Why is environmental monitoring for Listeria monocytogenes and Listeria spp. meaningful?

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Mar 4, 2024 - Foods

Why is environmental monitoring for Listeria monocytogenes and Listeria spp. meaningful?

The guideline for preventive measures against Listeria monocytogenes of the German food authority describes under 7.1 "Environmental monitoring of Listeria spp. and/or Listeria monocytogenes" the purpose and goals of Listeria monitoring in the production environment. 

Below in brief, why environmental monitoring for Listeria monocytogenes and possibly Listeria spp. is advisable:

• Early identification of entry paths and colonization of Listeria monocytogenes in the production environment
• Improved Listeria prevention through early initiation of countermeasures to sustainably prevent transmission to products and survival of Listeria monocytogenes
• Verification of the success of cleaning and disinfection measures

Furthermore, the expansion of environmental monitoring to Listeria spp. can be advisable, especially if there are problems with Listeria monocytogenes. Listeria spp. shows similar growth conditions as Listeria monocytogenes and can thus serve as an indicator for a possible colonization with Listeria monocytogenes.

Further information on Listeria can be found, among others, at the RKI - Robert Koch Institute at www.rki.de
In our Tentamus laboratories, we regularly conduct investigations on Listeria monocytogenes and Listeria spp. We provide you with fast and reliable results.
For questions, our customer advisors are very happy to assist you.

Sources: 
Food Association Germany e.V.: www.lebensmittelverband.de
Link to the guideline: www.lebensmittelverband.de
RKI – Robert Koch Institute: www.rki.de