Methodology for isolation of Listeria from foods--a Canadian perspective

A previously described monoclonal antibody-enzyme immunoassay system for dairy products was examined to determine its potential for detecting Listeria in naturally contaminated ground meats. In addition, a microtiter plate system was developed which has potential in the rapid detection of Listeria species in foods. Experience in Canada with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration procedure for dairy products, the cold enrichment procedure, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture procedure for meats is discussed. Also, the status on attempts to devise improved selective media for the isolation of Listeria species from foods is described.