Listeria infection detected again in Ireland; 9 people treated, 1 died

 

TThe Food Safety Authority in Ireland has recalled seven different lettuce and mixed leaf products after Listeria monocytogenes was found. 

Medical professionals are currently investigating the death of an adult with listeriosis. Nine people have currently been confirmed infected. 

All seven products are produced by McCormack Family Farms.  The products are as follows: 

McCormack Family Farms Energise Super Mix 100g; McCormack Family Farms Irish Spinach Leaves 100g, 200g & 250g (various dates); McCormack Family Farms Mixed Leaves 75g; McCormack Family Farms Baby Leaves 100g & 200g; Tesco Mild Spinach 350g; Egan’s Irish Baby Spinach 250g; SuperValu Spinach bag (Unwashed) pack size 250g.

Earlier this week, a "widespread outbreak" of Listeria led to the recall of more than 140 ready-to-eat foods manufactured by Ballymaguire Foods, which were made for several major supermarkets in Ireland. 

Listeriosis - what is it and what are the risks?

Symptoms of Listeria monocytogenes infection may include mild fever-like symptoms, or gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

In rare cases, the infection can become more severe and cause serious complications. Certain people are more susceptible to Listeria monocytogenes infection, including pregnant women, young children, and people with weakened immune systems, including the elderly.

The incubation period (the time from initial infection to the appearance of the first symptoms) averages 3 weeks, but can range from 3 to 70 days.

A full list of affected products is available on the FSAI website.

 Visit FSAI website

Recall notices will be displayed at the point-of-sale in stores.

Consumers are advised not to consume the affected products. Retailers must remove the affected products from sale and display recall notices at point-of-sale locations.

Wholesalers and distributors are urged to contact their affected customers, recall the affected products and provide point-of-sale recall notices to their retailers. Caterers should not use the affected products, the Department of Food and Safety Ireland said.