This part specifies a horizontal method for the enumeration of Listeria monocytogenes. The method also allows enumeration of other Listeria species which may be used as indicators of the hygienic quality of food or feed products. Subject to the limitations discussed in the introduction, this part of this standard is applicable to products intended for human consumption or animal foodstuffs. In general (see note in 9.2.1), the lower limit of enumeration of this method is 10 L. monocytogenes per millilitre of sample for liquid products, or 100 L. monocytogenes per gram of sample for other products. In the case of dairy products must be free of Listeria monocytogenes.