Why are we looking at this now?

Europe is experiencing a profound demographic shift, with its population reaching historically high median ages and a rapidly growing proportion of elderly citizens. As of January 1, 2024, more than one-fifth (21.6%) of the EU population was aged 65 and over, a trend expected to accelerate significantly by 2050.

Groups vulnerable to listeriosis

This ageing European population, together with concern about other groups vulnerable to listeriosis, including pregnant women, newborn infants and individuals with weakened immune systems, is driving ever tighter regulation to monitor and control risk. The regulations affecting UK exporters to Europe in the RTE sector are changing in 2026. From 1st July for RTE foods that support the growth of Listeria (Category 1.2), Listeria monocytogenes must be absent in 25 g throughout the entire shelf life, unless a challenge test or study demonstrates that the level will stay below 100 cfu/g for the duration.

Not just the producer is responsible for compliance

This change closes a legal gap. Under the old rule, the “not-detected in 25 g” criterion applied only at the production stage, not for products already in trade. The amendment also expands the responsibility: food business operators other than just the producing manufacturer will be responsible for compliance across the food chain.