Listeria

Some ready-to-eat deli meat products are being recalled because of possible contamination with the bacteria that causes listeriosis. Consumers can check the Canadian Food Inspection website for more information about the products are being recalled.

Listeria is a bacteria that is found naturally in the environment. Eating food contaminated with listeria may result in human illness, known as listeriosis. Some people are at higher risk for serious illness, including the elderly, pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems. For more, check the Listeria fact sheet (PDF).

Simcoe Muskoka averages about one case of listeriosis every year. To date our region has experienced one case in 2008.

The health unit is working with food service operators to ensure that the meats that have been recalled have been discarded.

More information on listeria can be found at:

http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/iyh-vsv/food-aliment/listeria-eng.php

http://www.health.gov.on.ca/english/public/pub/disease/listeria.html

Consumers should also check their home refrigerators for the recalled products and throw out food that has been recalled. If you can’t be sure of the source, or of the product code, call your place of purchase. If in doubt, throw it out. If you become ill with fever or serious illness, contact your health care provider and mention your possible exposure.