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Lianou DT, Skoulakis A, Michael CK, Katsarou EI, Chatzopoulos DC, Solomakos N, Tsilipounidaki K, Florou Z, Cripps PJ, Katsafadou AI, Vasileiou NGC, Dimoveli KS, Bourganou MV, Liagka DV, Papatsiros VG, Kontou PI, Mavrogianni VS, Caroprese M, Petinaki E, Fthenakis GC. Isolation of Listeria ivanovii from Bulk-Tank Milk of Sheep and Goat Farms-From Clinical Work to Bioinformatics Studies: Prevalence, Association with Milk Quality, Antibiotic Susceptibility, Predictors, Whole Genome Sequence and Phylogenetic Relationships. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11060871. [PMID: 35741392 PMCID: PMC9220212 DOI: 10.3390/biology11060871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary An extensive countrywide study in Greece revealed that isolation of the zoonotic pathogens Listeria monocytogenes and Listeria ivanovii from the milk produced in sheep or goat farms was infrequent: 1.2% of farms sampled. The presence of pigs on the farms, low average relative humidity in the environment and a high number of animals on the farms were found to be associated with the isolations. Detailed assessment of the L. ivanovii strains, for which there is a paucity of information worldwide, revealed that the isolated strains belonged to the L. ivanovii subsp. ivanovii branch. All strains of the branch appeared to be very similar, with the distance between them being small, which suggests that global spread of this clonal branch is a recent evolutionary event or that the branch is characterized by a slow evolutionary rate. Abstract A cross-sectional study was performed in 325 sheep and 119 goat dairy farms in Greece. Samples of bulk-tank milk were examined by standard microbiological techniques for Listeria spp. Listeria monocytogenes was isolated from one (0.3%) and Listeria ivanovii from three (0.9%) sheep farms. No associations between the isolation of L. monocytogenes or L. ivanovii and milk quality were found. No resistance to antibiotics was identified. Three variables emerged as significant predictors of isolation of the organism: the presence of pigs, low average relative humidity and a high number of ewes on the farm. The three L. ivanovii isolates were assessed in silico for identification of plasmids, prophages, antibiotic resistance genes, virulence factors, CRISPRs and CAS genes. Phylogenetic analysis using the core genome revealed that the three strains belonged to the L. ivanovii subsp. ivanovii branch and were especially close to the PAM 55 strain. All strains of the branch appeared to be very similar, with the distance between them being small.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daphne T. Lianou
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (D.T.L.); (C.K.M.); (E.I.K.); (N.S.); (P.J.C.); (K.S.D.); (V.G.P.); (V.S.M.)
| | | | - Charalambia K. Michael
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (D.T.L.); (C.K.M.); (E.I.K.); (N.S.); (P.J.C.); (K.S.D.); (V.G.P.); (V.S.M.)
| | - Eleni I. Katsarou
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (D.T.L.); (C.K.M.); (E.I.K.); (N.S.); (P.J.C.); (K.S.D.); (V.G.P.); (V.S.M.)
| | - Dimitris C. Chatzopoulos
- Faculty of Public and One Health, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (D.C.C.); (A.I.K.); (M.V.B.)
| | - Nikolaos Solomakos
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (D.T.L.); (C.K.M.); (E.I.K.); (N.S.); (P.J.C.); (K.S.D.); (V.G.P.); (V.S.M.)
| | | | - Zoe Florou
- University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece; (K.T.); (Z.F.); (E.P.)
| | - Peter J. Cripps
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (D.T.L.); (C.K.M.); (E.I.K.); (N.S.); (P.J.C.); (K.S.D.); (V.G.P.); (V.S.M.)
| | - Angeliki I. Katsafadou
- Faculty of Public and One Health, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (D.C.C.); (A.I.K.); (M.V.B.)
| | - Natalia G. C. Vasileiou
- Faculty of Animal Science, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece; (N.G.C.V.); (D.V.L.)
| | - Konstantina S. Dimoveli
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (D.T.L.); (C.K.M.); (E.I.K.); (N.S.); (P.J.C.); (K.S.D.); (V.G.P.); (V.S.M.)
| | - Maria V. Bourganou
- Faculty of Public and One Health, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (D.C.C.); (A.I.K.); (M.V.B.)
| | - Dimitra V. Liagka
- Faculty of Animal Science, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece; (N.G.C.V.); (D.V.L.)
