The European Commission has introduced new measures aimed at aiding food businesses in their compliance with regulations surrounding Listeria monocytogenes. Commission Regulation (EU) 2024/2895 will come into effect on July 1, 2026, amending existing guidelines to enhance food safety protocols for ready-to-eat foods.
Updated Guidance for Food Businesses
To assist food business operators, the Commission has released an updated GUIDANCE DOCUMENT that outlines Listeria monocytogenes monitoring and shelf-life studies. This document pertains to Commission Regulation (EC) No 2073/2005, which establishes microbiological criteria for foodstuffs.
Target Audience
- Food business operators producing ready-to-eat foods.
- Competent authorities responsible for official controls.
- Third parties developing Listeria monocytogenes shelf-life studies.
The updated guidance is essential for food operators tasked with conducting shelf-life studies related to Listeria monocytogenes under Article 3(2) and Annex II of the 2005 regulation.
Addressing Legislative Gaps
Currently, the existing regulation does not specify a limit for Listeria monocytogenes in Category 1.2 ready-to-eat foods when these are beyond the control of the food business. The new regulation establishes the criterion of “L. monocytogenes not detected in 25 g” for such foods, which are not intended for infants or special medical purposes.
Requirements for Food Operators
Food businesses that produce ready-to-eat items capable of supporting the growth of L. monocytogenes must ensure compliance with microbiological criteria throughout the shelf-life of their products. The guidance document offers recommendations for:
- Classifying and labeling foods as ready-to-eat or non-ready-to-eat.
- Determining the applicable food safety criteria for Listeria monocytogenes.
- Assessing when and which shelf-life studies are necessary.
- Demonstrating ongoing compliance with Listeria criteria until the product’s expiration.
- Validating and documenting the adequacy of shelf-life studies.
The updated guidance is vital for ensuring food safety and protecting public health by clarifying responsibilities and processes for food businesses dealing with Listeria monocytogenes.
