Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can contaminate foods such as vegetables, meats and cheeses and causes Listeriosis. The bacterium can be found in water and soil and can also be carried by animals. Eating food that has been contaminated with listeria can lead to Listeriosis, although one’s immune system will neutralize most of the bacteria before it is able to cause harm.

As with most food borne illness, the most effective technique to prevent the spread of listeria is prevention. Prevention methods include properly rinsing vegetables before eating, maintaining a clean workspace and clean utensils, cooking meats to recommended safe temperatures, and avoiding foods made using unpasteurized milk.