Warning after two die in Kirklees from listeria poisoning

Jun 13 2009 Huddersfield Daily Examiner

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