| | - Vasileios G. Papatsiros
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (D.T.L.); (C.K.M.); (E.I.K.); (N.S.); (P.J.C.); (K.S.D.); (V.G.P.); (V.S.M.)
| | | | - Vasia S. Mavrogianni
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (D.T.L.); (C.K.M.); (E.I.K.); (N.S.); (P.J.C.); (K.S.D.); (V.G.P.); (V.S.M.)
| | - Mariangela Caroprese
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Natural Resources and Engineering (DAFNE), University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy;
| | - Efthymia Petinaki
- University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece; (K.T.); (Z.F.); (E.P.)
| | - George C. Fthenakis
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (D.T.L.); (C.K.M.); (E.I.K.); (N.S.); (P.J.C.); (K.S.D.); (V.G.P.); (V.S.M.)
- Correspondence:
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El-Hajjaji S, Gérard A, Sindic M. Is Butter A Product at Risk Regarding Listeria Monocytogenes? - A Review. FOOD REVIEWS INTERNATIONAL 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/87559129.2020.1831528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Soundous El-Hajjaji
- Laboratory of Quality and Safety of Agro-food Products, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Amaury Gérard
- Laboratory of Quality and Safety of Agro-food Products, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Marianne Sindic
- Laboratory of Quality and Safety of Agro-food Products, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
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Marik CM, Zuchel J, Schaffner DW, Strawn LK. Growth and Survival of Listeria monocytogenes on Intact Fruit and Vegetable Surfaces during Postharvest Handling: A Systematic Literature Review. J Food Prot 2020; 83:108-128. [PMID: 31855613 DOI: 10.4315/0362-028x.jfp-19-283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Listeria monocytogenes may be present in produce-associated environments (e.g., fields, packing houses); thus, understanding its growth and survival on intact, whole produce is of critical importance. The goal of this study was to identify and characterize published data on the growth and/or survival of L. monocytogenes on intact fruit and vegetable surfaces. Relevant studies were identified by searching seven electronic databases: AGRICOLA, CAB Abstracts, Center for Produce Safety funded research project final reports, FST Abstracts, Google Scholar, PubMed, and Web of Science. Searches were conducted using the following terms: Listeria monocytogenes, produce, growth, and survival. Search terms were also modified and "exploded" to find all related subheadings. Included studies had to be prospective, describe methodology (e.g., inoculation method), outline experimental parameters, and provide quantitative growth and/or survival data. Studies were not included if methods were unclear or inappropriate, or if produce was cut, processed, or otherwise treated. Of 3,459 identified citations, 88 were reviewed in full and 29 studies met the inclusion criteria. Included studies represented 21 commodities, with the majority of studies focusing on melons, leafy greens, berries, or sprouts. Synthesis of the reviewed studies suggests L. monocytogenes growth and survival on intact produce surfaces differ substantially by commodity. Parameters such as temperature and produce surface characteristics had a considerable effect on L. monocytogenes growth and survival dynamics. This review provides an inventory of the current data on L. monocytogenes growth and/or survival on intact produce surfaces. Identification of which intact produce commodities support L. monocytogenes growth and/or survival at various conditions observed along the supply chain will assist the industry in managing L. monocytogenes contamination risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire M Marik
- Department of Food Science & Technology, Eastern Shore Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Virginia Tech, Painter, Virginia 23420
| | - Joyce Zuchel
- Department of Food Science & Technology, Eastern Shore Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Virginia Tech, Painter, Virginia 23420
| | - Donald W Schaffner
- Department of Food Science, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901, USA
| | - Laura K Strawn
- Department of Food Science & Technology, Eastern Shore Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Virginia Tech, Painter, Virginia 23420
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Abstract
For nearly a century the use of antibiotics to treat infectious diseases has benefited human and animal health. In recent years there has been an increase in the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, in part attributed to the overuse of compounds in clinical and farming settings. The genus Listeria currently comprises 17 recognized species found throughout the environment. Listeria monocytogenes is the etiological agent of listeriosis in humans and many vertebrate species, including birds, whereas Listeria ivanovii causes infections mainly in ruminants. L. monocytogenes is the third-most-common cause of death from food poisoning in humans, and infection occurs in at-risk groups, including pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.
