According to the main conclusions of an EFSA scientific opinion on Listeria monocytogenes and risks to public health from consumption of contaminated ready-to-eat food, Listeria cases have increased among people over 75 years old and woman aged 25-44. This opinion covers the period 2008-2015.
Experts from EFSA began work on the scientific opinion after the 2015 EU summary report on foodborne zoonotic diseases identified an increasing trend of listeriosis over the period 2009-2013.
Experts concluded that the higher incidence of listeriosis among the elderly was likely linked to the increased proportion of people aged over 45 with underlying health conditions such as cancer and diabetes.
The rise in consumption of ready-to-eat foods and an improved monitoring system in some Members States may also have contributed to this trend.
Experts estimated that one third of cases of listeriosis are due to growth of Listeria monocytogenes in food prepared and stored at home in the refrigerator. This highlights the importance of following good hygiene practices such as respecting recommended storage temperatures and times.