FSA/FSS Updated Listeria Guidance for Vulnerable Groups – Ready to Eat Cold Smoked / Cured Fish
Listeria is a foodborne bacterium that causes an illness called listeriosis. Cases are rare, and in healthy adults and children listeria usually causes few or no symptoms. However, some people have a higher risk of severe illness (invasive listeriosis). Therefore, in light of a publication of a risk assessment, the FSA (Food Standards Agency) and FSS (Food Standards Scotland) guidance has been updated for pregnant women and those with a weakened immune system to avoid eating ready to eat cold smoked fish or cured fish due to a higher risk of illness from listeria.
The risk of illness increases with age, so the guidance is also advising older people to be aware of the risks associated with eating these products.
It should be noted that if the cold smoked fish is thoroughly cooked, it will be safe to eat. All hot smoked fish products such as kiln roasted salmon have been heated to a high temperature either during production or cooking, killing any listeria that may be present.
See below for links shared by the FSA for the guidance and the toolkit:
Listeria updated guidance - see here.
Social Media
- FSA Listeria in Smoked Fish suggested social media - see here.
- FSA Listeria in Smoked Fish Social Media Posts - Like, Comment, Share - see here.
FSA Explains Videos
Listeria in Smoked Fish GIFs