PoliticsAugust 8, 2026
listeria
li-STEER-ee-uh
Definition
A genus of bacteria that can cause a serious and sometimes fatal infection, often transmitted through contaminated food products like soft cheeses or deli meats.
Etymology
The term is named in honor of the British surgeon Joseph Lister, who pioneered antiseptic surgery; the genus name 'Listeria' was officially given to the bacteria in 1940.
In the news
Listeria is mentioned alongside other pathogens to illustrate that multiple foodborne illness outbreaks are occurring simultaneously, contradicting the government's push for consumers to eat more fresh, whole foods.
Fear of lettuce is making RFK Jr.'s food messaging harder for consumers to swallow
Read the full article ↗politico.com