Morrisons recalls popular food products over listeria contamination risk

Morrisons has issued an emergency recall of an own-brand cheese over concerns about listeria contamination.

Customers are warned not to consume 200g packages of The Best Taleggio used before April 14 and are asked to return the product to the store for a full refund.

A statement from the Food Standards Agency said: “Symptoms caused by this microorganism may be similar to those of influenza, including high temperature, muscle aches or pains, chills, feeling unwell and diarrhoea.

“However, in rare cases, the infection can be more severe, leading to serious complications such as meningitis.

“Morrison’s is recalling the product above. Point-of-sale notices will be displayed in all retail stores where the product is sold. These notices explain to customers why the product is being recalled and tell them what to do if they purchase the product.”

The agency warned that people who are more susceptible to Listeria infection include people over 65, pregnant women and their unborn babies, babies under one month old and people with weakened immune systems.

A spokesman for Morrisons said: “Please do not consume this product and return it to your nearest store for a full refund. We do not require a receipt.

“No other products are affected by this issue. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and assure customers that we remain committed to the highest standards of product quality and safety.”

Morrisons is the fifth largest supermarket in the UK, with nearly 500 stores.