Where is Clostridium perfringens found?
Cl. perfringens is found dispersed in the environment in locations such as soil, sediment, and in the intestines of domestic and feral animals, and humans. The organism is also found in sewage and in areas prone to animal and sewage contamination. Cl. perfringens spores have also been isolated from raw food. Cl. perfringens typically causes foodborne sickness when foods are served after improper storage, or held at Cl. perfringens typically causes foodborne sickness when foods are served after improper storage, or held at inadequate storage temperatures such as on an improperly maintained steam table. It is a problematic microorganism for institutional food service handlers.
