Prevalence of Listeria monocytogenes in raw milk in Kerman, Iran

Abstract

<em>Listeria monocytogenes</em> as one of the most important pathogen in public health concerns is transmitted through consumption of contaminated food. The pathogen has been considered as a potential source of contamination of raw milk and dairy products. This research was aimed to investigate prevalence of <em>L. monocytogenes</em> in raw milk in Kerman region. In the summer of 2011, a total number of one hundred raw milk samples were collected from bulk tanks of some dairy farms and tested for<em>iap</em> and <em>actA </em>genes using polymerase chain reaction. Among the 100 samples, five isolates (5.0%) were detected as <em>L. monocytogenes</em> based on phenotypic and genotypic characteristics. Considering the low frequency of <em>L. monocytogenes</em> in this study, raw milk cannot be omitted as a potential source of food contamination for the population of the region. To achieve more accurate isolation, identification and control of <em>L. monocytogenes </em>in raw milk, it is suggested that new standard laboratory methods be implemented as well as biosafety outreach programs, management techniques and education.