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Prevalence, Potential Virulence, and Genetic Diversity of Listeria monocytogenes Isolates from Edible Mushrooms in Chinese Markets

Summary

This research examined the presence of dangerous Listeria bacteria in edible mushrooms sold in Chinese markets. The study found that while about 21% of mushroom samples contained Listeria, most had low contamination levels. However, some strains showed concerning characteristics like antibiotic resistance and increased ability to cause disease. Impacts on everyday life: – Highlights the importance of proper handling and cooking of mushrooms – Demonstrates need for better food safety monitoring in mushroom production – Raises awareness about antibiotic-resistant bacteria in food supply – Shows value of scientific testing in protecting public health – Emphasizes need for food safety guidelines specific to mushroom products

Background

Listeria monocytogenes is an intracellular foodborne pathogen that causes listeriosis, including meningitis, meningoencephalitis, and abortion, with mortality rates up to 20-30%. The pathogen can survive in various adverse environments and has been reported in edible mushroom products in several countries. China lacks guidelines for detection of L. monocytogenes in mushroom products despite being the world’s largest mushroom producer.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and contamination levels of L. monocytogenes in edible mushrooms from Chinese markets and determine the antibiotic resistance and sequence types of isolates to provide data for risk assessments.

Results

21.20% of mushroom samples were positive for L. monocytogenes, with 57.44% of positive samples containing less than 10 MPN/g. The 180 isolates belonged mainly to serogroups I.1 and II.2. Over 95% were resistant to penicillin, ampicillin, oxacillin and clindamycin. MLST revealed 21 sequence types, with ST8 and ST87 predominant. Most isolates contained full-length inlA genes, with novel premature stop codons found in two isolates. Five isolates carried the llsX gene and 53 harbored the ptsA gene.

Conclusion

The study found significant L. monocytogenes contamination in Chinese edible mushrooms, particularly in F. velutipes products. While contamination levels were generally low, the presence of potentially hypervirulent strains carrying multiple virulence factors poses a public health concern. Continuous monitoring and development of control approaches are necessary to ensure mushroom safety.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research Study,
  • Source: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.01711
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