Listeria recalls prompt another look at control efforts

So far this year USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service has reported more listeria-related recalls than the agency reported in 2013, 2014 and 2015 — combined. Although more robust testing surely is a factor in the increase, notably several recalls also represented the intersection of FSIS- and FDA-regulated companies. In none of those three recalls involving both sides were the products that meat processors make contaminated with Lm, which on the one hand speaks to the general success that meat processors have had in keeping that pathogen off their products. On the other, as value-added products become the rule, wherein meat processors partner with other food makers to make easy meals for consumers, recent recalls are a fresh reminder for meat processors to remain vigilant not only in controlling Lm on products though rigorous means of sanitation but also attacking it in the environment prior to product contamination.