Isolation and characterization of Listeria species from tropical seafoods

The incidence of Listeria species in the seafood of markets in Goa, India was studied. One hundred and fifteen raw/fresh seafoods bought at the fish markets were sampled and tested for presence of Listeria spp. using a two step enrichment procedure, followed by plating on two selective agars. The confirmation of the isolates was based on biochemical identification. Twenty eight seafood samples were positive for Listeria spp. and in 10 samples L. monocytogenes was detected. L. innocua was the most common Listeria species recovered and was detected in 18 samples. L. monocytogenes in raw seafood may pose a health risk in kitchen if contaminating ready-to-eat food.