The Food Standards Agency has issued a warning about the risk of listeria bacteria in cold-smoked and cured fish, especially ahead of Christmas. Listeria can cause serious illness, particularly in pregnant women and newborn babies. It is relatively rare, but can lead to stillbirth, miscarriage, sepsis, or meningitis in newborns, and poses a higher risk to individuals with weakened immune systems or older people.
Listeria is commonly found in ready-to-eat foods such as cold pre-cooked meats, deli meats, smoked and cured fish, cooked shellfish, mould-ripened cheeses, pâté, unpasteurized milk, pre-prepared sandwiches and salads, and pre-cut fruits. The head of the food, feed, and incidents policy unit at the FSA recommends avoiding cold-smoked fish or cooking it thoroughly before consumption, especially for those at higher risk. Caregivers should be cautious when serving cold-smoked fish to vulnerable individuals who have not cooked it first to avoid the risk of listeriosis.
An ongoing outbreak has been linked to 24 cases of listeriosis since 2020, prompting investigations by the FSA, FSS, the UK Health and Security Agency, and Public Health Scotland. Most people affected by listeriosis may not show symptoms or only experience mild diarrhea, but vulnerable individuals could face severe illness such as meningitis or sepsis. Listeriosis during pregnancy can be particularly dangerous, causing serious illness in both mothers and their babies. It is important for individuals to be cautious when consuming potentially contaminated foods to prevent the risk of infection.
The FSA emphasizes the importance of proper precautions and food safety measures to prevent the spread of listeria and protect vulnerable individuals. While the risk of listeria is generally low for most people, taking necessary steps such as cooking cold-smoked fish thoroughly can help reduce the likelihood of infection. Pregnant women, newborns, individuals with weakened immune systems, and older adults should be particularly cautious when consuming potentially contaminated foods. Caregivers should also be mindful of the risks associated with listeria and take appropriate measures to ensure food safety.
Consumers should be aware of the foods that could potentially contain listeria and take precautions to reduce the risk of infection. It is essential to follow food safety guidelines, especially when handling ready-to-eat foods such as cold-smoked fish, deli meats, and soft cheeses. By staying informed and practicing safe food preparation methods, individuals can help prevent the spread of listeria and protect themselves and others from the serious consequences of listeriosis. Proper hygiene, cooking, and storage practices are crucial in reducing the risk of contamination and ensuring the safety of food products.
