FDA/FSIS Listeria monocytogenes risk assessment:: Analysis of the analysis

An extensive risk-assessment (540 pages) of Listeria monocytogenes in ready-to-eat foods has been carried out (FDA/FSIS 2003). This very extensive risk assessment contains a wealth of information. However, in order to use the information, this needs first to be analysed. Very useful information can be extracted, both for managing the problem of listeriosis, as well as for the assessment of other microbiological risks, microbiological research, sampling of food products, etc. Deli-meats results as the most relevant product group, followed by pasteurised milk. Very exceptional, very high levels are of large importance for the public health burden. Furthermore, the quantitative effect of various interventions can be estimated by scenario analysis.