What Is Listeria Monocytogenes?
It’s a harmful bacterium that causes a foodborne illness called listeriosis. It’s found in the environment – soil, water, decaying vegetation, and the intestinal tract of animals. Listeria can grow at refrigerator temperatures, whereas most other foodborne bacteria do not. If food is processed, packaged, or handled in unsanitary conditions, it can become contaminated with Listeria. This is of particular concern because most ready-to-eat, refrigerated foods are not reheated before eating – a step that would kill Listeria, if it were in the food. Good manufacturing and handling practices must be followed during food processing and at retail in order to prevent contamination. That’s why government agencies monitor food and inspect processing plants, grocery stores, and restaurants regularly to ensure that the food supply is safe.
