Sources of Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination in Retail Establishments

In the past two decades, serious outbreaks of foodborne illness have been caused by a bacterial hazard known as Listeria monocytogenes. Approximately, 0.2–0.8 listeriosis cases occur annually out of 100,000 poeple in developed countries. Although it appears that the annual incidence of listeriosis is not high, the mortality rate of about 20% is the most serious public health concern. Understanding the contamination routes of the pathogen and factors that contribute to the risk of contamination, growth and spread of the pathogen are important building blocks to an effective control program.