Can mozzarella cheese have Listeria?
Asked by: Shane Steuber | Last update: June 3, 2026Score: 4.5/5 (24 votes)
Yes, mozzarella cheese can have Listeria (specifically Listeria monocytogenes), as it's a risk in many dairy products, particularly fresh or shredded varieties, often from post-processing contamination, though levels are often low, and recalls do happen, highlighting the importance of proper handling and hygiene. While some traditional production methods kill the bacteria, contamination can occur later, and the high moisture/pH of mozzarella can support its growth, making it a concern for vulnerable groups.
Can mozzarella have listeria?
In total, 16 studies were analyzed using random-effects meta-analysis, and the pooled prevalence of L. monocytogenes in mozzarella was estimated at 1.2% (95% CI: 0.0–4.2) although a high heterogeneity among studies was observed (I2 = 78%).
What cheese is recalled for listeria?
FDA Gives Pecorino Romano Cheese Recall Its Highest Risk Classification. A November recall of grated pecorino romano cheese that may be contaminated with listeria is getting new attention after the Food and Drug Administration gave it a Class I designation on Jan. 6.
Is it safe to eat mozzarella while pregnant?
Yes, you can eat mozzarella during pregnancy as long as it's made from pasteurized milk, which is standard for most mozzarella sold in the U.S., including fresh balls and packaged varieties. Pasteurization kills harmful bacteria like Listeria, making it safe to eat cooked (like on pizza) or uncooked. If you're unsure if a cheese is pasteurized, especially fresh or deli-counter varieties, cook it until steaming hot to kill any potential germs.
What cheese is most likely to have listeria?
Soft cheeses, which are high in moisture, are more likely to be contaminated than hard cheeses. Outbreaks of Listeria infection have been linked to many kinds of soft cheeses, including queso fresco and Brie.
What Types Of Cheese Are Most Likely To Contain Listeria? - The Health Brief
How to avoid Listeria in cheese?
Listeria infection in pregnant women can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or death of the newborn. Only buy soft cheeses with the word “pasteurized” on the label. Avoid soft cheeses made with unpasteurized milk.
Is all mozzarella pasteurized in the UK?
Unpasteurised soft cheeses may contain the bacteria listeria, which, in rare cases, can cause an infection called listeriosis. Listeriosis can make your unborn baby very unwell and may lead to miscarriage or stillbirth. Most mozzarella sold in the UK is pasteurised.
Are all mozzarella cheeses pasteurized?
Here's one of Americans' favorite Italian cheeses: the famous mozzarella. Mozzarella is also made from 90% pasteurized milk. However, you should always check that you're not buying fresh, unpasteurized mozzarella, which could present a risk.
What cheese to avoid when pregnant in the UK?
Listeria grows in high-moisture, low acidity cheeses and for this reason pregnant women should avoid soft (e.g. soft goat, Brie-style, washed-rind) semi-soft (e.g. territorial cheeses: which are fairly high-moisture and young) and mould-ripened (e.g. blue) cheeses.
How rare is Listeria in the UK?
There were 179 cases of listeriosis reported in England and Wales in 2024, according to new data published today by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). Listeriosis is caused by Listeria bacteria and is usually contracted by eating contaminated raw, chilled, or ready-to-eat foods.
Was mozzarella recalled?
Key Takeaways. Shredded mozzarella cheese and cheese blends have been recalled because they may contain metal fragments. The cheese was sold at retailers including Aldi's, Publix, Target, and Walmart. You should throw away any recalled cheese or return it to where you bought it for a refund.
Can you cook Listeria out of cheese?
People usually become ill with listeriosis after eating contaminated food. Cooking at temperatures higher than 65C kills the bacteria. However, Listeria can contaminate foods after production (for example contamination can occur after the food is cooked but before is packaged).
Is mozzarella cheese safe?
Like other cheese, mozzarella is a good source of protein and calcium and also contains phosphorus—all of which are essential nutrients for optimal health. You can enjoy mozzarella cheese in various dishes, from sweet to savory and from breakfast to dinner.
Can you eat fresh mozzarella when pregnant reddit?
You're likely fine! Most fresh mozzarella/burrata/stracciatella made in the United States are made with pasteurized milk, as are most domestically made soft cheeses! If you're worried, give the restaurant a call and ask if it's imported, that may be the easiest way to find out what kind of milk it's made from!
Is mozzarella ok in pregnancy?
Yes, you can eat mozzarella during pregnancy as long as it's made from pasteurized milk, which is standard for most mozzarella sold in the U.S., including fresh balls and packaged varieties. Pasteurization kills harmful bacteria like Listeria, making it safe to eat cooked (like on pizza) or uncooked. If you're unsure if a cheese is pasteurized, especially fresh or deli-counter varieties, cook it until steaming hot to kill any potential germs.
Is Tesco mozzarella pasteurized in the UK?
About this product
Mozzarella di Bufala Campana PDO cheese made with pasteurised whole buffalo milk.
How common is unpasteurized mozzarella?
In the U.S., nearly all fresh (unaged, rindless) cheese—like mozzarella, fresh goat cheese/chèvre, ricotta, or feta—is pasteurized. It also means that 99 percent of soft, creamy, spreadable cheeses are pasteurized.
Is Aldi mozzarella pasteurized?
Product Details. Emporium Selection Fresh Mozzarella Pre-Sliced Log is your answer for quick, delicious meals. Made from pasteurized milk, this mozzarella is perfect for layering on your favorite sandwiches or adding to a fresh Caprese salad.
Is Sainsbury's mozzarella pasteurized?
Safety: Made with pasteurised milk. For best before date: see front of pack.
How do I know if I ate Listeria?
Listeriosis can cause mild, flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle aches, and diarrhea or upset stomach. You may also have a stiff neck, headache, confusion, or loss of balance. Symptoms may appear as late as 2 months after you have eaten something with Listeria.
Does vinegar remove Listeria?
But another study showed that vinegar was effective at killing E. coli, especially when combined with salt. Another study showed that vinegar worked against Listeria, but not salmonella.
Can you clear Listeria on your own?
Can Listeria go away on its own? Yes, if you have a healthy immune system and aren't pregnant, you'll usually feel better in a couple of days without treatment. But if you're pregnant or have risk factors for serious illness, talk to a healthcare provider right away.