Prevalence of multidrug-resistant Listeria monocytogenes in retailed goat meat and offal

Goat meat is a major source of animal-derived protein worldwide. Listeria spp., particularly Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes) is one of the foodborne pathogens that has serious health effects. This study investigated the prevalence of Listeria spp., particularly L. monocytogenes in the meat and offal of the goat retailed in Mansoura city, Egypt. Besides, antibiogram of the recovered L. monocytogenes isolates was further screened. In addition, the recovered L. monocytogenes isolates were screened for harboring drug resistance related genes using PCR. The obtained results of the present study revealed an overall isolation rates of Listeria spp. and L. monocytogenes from goat edible tissues at 26%, and 8%, respectively. The prevalence rates of Listeria spp., in goat’s muscle, liver, kidney, lungs, and rumen were 4%, 6%, 6%, 0%, and 10%, respectively. Serological identification of the isolated Listeria spp. revealed recovery of six Listeria spp. namely, L. ivanovii, L. welshimeri, L. innocua, L. seeligeri, L. grayi, and L. monocytogenes. L. monocytogenes was isolated at 4%, 6%, 6%, 0%, and 10% from goat’s muscle, liver, kidney, lungs, and rumen, respectively. The recovered L. monocytogenes showed multidrug resistance profiling, particularly against tetracycline and erythromycin with 100% resistance rates. Interestingly, all isolated L. monocytogenes had tet L, and mef A coding genes for resistance against tetracycline and erythromycin. In conclusion, goat meat and offal should be considered as potential sources of Listeria spp., particularly, L. monocytogenes. Therefore, strict hygienic measures should be adopted during handling of goat meat and offal.