Listeria monocytogenes is hardy and can grow in cool, damp environments.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. Depends on temperature

Answer: (A)

The main point is that Listeria monocytogenes is psychrotolerant, meaning it can grow at low, even refrigerated, temperatures. It has a broad growth range from about 0°C up to 45°C, with a preference around typical body temperatures but still thriving well at cool temperatures. This ability to multiply in cool, damp environments makes it a hardy organism that can contaminate and grow in refrigerated foods and moist settings. So the statement is true because Listeria can actively grow in those cooler, moist conditions, unlike many other pathogens that are inhibited by refrigeration. Temperature does influence how fast it grows, but it does not prevent growth at cool temperatures, which is why the description fits.