Preventing Illness from Listeria (2355)

Listeriosis is a foodborne illness caused by listeria bacteria that can grow slowly at refrigeration temperatures. Listeriosis is caused by bacteria frequently found in soil, water and plant matter.

Listeria can be present in raw milk and soft cheese products, raw vegetables, poultry, meats (including processed meats like hot dogs and lunch meat), and prepared, chilled ready-to-eat foods.

Symptoms in adults include sudden flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, backache, and sometimes stomach pain and diarrhea. Symptoms in newborns include respiratory distress, refusal to drink, and vomiting. Possible complications include meningitis, severe retardation and even death. At greatest risk are pregnant women, as listeriosis can cause spontaneous abortions and stillbirths.

Help prevent listeriosis by following these practices:

- Avoid buying raw or unpasteurized dairy products. Wash raw vegetables well. Cook meat and poultry until they're no longer pink in the middle and juices run clear. Microwave foods until cooked thoroughly and evenly.

- Refrigerate leftovers in shallow containers right after eating. Heat leftovers, ready-to-eat refrigerated foods, and hot dogs until "steaming" hot. Bring "wet" foods like sauces, gravies, and soups to a full boil.

- Follow "keep refrigerated", "sell by", and "use by" dates on foods.

- Wash hands, knives, cutting boards, and counters with soap and hot water after contact with raw meat or poultry. Do not allow raw meat juices to drip on or mix with foods that will not be cook

For more information on this subject, Please visit the College of Agricultural Sciences Publications Web site.

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