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Locatelli A, Lewis MA, Rothrock MJ. The Distribution of Listeria in Pasture-Raised Broiler Farm Soils Is Potentially Related to University of Vermont Medium Enrichment Bias toward Listeria innocua over Listeria monocytogenes. Front Vet Sci 2017; 4:227. [PMID: 29312967 PMCID: PMC5742580 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2017.00227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The occurrence of Listeria monocytogenes has been widely investigated in the poultry production chain from the processing plant to the final product. However, limited data are available on Listeria species, including Listeria monocytogenes, in the poultry farm environment. Therefore, fecal and soil samples from 37 pastured poultry flocks from 10 all-natural farms over 3 years were assessed to determine the prevalence and diversity of Listeria within these alternative poultry farm environments using standard cultural and molecular methods. Listeria species were isolated in 15% of poultry farm samples and included Listeria innocua (65.7%), L. monocytogenes (17.4%), and Listeria welshimeri (15.1%). Additional multiplex PCR serotyping showed group 1/2a-3a to be the most dominant L. monocytogenes serovar group. Based on these results, monoculture growth experiments were conducted on four Listeria soil isolates (three L. monocytogenes isolates representing the three recovered serovar groups and one L. innocua isolate) to determine if culture medium [tripticase soy broth (TSB) and University of Vermont modified Listeria enrichment broth (UVM)], inoculum concentration (102 or 105 CFU/ml), or incubation temperature (20, 30, and 42°C) differentially affected these Listeria species. Overall, very few significant growth differences were observed between the behavior of the three L. monocytogenes isolates (representing the three recovered serovar groups) under the growth conditions tested. Alternatively, at 30°C in UVM with the lower inoculum concentration, the L. innocua isolate had a significantly shorter lag phase than the L. monocytogenes isolates. In coculture growth studies under these same incubation conditions, the lag phase of L. innocua and L. monocytogenes was similar, but the final concentration of L. innocua was significantly higher than L. monocytogenes. However, cocultures in UVM for high inoculum concentration did not show preferential growth of L. innocua over L. monocytogenes. These results indicate that the use of UVM as an enrichment medium may preferentially allow L. innocua to outcompete L. monocytogenes at low concentrations, biasing the Listeria prevalence from these farm samples toward L. innocua and potentially underreporting the presence of L. monocytogenes in these environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aude Locatelli
- Egg Safety and Quality Research Unit, U.S. National Poultry Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Micah A. Lewis
- Quality and Safety Assessment Research Unit, U.S. National Poultry Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Michael J. Rothrock
- Egg Safety and Quality Research Unit, U.S. National Poultry Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Athens, GA, United States
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Rothrock MJ, Davis ML, Locatelli A, Bodie A, McIntosh TG, Donaldson JR, Ricke SC. Listeria Occurrence in Poultry Flocks: Detection and Potential Implications. Front Vet Sci 2017; 4:125. [PMID: 29018807 PMCID: PMC5615842 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2017.00125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Foodborne pathogens such as Salmonella, Campylobacter, Escherichia coli, and Listeria are a major concern within the food industry due to their pathogenic potential to cause infection. Of these, Listeria monocytogenes, possesses a high mortality rate (approximately 20%) and is considered one of the most dangerous foodborne pathogens. Although the usual reservoirs for Listeria transmission have been extensively studied, little is known about the relationship between Listeria and live poultry production. Sporadic and isolated cases of listeriosis have been attributed to poultry production and Listeria spp. have been isolated from all stages of poultry production and processing. Farm studies suggest that live birds may be an important vector and contributor to contamination of the processing environment and transmission of Listeria to consumers. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to highlight the occurrence, incidence, and potential systemic interactions of Listeria spp. with poultry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Rothrock
- USDA-ARS, U.S. National Poultry Research Center, Egg Safety and Quality Research Unit, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Morgan L. Davis
- Center for Food Safety, Food Science Department, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States
| | - Aude Locatelli
- USDA-ARS, U.S. National Poultry Research Center, Egg Safety and Quality Research Unit, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Aaron Bodie
- Center for Food Safety, Food Science Department, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States
| | - Tori G. McIntosh
- USDA-ARS, U.S. National Poultry Research Center, Egg Safety and Quality Research Unit, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Janet R. Donaldson
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS, United States
| | - Steven C. Ricke
- Center for Food Safety, Food Science Department, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States
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7
