WASHINGTON — The American Meat Institute Foundation and the Food Marketing Institute Foundation announced they will provide funding to support research to develop practical control strategies for Listeria monocytogenes in retail delicatessens.
Listeria monocytogenes is a pathogenic bacteria that can be found in virtually all environments including retail stores and in the home. Although not a frequent cause of foodborne illness, when it occurs, it can result in serious infections and death in susceptible people. Control of this bacteria represents a particular challenge due to the common presence and persistence of the bacteria within the environment.
"This research will help us identify practical, science-based ways to control Listeria," said FMI Senior Vice President of Food Safety Jill Hollingsworth, in a statement. "Collaboration among trading partners, universities and the USDA is the best way to achieve our common goal of reducing foodborne illness."
"We are pleased to fund this important project with our retail customers through FMI," said AMI Foundation President James H. Hodges. "This important project will help us continue our work to reduce and ultimately eliminate Listeriaon ready-to-eat meat and poultry products."
The support from AMIF and the FMI Foundation complements funding provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service.
