Global transcriptomic response of Listeria monocytogenes exposed to Fingered Citron (Citrus medica L. var. sarcodactylis Swingle) essential oil

•Fingered Citron essential oil exhibited significant anti-listeria activity.•Obvious alterations of cell morphology were observed by SEM and TEM.•The responses of L. M were explored by transcriptome analysis after exposure to FCEO.•Chemotaxis and flagella assembly were significantly enhanced.•The uptake of carbohydrates and metallic cations changed significantly.