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27.12.2024 - Foods

Listeria in smoked salmon: risk for sensitive consumer groups

For the official Zoonoses Monitoring 2023 , cold-smoked, sliced salmon from retail outlets was tested for the pathogen Listeria monocytogenes. Although the microbial load has significantly decreased compared to previous investigations, such as the Zoonoses Monitoring 2011, sensitive consumer groups remain at risk.

Investigation Results
A total of 354 samples of cold-smoked, sliced salmon were analyzed. For pre-packaged products, testing was conducted shortly before the expiration date. The results show:

• Listeria monocytogenes was detected in 8.2% of the samples.
• One sample (0.3%) exceeded the legally established limit of 100 colony-forming units per gram (CFU/g) for ready-to-eat foods with 170 CFU/g.

Gerhard Zellner, Chairman of the Länderarbeitsgemeinschaft Verbraucherschutz (LAV), assessed the significantly lower germ concentration and the reduced number of critical samples as a positive advancement. Nevertheless, caution is advised: “Consumption of smoked salmon is not recommended for risk groups.”

Special Caution for Risk Groups
The vulnerable groups include:

• Older individuals
• Immunocompromised persons
• Pregnant women

For these groups, it is strongly recommended to refrain from consuming smoked salmon. Listeria can cause severe complications in pregnant women, ranging from damage to the unborn child to premature or stillbirth.

Safe Storage and Consumption
Consumers should pay attention to the following when handling smoked salmon:

• Store the product only briefly, as Listeria can multiply even at refrigerator temperatures.
• Do not consume smoked salmon after the expiration date.

Background: Listeriosis
Listeriosis is a foodborne infection with one of the highest mortality rates in the EU. The disease can have severe outcomes, particularly in older and immunocompromised individuals.

Despite progress in reducing microbial load, careful monitoring and responsible handling of potentially contaminated foods remain essential to protect consumers.

In our Tentamus laboratories, we regularly conduct tests for Listeria. We provide fast and reliable results. Our customer advisors are very happy to assist you with any questions.

Source: www.bav.bund.de