Completed Research

This study evaluated the survival of Listeria monocytogenes in brine solutions containing chlorine dioxide.

This study determined the microbial risk associated with condensation and identify controllable risk factors associated with its formation. The risk factors of condensation in processing environments where both fresh and ready-to-eat products are produced was examined.

This project identified the minimum level of sodium nitrite required to suppress growth of L. monocytogenes in ready-to-eat meat and poultry products manufactured with lactate and diacetate.

This study identified food dyes that were able to show contamination on the deli slicer. Research evaluated the reduction of contamination using current cleaning and sanitizing methods. Best practice and employee training materials were also developed.

This project assessed if levulinic acid, as a topical treatment, was effective against pathogenic bacteria. It evaluated whether topical application imparts residual protection against pathogen growth. This research was a follow up to previous research on the anti-listerial action of levulinate.

The study identified ingredients to suppress growth of Listeria monocytogenes in ready-to-eat (RTE), deli-style, meat and poultry products that meet “natural” or organic requirements defined by USDA.

This research used animal models to develop dose response information for human listeriosis risk assessment modeling. It gathered information on the low dose region of the dose response curve and attempt to identify mechanisms by which L. monocytogenes causes illness and death.

This study was the 2nd phase of this research, and further evaluated deli slicers to reduce the risk of listeriosis in commercial settings. Best practices were validated as well as the comparison of cleaning and sanitizing compounds used on deli slicers.

This research assessed the effectiveness of two chemical interventions, quaternary ammonia and hydrogen peroxide powder, to control Lm in RTE facilities. Results can be used to validate these interventions.

The research determined if strains of Lm develop filaments under stress conditions. These filaments may contribute to pathogen survival and subsequently multiply in contaminated product or human hosts.