Listeria on the news
According to a report on Channel NewsAsia, two consignments of rockmelons imported from an Australian grower linked to a deadly listeriosis outbreak were sold in Singapore between February 12 and March 2. The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) has since removed all remaining unsold rockmelons from the affected batches. Consumers who believe they may have purchased these rockmelons during the specified period are advised not to consume them and to seek medical attention if they feel unwell after eating the fruit.
What Exactly Is Listeria?
Scientist Examining Petri Dish with Bacteria Culture
Listeriosis is a form of food poisoning caused by eating foods contaminated with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. Although relatively uncommon, it can be extremely serious and even fatal if it leads to septicaemia (blood poisoning) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain).
Those at higher risk include:
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Older adults
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Pregnant people and their fetuses
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Individuals with weakened immune systems
Young, pregnant woman
Where Does Listeria Come From?
Colorful Bell Peppers on Conveyor Belt in Food Processing Facility
Listeria monocytogenes is commonly found in the environment, particularly in soil and water, and can be carried by both domestic and wild animals. Fruits and vegetables can become contaminated at any stage of the food chain — from planting and harvesting to packing, distribution, preparation and serving.
On farms, irrigation water, wash water and soil can all carry the bacteria. Listeria can survive in some soils for up to 84 days. Heavy rain can splash contaminated soil onto produce, especially items that grow close to the ground, such as rockmelons.
Contamination may also occur in restaurants and home kitchens. The bacteria can survive refrigeration and are adapted to withstand acidic environments, including the human stomach.
Symptoms of Listeria Infection
Woman in Bed Checking Temperature with Fever Symptoms
Not everyone who eats contaminated food will become ill. The incubation period — the time between ingestion and the onset of symptoms — can be long, sometimes up to 70 days.
Common symptoms include:
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Fever
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Muscle aches
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Nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea
If the infection spreads to the nervous system, symptoms may progress to:
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Headache
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Stiff neck
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Confusion
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Loss of balance
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Convulsions
How to Prevent Listeria
Family in the Kitchen
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Avoid raw (unpasteurised) milk and foods made from it.
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Wash hands, knives, countertops and cutting boards after handling and preparing raw foods.
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Rinse fresh produce thoroughly under running water before eating.
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Keep raw meats, poultry and seafood separate from vegetables, fruits, cooked foods and ready-to-eat items.
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Cook raw animal products — meat, poultry and seafood — to safe internal temperatures.
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Consume perishable and ready-to-eat foods as soon as possible.
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Individuals in higher-risk groups — including pregnant people and older adults — should heat hot dogs, cold cuts and deli meats thoroughly before eating them.
Grilled sausages on barbecue with digital meat thermometer showi
Conclusion
The 2018 rockmelon recall is an important reminder that food-borne illnesses like listeriosis can occur even within strong food-safety systems. While Listeria infections are relatively rare, they can be severe, particularly for people at higher risk — including older adults, pregnant people and individuals with weakened immune systems. Practising good food hygiene, handling raw and ready-to-eat foods carefully, and staying aware of official food-safety advisories can significantly lower the risk of infection. With the right precautions and awareness, consumers can better protect themselves and their families from preventable food-borne threats. PRIME
