Listeria monocytogenes can cause illness in certain
groups of people, such as pregnant women, unborn and newborn babies
and people with reduced immunity, particularly those over 60 (these
could include people who've had transplants, are taking drugs that
weaken the immune system or with cancers affecting the immune
system, such as leukaemia or lymphoma). Among these vulnerable
groups, the illness is often severe and can be
life-threatening.
Listeria has been found in certain chilled ready-to-eat foods, such
as pre-packed sandwiches, butter, cooked sliced meats, smoked
salmon, soft cheeses and pâtés. Eating food containing high levels
of Listeria monocytogenes is usually the cause of
illness.
Vulnerable people should avoid eating pasteurised and unpasteurised
cheeses such as Camembert, Brie or chevre (a type of goats'
cheese), or others that have a similar rind, soft blue cheeses, and
all types of pâté, including vegetable.
Special care should also be taken to follow the storage
instructions on the food label. Chilled foods should be kept out of
the fridge for the shortest time possible and you shouldn't use
food after its 'use by' date.
