Survey of prevalence and seasonal variability of Listeria monocytogenes in raw cow milk from Northern Italy

摘要: Listeria monocytogenes is an important food-borne pathogen causing meningitis, meningo-encephalitis and abortion. Both sporadic epidemic human listeriosis cases are associated with the consumption of contaminated foods. To assess potential risk to consumer health, presence L. monocytogenes was investigated using qualitative quantitative methods in raw milk (bulk tank for vending machine) collected from 2010 2013 Northern Italy (Lombardy Emilia-Romagna regions). Overall, detected 145 on 8716 samples, a prevalence 1.66% (95% C.I. 1.4%–1.7%). The ranged 0.52% 0.3%–0.9%) 2012 2.7% 2.0%–3.8%) 2013, but no trend increase observed four-years investigation. 2.2% 1.9%–2.6%) bulk 0.5% 0.3%–0.8%) machine. A significative difference (p < 0.05) data between two different regions higher Lombardy. In addition geographical area, influenced also by seasonal period collection peaks spring autumn. These results confirm can be source foodborne illness outbreaks if consumed without sanitizing treatments, low contamination levels (more than 80% samples contained <10 cfu ml−l L. monocytogenes) proving hygienic quality produced Italy.