The Food-borne Listeria monocytogenes ? from Farm to Fork?

The bacterium Listeria monocytogenes causes the disease listeriosis in both animals and humans. Main manifestations are meningoencephalitis and septicaemia. Mortality is 30%. As we have a unique collection of almost 7000 L. monocytogenes isolates from animals, humans and foods,
retrospective studies may contribute to the understanding of listeriosis. After molecular characterisation, the food isolates should be compared with the human/animal isolates. This is important for investigation of food-borne outbreaks and for food plants trying to prevent listeria from entering.