Certified Cheese Professional 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Listeria Monocytogenes is a bacterium that can pose serious health risks, particularly in some vulnerable populations. The heat treatment is a critical factor in ensuring food safety and preventing the survival of this pathogen.

The correct temperature at which Listeria Monocytogenes can no longer survive is typically around 165°F. This temperature effectively eliminates a wide range of bacteria, including Listeria, ensuring that food is safe for consumption. While the answer indicated as 145°F does reduce the risk significantly, it may not be sufficient to guarantee that all Listeria cells are destroyed.

The higher temperatures listed, such as 161.5°F, would also effectively kill Listeria, further decreasing the chances of survival. Therefore, it is essential to cook food to this higher temperature to ensure that it is safe, particularly in products that are prone to harboring this pathogen. Understanding these temperature thresholds is vital for food safety and preventing listeriosis.