Prevalence of Listeria monocytogenes in Raw Milk and Karish Cheese: Implications for Public Health in Egypt

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, 44519, Zagazig, Egypt,

2 faculty of science zagazig university

3 faculty of science zagazig univeristy

4 faculty of veterinary medicine, zagazig university

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in the raw milk used for the production of Karish cheese, a popular soft white cheese in Egypt. Random samples of raw milk and Karish cheese were collected from various sources. The isolation of L. monocytogenes was carried out following the ISO 11290 guidelines, and biochemical tests were performed for the identification and confirmation of the pathogen. Out of the 80 samples collected, including both raw milk and Karish cheese, 19 samples (23.75%) were found to be contaminated with L. monocytogenes. Since Karish cheese is traditionally made from raw milk without undergoing pasteurization, the contamination of milk presents a potential health risk to consumers. The results underscore the significant risk to human health posed by the consumption of contaminated Karish cheese. Therefore, it is crucial to implement stringent hygienic measures during the manufacture of this type of cheese to minimize the risk of contamination.

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