The United Kingdom’s Food Standards Agency has announced a voluntary recall by Wicklow Farmhouse Cheese of various cheese products due to possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes (Listeria). Listeria is a bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Background
No information was provided in the recall notice as to how the potential presence of Listeria contamination was discovered.
Distribution
The affected products were distributed to various retail stores in Northern Ireland only.
Product Details
| Product Name | Size | Use by Date | Best Before Date | Batch Description |
| Ballykilty Baking Brie | 150 grams | All date codes | All date codes | All batches |
| St Killian Cheese | ||||
| Baking St Killian Cheese | ||||
| Wicklow Ban | ||||
| Wicklow Blue Brie | ||||
| St Killians | ||||
| Wicklow Farmhouse Cheddar Wedge | ||||
| Wicklow Gold Tomato & Herb | ||||
| Drunken Saint |
Consumer Action
As with all food recalls, consumers are strongly advised to discontinue use of the affected product even if it looks or smells safe to eat.
Anyone in possession of the recalled product is requested to not sell, serve, or distribute them.
The affected products should be discarded or returned to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Consumers should thoroughly sanitize any surface or utensils that have come into contact with the recalled products.
Health Risks
There was no mention if there have been any reported cases of illness or injuries in connection with the consumption of the recalled products.
Listeriosis, the infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes, is particularly dangerous for certain vulnerable populations. Pregnant individuals, people aged 65 or older, and those with weakened immune systems are at highest risk. Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions, sometimes preceded by gastrointestinal symptoms. In pregnant individuals, listeriosis can lead to miscarriages, stillbirths, premature delivery, or life-threatening infections in newborns.
Anyone experiencing symptoms of Listeriosis should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Commenting on this article, the nation’s leading Listeria lawyer said, “Listeria infection can be extremely dangerous to certain members of our population, especially pregnant women. Consumers should search their homes for the affected products and discontinue use right away to minimize any risks of infection.”
