PENSIONERS are being targeted in a campaign to warn about the dangers of the food poisoning listeria.

The move comes after the deadly illness claimed the lives of two people in Kirklees last year.

Across the country, fatality rates have doubled from 88 in 2000 to a shocking 161 in 2008.

Today a Kirklees food safety expert blamed soaring rates on the rising trend of convenience foods.

And she urged people to keep their food chilled and be extra-vigilant about sell-by dates.

Tracy Bousfield, senior manager for Kirklees environmental services, said: “We believe cases in the over-60s have risen partly because their immune systems become less effective as they get older.

“But what is also happening is that they live in smaller households and are more likely to buy ready-to-eat foods that are pre-packed.

“We believe they may be keeping them longer or not using them within the dates.

“The problem with listeria is that it can still grow at cold temperatures.

“So while the use-by dates are particularly important, you also have to make sure your fridge is set to 5C or below.

“Once the foods are open, they should also be used within two days, unless the manufacturer states otherwise.”

She said pre-cooked poultry, pre-packaged sandwiches, soft cheeses, pates and smoked salmon were among the worst offenders for listeria.

She added: “It is basically anything that is not going to be cooked again and is being stored in the fridge. The use-by dates are so important to prevent the growth of listeria.”

The warning coincides with National Food Safety Week being held between June 15 and 21.

In Huddersfield, staff from Kirklees environmental services will be teaming up with the Food and Drink Federation to raise awareness in people over 60.

They will be promoting the message to members of the Huddersfield OWLS – a pensioners’ activity group – through a range of fun workshops.

The focus will be on the four Cs – cleaning, cooking, chilling and avoiding cross-contamination.

Clr Molly Walton, Kirklees Cabinet member for food safety, said: “Unfortunately the elderly are more susceptible to food-related illness and the effects of listeria and salmonella can be very serious in this age group.’’

More information about food safety is available by contacting environmental services on 01484 226452 or at www.foodlink.org.uk