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Listeria monocytogenes

This bacteria is widespread in the environment and can be found around the home, in farm livestock, pets and wild animals. Most foods associated with outbreaks are chilled foods, those with a long shelf life or ready-to-eat foods that don’t require any further cooking. For example, foods in the chilled and deli section at supermarkets.

The recent issue with Listeria being found in pre-packed roast beef and corned silverside (sold only to trade outlets) is being handled by Auckland Regional Public Heath Service.

Look up the Auckland Regional Public Heath Service

NZFSA media releases – raw milk

• NZFSA advises caution for some consumers on raw milk cheeses. NZFSA media release, 5 September 2007

• NZFSA seeks comment on sale of raw milk cheese. NZFSA media release, 15 May 2007

Resources

• Frequently asked questions about Listeria

• Detailed information about Listeria monocytogenes [PDF: 29K, 4 pages]

• Raw milk and raw milk cheeses

• Food safety in pregnancy

• Being foodsafe when you have low immunity

• Is your foodborne illness a notifiable disease?

Risk profiles

• Listeria monocytogenes in ice-cream [PDF: 612 K, 52 pages]

• Listeria monocytogenes in Low Moisture Cheese [PDF: 1.08 MB, 87 pages]

• Listeria monocytogenes in processed ready-to-eat meats [PDF: 318 K, 55 pages]

• Listeria monocytogenes in ready-to-eat salads [PDF: 841 K, 68 pages]

• Listeria monocytogenes in Soft Cheeses [PDF: 1.23 MB, 95 pages]

Related links

• Response to the NZ Herald series of articles on 'What’s in your food' (January 2005)

Date updated: 3 March 2008