Listeria-tainted cheeses: did the control mechanisms falter?
In recent news, an outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes has been reported in France and several European countries, with a total of 21 cases and two reported deaths as of now. The outbreak is linked to pasteurized soft cheeses made from cow's and goat's milk produced by the French company, Chavegrand.
The affected cheeses include popular varieties such as Camembert, Crémeux, bûches, brie, and similar types. All batches produced before June 23, 2025, have been recalled as a precautionary measure. These cheeses were distributed nationally and internationally under various brand names and bear the official French health mark, FR 23.117.001 CE/UE.
The recall was issued following investigations by Santé Publique France, the National Listeria Reference Centre at Institut Pasteur, and the General Directorate of Food. The cheeses were retailed widely, including in supermarkets across France, and were also exported to more than 20 countries, including the United States, Canada, the UK, Singapore, and Australia.
French health authorities have urged consumers not to consume these cheeses and to consult a doctor if fever or other symptoms develop after consumption, noting the incubation period of listeriosis can be up to eight weeks.
This outbreak is an example of rare contamination of pasteurized cheeses by Listeria, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and safety in dairy products. The contamination in the recalled cheeses is due to Listeria monocytogenes, the bacterium responsible for the contamination and subsequent illnesses.
The affected individuals range in age from 34 to 95 years, indicating a broad age range. A total of 40 different types of cheeses, including brief, square, camembert, coulommiers, and double cream, are affected by the recall. The recalled cheeses are sold under 105 references and are distributed by major retailers such as Carrefour, Auchan, Leclerc, and Lidl.
Since August 9, dozens of lots of pasteurized milk cheeses from Chavegrand dairy in Creuse have been recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes contamination. As of today, around 20 cases of listeriosis have been reported, an illness linked to Listeria monocytogenes.
It is unusual that all the cheeses were recalled for the same reason, according to Camille Dorioz, an agronomy engineer. The recall of the cheeses occurred on August 9. Two deaths have been reported in relation to the listeriosis cases.
This outbreak serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety and the need for continued monitoring of dairy products. If you have consumed any of the recalled cheeses and are experiencing symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.
- In light of the ongoing Listeria outbreak linked to pasteurized cheeses in France, it's essential to emphasize the significance of health-and-wellness education related to food-and-drink safety, particularly in the realm of science.
- Given the recent Listeria outbreak affecting various types of pasteurized cheeses, such as brie, Camembert, and Coummiers, it's critical to prioritize lifestyle choices that prioritize health-and-wellness, stressing the importance of avoiding contaminated products.
