Question

Which of the following foods is linked with Listeria monocytogenes (Illness: Listeriosis)?

1) Raw milk
2) Raw vegetables
3) Cooked meat
4) Canned fruits

Answer 1

Raw milk is linked with Listeria monocytogenes and can cause listeriosis, an infection that can be particularly dangerous for certain at-risk groups.

Step-by-step explanation:

The food that is linked with Listeria monocytogenes, which causes the illness listeriosis, is raw milk. This bacterium is known to survive and even multiply at refrigeration temperatures and is commonly found in soil and water. Consuming raw milk can expose individuals to this pathogen, because Listeria can contaminate milk through infected animals or during the process of collection and handling. Additionally, foods like soft cheeses made with raw milk, raw sprouts, melons, and ready-to-eat meats are also common carriers of Listeria. Proper cooking and pasteurization are critical to killing the bacteria and preventing listeriosis, particularly for at-risk groups such as pregnant women, neonates, the elderly, and the immunocompromised.