Listeria Spp. Testing

Identifying low-level contamination in cool, damp processing environments before it reaches the shelf.

Environmental Screen

Listeria spp. Swabbing

Pathogen Screen

L. Monocytogenes PCR

Regulatory

FDA Zero Tolerance Policy

Zero Tolerance for Listeria

Listeria monocytogenes is a robust environmental organism that thrives in cool, damp environments common in food processing facilities. Because of its high risk profile, the US FDA and USDA maintain a "Zero Tolerance" policy in Ready-to-Eat (RTE) foods. AGT Labs utilizes validated listeria testing methods to detect low-level contamination before products reach the consumer.

Listeria Testing & Detection Protocols

We employ rigorous microbiological analysis for both environmental monitoring and finished product safety, ensuring compliance with FDA LAAF and AOAC standards.

Environmental Swab for Listeria

Listeria spp. Environmental Screening

Testing for the genus Listeria (Listeria spp.) is the primary tool for Environmental Monitoring Programs (EMP). It detects the presence of any related species, serving as a broad indicator of conditions that could support the growth of pathogenic organisms.

Accredited Methods:

SOP 190 (AOAC RI 090701 PCR)
SOP 088 (Lateral Flow)

Industry Application:

Used extensively for sponge swabs of Zone 2 and Zone 3 non-food contact surfaces (drains, floors, equipment framework) to verify sanitation effectivenessand detect harborage sites.

Listeria monocytogenes PCR Detection

L. monocytogenes Pathogen Confirmation

Listeria monocytogenes is the specific species pathogenic to humans. Our specific PCR detection assays separate this harmful organism from other non-harmful species. We confirm presumptive positives using cultural methods (ALOA Agar) to ensure zero false positives in our listeria testing process.

Accredited Methods:

SOP 190 (AOAC RI 010802 PCR)
SOP 161 (AOAC RI 101102)

Industry Application:

Mandatory analysis for Ready-to-Eat (RTE) deli meats, soft cheeses, smoked fish, and fresh-cut produce where the product will not be subsequently cooked.

Industries We Serve

Supporting high-risk sectors with targeted listeria control.

Soft Cheese

Listeria testing for unpasteurized cheese and dairy products.

RTE Meats

RTE meat product listeria analysis for deli slices and cured meats.

Fresh Cut Produce

Fresh cut produce microbiological testing for salads and fruits.

Why Choose AGT Food Labs?

We combine technical rigor with the agility of a dedicated safety partner.

★

Accredited Excellence

ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Accredited & FDA LAAF Recognized. Your results are legally defensible.

⚡

Rapid PCR

Advanced molecular detection provides confirmed results faster than traditional culture methods.

👥

Expert Support

Direct access to technical managers for result interpretation and problem-solving.

Common Questions About Listeria Testing

What is the difference between Listeria spp. and Listeria monocytogenes?

Listeria spp. refers to the entire genus of bacteria, which includes several species. Listeria monocytogenes is the specific species that is pathogenic to humans. Testing for Listeria spp. is often used in environmental monitoring as a broader indicator of conditions that could support the pathogen.

Why is environmental swabbing for Listeria important?

Listeria thrives in cool, damp environments found in food processing plants (drains, floors, coolers). Environmental monitoring helps identify and eliminate "harborage sites" before the bacteria can contaminate food contact surfaces or the finished product.

What foods are at highest risk for Listeria contamination?

Ready-to-Eat (RTE) foods are the highest risk because they are consumed without further cooking. This includes deli meats, hot dogs, soft cheeses, smoked seafood, sandwiches, and fresh-cut produce.

How long does it take to get Listeria test results?

Using advanced molecular methods like PCR, negative results are typically available within 24-48 hours after sample receipt. If a sample is presumptive positive, confirmation via cultural methods may take an additional 2-3 days.

What happens if a sample tests positive for Listeria?

If a finished product tests positive for Listeria monocytogenes, it is generally considered adulterated and must not enter commerce. We provide expert guidance on next steps, including confirmation testing and root cause analysis for environmental positives.

Ensure Your Production Hygiene

Validate your sanitation protocols with accredited microbiological testing.

Get A Free Quote