Why does cantaloupe carry listeria?
In an article in Food Safety News in March, Costa explained that because the cantaloupe’s rough skin can trap and hold bacteria, there are hazard points at every step of the supply chain, from growing, harvesting, packing, storage, transport, distribution and processing, to the consumer’s final cut into the fleshy …
Is Listeria inside or outside the cantaloupe?
Cantaloupe rinds are full of nooks and crannies, each perfect for harboring bacteria and allowing it to flourish, Tocco said. Because many food-borne pathogens — E. coli, salmonella, listeria — are found in soil, the layer of plastic can give a slight food-safety edge over melons grown on dirt, Tocco said.
Does melon have listeria?
Two people have died after eating rockmelon (cantaloupe) contaminated with listeria. The elderly are particularly susceptible to listeriosis, as are pregnant women and their fetuses, and those with weakened immune systems.
How do you clean cantaloupe listeria?
Rinse the Rind. Wash your hands thoroughly, grab a good veggie brush, and give your melon a vigorous scrub under running water. Dr. Bunning suggests setting it down in a colander or bowl, so you can use both hands to cleanse the heavy fruit. Skip the soap—water alone is just as effective, she says.
How can you tell if a cantaloupe has Listeria?
The bacteria have a long incubation period, which means that it may take as long as four weeks for people who have eaten contaminated cantaloupe to feel ill. Listeriosis typically causes fever and muscle aches, sometimes preceded by diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms.
How do you prevent Listeria in cantaloupe?
To help prevent infection, the CDC recommends you do the following:
- Rinse fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting or cooking them.
- Scrub farm produce, such as melons and cucumbers, with a clean produce brush.
- Dry produce with a clean cloth or paper towel.
How can you tell if a cantaloupe has listeria?
Is listeria common in cantaloupe?
Listeria can get in cantaloupe Cantaloupes may look innocent, but they are the source of the most deadly foodborne illness outbreaks in recent years. In 2011, a listeria outbreak in cantaloupes caused foodborne illness in 147 people and killed more than 30. Shockwaves from the outbreak are still felt today.
Is Listeria common in cantaloupe?
What happens if you eat too much cantaloupe?
Cantaloupes are a good source of this mineral, which can help lower your blood pressure. But too much of it may cause problems if you have kidney disease. That’s because your organs may not be able to filter out all the extra potassium, This can lead to a serious condition called hyperkalemia. Fiber.