The rules for controlling Listeria monocytogenes in ready-to-eat (RTE) food products are being tightened. Following EU Regulation 2024/2895, the European guidance document was updated and published on 18 December 2025. This document provides further clarification on the amended legislation and is of great importance for producers of ready-to-eat food products.
From 1 July 2026, the criterion ‘absent in 25 grams’ has applied to RTE products (category 1.2), unless the producer can demonstrate that the number of Listeria monocytogenes remains below 100 cfu/g throughout the entire shelf life.
The updated guidance document has been expanded with additional explanation and practical tools, including:
The bar is being raised: demonstrable control of Listeria monocytogenes is becoming increasingly important. Producers must be able to substantiate that their products remain safe throughout their entire shelf life, even under worst-case conditions.
The Competence Centre Microbiological Risk Assessments at Eurofins Food Safety Solutions supports producers in interpreting the new guidance document and in setting up appropriate, robust substantiation. Curious about the impact on your organisation? Feel free to contact us at CCMRA@ftbnl.eurofins.com or +31 (0) 88 831 03 30.