Isolation and characterization of Listeria monocytogenes from kunu, a locally produced beaverage marketed in different markets in Abia State of Nigeria.

This study was carried out to determine the level of contamination of kunu beverage by Listeria monocytogenes, monitor the level of antibiotic resistance among Listeria monocytogenes isolates. The percentage composition of crude proteins, crude fats, ash, carbohydrates were quantitatively determined. The rate of occurrence of the isolates of Listeria monocytogenes was almost 100% in a total sample size of eighty-seven (87). The bioloads of Llisteria monocytogenes in kunu samples studied ranged from 11.0 x 10 cfu/ml – 41.0 x 10 cfu/ml. Antibiogram of Listeria 5 5 monocytogenes showed that Ampicillin resistance was profound. The security of kunu as a food product is hampered due to listerial contamination. Government and Non-Governmental Agencies should intensify actions to reduce if not eradicate food-borne listeriosis in all parts of the world.