A survey estimating the benefits of incorporating Listeria specific growth inhibitors in bulk luncheon meats to be sliced in retail delis

The rate of foodborne illness caused by Listeria monocytogenes continues to exceed the Healthy People 2020 goal of 0.2 cases per 100,000 persons. Listeria infections are primarily sporadic, most cases caused by eating contaminated, ready-to-eat (RTE) foods including luncheon meats sliced in retail delis which have been implicated as being responsible for as many as 83% of these illnesses. Listeria specific antimicrobials incorporated in RTE luncheon meats to be sliced in retail delis would lower the risk to consumers by as much as 96%, especially for high-risk consumers. Walmart and Sam's Club stores (Bentonville, AR), large retailers of RTE meats sliced in their delis, have required all their suppliers of bulk RTE meats which could support the growth of Listeria to include a verified inhibitor that will not allow an increase in L. monocytogenes of more than 1 log during the intended shelf-life and storage of the product. We surveyed these suppliers and determined that six of 15 suppliers had not added inhibitors to their bulk luncheon meat for Walmart prior to the 2010 requirement. One supplier reported using inhibitors in 60% of their products prior to Walmart's mandate and now uses Listeria specific inhibitors in 100% of the bulk deli meats it produces, regardless of customer. Three of the five manufacturers who needed to reformulate their products reported additional benefits: the Listeria specific antimicrobials extended their products' shelf life, improved food safety and provided better protection for their customers.