Overview
EN ISO 11290-1:2017/A1:2026 is an international standard published by CEN that specifies a horizontal method for detecting and enumerating Listeria monocytogenes and Listeria spp. in the food chain. This amendment introduces important updates, focusing specifically on:
- The inclusion of guidance for storage of samples prior to analysis
- Changes to the specified control strain used for performance testing of culture media and reagents
These updates enhance harmonization and traceability in food safety laboratories, supporting quality assurance for microbiological testing and better protection against Listeria contamination in food products.
Key Topics
Key updates in this amendment include:
-
Sample Storage Prior to Analysis
- Laboratories must ensure samples are representative and not altered during transport or storage.
- For storage conditions, laboratories should follow ISO 7218. If not feasible, alternative storage conditions with demonstrated stability for Listeria spp. must be fully reported.
- Reference to ISO/TS 17728 for food/feed sampling and ISO 18593 for environmental samples.
-
Control Strain for Quality Assurance
- Replacement of Listeria monocytogenes WDCM 00109 with WDCM 00231 for performance testing of culture media and reagents.
- Supporting data for this change are available on the ISO standards platform.
- Performance testing should align with ISO 11133 regarding productivity, specificity, and selectivity.
-
Performance Testing Procedures
- Detailed procedures and criteria for performance testing of culture media and reagents are provided, ensuring reliable detection and identification of Listeria.
- Tables specify incubation conditions, functions, control strains, and minimum requirements for productivity, selectivity, and specificity.
Applications
EN ISO 11290-1:2017/A1:2026 has practical applications across the food industry and laboratory services involved in food safety, including:
Related Standards
For broader alignment and improved implementation, users of EN ISO 11290-1:2017/A1:2026 should also be familiar with these related standards:
- ISO 11290-1:2017 – The base standard for detection and enumeration of Listeria monocytogenes and Listeria spp.
- ISO 7218 – General requirements and guidance for microbiological examinations, including sample handling and storage.
- ISO/TS 17728 – Procedures for sampling food and animal feed for microbiological analysis.
- ISO 18593 – Horizontal methods for sampling techniques from surfaces using contact plates and swabs.
- ISO 11133 – Preparation, production, storage, and performance testing of culture media.
Keywords: EN ISO 11290-1:2017/A1:2026, Listeria detection, Listeria monocytogenes, food microbiology, sample storage, control strain, culture media performance testing, food safety standard, ISO 7218, ISO 11133, food chain testing, laboratory quality assurance, food contaminate testing.