There was a lag time of about 24, 6 and 4 h at 10,
20 and 30 jC, respectively, for L. monocytogenes
growth in melon (Figs. 1–3, respectively). The results
confirm that low temperature is not a barrier to
Listeria growth; it can retard but not inhibit growth.
Maximum populations of about 109 CFU/g were
reached after the end of all the incubation times
studied in melon pulp. Ukuku and Fett (2002)
reported the growth and survival of L. monocytogenes
on fresh-cut pieces of cantaloupe. A lag time of 4 and
6 h was observed for fresh-cut pieces stored at 20 and