Food experts warning to pregnant women over risk of severe illness this Christmas
Many people enjoy treating themselves to some smoked salmon or other luxury cured fish over the festive period - as a light starter before the bigger Christmas roast, for example.
However, not everyone should consume this sort of food, as smoked fish can harbour dangerous bacteria.The Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Food Standards Scotland (FSS) are urging pregnant women and people with underlying conditions that can affect their immune system - for example cancer, diabetes, liver and kidney disease - to avoid eating ready-to-eat cold-smoked or cured fish because of the risk of listeria.
The health authorities issued a UK wide caution on Tuesday (December 2).Listeria is a food-based bug that causes an illness called listeriosis, which can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women and those with lowered immune systems.
It isn't only found in smoked fish: other ready-to-eat foods can harbour the bacterium include deli meats such as cold pre-cooked meat, soft cheeses such as brie, as well as pâté and cooked shellfish - all popular Christmas foods.According to the FSA, those who should avoid smoked and cured fish are: Linden Jack, Head of Food, Feed and Incidents Policy Unit at the FSA, issued a further statement, explaining: “We understand that smoked fish is a popular choice during the festive season, and for many, with the proper precautions, it can be enjoyed safely.“However, we strongly encourage those at higher risk to either avoid cold-smoked fish or first cook it until steaming hot all the way through.
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