Abstract: Listeria monocytogenes is an important foodborne pathogen that causes bacterial food poisoning. It is often caused by meat contaminated with this pathogen, and cross-contamination is the main pathway to cause Listeria monocytogenes contamination and foodborne diseases. This paper reviews the epidemiological aspects of Listeria monocytogenes contamination in meat products in China and abroad, the cross-contamination status of domestic kitchens and meat processing plants, cross-contamination modeling, and the prevention and control of cross-contamination, which will hopefully provide a theoretical basis for maintaining domestic food safety and ensuring food processing hygiene and safety in factories.

Key words: Listeria monocytogenes; meat products; cross-contamination; kitchen; food processing plant