The presence of Listeria monocytogenes in different pork and poultry meat products has been revealed by researchers in Spain. A total of 184 meat samples were gathered from various retailers in La Rioja, with Listeria spp. and monocytogenes being identified in 45 and 19 samples, respectively.
According to a study published in the International Journal of Food Science and Technology, the predominant Listeria species varied depending on the type of meat. Listeria monocytogenes was the most common type found in chicken, quail, and pork meat, while Listeria innocua and Listeria welshimeri were the dominant species in duck and turkey meat, respectively.
The meat samples, which consisted of 35 chicken, 37 quail, 31 duck, 37 turkey, and 39 pork samples from different retailers in La Rioja, revealed that multiple species of Listeria were present in 30 out of 45 positive samples. A total of 164 strains were isolated from the positive samples.
In terms of detection by meat type, Listeria was found in nine out of 35 chicken samples, 13 out of 31 duck samples, seven out of 37 quail samples, seven out of 51 turkey samples, and nine out of 30 pork samples. Specifically, Listeria monocytogenes was detected in six out of 35 chicken samples, seven out of 37 quail samples, two out of 51 turkey samples, and four out of 30 pork samples.
Scientists emphasize the importance of implementing special measures to minimize meat contamination, such as proper handling, thorough cooking, and adequate cleaning and disinfection practices to prevent cross-contamination.
Out of 59 Listeria strains, 33 exhibited multi-drug resistance, with the highest rates observed in Listeria monocytogenes strains. Quail showed the highest resistance rates, followed by chicken, duck, turkey, and pork.
It is concerning that some Listeria monocytogenes strains isolated from chicken showed resistance to ampicillin and trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole, antibiotics commonly used to treat listeriosis.
Listeria infections can manifest with symptoms like vomiting, nausea, fever, muscle aches, headache, and neck stiffness, necessitating specific laboratory tests for diagnosis. Vulnerable populations, including pregnant women, the elderly, young children, and immunocompromised individuals, face greater risks of severe health complications due to Listeria infections.
Despite pregnant women often experiencing mild symptoms, there is a potential risk of adverse outcomes such as premature delivery, newborn infection, or stillbirth as a result of Listeria exposure. To stay informed on food safety news, sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News.