The dangers of Listeria (Listeria monocytogenes)
Dogs and cats rarely catch infections with Listeria. However, contaminated pet food can be dangerous to handlers, especially small children, pregnant women and older people. In fact, it is a leading cause of hospitalization and deaths due to foodborne illness in industrialized countries.
Listeria can affect several internal parts of the body, such as the brain, GI tract and the bloodstream. Symptoms and incubation period vary depending on the affected body parts.
Find more info at www.fda.gov
It is generally advised to disinfect thoroughly after handling raw food for pets, wash hands and avoid contamination of foods for humans with pet food!