HEALTH MINISTRY ADVISES: REHEAT DELI PRODUCTS

The Health Ministry said it is maintaining surveillance of all meat processing plants in the country but could not guarantee or verify that every product was “free of bacterial contaminants.”

As a safeguard, it is providing guidelines for the safe handling of ready-to-eat products regardless of the manufacturer. The Ministry is advising the public to reheat until steaming — hot dogs, luncheon meats, cold cuts, fermented dry sausage, and other deli-style meat and poultry products. “Thoroughly reheating food can help kill any bacteria that might be present. If you cannot reheat these foods, do not eat them.”

According to the Ministry, all expiry dates should be observed for perishable items that are precooked or ready-to-eat. The Ministry also said hands should be washed and surfaces cleaned with hot, soapy water because some germs such as, Listeria monocytogenes can slowly grow at refrigerator temperatures. Hot, soapy water must always be used to clean liquids that spill in the refrigerator. “Always wash hands, cutting boards, dishes with hot, soapy water after they come in contact with raw food,” it advised, adding that foods should be separated to prevent cross-contamination. Ready-to-eat foods, raw meat, poultry and seafood contain dangerous bacteria. These should be separated from vegetables, fruits, breads, and other foods that are already prepared for eating.

Persons at risk for listeriosis should reheat luncheon meats, cold cuts, and other deli style meat and poultry until they are steaming hot. Perishables, including ready-to-eat foods should be refrigerated within two hours. On Monday the Ministry gave permission to Erin Farm Meat Packers Ltd to resume production activities and sales to the public. Erin Farm temporarily closed its production plant following the discovery of Listeria monocytogenes bacteria in three products, which were subsequently recalled by the company. The Plant was cleaned and disinfected, and the Health Ministry carried out tests to ensure products were free of bacteria.