from the production line. Despite thorough disinfection and sanitation
of the production line one day prior to the experiment, 30%
(3 out of 10) of the smoked salmon fillets in the control group 1
(Fig. 3) were found to be contaminated with environmental (i.e.,
non-challenge strain) L. monocytogenes. Treatment with ListShield™
(group 2) resulted in 0% recovery of L. monocytogenes in
these fillets. Groups 3 and 4 were experimentally innoculated with
the challenge L. monocytogenes strain Lm376 in addition to any
L. monocytogenes strains that may have been naturally present on
the fillets. None of the fillets in the group treated with ListShield™
tested positive for L. monocytogenes; whereas 100% of the experimentally
innoculated and water-treated fillets were positive for
L. monocytogenes. In summary, both the experimental and natural
contamination of the smoked salmon fillets by L. monocytogenes
was reduced to undetectable levels after treatment with
ListShield™.
3.4. Evaluating the impact of ListShield™ on the organoleptic
qualities of foods
ListShield™ has been approved for use on RTE meat and poultry
products (21 CFR x 172.785.). Therefore, its impact on the organoleptic
qualities of relevant food samples was evaluated, using a
Triangle Test as described in section 2.12. The food samples used in
the study included oven roasted sliced turkey breast, cooked ham,
meat bologna, and roast beef. Based on Table A1.2 of the ASTM E
1885-97 and the statistical requirements outlined in the methods
section above, 13 correct responses are required to indicate that
there is a difference between ListShield™ and PBS treated RTE
foods. Sensory evaluation of RTE food products treated with ListShield™
or PBS resulted in 6 out of the 24 correctly identifying the
odd sample in a Triangle Test. From this experiment it can be
concluded with 95% certainty that not more than 50% of the