First results on the detection of Listeria monocytogenes in raw milk: comparison of two different analytical methods

The recent authorisation for the sale of raw milk directly from farms or through automatic machines, in accordance with Regulation (EC) 853/2004, is a phenomenon that is rapidly expanding (Reg. EC No 853/2004). It was considered interesting to verify the sensitivity of the method, proposed by the Regulation (EC) 2073/2005, for the isolation of L. monocytogenes, comparing it to the technique of the Most Probable Number (MPN) both on raw milk as collected and on that which had been artificially contaminated. The comparison of the methodologies employed directly on the matrix, enables us to highlight a higher percentage of detection of Listeria spp. using the direct count method technique.