Food businesses across Europe are approaching a critical regulatory deadline as updated requirements for Listeria monocytogenes (LMO) come into force on 1 July 2026. Introduced under Regulation (EU) 2024/2895, the changes extend existing food safety criteria and place greater emphasis on demonstrating product safety across the full shelf life.
The update builds on Regulation (EC) No. 2073/2005 and reflects growing concern around increasing cases of listeriosis in recent years. The key message is clear: ready to eat foods must remain safe not only at production, but throughout storage and distribution.
What’s changing?
Previously, food businesses could place ready to eat products on the market if they demonstrated that Listeria monocytogenes levels remained below 100 CFU/g and would not increase over the product’s shelf life. This was typically supported by product characteristics that inhibit microbial growth, such as low pH, high salt content, or the use of antimicrobial ingredients and processing methods.
From 1 July 2026, stricter EU criteria will apply. Where a food business cannot demonstrate that Listeria monocytogenes will remain below 100 CFU/g throughout shelf life, the requirement will shift to a zero tolerance approach. In these cases, the organism must be absent in 25 g of the product for the entire shelf life, not just at the point of production.
This represents a shift towards a more evidence based approach. Products that fail to meet these criteria may be deemed unsafe under EU food law, potentially resulting in product withdrawals or recalls.
Increased focus on testing and validation
To comply with the updated regulation, food businesses will need robust scientific data to support their products. This includes microbiological testing, shelf life validation, and challenge studies.
Although a transition period has been provided, the 2026 deadline is fast approaching. Businesses should begin reviewing their current data, validating shelf life claims, and identifying any gaps in testing.
This regulatory update reflects a broader shift towards preventative, science led food safety systems. Early preparation will help reduce risk, avoid disruption, and maintain compliance.
Supporting compliance with CLS
CLS provides comprehensive microbiological testing to help food businesses meet evolving regulatory requirements. Through its Listeria testing solutions, CLS supports the detection of Listeria monocytogenes in food products and production environments, helping identify contamination risks and verify hygiene controls.
For a more proactive approach, CLS also offers a Food Safety Programme designed to strengthen hygiene monitoring and risk prevention. These programmes combine routine sampling, environmental swabbing, and expert analysis to ensure food safety systems are working effectively and aligned with current regulations.
Tailored to individual operations, our Food Safety Programme support HACCP compliance, improve hygiene standards, and reduce the risk of recalls or non-conformance.
By taking action now, your business can ensure it’s fully prepared for the 2026 deadline while safeguarding product quality, brand reputation, and consumer safety
