Savencia Cheese USA has recalled several Brie and Camembert cheeses because of possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination, according to a food safety notice.
To avoid health hazards, these cheeses—which were supplied to a number of retailers, including Market Basket and Aldi—are being removed from the shelves. Here’s everything you need to know about the recall, the affected products, and what to do if you’ve purchased any of the recalled items.
Why Are These Cheeses Being Recalled?
Listeria monocytogenes was found on the processing equipment at the Savencia Cheese USA facility in Lena, Illinois. Although testing has not detected contamination on the actual cheese, the recall has been issued out of an abundance of caution to ensure public health safety.
The Listeria organism is known for causing serious infections, particularly among vulnerable groups such as young children, the elderly, individuals with weakened immune systems, and pregnant individuals.
Which Cheese Products Are Affected?
The recall involves soft-ripened cheeses produced at Savencia’s Illinois facility and distributed regionally across the U.S. Consumers can identify the recalled items by looking at the best-by dates and UPC codes on the product packaging. The affected products include:
- Emporium Selection Brie
- Best-by date: 12/24/2024
- GTIN: 10041498111325
- UPC-A: 004149811132
- UPC-B: 041498111328
- Industrial Brie
- Best-by date: 12/24/2024
- GTIN: 10077901005226
- UPC: 077901005229
- La Bonne Vie Brie
- Best-by date: 12/24/2024
- GTIN: 10820581678538
- La Bonne Vie Camembert
- Best-by date: 12/24/2024
- GTIN: 10820581678613
- Market Basket Brie
- Best-by date: 12/24/2024
- GTIN: 10049705666309
- UPC-A: 004970566630
- UPC-B: 049705666302
- Supreme Oval Brie
- Best-by date: 12/24/2024
- GTIN: 10071448504211
- UPC-A: 007144850421
- UPC-B: 071448504214
What To Do If You Have Purchased Recalled Cheese
If you have purchased any of the recalled Brie or Camembert cheeses, it’s essential to avoid consumption. Instead, discard the product or return it to the store for a full refund. The recalled cheeses are currently being removed from shelves, but consumers are advised to check their home supplies as well.
Health Risks Associated with Listeria
Listeria infection, known as listeriosis, can result in severe symptoms including headache, stiffness, abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea. For high-risk groups, listeriosis can be life-threatening.
For pregnant individuals, Listeria poses serious risks and may lead to miscarriages or stillbirths. While no illnesses have been reported from consuming the recalled cheese products so far, it is always advised to remain cautious and consult a healthcare provider if symptoms develop.
Contact Information for Questions
If you have questions about the recall or require more information, Savencia Cheese USA provides customer support through the following contact details:
- Customer Relations Hotline: (800)-322-2743
- Email: [email protected]
Final Thoughts
While this recall is a precautionary measure, it underscores the importance of staying informed about potential health risks linked to food products.
Savencia Cheese USA’s Brie and Camembert recall serves as a reminder to always check product details and best-by dates, especially during a recall. Consumers are encouraged to act promptly by either discarding or returning the affected products to ensure safety.