The EU is consulting only until 8 May on proposed changes to L. monocytogenes (Lm) legislation. This would require Lm to be Not Detected (ND) throughout life in 25g if the Competent Authority is not satisfied with a product’s shelf life basis (criterion 1.2b).
This criterion applies to ready to eat foods supporting the growth of Lm but currently states ND at the point of last control by the producer. The industry position, substantiated by epidemiological evidence, is that the current law is effective when it is enforced including commercially, that ND is not based on science, will lead to reduced FBO monitoring of end product potentially leading to undetected loss of control, may require unpalatable reformulation or technological treatments not accepted by consumers, and that much more emphasis is required in law on production environment hygiene control since it is the primary cause of contamination leading to outbreaks according to the UN FAO.
CFA is leading on the industry response to the consultation. The Industry Listeria Group was established by CFA in May 2021 to share intelligence on UK, EU and other international developments (e.g. CODEX/WTO) in relation to Lm legislation and standards and prepare for, communicate to industry, the trade and respond to Government and agencies on any proposed changes to requirements with a view to protecting food safety best practice.
ILG’s Technical Lobbying Document is available here. It is also the subject of meetings and webinars presented by CFA’s DG. These include European Federations (chilled, meat products, sprouted seeds, fresh produce, smoked salmon, dairy products), BRC’s Microbiology Working Group, Dairy UK and an online international conference titled ‘Listeria: Where are we?’, attended by over 250 people from around the globe.
Companies are urged to respond to the consultation, which is here
April 2024