Listeriosis: biology and implications for the food industry

Transmission, via foods, of Listeria monocytogenes, the causative agent of listeriosis, has become of major concern in recent years. Although the pathogen has been associated with human disease since 1929 (Ref. 1), it was not until recently that foodborne transmission of listeriosis to humans was conclusively demonstrated. In its most severe form, listeriosis can be a life-threatening infection; in some cases, it can cause severe complications in pregnancy, leading to spontaneous abortion. The severity of the symptoms and the high mortality rates (∼30%) associated with recent outbreaks of listeriosis have led to widespread public concern, and have increased efforts to prevent further cases. Detailed information about the growth characteristics, ecology, virulence mechanisms and clinical aspects of L. monocytogenes is now available. Such information enables more effective control of the transmission of L. monocytogenes via foods.