Cross-resistance and adaptive persistence of <i>Listeria monocytogenes</i> under multiple food-grade sanitizer stresses: molecular mechanisms and control implications

Abstract Listeria monocytogenes can persist in food-processing environments despite repeated exposure to various food-grade sanitizers. This review summarizes and compares current knowledge on the molecular basis of L. monocytogenes tolerance and persistence to quaternary ammonium-, chlorine-, and peroxide-based agents, as well as emerging sanitization agents or stresses. Efflux-mediated detoxification, membrane modification, oxidative stress response, and biofilm formation are discussed as key adaptive mechanisms contributing to cross-resistance. The convergent and divergent features of these mechanisms among different sanitizer classes are highlighted, providing an integrative perspective on tolerance development. The influence of sublethal exposure, organic load, and multispecies biofilms on long-term persistence is also examined. These insights contribute to the development of predictive hygiene control and evidence-based sanitation strategies for enhanced food safety management.