What is a major prevention method for listeriosis?

Cooking foods to a proper temperature is a major prevention method for listeriosis because it effectively eliminates the bacteria that cause this foodborne illness. Listeria monocytogenes, the bacterium responsible for listeriosis, can be present in various foods and is particularly concerning because it can survive and grow at refrigeration temperatures. Proper cooking destroys the bacteria, significantly reducing the risk of infection.

For maintaining food safety, cooking items like meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs to the recommended internal temperatures is critical, as this ensures that harmful pathogens are killed. This practice is essential not only for listeriosis prevention but also for reducing the risk of other foodborne illnesses.

Other options, such as marinating foods, do not provide the same level of safety as cooking. Refrigerating foods above 45°F increases the risk of bacterial growth, as Listeria can thrive in cooler temperatures than many other pathogens. Avoiding vegetables is not a viable prevention strategy either, as many vegetables can be part of a healthy diet and can also be safely consumed with proper handling and cooking.