This summer, the focus of FSIS’ attention has clearly been on the control of Shiga-toxin producing E. coli and Salmonella in certain raw meat or poultry products. However, a recent FSIS Notice announcing the availability of a revised FSIS Listeria Guideline should serve as a reminder that control of Listeria monocytogenes (L.m.) in post-lethality ready-to-eat (RTE) meat and poultry products continues to be a high priority for the agency.
The revised Listeria Guideline replaces previous versions of the Guideline and Q&As (last updated in 2006), and provides recommendations that establishments producing post-lethality RTE products can follow to meet the requirements of 9 C.F.R. Part 430 (the Listeria Rule). Although the revised guideline does not contain any major changes to previous recommendations, it has been reformatted and expanded to assist establishments in complying with the Listeria Rule. Key expansions include: