Ecolab Experts on Microbes – Listeria

In this video, Oriana Leishman, Ph.D., MPH, Ecolab R&D Program Leader for Food, Protein and Personal Care, explains correct monitoring and control of Listeria monocytogenes, commonly referred to as Listeria.

Listeria is a pathogen that causes listeriosis, a serious human illness. Unlike most other foodborne pathogens, it can grow at proper refrigeration temperatures. It is widely distributed in nature, and has been recovered from farm fields, vegetables, animals and other environments such as food processing facilities, retail stores, home kitchens and ready-to-eat foods.

Listeria is controlled by normal food pasteurization and cooking processes, as well as sanitizers used at recommended rates. But it is found almost everywhere, so monitoring and control are critical. Control requires frequent and thorough sanitizing. It is especially important to clean places where Listeria may become established…places like food contact surfaces, floors, drains, brushes and sponges. HVAC systems, coolers, freezers and walls also need to be sanitized regularly. 

Foodborne illnesses, such as Listeria, are a growing public health problem.  From helping to prevent cross-contamination in animal processing and food processing facilities to providing sanitation and hand hygiene programs for restaurant employees, Ecolab is a global leader in keeping food safe.

Learn more about Listeria monocytogenes