By M10News Health Correspondent
27 July 2025 | Dublin
Ireland’s food safety watchdog has issued a fresh alert over leafy greens after six salad products were pulled from supermarket shelves due to listeria contamination concerns, intensifying a public health investigation already linked to one fatality.
The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) confirmed the recall on Saturday, warning consumers not to eat spinach and mixed leaves supplied by McCormack Family Farms. The recall includes both their branded products and items distributed under Tesco and Egan’s labels.
Among the affected products are:
- McCormack Energise Super Mix (100g)
- Irish Spinach Leaves (100g, 200g, 250g)
- Mixed and Baby Leaves (various weights)
- Tesco Mild Spinach (350g)
- Egan’s Irish Baby Spinach (250g)
The FSAI said testing detected the presence of Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause serious illness—particularly in vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.
Retailers have been instructed to remove the items from shelves and post recall notices at all points of sale. Wholesalers and distributors must notify customers and ensure the implicated batches are no longer in circulation. Caterers have also been advised to stop using the products immediately.
This latest recall follows an “extensive” listeria outbreak linked to pre-prepared meals made by Ballymaguire Foods, prompting over 140 products to be recalled earlier this month. One person has died from confirmed listeriosis, and at least nine others have fallen ill.
Listeriosis typically causes flu-like symptoms, including fever and muscle aches, but can progress to more serious complications such as meningitis or blood infection in at-risk individuals. The incubation period can stretch from a few days to over two months, complicating detection and tracing efforts.
Dr Pamela Byrne, CEO of the FSAI, said in a statement that the investigation remains active: “We are working closely with producers, distributors, and health professionals to contain this outbreak and prevent further illness.”
Consumers are urged to check the FSAI website for full product details and to dispose of any affected items. Medical attention should be sought if symptoms develop after consumption.
Health authorities say further recalls may follow as the probe into the outbreak’s origins continues.
Editing by M10News Health Desk | Contact: health@m10news.com
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