Listeria is a harmful bacterium found in ready-to-eat meats, soft cheeses, and unpasteurized dairy products. Pregnant women are 20 times more likely than other healthy adults to get sick from eating listeria-laced food. Those trying to conceive should also be on alert because listeriosis (the infection caused by listeria) can cause a miscarriage early in the first trimester – possibly before you even know you’re pregnant.

To kill listeria, heat high-risk foods in the microwave until they’re steaming hot. To reduce bacteria growth on leftovers, set the refrigerator’s temperature at 40 degrees or below. Toss any food that’s been at room temperature for more than two hours. Foods to avoid completely: Raw sushi, refrigerated smoked seafood (like lox), refrigerated pâté or meat spreads (canned or shelf-stable spreads are safe to eat), soft cheese made from unpasteurized (raw) milk, and other unpasteurized dairy products.