Microban SilverShield Technology: Reduction of Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination of Refrigeration Units

Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) is a bacterial pathogen that causes expensive food recalls, hospitalizations and even death. One of the key differences between Lm and other foodborne bacteria is that it thrives at typical refrigerator temperatures, about 4°C. In examining the effectiveness of an antimicrobial, most industry-standard bacterial testing is performed at 36°C (body temperature) which is not entirely relevant to Lm control. Microban used Silvershield Technology incorporated into a power coat finish on steel shelving units to demonstrate greater than 99.7% reduction in Listeria in 24h in a commercial fridge at 4°C using the industry standard ISO 22196 test protocol.