Which type of food is a common source of listeriosis?

Soft cheeses are a common source of listeriosis because they are often made from unpasteurized milk, which can contain the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. This pathogen can survive and even grow at refrigeration temperatures, making soft cheeses a particular risk. Types of soft cheeses that may pose a greater risk include feta, brie, and camembert.

While cooked meats, processed snacks, and fruits can also harbor bacteria, they are not typically associated with listeriosis in the same way that soft cheeses are. Cooked meats can be safe if handled and stored correctly; processed snacks are usually low-risk; and although fruits can carry harmful pathogens, they are less commonly linked to this specific illness compared to soft cheeses. Understanding this linkage is crucial in food safety practices, especially for vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems, who are at higher risk for listeriosis.