Listeria Prevention Strategies Using the EnABLe Model

At iFoodDS, we understand that whether your facility processes fresh produce, frozen foods, spices, meat, poultry, dairy or seafood, protecting public health by advancing continuous improvement in food safety is always the priority. We also know that Listeria prevention strategies are of crucial importance and also present unique challenges in production facilities. But we believe we can help.

Based upon newly published peer-reviewed research co-authored by our Food Safety Scientist, Dr. Claire Zoellner, iFoodDS is offering a new software service to help food facilities reduce the risk of Listeria monocytogenes contamination of food products through improved environmental monitoring and detection.

As cited in the research from Cornell University, “detection of pathogens in food processing facilities by routine environmental monitoring is essential to reduce the risk of foodborne illness but is complicated by the complexity of equipment and environment surfaces.” Therefore Dr. Zoellner and her fellow scientists built a model called EnABLe (Environmental monitoring with an Agent-based model of Listeria), which is a detailed and customizable simulation tool for use in food processing facilities.

How does EnABLe work? Simply put, the EnABLe model maps how Listeria could move through a facility allowing for more targeted environmental monitoring and improved risk management. When combined with iFoodDS software tools and mapping, companies can achieve real-time visibility into their monitoring effectiveness.

“Together with iFoodDS’ software and analytics solutions, EnABLe is a wonderful example of turning industry-leading science and research into a tool that will help the food industry address pressing food safety challenges,” says Dr. Martin Wiedmann, Gellert Family Professor in Food Safety at Cornell University and a co-author of the paper.

The iFoodDS team, led by Dr. Zoellner, has already begun using EnABLe for clients in food production facilities. In real-life application, the EnABLe model and user software is customized to each individual facility to improve environmental monitoring and enhance employee food safety training as well.

For more information on the EnABLe model and listeria prevention strategies contact sales@iFoodDS.com or call 206.219.3703.