Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Microbial discoloration of milk occurs when pigment-producing (chromogenic) bacteria multiply and release water-soluble or fat-soluble pigments into the milk.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Pseudomonas syncyanea (also known as Pseudomonas coaerulea) produces a water-soluble blue pigment called pyocyanin.
- When this bacterium grows in milk, especially in the presence of acid-forming bacteria (such as Lactococcus lactis), the acid turns the bluish-grey pigment into a distinct blue color tint.
- Bacillus subtilis is associated with sweet curdling, while Lactobacillus acidophilus and Streptococcus thermophilus are standard lactic starter cultures that do not produce pigments.
Step 3: Final Answer
The organism responsible for producing a blue color tint in milk is Pseudomonas syncyanea.