Phage-Based Control of <i>Listeria innocua</i> in the Food Industry: A Strategy for Preventing <i>Listeria monocytogenes</i> Persistence in Biofilms
2025
Anna Zawiasa | Marcin Schmidt | Agnieszka Olejnik-Schmidt
<i>Listeria innocua</i>, though considered non-pathogenic, frequently coexists with <i>Listeria monocytogenes</i> in industrial environments, aiding its survival in biofilms. These biofilms pose a significant challenge in food processing facilities, as they protect bacteria from disinfectants and facilitate their spread. The aim of this review was to identify bacteriophages as a promising method for eliminating <i>Listeria</i> biofilms from the food industry. Lytic bacteriophages show great potential in combating <i>Listeria</i> biofilms. Commercially available products, such as PhageGuard Listex™ (P100) (Micreos Food Safety, Wageningen, The Netherlands), effectively reduce both <i>L. monocytogenes</i> and <i>L. innocua</i> in food products and on production surfaces. Additionally, phage-derived enzymes, such as endolysins, can degrade biofilms, eliminating bacteria without compromising food quality. The following article highlights that although bacteriophages present a promising biocontrol method, further research is necessary to assess their long-term effectiveness, particularly regarding bacterial resistance. To maximize efficacy, a combination of strategies such as phage cocktails and disinfectants is recommended to enhance biofilm eradication and minimize food contamination risks.
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