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Oh H, Kim S, Lee S, Lee H, Ha J, Lee J, Choi Y, Choi KH, Yoon Y. Prevalence and Genetic Characteristics of Meatborne Listeria monocytogenes Isolates from Livestock Farms in Korea. Korean J Food Sci Anim Resour 2016; 36:779-786. [PMID: 28115889 PMCID: PMC5243962 DOI: 10.5851/kosfa.2016.36.6.779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of Listeria monocytogenes on livestock farms in Korea and determine their serotypes and genetic correlations. Twenty-five livestock farms in Korea (central: 15, south west: 7, south east: 3) were visited 2-3 times, and 2,018 samples (feces: 677, soil: 680, silage: 647, sludge: 14) were collected. Samples were enriched in LEB (Listeria enrichment broth) and Fraser broth media, and then plated on Palcam agar. The isolates were identified by PCR and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Then, the serotypes, presence of virulence genes (actA, inlA, inlB, plcB, and hlyA), and antibiotic resistance were determined. Genetic correlations among the isolates were evaluated by analyzing the restriction digest pattern with AscI. Of the 2,018 samples, only 3 (0.15%) soil samples (FI-1-FI-3) from 1 farm in the south east region were positive for L. monocytogenes. Based on biochemical tests and multiplex PCR, the serotype of the isolates were 4ab (FI-1 and FI-3) and 3a (FI-2), which are not common in foodborne L. monocytogenes. The 3a serotype isolate was positive for all tested virulence genes, whereas the 4ab serotype isolates were only positive for hlyA, actA, and inlA. The isolates were resistant to all 12 tested antibiotics, especially FI-3. The genetic correlations among the isolates were 100% for those of the same serotype and 26.3% for those of different serotypes. These results indicate that the prevalence of L. monocytogenes on livestock farms in Korea is low; however, the isolates are pathogenic and antibiotic resistant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyemin Oh
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Korea; Risk Analysis Research Center, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Korea
| | - Sejeong Kim
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Korea; Risk Analysis Research Center, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Korea
| | - Soomin Lee
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Korea; Risk Analysis Research Center, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Korea
| | - Heeyoung Lee
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Korea; Risk Analysis Research Center, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Korea
| | - Jimyeong Ha
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Korea; Risk Analysis Research Center, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Korea
| | - Jeeyeon Lee
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Korea; Risk Analysis Research Center, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Korea
| | - Yukyung Choi
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Korea; Risk Analysis Research Center, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Korea
| | - Kyoung-Hee Choi
- Department of Oral Microbiology, College of Dentistry, Wonkwang University, Iksan 54538, Korea
| | - Yohan Yoon
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Korea; Risk Analysis Research Center, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Korea
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NicAogáin K, O’Byrne CP. The Role of Stress and Stress Adaptations in Determining the Fate of the Bacterial Pathogen Listeria monocytogenes in the Food Chain. Front Microbiol 2016; 7:1865. [PMID: 27933042 PMCID: PMC5120093 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2016.01865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2016] [Accepted: 11/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The foodborne pathogen Listeria monocytogenes is a highly adaptable organism that can persist in a wide range of environmental and food-related niches. The consumption of contaminated ready-to-eat foods can cause infections, termed listeriosis, in vulnerable humans, particularly those with weakened immune systems. Although these infections are comparatively rare they are associated with high mortality rates and therefore this pathogen has a significant impact on food safety. L. monocytogenes can adapt to and survive a wide range of stress conditions including low pH, low water activity, and low temperature, which makes it problematic for food producers who rely on these stresses for preservation. Stress tolerance in L. monocytogenes can be explained partially by the presence of the general stress response (GSR), a transcriptional response under the control of the alternative sigma factor sigma B (σB) that reconfigures gene transcription to provide homeostatic and protective functions to cope with the stress. Within the host σB also plays a key role in surviving the harsh conditions found in the gastrointestinal tract. As the infection progresses beyond the GI tract L. monocytogenes uses an intracellular infectious cycle to propagate, spread and remain protected from the host's humoral immunity. Many of the virulence genes that facilitate this infectious cycle are under the control of a master transcriptional regulator called PrfA. In this review we consider the environmental reservoirs that enable L. monocytogenes to gain access to the food chain and discuss the stresses that the pathogen must overcome to survive and grow in these environments. The overlap that exists between stress tolerance and virulence is described. We review the principal measures that are used to control the pathogen and point to exciting new approaches that might provide improved means of control in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Conor P. O’Byrne
- Bacterial Stress Response Group, Microbiology, School of Natural Sciences, College of Science, National University of IrelandGalway, Ireland
