Detection of Listeria monocytogenes by using PCR in Helix pomatia

Abstract

The detection of Listeria monocytogenes in Helix pomatia, both raw and cooked is presented here. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a rapid procedure with both sensitivity and specificity for quick detection and identification of Listeria monocytogenes from raw and cooked Helix pomatia. A total of 30 bags (10 g each) of H. pomatia samples were investigated for the Listeria monocytogenes inlB gene with the PCR method. PCR amplification products demonstrated that 18 of the 30 samples showed positive reactions to Listeria monocytogenes in the PCR. All PCR positive samples showed specific amplification of the 343 bp fragment for Listeria monocytogenes.