In the past decade, a foodborne pathogen called Listeria monocytogenes has been linked to multiple foodborne disease outbreaks that have been connected to ready-to-eat foods like hot dogs, luncheon meats,  cold meats, fermented and dry sausages and other deli-style meat and poultry. 

Listeria monocytogenes can live in the intestines of animals without causing illness. This could lead to the spread of bacteria to dairy and meat products. When food products are prepared for consumption through cooking or other heating techniques like pasteurization, listeria is eliminated. However, there is a chance that ready-to-eat food could get tainted during preparation, thus posing a risk. 

Therefore, those who are more vulnerable to the potentially fatal consequences of a Listeria infection, such as expectant mothers and those with compromised immune systems—should take particular precautions. If ready-to-eat food is heated to a scorching temperature at home, Listeria monocytogenes is eliminated.