Growth Potential of Listeria monocytogenes on Refrigerated Spinach and Rocket Leaves in Modified Atmosphere Packaging.

ABSTRACT: Minimally processed ready-to-eat (RTE) vegetables are increasingly consumed for their health benefits. However, they also pose a risk of being ingested with food-borne pathogens. The present study investigated the ability of RTE spinach and rocket to support the growth of Listeria monocytogenes as previous studies provided contradicting evidence. Findings were compared to growth on iceberg lettuce that has repeatedly been shown to support growth. Products were inoculated with a three-strain mix of L. monocytogenes at 10 and 100 cfu g-1 and stored in modified atmosphere (4 kPa O2, 8 kPa CO2) at 8 °C over 7-9 days. Spinach demonstrated the highest growth potential rate of 2 to 3 log10 cfu g-1 over a 9-day period with only marginal deterioration in its visual appearance. Growth potential on r

SUBMITTER: Culliney P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7555703 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature