Listeria is a gram positive, non-spore forming rod shaped bacteria. The genus contains a number of species but near all cases of Listeria infection are caused by Listeria monocytogenes.

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L.monocytogenes is a type of bacteria often found in food and our environment. It can cause a rare but serious disease called listeriosis, especially among pregnant women, the elderly or individuals with a weakened immune system. In serious cases it can lead to brain infection and even death.

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Listeria is common in soil, vegetation, water, sewage, and in the faeces of humans and animals. Vegetables and fruits can be contaminated if Listeria is present in the soil. Farm animals, appeared to be healthy, may carry Listeria and their meat or dairy products may be contaminated.

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Unlike most of the other bacteria, Listeria can grow on foods being stored under refrigerated condition. For example, outbreak of Listeria in ice-cream has been reported in many countries.

 

Ref.: CFS, HONG KONG

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Enviro Labs - HOKLAS Accredited Methods:

CHROMagar Listeria - Confirmation by CHROMagar Identification Listeria
CHROMagar Listeria Enumeration - Confirmation by CHROMagar Identification Listeria

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