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Serotypes and Pulsotypes Diversity of Listeria monocytogenes in a Beef-Processing Environment. Foodborne Pathog Dis 2015; 12:323-6. [DOI: 10.1089/fpd.2014.1875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Ferreira V, Wiedmann M, Teixeira P, Stasiewicz MJ. Listeria monocytogenes persistence in food-associated environments: epidemiology, strain characteristics, and implications for public health. J Food Prot 2014; 77:150-70. [PMID: 24406014 DOI: 10.4315/0362-028x.jfp-13-150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 458] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Over the last 10 to 15 years, increasing evidence suggests that persistence of Listeria monocytogenes in food processing plants for years or even decades is an important factor in the transmission of this foodborne pathogen and the root cause of a number of human listeriosis outbreaks. L. monocytogenes persistence in other food-associated environments (e.g., farms and retail establishments) may also contribute to food contamination and transmission of the pathogen to humans. Although L. monocytogenes persistence is typically identified through isolation of a specific molecular subtype from samples collected in a given environment over time, formal (statistical) criteria for identification of persistence are undefined. Environmental factors (e.g., facilities and equipment that are difficult to clean) have been identified as key contributors to persistence; however, the mechanisms are less well understood. Although some researchers have reported that persistent strains possess specific characteristics that may facilitate persistence (e.g., biofilm formation and better adaptation to stress conditions), other researchers have not found significant differences between persistent and nonpersistent strains in the phenotypic characteristics that might facilitate persistence. This review includes a discussion of our current knowledge concerning some key issues associated with the persistence of L. monocytogenes, with special focus on (i) persistence in food processing plants and other food-associated environments, (ii) persistence in the general environment, (iii) phenotypic and genetic characteristics of persistent strains, (iv) niches, and (v) public health and economic implications of persistence. Although the available data clearly indicate that L. monocytogenes persistence at various stages of the food chain contributes to contamination of finished products, continued efforts to quantitatively integrate data on L. monocytogenes persistence (e.g., meta-analysis or quantitative microbial risk assessment) will be needed to advance our understanding of persistence of this pathogen and its economic and public health impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Ferreira
- Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina, Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Portuguesa Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; Department of Food Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
| | - M Wiedmann
- Department of Food Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
| | - P Teixeira
- Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina, Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Portuguesa Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
| | - M J Stasiewicz
- Department of Food Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
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11
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Malley TJV, Stasiewicz MJ, Gröhn YT, Roof S, Warchocki S, Nightingale K, Wiedmann M. Implementation of statistical tools to support identification and management of persistent Listeria monocytogenes contamination in smoked fish processing plants. J Food Prot 2013; 76:796-811. [PMID: 23643121 DOI: 10.4315/0362-028x.jfp-12-236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Listeria monocytogenes persistence in food processing plants is a key source of postprocessing contamination of ready-to-eat foods. Thus, identification and elimination of sites where L. monocytogenes persists (niches) is critical. Two smoked fish processing plants were used as models to develop and implement environmental sampling plans (i) to identify persistent L. monocytogenes subtypes (EcoRI ribotypes) using two statistical approaches and (ii) to identify and eliminate likely L. monocytogenes niches. The first statistic, a binomial test based on ribotype frequencies, was used to evaluate L. monocytogenes ribotype recurrences relative to reference distributions extracted from a public database; the second statistic, a binomial test based on previous positives, was used to measure ribotype occurrences as a risk factor for subsequent isolation of the same ribotype. Both statistics revealed persistent ribotypes in both plants based on data from the initial 4 months of sampling. The statistic based on ribotype frequencies revealed persistence of particular ribotypes at specific sampling sites. Two adaptive sampling strategies guided plant interventions during the study: sampling multiple times before and during processing and vector swabbing (i.e., sampling of additional sites in different directions [vectors] relative to a given site). Among sites sampled for 12 months, a Poisson model regression revealed borderline significant monthly decreases in L. monocytogenes isolates at both plants (P = 0.026 and 0.076). Our data indicate elimination of an L. monocytogenes niche on a food contact surface; niches on nonfood contact surfaces were not eliminated. Although our data illustrate the challenge of identifying and eliminating L. monocytogenes niches, particularly at nonfood contact sites in small and medium plants, the methods for identification of persistence we describe here should broadly facilitate science-based identification of microbial persistence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J V Malley
