Traces of listeria have been found in several ready-to-eat seafood products sold in Metro Vancouver grocery stores, according to a study by a University of B.C. researcher.
Food microbiologist Kevin Allen tested 40 fish samples including lox, smoked tuna, candied salmon and fish jerky from seven large chain stores and 10 small retailers in Vancouver.
Listeria was found in 20 per cent of the products that were tested prior to the best-before date.
Allen noted that the listeria levels met federal guidelines but that the bacteria can multiply during handling and storage.
“Additional handling of ready-to-eat foods in stores, such as slicing, weighing and packaging, may increase the potential for cross-contamination,” he said. “While listeria can be killed by high heat, most people eat these fish products without further cooking.”
There are no immediate health risks for most people, but the bacteria could pose a risk to pregnant women, elderly people and anyone with a weak immune system.
Listeria is a bacteria that can lead to listeriosis, an infection resulting in fever, diarrhea and vomiting.
Local news from metronews.ca/vancouver
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