Current understanding and perspectives on Listeria monocytogenes in low-moisture foods

Listeria monocytogenes is an important foodborne pathogen that has caused many outbreaks, mainly related to foods that can support its growth. However, due to the emergence of low-moisture foods (LMFs) as potential sources of foodborne outbreaks, concerns exist about the potential public health implications of finding L. monocytogenes in LMFs, especially since research has shown that the organism can survive for long periods of time in these foods. To-date, although there have not been any reported outbreaks, there have been a number of recalls due to L. monocytogenes contaminated LMFs. In this review, we highlight the prevalence and survival of the organism in LMFs, discuss recalls, and examine the phenotypic and genotypic traits associated with L. monocytogenes desiccation tolerance.