The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI ) has issued a recall of several branded spinach and mixed salad leaf products produced by McCormack Family Farms, due to the presence of Listeria monocytogenes, a harmful bacterium that can cause illness in vulnerable individuals.
To date, no cases of illness have been linked to the recalled products, and the FSAI has clarified that this recall is not connected to the recent listeriosis outbreak associated with ready-to-heat meals. While acknowledging that a second Listeria-related recall in a short space of time may cause concern, the FSAI says the public can be reassured by Ireland’s strong food safety systems.
“If you’ve eaten the recalled products and feel well, there’s no need to do anything,” the FSAI advises. “However, if you feel unwell, you should seek medical advice.”
Listeriosis is a rare but potentially serious illness caused by eating food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. Each year, Ireland sees between 14 and 22 reported cases. Those most at risk include older people, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. The bacteria is killed by cooking food thoroughly until it is piping hot throughout, so the greatest risk comes from ready-to-eat foods that don’t require heating.
The FSAI explained that Listeria monocytogenes is widespread in the environment, where it can enter food chains through animals and plants. What makes it particularly difficult to control is its ability to grow in cold, moist environments, including those found in food processing facilities.
To reduce the risk, food producers must follow strict hygiene and maintenance procedures. These include regular deep cleaning, limiting water usage, repairing factory equipment and infrastructure, and maintaining clean air and controlled movement within production areas. Crucially, factories are required to carry out regular testing of both the environment and finished products to detect any presence of Listeria early.
The FSAI, along with other official agencies, conducts routine inspections of food production facilities. They examine control measures and collect their own samples, which are tested in accredited state-run labs. If Listeria is detected, enforcement action is taken, and food may be recalled.
While food recalls may cause alarm, they are often a sign that Ireland’s food safety systems are working as intended, catching issues before they become a widespread risk.
