Listeria in various Belgian cheeses

The Consumer Protection Ministry in Baden-Württemberg warns in a recent report before the consumption of different cheeses from Belgium. Random samples of dangerous listeria were detected. Consumption is strongly discouraged.

13.11.2012

According to Ministry information, the manufacturer „Fromagerie Fermiète Het Dischhof“ from Belgium in two notifications pointed out that in different cheeses the proof of the bacterial strain Listrien was provided. The affected cheese goods are also offered in Germany at the service counter or for self-service. Consumers who have already purchased subsequent varieties should in no case consume them, but return them to the supermarket for reimbursement of the purchase price. Alternatively, the cheese can also be disposed of in the trash.

The consumer warning applies to the following cheeses: „Keiems Bloempje natuur - Petite Fleur Nature“, „Keiems Bloempje met kruiden - Petite Fleur aux herbes“, „Keiems Bloempje ", „Keiemse Witte“, „Keiemnaer“, „Keiemnaer 20+“ and „Keiemtaler“. Self-service cheese has the following identity: BE HP 695 EC. It was „All of the above products of the manufacturer with different best before dates“ affected. The cheese had come to Baden-Württemberg via various routes. The authorities are currently checking these routes. Likewise, a callback from the trade has already been initiated.

Listeria can cause serious illnesses
If Listeria bacteria are taken up by ingesting food, listeriosis can be triggered. Cheese contaminated with Listeria can not be recognized in taste, appearance or smell. Only a test in the lab can tell if a cheese is contaminated. Listeria is a high risk for people with a poor physical condition. Infants, immunodeficient persons and senior citizens are particularly at risk. Pregnant women also have a 12-fold increased risk of developing listeriosis. In the course it can lead to miscarriages or stillbirths.

The disease is similar to a flu. Infected people suffer from diarrhea, abdominal pain, body aches and later headaches, paralysis and drowsiness. Also a meningitis can be favored. In some cases, the infectious disease was fatal. (Sb)