Abstract

Listeria monocytogenes is the causal agent of listeriosis, a highly lethal food-borne disease. We identified isolates of L.monocytogenes present in poultry products bought at local retailers. The bacterial DNA was isolated and patterns were compared by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Food isolates were also compared against three strains isolated from patients with listeriosis. Results showed 13 PFGE groups (>90% similarity). Of these, two patterns were shared by poultry and human strains. A particular group was found in 53% of the ground turkey meat and in a strain from a sporadic listeriosis case. Another group included an outbreak clone and 11 strains isolated from chicken. Data suggest L. monocytogenes should be included in risk assessment studies and hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP) plans of this matrix. It is also important to reinforce consumer education to avoid health risks during handling and processing of these products.