Tesco Issues Immediate Product Recall
British supermarket giant Tesco has issued an urgent recall of a popular cheese product over fears of contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a potentially deadly bacteria. Shoppers are being warned not to eat the product and to return it immediately, even if partially consumed.
Public Health Alert on Potentially Deadly Bacteria
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued a public health alert, noting that consuming the affected cheese could lead to serious illness. The recall applies specifically to the Le Superbe Raclette Cheese sold in Tesco stores, with the best before date of 12 May 2025.
Affected Product Details
Product Name, Size, and Identification Code
- Product: Le Superbe Raclette Cheese
- Pack Size: 150g
- Best Before Date: 12/05/2025
- Reason for Recall: Contamination with Listeria monocytogenes
The recall does not affect any other Le Superbe cheese varieties or other Tesco cheeses.
Where and When the Cheese Was Sold
The product was distributed nationwide in Tesco supermarkets. It has since been removed from shelves, and Tesco has issued a “DO NOT EAT” warning to customers through its website and in-store notices.
What Is Listeria?
Overview of Listeria Monocytogenes
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause listeriosis, a serious infection especially dangerous for pregnant women, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. The bacteria are typically found in unpasteurized dairy products and processed meats.
Symptoms of Listeriosis and Who Is Most at Risk
Symptoms of listeriosis may appear a few days to weeks after eating contaminated food and include:
- High fever
- Muscle aches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache and confusion in severe cases
Vulnerable individuals may experience life-threatening complications, including sepsis, meningitis, or stillbirths in pregnant women.
Official Warnings and Health Guidelines
What to Do If You Have Bought the Cheese
Tesco customers who have purchased the affected cheese should:
- Do not eat the cheese.
- Check the best before date to confirm if it is the recalled batch (12 May 2025).
- Return the product to any Tesco store for a full refund.
Tesco’s Refund Process and Contact Information
Tesco is offering full refunds, no receipt required. For more information, customers can call Tesco Customer Services at 0800 505 555 or visit the product recall section of the Tesco website.
Food Safety and Recall Background
How Listeria Contaminations Happen
Listeria can contaminate foods at various stages of the supply chain, including during production, packaging, or storage. Soft cheeses like Raclette are particularly susceptible due to their moisture content and short shelf life.
Previous Recalls and Tesco’s Safety Track Record
Tesco has previously issued recalls for soft cheeses due to similar concerns. The supermarket chain has emphasized that this is an isolated incident and is working closely with suppliers to ensure product safety moving forward.
Conclusion
Tesco’s swift action in recalling the potentially contaminated cheese is crucial for protecting public health. Shoppers are urged to check their fridges and take immediate action if they purchased Le Superbe Raclette Cheese with the affected best before date. With prompt return and full refunds available, consumers are advised not to take any risks when it comes to listeria contamination.
FAQs
Which Tesco cheese is being recalled?
Le Superbe Raclette Cheese, 150g, best before 12 May 2025.
How do I check if my product is affected?
Look for the product label “Le Superbe Raclette Cheese” and verify the best-before date as 12/05/2025.
What should I do if I ate the cheese?
If you have consumed the product and feel unwell—especially with flu-like symptoms—contact your doctor immediately and mention possible listeria exposure.
Can I get a refund without a receipt?
Yes, Tesco is offering full refunds with or without a receipt for this recalled item.
Are other Tesco products at risk?
No other products are affected by this recall. The issue is limited to the specified batch of Le Superbe Raclette Cheese.
