Formic acid is an effective acidulant, but it can also inhibit microbial decarboxylases and
enzymes such as catalases. Overall, the antimicrobial activity of formic acid is primarily
against yeasts and some bacteria, whereas lactic acid bacteria and moulds are relatively
resistant to its effects (Lueck, 1980). Formic acid is effective in small concentrations (21 7mM)
against E. coli. In addition, formic acid treatment can effectively eliminate salmonella from
contaminated feeds (Frank, 1994).