What is the food-borne illness mostly caused by bacteria in soft cheese?

The food-borne illness most commonly associated with soft cheese is listeriosis.

Here's why:

* Listeria monocytogenes is a bacteria that can survive and multiply in cold environments, making soft cheeses, which are often unpasteurized, a prime breeding ground.

* Soft cheeses, especially those made from unpasteurized milk, like Brie, Camembert, Roquefort, and Feta, are particularly susceptible to Listeria contamination.

* Listeriosis can cause serious illness, especially in pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, and loss of balance.

Important note: Pasteurized cheeses are generally safe to consume, as the pasteurization process kills most harmful bacteria, including Listeria.