PCR-based detection of Listeria monocytogenes in dairy foods

Consumption of dairy foods has been recognized as an important transmission route for human listeriosis, causing health hazards among public, This demands a successful detection assay to declare dairy foods free of Listeria monocytogenes, the causative pathogen, Although PCR-based detection of E. monocytogenes in dairy foods is associated with problems of PCR inhibition and carry-over contamination, PCR have been applied widely for successful detection of L. monocytogenes in dairy foods and found useful for suggesting, monitoring and control measures. Therefore, in the present report, PCR-based detection protocols with special reference to overcome PCR inhibition by dairy foods and culture media constituents over the last 5 years are discussed, Also, critical tips to be kept in mind while performing PCR-based L. monocytogenes detection assay are enumerated.