Evidence-Based Intervention Framework Proposal for Listeria monocytogenes in Micro and Small Meat-Processing Plants

Area of Science:

• Food safety
• Microbiology
• Risk management

Background:

• Listeria monocytogenes presents a significant challenge in meat-processing facilities, particularly for small businesses with limited resources.
• Existing data on Listeria's environmental presence and recurrence often lacks clear operational guidance for risk management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an intervention framework for controlling Listeria monocytogenes in micro and small meat-processing plants.
• To integrate microbiological and operational evidence for practical risk mitigation strategies.

Main Methods:

• Integration of data on environmental distribution, isolate recurrence, and risk factors from eight meat-processing plants.
• Definition of functional prioritization criteria including hygienic zoning, process flow, proximity to ready-to-eat products, and environmental persistence factors.
• Development of differentiated risk scenarios and a hierarchy of intervention points.

Main Results:

• Identification of specific site types recurrently associated with Listeria spp. and L. monocytogenes presence.
• Establishment of a functional hierarchy prioritizing intervention points based on recurrence and risk factors.
• Tailored intervention strategies for prevention, control, and environmental monitoring suitable for small-scale operations.

Conclusions:

• The study proposes a transferable framework to aid decision-making in managing Listeria monocytogenes risk in small meat-processing plants.
• The framework supports targeted interventions based on prioritized risk areas within the plant environment.
• Implementation can enhance food safety by adapting control measures to the operational realities of small businesses.