Prevalence of Listeria monocytogenes in ready-to-eat food of animal origin

Abstract

In this study, the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in ready- to- eat meat, milk and fish products has been investigated. In addition, the presence of L. monocytogenes on food - contact surfaces, as a potential source of food contamination, has been investigated as well. Samples were analyzed by fluorescent immunoenzyme assay on miniVidas® device and by standard microbiological SRPS EN ISO 11290-1: 2010 and SRPS EN ISO 11290-2: 2010 methods. Out of 881 food samples tested, 12,25% were Listeria spp. positive, out of which 8,4% were positive for L. monocytogenes. L. monocytogenes was most commonly found in smoked salmon, which confirmed fact that smoked fish is a high risk food for the L. monocytogenes growth and survival. Out of 512 samples from the food - contact surfaces, L. monocytogenes was found in 8,78% of swab samples. This paper highlightes the importance of implementing appropriate prevention and control measures, verification procedures, and monitoring and maintenance programs that will help to prevent L. monocytogenes food contamination.