Food of animal origin is frequently associated with Listeriosis caused by
L. monocytogenes. The present study was carried out to examine the contamination of carabeef samples and the slaughterhouse environment of Listeria spp., especially
L. monocytogenes. A total of 305 carabeef samples (275 from Punjab and 30 from Delhi) were collected. In addition to that, a total of 213 environmental samples (hand swab, knife, chopping boards/table-tops, floor, and hanger) were also examined for Listeria contamination. Slaughterhouses for carabeef and environmental samples were different. Samples were processed for isolation of Listeria spp. using standard protocol and isolates were subjected to biochemical and molecular testing. Only two samples (0.65%, 2/305) of carabeef yielded Listeria spp., which were identified as L.innocua. Both the isolates were obtained from carabeef samples of Punjab (0.72%, 2/275). The present study did not yield any L. monocytogenes isolates, but the presence of L.innocua pointed to the potential presence of pathogenic L. monocytogenes. None of the environmental samples were positive for Listeria spp. The L.innocua isolates were non-hemolytic and CAMP negative, they were non-pathogenic on ALOA chromogenic media. Although contamination of carabeef and environmental samples with Listeria spp. was low, it is important to aware occupational workers and consumers about the hygienic practices that need to be followed in relation to the food of animal origin to reduce the burden of foodborne diseases.

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