The Risk of Listeria Monocytogenes in Food Production

Listeria monocytogenes is a type of disease-causing bacteria that may be found in all areas at food production facilities. Listeria monocytogenes is generally transmitted when food is harvested, processed, prepared, packed, transported, or stored in manufacturing or production environments contaminated with L. monocytogenes. High-risk foods include deli meat and ready-to-eat meat products, soft cheeses, and cold smoked fishery products.

When people eat food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, they may develop a disease called listeriosis. Past listeriosis outbreaks have been linked to raw, unpasteurized milk and unpasteurized milk products, certain types of cheeses like pasteurized or unpasteurized queso fresco-type cheeses; raw or processed vegetables; raw or processed fruits; raw or undercooked poultry, sausages, hot dogs, deli meats, ice cream; and raw or smoked fish and other seafood.

Listeriosis is a serious, but preventable and treatable disease. The challenges for controlling Listeria monocytogenes are considerable given its ubiquitous nature, high resistance to common preservative methods, such as the use of salt, smoke or acidic condition in the food, and its ability to survive and grow at refrigeration temperatures. Listeria monocytogenes can thrive in unsanitary food production conditions, leading to contamination of the food. Listeria monocytogenes can survive and grow even under refrigeration.

Therefore, food manufacturers must control and detect Listeria monocytogenes throughout the food production process. The control of Listeria monocytogenes is required at all stages in the food chain, and an effective approach is needed to prevent the multiplication of Listeria monocytogenes in the final food product.

Detect Listeria Monocytogenes Using XEPU-1720

A quick and reliable method to detect Listeria monocytogenes is using the Bacteria and Biofilm Detector XEPU-1720. Utilizing unique UV-fluorescing technology, the XEPU-1720 can detect the presence of Listeria monocytogenes which is hard to identify under standard white light.

Simply scan product contact and high-touch surfaces with the XEPU-1720. When illuminated by the XEPU-1720, areas contaminate by Listeria monocytogenes will emit turquoise/light green fluorescence and become easily visible. The Bacteria and Biofilm Detector XEPU-1720 provides instant results, allowing food production managers to take immediate action to prevent contamination and minimize the risk of product recalls.

Bacteria and Biofilm Detector XEPU-1720 Advantages

1. Quickly detect bacteria and biofilm over large surfaces and provide instant results

2. No chemicals used, non-destructive

3. Cheaper price and more reliable detection compared with similar products

Photo below: detect bacteria at food factory using the Bacteria and Biofilm Detector XEPU-1720

More Than Listeria Monocytogenes

Food items are associated with different kinds of microorganisms. Quality control professionals not only need to detect Listeria monocytogenes but also want to control other bacteria such as E.coli and salmonella. It would be helpful to have a tool that can detect a wide range of microorganisms. The powerful Bacteria and Biofilm Detector XEPU-1720 is here to help!

By relying on UV calibrated wavelengths, the Bacteria and Biofilm Detector XEPU-1720 offers a broad spectrum of detection, including bacteria, yeasts, and contaminants like detergents and dust.

Photo below: Bacteria and Biofilm Detector XEPU-1720 --- A powerful tool to detect Listeria monocytogenes and many other bacteria in the food industry!