POSSIBLE E. coli has been detected in four types of cheese after they were recalled – with warnings they could have been gifted in Christmas hampers.
According to the Food Standards Agency (FSA) the cheeses might be contaminated with Shiga toxin which produces E.coli, (STEC).
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Mrs Kirkham’s Mild and Creamy Lancashire, Mrs Kirkham’s Tasty Lancashire, Mrs Kirkham’s Mature Lancashire and Mrs Kirkham’s Smoked Lancashire have all been recalled as a “precaution”.
The FSA says symptoms of STEC are severe diarrhoea (including bloody diarrhoea) and abdominal pain.
It can also lead to a condition known as haemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) – which can lead to kidney failure and can be fatal.
In rare cases, the infection could cause complications, such as meningitis.
The FSA announced the recall of the cheeses yesterday – all sizes of the cheeses are affected, including portions that may have been included on grazing platters, they say.
The agency warned: “It may not always be clear whether you have purchased an affected product.”
People are advised to contact the shop where they purchased the cheese and if in doubt do not eat the cheese.
The FSA said: “Ensure the product is thoroughly wrapped and does not come into contact with any other foods.”
The agency added: “Wash your hands, equipment, utensils and surfaces that may have come into contact with the product thoroughly.”
The recall applies to all size packs of the four cheeses bought since 1 October 2023.
