Urgent Recall of Brie Mariotte Cheese Due to Listeria Fears

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has issued an urgent recall of various batches of Brie Mariotte cheese over concerns regarding the potential presence of Listeria monocytogenes. This recall, identified by notification number 2025.43, raises alarms due to the serious health complications that may arise from consuming contaminated products.

The affected cheese, imported from France, is sold in multiple retail outlets across Ireland, including Dunnes Stores. Specifically, the recall impacts 1 kg packages of Brie Mariotte with best before dates extending to and including August 30, 2025. Additionally, all pack sizes with use-by dates from August 6, 2025 to August 13, 2025 are also included in the recall. Retailers have been instructed to remove these batches from sale immediately, with recall notices to be displayed at points of sale.

Consumers are advised not to consume the implicated products. The FSAI emphasizes that there is currently no evidence linking this recall to the ongoing listeriosis outbreak associated with ready-to-heat meals or the recent spinach and mixed leaves recalls.

Health Risks and Symptoms

Listeriosis can present a range of symptoms, often starting with mild flu-like signs such as fever, tiredness, and headaches. More severe cases may lead to gastrointestinal issues including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, infants, and individuals with weakened immune systems, including the elderly, face a higher risk of serious complications.

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre notes that in immunocompromised individuals, Listeria infections can potentially spread to the central nervous system, resulting in conditions such as meningitis and septicaemia. Symptoms of severe infection may include headache, stiff neck, confusion, and loss of balance or convulsions. The typical incubation period for listeriosis is around three weeks, but can range from three to 70 days.

Recent Cheese Recalls

This recall is part of a broader trend, as it follows a recent series of cheese product withdrawals, including batches of goat cheese from SuperValu. The FSAI has recalled several varieties of SuperValu goat’s cheese, notably the 110g package with use-by dates of August 7 and August 12, as well as freshly prepared goat cheese sold in various sizes with use-by dates of August 11 and August 12.

The authority has reiterated the importance of consumer awareness, urging manufacturers to take immediate action to remove affected batches from shelves and ensure that recall notices are prominently displayed.

Consumers are strongly advised to check their purchases and dispose of any affected products. For further information, individuals can visit the official website of the FSAI where they can find updates and specific guidance regarding food safety and recalls.