Growth of Listeria monocytogenes on Fresh Vegetables Stored Under Controlled Atmosphere

Abstract
The effects of controlled atmosphere storage (CAS) on survival and growth of Listeria monocytogenes on fresh asparagus, broccoli, and cauliflower were investigated. Vegetables were inoculated with L. monocytogenes strain Scott A or LCDC 81–861 (103–105 CFU/g) and stored at 4 and 15°C under CAS and air. L. monocytogenes populations were monitored over 21 day (4°C) and 10 day (15°C) periods using selective recovery media and a direct plating technique. CAS lengthened the time that all vegetables were considered acceptable for consumption by subjective inspection. Populations of L. monocytogenes increased during storage but CAS did not influence the rate of growth.