- Department of Food Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
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Valderrama WB, Cutter CN. An Ecological Perspective ofListeria monocytogenesBiofilms in Food Processing Facilities. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2013; 53:801-17. [DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2011.561378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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13
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Vongkamjan K, Switt AM, den Bakker HC, Fortes ED, Wiedmann M. Silage collected from dairy farms harbors an abundance of listeriaphages with considerable host range and genome size diversity. Appl Environ Microbiol 2012; 78:8666-75. [PMID: 23042180 PMCID: PMC3502902 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01859-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2012] [Accepted: 10/01/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the food-borne pathogen Listeria monocytogenes is common in dairy farm environments, it is likely that phages infecting this bacterium ("listeriaphages") are abundant on dairy farms. To better understand the ecology and diversity of listeriaphages on dairy farms and to develop a diverse phage collection for further studies, silage samples collected on two dairy farms were screened for L. monocytogenes and listeriaphages. While only 4.5% of silage samples tested positive for L. monocytogenes, 47.8% of samples were positive for listeriaphages, containing up to >1.5 × 10(4) PFU/g. Host range characterization of the 114 phage isolates obtained, with a reference set of 13 L. monocytogenes strains representing the nine major serotypes and four lineages, revealed considerable host range diversity; phage isolates were classified into nine lysis groups. While one serotype 3c strain was not lysed by any phage isolates, serotype 4 strains were highly susceptible to phages and were lysed by 63.2 to 88.6% of phages tested. Overall, 12.3% of phage isolates showed a narrow host range (lysing 1 to 5 strains), while 28.9% of phages represented broad host range (lysing ≥11 strains). Genome sizes of the phage isolates were estimated to range from approximately 26 to 140 kb. The extensive host range and genomic diversity of phages observed here suggest an important role of phages in the ecology of L. monocytogenes on dairy farms. In addition, the phage collection developed here has the potential to facilitate further development of phage-based biocontrol strategies (e.g., in silage) and other phage-based tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kitiya Vongkamjan
- Department of Food Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
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14
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ZAMEER FARHAN, KREFT JÜRGEN, GOPAL SHUBHA. INTERACTION OF LISTERIA MONOCYTOGENES AND STAPHYLOCOCCUS EPIDERMIDIS IN DUAL SPECIES BIOFILMS. J Food Saf 2010. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1745-4565.2010.00254.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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15
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The application of food safety interventions in primary production of beef and lamb: A review. Int J Food Microbiol 2010; 141 Suppl 1:S43-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2009.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2009] [Revised: 12/07/2009] [Accepted: 12/17/2009] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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16
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Abstract
After harvest, vegetables are often spoiled by a wide variety of microorganisms including many bacterial and fungal species. The most common bacterial agents are Erwinia carotovora, Pseudomonas spp., Corynebacterium, Xanthomonas campestris, and lactic acid bacteria with E. carotovora being the most common, attacking virtually every vegetable type. Fungi commonly causing spoilage of fresh vegetables are Botrytis cinerea, various species of the genera Alternaria, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Colletotrichum, Phomopsis, Fusarium, Penicillium, Phoma, Phytophthora, Pythium and Rhizopus spp., Botrytis cinerea, Ceratocystis fimbriata, Rhizoctonia solani, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, and some mildews. A few of these organisms show a substrate preference whereas others such as Botrytis cinerea, Colletotrichum, Alternaria, Cladosporium, Phytophthora, and Rhizopus spp., affect a wide variety of vegetables causing devastating losses. Many of these agents enter the plant tissue through mechanical or chilling injuries, or after the skin barrier has been broken down by other organisms. Besides causing huge economic losses, some fungal species could produce toxic metabolites in the affected sites, constituting a potential health hazard for humans. Additionally, vegetables have often served as vehicles for pathogenic bacteria, viruses, and parasites and were implicated in many food borne illness outbreaks. In order to slow down vegetable spoilage and minimize the associated adverse health effects, great caution should be taken to follow strict hygiene, good agricultural practices (GAPs) and good manufacturing practices (GMPs) during cultivation, harvest, storage, transport, and marketing.
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Affiliation(s)
- V H Tournas
- Division of Natural Products, Food and Drug Administration, College Park, Maryland 20740, USA.
