FSA Publishes Listeria Factsheet

The Agency's factsheet details some of the key steps to minimise the risks. These include keeping these foods properly refrigerated and following ‘use by’ instructions on the label.

01/08/08 The Agency has published a factsheet that details key control measures that can be taken to minimise the risk of developing an illness from listeria (listeriosis). The guidance has particular relevance to those preparing and supplying chilled ready-to-eat foods for vulnerable groups.

Although listeria isn't common, it can affect vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and people with reduced immunity, particularly those over the age of 60. People with weakened immunity could include those who have had transplants, are taking drugs that weaken their immune system, or who have cancers that affect their immune system, such as leukaemia or lymphoma.

Listeria might be present in chilled ready-to-eat foods at low levels. However, poor refrigeration and failure to follow shelf-life labeling can result in the bacteria multiplying to unsafe levels.

The Agency's factsheet details some of the key steps to minimise the risks. These include keeping these foods properly refrigerated and following ‘use by’ instructions on the label.