Abstract
Buffalo meat is an emerging source of high-quality animal protein. However, the role of the buffalo meat in the transmission of foodborne pathogens such as Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes) is scarcely investigated. Therefore, this study aimed at investigation of the prevalence rates of Listeria spp., particularly L. monocytogenes in retailed buffalo meat and buffalo mince in the Egyptian markets. In addition, antimicrobial susceptibility testing of the recovered L. monocytogenes isolates was further screened. Furthermore, antilisterial effects of two natural food additives, namely nisin, and gingerol were further examined. The obtained results of the present study revealed an overall isolation rates of Listeria spp. and L. monocytogenes from all examined samples at 34%, and 10%, respectively. Serological identification of the isolated Listeria spp. revealed recovery of six Listeria spp. namely, L. ivanovii, L. welshimeri, L. innocua, L. seeligeri, L. grayi, and L. monocytogenes. L. monocytogenes was isolated at 6%, and 14% from the examined buffalo meat and buffalo mince, respectively. The recovered L. monocytogenes had multidrug resistance profiling. Nisin and gingerol had clear antilisterial activities. As nisin achieved reduction rates of 11.36%, and 44.84% at 1%, and 2%, respectively; while gingerol achieved reduction rates of 8.44%, and 36.17% at 1%, and 2%, respectively. Therefore, it is recommended to use such food additives for the control of L. monocytogenes in the meat industry.