Two deaths and 21 cases of food poisoning were recorded in France due to infection with Listeria bacteria. Consequently, French authorities announced the recall of 40 batches of soft cheese after this incident caused widespread concern, especially since the contaminated cheese varieties are sold in major French stores, with some exported abroad.

Following the registration of these poisoning cases, authorities took all necessary measures to withdraw the products from the markets and warn consumers about the dangers of consuming them, announcing the producing company. The affected batches were also listed on an official consumer protection website.

It was found that cheeses made from pasteurized cow and goat milk were sold under different brand names in major stores, and some were exported. Authorities urged consumers to refrain from eating them and to contact a doctor immediately if any symptoms of poisoning appear, such as:

-Fever

-Headache

-Muscle pain

It is worth noting that the incubation period of the bacteria can extend up to eight weeks.

What is Listeria bacteria?

Listeria bacteria is the second leading cause of death from food poisoning in France after Salmonella. About 400 cases are recorded annually, mostly among the elderly, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals. It can lead to serious complications including meningitis. Listeriosis is a rare infection transmitted through contaminated food causing mild symptoms related to food poisoning. The infection may go unnoticed, especially in people with healthy immune systems, but can sometimes cause complications in certain groups. Rarely, the bacteria are found in cheeses made from pasteurized milk as in this case, but this can also occur due to environmental contamination.