infections
Listeriosis
Prevention of Listeriosis
Food is often contaminated withListeriabacteria. These bacteria can reproduce at refrigerator temperatures. Thus, food that is lightly contaminated can become heavily contaminated while it is in the refrigerator. Certain precautions are needed, particularly for people who are at risk of having serious consequences if they are infected. These people include those with a weakened immune system, pregnant women, and people aged 60 and over. For example, at-risk people should not eat certain foods such as the following: Soft cheeses made from unpasteurized milk (such as feta, Brie, queso fresco, queso blanco, and Camembert) Raw (unpasteurized) milk and cheeses made from it (althoughListeriacontamination can occur after pasteurization) Refrigerated ready-to-eat foods (such as hot dogs, deli meats, pȃtés, and meat spreads), unless they are heated to an internal temperature of 165° F (73.9° C ) or until steaming hot just before serving Refrigerated smoked seafood (such as foods labeled nova-style, lox, kippered, smoked, or jerky), unless it has been cooked The following can help reduce the risk of infection: Refrigerating leftovers within 2 hours in shallow, covered containers and using them within 3 to 4 days Setting the refrigerator temperature at 40° F (4.4° C) or lower Setting the freezer at 0° F (-17.8° C) or lower 