Major Food Recall: Dozens of Ready Meals Withdrawn Over Listeria Contamination Risk

A widespread recall is underway across Irish supermarkets after dozens of prepared meals and side dishes produced by Ballymaguire Foods were found to potentially contain dangerous Listeria monocytogenes bacteria. The Category 1 food safety alert affects products sold through Tesco, SuperValu, Centra, Aldi and other retailers nationwide.

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland has issued an urgent recall notice covering all batch codes and best before dates for products manufactured at establishment IE 4008 EC. Consumers are being advised to check their freezers immediately and dispose of any affected items without eating them.

The recall encompasses an extensive range of popular ready meals including cottage pies, beef lasagnes, chicken curries, pasta bakes, and various side dishes across multiple retailer brands. Tesco products affected span their Irish Classics, Meals Made Easy, Classic Kitchen, and Finest ranges, whilst SuperValu and Centra customers should check their Freshly Prepared, Clean Cut, Happy Pear, and own-brand lines.

Major retailers affected include:

Tesco: Over 35 products including Irish Classics Cottage Pie, Finest Beef Bourguignon, various chicken curries, pasta dishes, and premium side dishes such as Goose Fat Irish Potatoes and Three Cheese Cauliflower Bake.

SuperValu: More than 40 items covering Freshly Prepared dinner ranges, Signature Taste sides, and various international cuisine options including Korean-style chicken and Mexican bean burrito bowls.

Centra: Similar range to SuperValu including Freshly Prepared dinner selections and international dishes.

Aldi: Specially Selected and Inspired Cuisine ranges including spaghetti bolognese, cottage pies, and seafood selections.

Other brands: Products from From the Farm, Happy Pear, Good Food Locally Sourced, and Clean Cut ranges sold through various outlets.

Listeria monocytogenes infection typically causes mild flu-like symptoms or gastrointestinal issues including nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. However, the bacteria poses particular risks to pregnant women, babies, elderly people, and those with weakened immune systems, potentially causing serious complications in rare cases.

The infection's incubation period averages three weeks but can range between three and 70 days, meaning symptoms may not appear immediately after consuming contaminated food.

Consumers who have purchased any of the affected products should not eat them under any circumstances. Those who have already consumed the meals and feel unwell should consult their GP promptly, particularly if they fall into vulnerable categories.

Retailers across Cork and beyond are displaying point-of-sale notices and removing affected stock from shelves. Wholesalers and distributors have been instructed to contact customers immediately, whilst caterers must not use any implicated products.

The comprehensive recall demonstrates the food safety system's effectiveness in protecting public health, though the scale suggests potential contamination during the manufacturing process.

Anyone requiring further information should contact their retailer or check the Food Safety Authority of Ireland website for updates on this developing situation.