This article discusses a precautionary recall of all products by Ballymaguire Foods due to the identification of listeria bacteria during a quality control check.Here’s a breakdown of the key details:
The Recall: Ballymaguire Foods has initiated a recall of all products made at one of its facilities.
Reason for Recall: Listeria bacteria were detected as part of a quality control check.
Company response: Ballymaguire Foods is treating the situation with utmost seriousness, has temporarily suspended production at the affected facility, and has informed retail customers and relevant authorities immediately. They have a 20-year quality track record and apologize for any concern caused.
Listeria Symptoms: Symptoms can range from mild flu-like or gastrointestinal issues (vomiting, nausea, diarrhea) to more severe complications in rare cases.
Vulnerable Groups: Pregnant women, babies, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to severe infections.
Incubation Period: The time between infection and symptom onset is typically three weeks, but can range from three to 70 days.
FSAI Actions: The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has requested retailers to remove implicated products from sale and display recall notices. Wholesalers and distributors are asked to contact affected customers and provide recall notices to retailers.
Listeriosis Cases in Ireland: The article mentions that there have been seven cases of listeriosis notified in the first 29 weeks of this year. Last year, there were 22 cases, up from 18 in 2023. One death was reported in 2023.
severity of Listeriosis: While the number of cases is small, the high fatality rate makes listeriosis a significant public health concern. In vulnerable individuals, it can lead to serious complications like meningitis and septicaemia. For pregnant women, it can cause premature labor, newborn meningitis, or miscarriage.
Treatment: Listeriosis can be treated with antibiotics, but even with treatment, it can be severe and possibly fatal, especially in the elderly.
The article also provides a link to the FSAI recall list for more details.