According to FDA, L. monocytogenes is the fourth-leading foodborne illness-related cause of death in the U.S. Despite continued efforts, listeriosis incidence rates have remained “essentially static” for more than a decade, indicating the need for new, collaborative approaches to reduce the public health burden associated with the foodborne pathogen.

In this context, the upcoming public meeting will be the first in a series of public engagements, including workshops and webinars, to discuss best practices for managing risks posed by L. monocytogenes. These discussions will highlight the perspectives of various stakeholders and help FDA leverage the latest scientific advancements and emerging developments related to L. monocytogenes prevention.

The August public meeting will focus on reducing the risk of L. monocytogenes during manufacturing and processing, in ready-to-eat (RTE) foods at retail establishments, and during consumer storage and use, as well as on raising awareness of foodborne listeriosis among vulnerable populations. The meeting will include presentations and listening sessions on:

• Advances in the Understanding and Control of L. monocytogenes
• Best Practices in L. monocytogenes Prevention
• L. monocytogenes Dose-Response Modeling: Applications and Advancements
• Using Food Safety Management Systems for Controlling L. monocytogenes in Retail Environments
• Preventing Listeriosis in an Era of Changing Demographics and Dietary Patterns.

FDA encourages participation from all stakeholders, including industry, academia, consumer groups, and public health practitioners.