food production systems.

Bacteriophages attaching to bacteria

History: How Bacteriophages Changed Microbiology

The history of phage science began in 1915 when Frederick Twort, often called the father of virology, discovered viruses capable of infecting and destroying bacteria. Two years later, Félix d’Hérelle confirmed these findings at the Pasteur Institute and coined the term “bacteriophage” — from the Greek phagein, meaning “to devour.”

Their pioneering work, known as the Twort–d’Hérelle phenomenon, revealed how phages hijack bacterial cells, replicate, and then destroy them. For decades, this natural process has quietly protected ecosystems — and today, it’s being re-examined as a critical tool for public health and food safety.

Natural, Targeted, and Chemical-Free Pathogen Control

Unlike chemical sanitizers and antibiotics, bacteriophages are natural and highly specific. They target only harmful bacteria like salmonella and listeria without disrupting beneficial microorganisms or leaving chemical residues. This makes them a powerful ally for food processors who need to meet regulatory standards, reduce pathogen loads, and maintain product quality.

With antibiotic resistance on the rise, controlling resistant salmonella and listeria in processing environments requires smarter interventions. Phage technology offers a targeted, sustainable, and residue-free solution, making it ideal for modern food safety programs.

Embracing Phage Technology for Food Safety

As antimicrobial resistance grows, the food industry faces increasing pressure to find effective, natural solutions. Phages are already proving their value in reducing contamination risks, preventing costly recalls, and supporting compliance with stricter food safety regulations.

This WorldPhageDay, let’s celebrate more than a century of scientific innovation — and embrace the potential of phages to build a safer food system for the future.

Learn abuot how SK8 Biotechnologies phage driven solutions can enhance your food safety program.