Listeria monocytogenes in Meat and Meat Products: Occurrence, Detection, Antibiotic Resistance, and Food Safety Implications

Listeria monocytogenes is a significant foodborne pathogen that poses serious risks to public health and the food industry. In humans, infections can lead to severe clinical outcomes, including gastroenteritis, septicemia, meningitis, encephalitis, and pregnancy-related complications such as stillbirths and spontaneous miscarriages. Contamination of meat and meat products has been associated with numerous outbreaks and sporadic cases worldwide. The detection and identification of L. monocytogenes involve traditional microbiological and biochemical methods, as well as advanced molecular techniques, including the polymerase chain reaction and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the microbiological characteristics, global prevalence, and antibiotic resistance profiles of L. monocytogenes . The emergence of multidrug-resistant strains underscores the importance of ongoing surveillance, effective antimicrobial stewardship, and rigorous adherence to food safety measures. Integrated efforts across the meat production and processing chain, combined with rapid diagnostic tools and public health interventions, are crucial to reducing the risk of listeriosis and ensuring the safety of meat products globally.