Which food is most commonly associated with the risk of listeriosis?

Unpasteurized dairy products are most commonly associated with the risk of listeriosis due to the conditions in which they are produced. Listeria monocytogenes, the bacteria that cause listeriosis, can be present in raw milk and dairy products made from that milk. The pasteurization process effectively kills harmful bacteria, but unpasteurized products do not undergo this treatment, leaving them susceptible to contamination.

In addition to this, listeriosis is particularly concerning for vulnerable populations, such as pregnant individuals, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems, who may be more severely impacted by such pathogens found in unpasteurized dairy. Understanding the relationship between listeriosis and unpasteurized dairy products emphasizes the importance of food safety practices, including consuming only pasteurized dairy to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.