engleski

Presence of L. monocytogenes and Listeria spp. in ready to eat vegetables sold in supermarkets in Osijek, Croatia

Introduction Minimally processed and refrigerated vegetables have high potential for contamination with bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. The aim of this research was to investigate presence of L. monocytogenes and Listeria spp. and to assess microbiological quality of ready to eat vegetables sold in Osijek, Croatia. Material and Methods In period from March 2008 till April 2009, 100 samples of minimally processed and refrigerated vegetables from supermarkets in Osijek were analysed for presence of Listeria spp. Lettuce, delicates and cabbage salads, mixed, leafy and rooty vegetables were investigated. Results Listeria spp. was determinated in 20% of the samples, and L. monocytogenes in 1% of the samples in amount of 60 cfu/g. Microbiological quality of investigated minimally processed and refrigerated vegetables from supermarkets in Osijek was satisfactory with regard to Croatian and EU regulations on L. monocytogenes. Conclusions Presence of L. monocytogenes, although in tolerable amount, and other Listeria spp. is an indicator of unsatisfactory listericide treatment and suggests that risks of consumption and possibility of harmful effect on people's health are not completely eliminated.

Listeria monocytogenes; Listeria spp.; ready to eat vegetables

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