The potential for third party standards at manufacturing and retail to reduce the risk of listeriosis arising from consumption of Listeria monocytogenes from ready-to-eat foods

Many third party standards are published that are either part of regional regulations or provide guidance on the control of Listeria monocytogenes in foodstuffs. These standards deal with different steps/control options for L. monocytogenes. Whereas microbiological criteria as outlined in EC regulation 2073/2005 are useful in setting performance objectives within the whole food chain, guidance on challenge studies provides the basis for harmonized approaches within industry and food safety authorities to evaluate L. monocytogenes growth potential in different foods. Other guidance documents aim towards ways of more effective Listeria control at manufacturing. The setting of governmental process and product standards link into food safety management systems by manufacturers and retailers, thereby guiding their food safety activities. The value of third party standards is discussed in conjunction with valuable inputs that can be provided by businesses having long-term experiences in related fields. Third party standards are increasingly valuable for firms to interact with partners in the food chain, so that good science plays a role in providing safe and wholesome products for the consumer without excessive government interference. Firms with long-term experiences in processing and marketing food can be important contributors to third party standards.