They have also been found in a variety of foods, including raw meat, raw vegetables and some processed foods. Sometimes, it is not possible to identify which particular food caused a person s illness as symptoms may not appear for 3 to 70 days after eating contaminated food. Outbreaks of Listeria infection due to foods such as soft cheeses, milk, coleslaw, hot dogs and pat have been reported in Europe, America and Australia. As Listeria bacteria are commonly found in the environment, they are impossible to eradicate. Some exposure to the bacteria is unavoidable.
Most people are, however, at low risk of Listeria infection.
Good food handling always. Pre-prepared or stored salads, including coleslaw. Any unpasteurised milk or foods made from unpasteurised milk. Soft serve ice-creams. Hard cheeses, cheese spreads, processed cheese.