Have you heard about the listeria outbreak on the news involving canteloupe? According to the CDC 13 people have died and 72 people are affected in 18 states. They have linked it back to Jensen Farms in Colorado. Since the discovery of the deadliest food borne illness outbreak, Jensen Farms has voluntarily recalled all melons. They are still researching the root cause of the outbreak. Listeria can cause fever, confusion, vomiting, and neck stiffness. Those with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, and the elderly are at greater risk. South Dakota is not affected by this outbreak, however many of our surrounding states are. Proper food safety practices are very important to avoid food borne illness. Be sure to always wash your hands for at least 20-30 seconds before working with food, wash your produce thoroughly before eating (yes- this includes the outside of the melon) and do not cross contaminate with other foods like raw meat.
-Kelsey
