Salmonella are pathogenic bacteria, which are found in a wide
range of foods. Salmonella are enteric organisms, occurring
naturally in the gut of poultry and animals, therefore the livestock
show no signs of illness or disease.
However in humans Salmonella causes severe sickness
and diarrhoea. In children, old people and immunosuppressed
individuals the effects of Salmonella food poisoning (salmonellosis)
can be more severe leading to septicemia, dehydration and even
death.
Listeria are pathogenic bacteria which are found mainly in
the environment, particularly in water and soil. Listeria are
often found in dairy products such as cheese and yoghurt but
can also be found in meats, pate, vegetables and salads.
Listeria are able to grow at low temperatures
of 4°C and therefore can survive in foods which have been
stored in a refrigerator. Listeria generally cause a mild flu
like symptoms in healthy adults but can have more serious effects
on the foetus of pregnant women causing neonatal septicaemia
or abortions. Women are therefore advised during pregnancy to
avoid eating soft cheeses and pate.
