Urgent Recall of Brie Mariotte Cheese Due to Listeria Risk

A significant recall has been issued for various batches of Brie Mariotte cheese due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, which can lead to serious health complications. The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) announced the urgent recall on March 15, 2024, highlighting the potential risks associated with consuming the product.

The recalled cheese, originating from France, is sold in 1 kg packages across several retailers in Ireland, including Dunnes Stores. The specific batches affected have best before dates up to and including August 30, 2025, as well as all pack sizes with use by dates between June 8, 2025 and August 13, 2025. Retailers are advised to remove these batches from their shelves immediately, and point-of-sale notices will be displayed to inform customers of the recall.

Individuals who purchased the recalled Brie Mariotte cheese are strongly advised not to consume the product. Symptoms of listeriosis can include mild flu-like effects, but in some cases, the infection can escalate to severe complications. The FSAI reports that people at greater risk include pregnant women, infants, and individuals with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly.

Symptoms associated with a listeria infection may range from fever and fatigue to more serious manifestations like headache, stiff neck, and confusion. In rare instances, particularly in vulnerable populations, listeriosis can lead to serious conditions such as meningitis or septicaemia. The incubation period for listeriosis typically averages around three weeks, but can extend from three to 70 days.

This recall follows another incident involving different cheese products. Recently, the FSAI also recalled several batches of goat’s cheese sold at SuperValu stores due to similar listeria concerns. The affected products include “SuperValu Goat’s Cheese” with use by dates of August 7 and August 12, and “Freshly Prepared by Our Cheesemongers Goat’s Cheese” in various pack sizes with use by dates of August 11 and August 12. The “SuperValu Chevre Log” is also recalled, covering all pack sizes with use by dates including today.

The FSAI has emphasized that there is currently no evidence linking these cheese recalls to any ongoing listeriosis outbreak related to ready-to-heat meals or the recent spinach and mixed leaves recall. Manufacturers have been instructed to ensure the implicated batches are removed from sales, and to provide recall notices at retail locations.

Consumers are urged to remain vigilant and check their pantry for the affected products. The FSAI continues to monitor the situation closely, prioritizing public health and safety in response to the potential risks posed by contaminated food products.