Foreign material is introduced in two ways: via raw materials and internally by the production process. They offer different challenges and require specific strategies to address them.
The number of reported incidents and recalls related to Listeria and L. monocytogenes has been increasing, and processors are making efforts to rid their facilities of harborage organisms and sites.
Most physical contaminants of foods, such as pieces of hard plastic or wood, can cause consumers immediate injury; this includes all types of foods, including beverages, bottled water, and nutritional and functional products.
The way processors view their responsibilities regarding microbiological testing is changing. Regulatory pressure and a focus on food safety are causing changes in where processors do their testing.
Increased consumer interest in food safety and quality issues, combined with expanding regulatory initiatives, are increasing the importance of testing.
Whether you are just setting up your environmental Listeria monitoring program or reassessing your existing program, there are basic elements that you will want to include.