Listeria outbreak: More than 50 frozen products recalled by Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Aldi after deaths

NINE PEOPLE HAVE DIED ACROSS EUROPE AFTER A FATAL OUTBREAK OF LISTERIOSIS LINKED TO FROZEN SWEETCORN Several supermarkets have recalled more frozen products – now over 50 – with fears they may have been contaminated with deadly listeria . The Food Standards Agency has named more products being withdrawn from shelves after a food poisoning alert. Nine people in Europe have died due to the outbreak. The new products include Tesco’s Frozen Mixed Vegetables and Peppers, Lidl’s Green Grocer’s Carrots, Broccoli & Sweetcorn, and Sainsbury’s Mixed Vegetables. Initially 43 products which contain frozen sweetcorn were withdrawn but that number has since increased – and could rise further. The bacteria is a particular threat to the elderly, pregnant women and babies. The recall involves many own-brand products sold by leading supermarkets, such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose and Iceland, as well as brands such as Ross. Shoppers can return the products for a refund and stores are clearing tens of thousands of packs. Contaminated sweetcorn has been linked to 47 cases of illness across Europe, including nine deaths. There are 11 known cases in the UK and two deaths – although both victims had underlying health conditions. Most people who contract listeria poisoning suffer no more than a severe headache, stiff neck and stomach upset – symptoms that recede after a few days. However, some vulnerable groups can develop life-threatening complications, such as sepsis. The list of products being recalled was released by the Food Standards Agency who advised that listeria can be killed with thorough cooking. However, some people eat sweetcorn raw in salads.