Which statement about Lm is true?

Which statement about Lm is true?

• A. It cannot form biofilms on surfaces.
• B. It only grows at high temperatures.
• C. It can form biofilms on food contact surfaces if not frequently cleaned.
• D. It is not a concern for food safety.

Answer: (C)

Listeria monocytogenes can persist on surfaces by forming biofilms, which are communities of cells embedded in a protective matrix that attach to equipment and other contact surfaces. This makes them harder to remove with routine cleaning and sanitation, so if surfaces are not cleaned frequently, biofilms can establish and harbor cells that can later contaminate foods. That’s why the true statement is that it can form biofilms on food contact surfaces if not frequently cleaned. The other ideas don’t fit: Listeria is not limited to high temperatures; it can grow at refrigeration temperatures, which is part of why it’s a major food-safety concern. And it certainly is a concern for food safety, given its potential to cause illness, especially in vulnerable populations.

Listeria monocytogenes can persist on surfaces by forming biofilms, which are communities of cells embedded in a protective matrix that attach to equipment and other contact surfaces. This makes them harder to remove with routine cleaning and sanitation, so if surfaces are not cleaned frequently, biofilms can establish and harbor cells that can later contaminate foods. That’s why the true statement is that it can form biofilms on food contact surfaces if not frequently cleaned.

The other ideas don’t fit: Listeria is not limited to high temperatures; it can grow at refrigeration temperatures, which is part of why it’s a major food-safety concern. And it certainly is a concern for food safety, given its potential to cause illness, especially in vulnerable populations.