Listeria monocytogenes (Infection is known as Listeriosis),
is a bacterium that is mainly transmitted by contaminated food products and is
found in soil, water, and plants. This bacterium thrives in cool, moist
environments, and while it is uncommon for health individuals to become ill
from this bacterium, people that are considered a part of the high risk
population are especially vulnerable; particularly pregnant women.
is a bacterium that is mainly transmitted by contaminated food products and is
found in soil, water, and plants. This bacterium thrives in cool, moist
environments, and while it is uncommon for health individuals to become ill
from this bacterium, people that are considered a part of the high risk
population are especially vulnerable; particularly pregnant women.
This bacterium is most commonly linked with raw meat,
unpasteurized dairy products, and ready to eat foods such as deli meat, hot
dogs, and soft cheeses.
unpasteurized dairy products, and ready to eat foods such as deli meat, hot
dogs, and soft cheeses.
The methods to prevent possible infection include:
1. Keep foods out of the temperature danger zone
2. Throw out any product that is past its use-by or
expiration date.
expiration date.
3. Cook raw meats to the required minimum internal
temperatures.
temperatures.
4. Prevent cross-contamination between raw or undercooked
food and ready-to-eat foods.
food and ready-to-eat foods.
5. Avoid using unpasteurized dairy products.
Tomorrow’s lesson: Sushi, What am I risking when I eat it?