Listeria Outbreak Linked to Deli Meats: CDC, USDA and public health officials are investigating a multistate outbreak of Listeriosis infections linked to deli meats as well as packaged meat and poultry products. (as of September 10, 2024)
The CDC estimates that Listeriosis causes about 1,600 illnesses and 260 deaths in the United States each year.
The infection is most likely to sicken pregnant people and their newborns, adults aged 65 or older, and people with weakened immune systems. Pregnant people are especially at serious risk, since Listeriosis can cause miscarriages and stillbirths.
Listeria monocytogenes can be found in ready-to-eat foods such as hot dogs, luncheon meats, soft cheeses and unpasteurized milk.
Follow these home food safety tips to protect yourself and loved ones from Listeriosis:
Recalled deli meats
- Do not eat recalled meats. Check your refrigerator for any recalled deli meats and throw them away or return them to the store. Listeria can grow on foods kept in the refrigerator.
- People at high risk should only eat deli meats bought sliced at deli counters that is reheated to an internal temperature of 165 °F using a food thermometer or until steaming hot.
- Clean your refrigerator, containers and surfaces that may have touched recalled meats.
Hot dogs
- Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds before and after handling raw hot dogs.
- Avoid cross-contamination of raw hot dog juices on cooking utensils, food prep surfaces, or other items in the fridge.
- Refrigerate hot dogs immediately after purchasing, for up to 2 weeks unopened, or no more than 1 week after opening.
- Use an appliance thermometer to make sure your refrigerator is cooled at 40 °F or below.
- Cook hot dogs until the internal temperature reaches 165 °F on a digital food thermometer or until steaming hot just before serving.
Home refrigerator
- Maintain a home refrigerator at 40 °F or below, which is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of infection by Listeria monocytogenes, the bacteria that cause Listeriosis.
- Store hot dogs for up to one week in the refrigerator once the package is opened, and up to two weeks unopened. Make sure the fridge is cooled at 40 °F or below.
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