United Kingdom
The FSA and UKHSA are investigating a Listeria outbreak likely linked to Baronet soft cheeses. Whole Genome Sequencing surveillance of listeriosis samples by UKHSA has identified 3 cases potentially linked to an outbreak, unfortunately, one person has died. The outbreak strain has also been found in some food products and samples taken from food environments, however, there is no confirmation that Baronet is the cause of this outbreak.
The FSA and UKHSA are warning the public not to eat Baronet semi-soft cheeses which have been recalled because they are contaminated with listeria, in some cheeses at exceptionally high levels. They continue to work closely together and with local authorities in response to this outbreak and further recalls may be undertaken if any more products are found to be affected.
The cheeses are sometimes served sliced from a deli counter, so it may not always be clear whether you have purchased an affected product. If in doubt, consumers are advised to contact the retailer they bought their cheese from to find out if the Baronet cheese they have purchased is from the businesses and batches affected and in the meantime to not eat the product.
Businesses are also being advised that they must check whether they have been impacted by the product withdrawal and recalls undertaken by the businesses and ensure they observe this and take action where necessary. If suppliers have sold to retailers, it is vital that each retailer carries out a product recall and informs their local authority.
It is important that businesses follow the product withdrawal and recalls undertaken, and if they have received the product, ensure good hygiene practices to prevent the risk of cross-contamination – it is possible that other cheese, if handled using the same equipment or on common surfaces, may have also been contaminated and therefore affected.
In case you are experiencing Listeria monocytogenes symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, it is important to report it. It can help to detect & resolve outbreaks early and prevent others from being harmed, and it enables better surveillance. If symptoms persist, seek medical care.
Source:
www.food.gov.uk
