September is ‪#‎National‬ ‪#‎Foodsafety‬ ‪#‎Education‬ month #NFSM. Today's lesson: What is Listeria monocytogenes?

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.

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.

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.

3. Cook raw meats to the required minimum internal temperatures.

4. Prevent cross-contamination between raw or undercooked food and ready-to-eat foods.

5. Avoid using unpasteurized dairy products.

Tomorrow's lesson: Sushi, What am I risking when I eat it?