A listeria outbreak related to deli meats has led to nearly three dozen people being sickened across the United States, resulting in two deaths. Additionally, various bagged and bulk vegetables have been recalled due to concerns about listeria contamination. Listeria is a species of bacteria that causes foodborne illness, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Pregnant women, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems are at the highest risk of experiencing severe illness due to listeria infection.
The US Department of Agriculture recently issued a recall of over 200,000 pounds of Boar’s Head deli meats following deaths in Illinois and New Jersey. New York has reported the highest number of people sickened by the outbreak. The CDC discovered that most of those affected had eaten deli sliced meats as opposed to prepackaged deli meats, with common choices including turkey, liverwurst, and ham. Listeria can be found in soil, water, and animal feces, making contamination possible through raw vegetables, contaminated meat, unpasteurized dairy products, and improperly processed deli meats.
Symptoms of a listeria infection include fever, chills, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea, with complications such as severe blood infections or meningitis possible in some cases. Pregnant women, in particular, are at a high risk of listeria infection, which can lead to miscarriage, premature delivery, or severe illness in newborns. To prevent listeria infection, the Mayo Clinic recommends thorough handwashing, cooking food thoroughly, cleaning raw vegetables properly, and using separate utensils for raw and cooked food.
Listeria can spread through contaminated equipment, surfaces, and the interaction of contaminated food with other products. Deli meats sliced at the counter pose a higher risk of contamination than prepackaged options because of a greater chance of cross-contamination. It is essential to prevent listeria from entering food products during manufacturing and handling processes. Pregnant women and other at-risk individuals are advised to avoid deli meats or heat them to 165 degrees Fahrenheit before consumption.
Deli meats, ready-to-eat products like deli salads, soft cheeses, and cut fruits can become contaminated with listeria and should be consumed with caution. The recent listeria-related recalls have included vegetables such as jalapenos, green peppers, green beans, bagged salads, and pepper mixes. Public health recommendations emphasize the importance of food safety practices, proper handwashing, and thorough cooking to reduce the risk of listeria infection. Awareness of the symptoms of listeria infection, especially for pregnant women and vulnerable populations, is crucial for early detection and treatment.
