What is the most common source of listeria?

The most common source of Listeria monocytogenes, the bacterium that causes listeriosis, is typically associated with raw produce and uncooked hot dogs. This is primarily due to the bacterium's ability to thrive in soil and water, making fruits and vegetables vulnerable to contamination during growth, harvest, or processing. Listeria is resilient and can survive under refrigeration, which makes deli meats and hot dogs particularly concerning, especially when they are not heated before consumption.

While cooked meat products, canned goods, and dairy products can also serve as sources of Listeria, they are not as commonly implicated as raw produce and uncooked hot dogs. For instance, while unpasteurized dairy products may harbor the bacteria, most dairy products available in stores are pasteurized, significantly reducing the risk. The risk associated with raw produce and uncooked hot dogs is particularly notable in vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. This highlights the importance of food safety practices, particularly the thorough cooking of meat products and proper washing of produce to minimize the risk of listeriosis.