Health officials have warned Brits to watch what they're eating after 28 deaths linked to listeriosis, an infection caused by consuming contaminated food. The UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) warned that the infection could cause severe illness for vulnerable people including the elderly and immunocompromised. 28 people died from listeriosis in 2024, out of 179 reported cases, officials said - the highest number in eight years.

The food-borne illness has been linked to cold and cured meats, smoked and cured fish, shellfish and mouldy cheese including camembert and brie as well as pre-packaged sandwiches. Most people infected with the bacteria suffer none or mild symptoms including gastrointestinal issues, a high temperature, vomiting and aches and pains, according to the NHS website.

Vanessa Wong, UKHSA consultant in gastrointestinal infections, said: "Listeriosis is a rare infection and most people only experience mild symptoms of gastroenteritis that usually pass within a few days without the need for treatment.

"However, severe listeriosis is more likely to affect the elderly, very young babies, pregnant women and those with a weakened immune system.

"The best way to prevent listeriosis is to practise good food hygiene and avoid high-risk foods if you are in a vulnerable group. Foods that carry a greater risk of listeria include soft cheeses, pate, smoked fish, chilled sliced meats and other chilled ready-to-eat products."

The UKHSA investigated seven outbreaks of listeriosis across England and Wales last year, linked to the consumption of smoked fish, chocolate and strawberry mousse, garlic sausage and pre-packaged sandwiches.

The government body also previously said it was investigating five deaths linked to the infection between May and December 2024, thought to be linked to desserts supplied to NHS hospitals and care homes.

Tips on how to avoid infection include ensuring your fridge has a temperature below 5C and eating or freezing foods by their use-by date, following storage instructions, and washing your hands regularly before and during food preparation.