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17
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Thévenot D, Dernburg A, Vernozy-Rozand C. An updated review of Listeria monocytogenes in the pork meat industry and its products. J Appl Microbiol 2006; 101:7-17. [PMID: 16834586 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2672.2006.02962.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Pork meat and processed pork products have been the sources of outbreaks of listeriosis in France and in other European countries during the last decade. The aim of this review is to understand how contamination, survival and growth of Listeria monocytogenes can occur in pork meat products. This study discusses the presence of L. monocytogenes in raw pork meat, in the processing environment and in finished products. The prevalence of L. monocytogenes generally increases from the farm to the manufacturing plants and this mainly due to cross-contamination. In many cases, this pathogen is present in raw pork meat at low or moderate levels, but foods involved in listeriosis outbreaks are those in which the organism has multiplied to reach levels significantly higher than 1000 CFU g(-1). In such cases, L. monocytogenes has been able to survive and/or to grow despite the hurdles encountered during the manufacturing and conservation processes. Accordingly, attention must be paid to the design of food-processing equipment and to the effectiveness of the cleaning and disinfecting procedures in factories. Finally, the production of safe pork meat products is based on the implementation of general preventive measures such as Good Hygiene Practices, Good Manufacturing and the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Thévenot
- Unité de Microbiologie Alimentaire et Prévisionnelle, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire de Lyon, Marcy l'étoile, France.
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18
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Kilonzo-Nthenge A, Chen FC, Godwin SL. Efficacy of home washing methods in controlling surface microbial contamination on fresh produce. J Food Prot 2006; 69:330-4. [PMID: 16496573 DOI: 10.4315/0362-028x-69.2.330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Much effort has been focused on sanitation of fresh produce at the commercial level; however, few options are available to the consumer. The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of different cleaning methods in reducing bacterial contamination on fresh produce in a home setting. Lettuce, broccoli, apples, and tomatoes were inoculated with Listeria innocua and then subjected to combinations of the following cleaning procedures: (i) soak for 2 min in tap water, Veggie Wash solution, 5% vinegar solution, or 13% lemon solution and (ii) rinse under running tap water, rinse and rub under running tap water, brush under running tap water, or wipe with wet/dry paper towel. Presoaking in water before rinsing significantly reduced bacteria in apples, tomatoes, and lettuce, but not in broccoli. Wiping apples and tomatoes with wet or dry paper towel showed lower bacterial reductions compared with soaking and rinsing procedures. Blossom ends of apples were more contaminated than the surface after soaking and rinsing; similar results were observed between flower section and stem of broccoli. Reductions of L. innocua in both tomatoes and apples (2.01 to 2.89 log CFU/g) were more than in lettuce and broccoli (1.41 to 1.88 log CFU/g) when subjected to same washing procedures. Reductions of surface contamination of lettuce after soaking in lemon or vinegar solutions were not significantly different (P > 0.05) from lettuce soaking in cold tap water. Therefore, educators and extension workers might consider it appropriate to instruct consumers to rub or brush fresh produce under cold running tap water before consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes Kilonzo-Nthenge
- Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Research, Tennessee State University, Nashville 37209-1561, USA
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Thunberg RL, Tran TT, Bennett RW, Matthews RN, Belay N. Microbial evaluation of selected fresh produce obtained at retail markets. J Food Prot 2002; 65:677-82. [PMID: 11952219 DOI: 10.4315/0362-028x-65.4.677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The microbial quality of five types of fresh produce obtained at the retail level was determined by standard quantitative techniques. These techniques included aerobic plate count (APC), total coliform counts, Escherichia coli counts, and yeast and mold counts. Three different methods were used to determine total coliform counts, which consisted of MacConkey agar plate counts, Colicomplete most probable number counts, and Petrifilm E. coli (EC) plate counts. The mean APCs for sprouts, lettuce, celery, cauliflower, and broccoli were 8.7, 8.6, 7.5, 7.4. and 6.3 log10 CFU/g, respectively. MacConkey agar counts indicated that 89 to 96% of the APCs consisted of gram-negative bacteria. Yeast and mold counts were in a range expected of fresh produce. Fresh produce was also analyzed for human pathogens. Samples were analyzed for Staphylococcus spp., Bacillus spp., Salmonella spp., Listeria spp., and Campylobacter spp. One isolate of Staphylococcus was found to be enterotoxigenic, and one species of Bacillus was also toxigenic. Neither Salmonella spp. nor Campylobacter spp. were detected in any of the produce samples. A variety of Listeria spp., including Listeria monocytogenes, were found in fresh produce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Thunberg
- US Food and Drug Administration, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Washington, DC 20204, USA.
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