What to know about listeria following BrucePac and Boar’s Head recalls

The Agriculture Department announced a recall of 11.8 million pounds of meat products due to listeria contamination, following a previous recall of deli meats. Listeria is a bacteria that can cause serious complications for certain groups, such as pregnant women and the elderly. It thrives in cold, moist environments and can be found in various foods, including deli meats, soft cheeses, and unpasteurized dairy. Contamination can occur during processing, and the bacteria can form resistant biofilms that are difficult to sanitize. Symptoms can take weeks to appear and can be severe, particularly for pregnant women and their babies. Following safety guidelines, such as avoiding certain foods and refrigerating leftovers promptly, can help prevent listeria infection.