Occurrence of Listeria monocytogenes in a Serbian salmon and seafood processing line during 2013

Abstract

The objective of this study was to examine the occurrence of L. monocytogenes in a selected fish and seafood processing line. Results showed that during 2013, 12.4 %, 8.3 % and 2.3 % of fish, seafood salads and environmental swabs were positive for L. monocytogenes. All positive food samples showed a contamination level below 100 CFU/g. Environmental swabs from surface of slicing and trimming tables, slicing machines, fish filleting and trimming knives, belt glazer and working table were positive for L. monocytogenes. Therefore, strict attention must be paid to cleaning and disinfection to control the level of L. monocytogenes.