In November 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced a multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections linked to ready-to-eat (RTE) meat and poultry products produced by Yu Shang Food, Inc. This outbreak has resulted in 11 reported cases across four states, leading to nine hospitalizations and one death. The implicated products include various meat and poultry items labeled under the “Yu Shang” brand, bearing establishment numbers “P46684” or “EST. M46684,” and produced prior to October 28, 2024.
Details of the Yu Shang Food, Inc. Deadly Listeria Outbreak
The outbreak was identified through routine surveillance and epidemiological investigations. Patients affected by the outbreak reported consuming Yu Shang Food’s RTE meat and poultry products before falling ill. The CDC, in collaboration with state health departments and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS), traced the source of the infections to these products. Consequently, a recall was issued for all Yu Shang Food RTE meat and poultry items produced before October 28, 2024.
Listeria monocytogenes and Its Risks
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that causes listeriosis, a serious infection primarily affecting pregnant individuals, newborns, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can range from mild flu-like signs to severe complications such as meningitis and septicemia. In pregnant women, listeriosis can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or life-threatening infections in newborns.
Inherent Dangers of Ready-to-Eat Meats and Poultry
RTE meat and poultry products are particularly susceptible to Listeria contamination due to several factors:
- Post-Processing Contamination: Even after cooking, RTE products can become contaminated during slicing, packaging, or handling if proper sanitation practices are not strictly followed.
- Refrigeration Tolerance: Listeria can grow at refrigeration temperatures, allowing it to multiply in RTE products stored in the fridge over time.
- Extended Shelf Life: The longer shelf life of RTE products provides more opportunity for Listeria to proliferate if contamination occurs.
- Consumption Without Reheating: Since RTE products are typically consumed without further cooking, any present Listeria bacteria are not eliminated before consumption.
Preventive Measures for Consumers
To minimize the risk of listeriosis from RTE meat and poultry products, consumers should:
- Stay Informed About Recalls: Regularly check for food recalls and advisories from reliable sources like the CDC and USDA-FSIS.
- Proper Storage: Refrigerate RTE products promptly and consume them within the recommended time frame.
- Maintain Cleanliness: Regularly clean refrigerators, countertops, and utensils to prevent cross-contamination.
- Consider Reheating: When possible, reheat RTE meats to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any potential Listeria bacteria.
Industry Responsibilities
Food manufacturers and processors play a crucial role in preventing Listeria contamination in RTE products. Key responsibilities include:
- Implementing Strict Sanitation Protocols: Regular cleaning and sanitization of equipment and facilities to prevent contamination.
- Routine Testing: Conducting regular testing for Listeria in the production environment and finished products.
- Employee Training: Ensuring that all personnel are trained in food safety practices and the importance of preventing contamination.
- Prompt Recalls: Acting swiftly to recall contaminated products to protect public health.
On the Heels of the Deadly Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak
The November 2024 listeriosis outbreak linked to Yu Shang Food’s RTE meat and poultry products underscores the inherent risks associated with these foods. This reminder, says the nation’s leading Listeria lawyer, “in the aftermath of the Boar’s Head deadly Listeria outbreak, is to all those in vulnerable populations. Careful selection should be employed when choosing to eat ready to eat meat.” Both consumers and the food industry must remain vigilant in handling, processing, and consuming RTE products to prevent Listeria contamination and protect public health.
