James Hall recalls Spar Corned Beef due to listeria contamination

Wholesaler James Hall is recalling its Spar Corned Beef after finding listeria monocytogenes had been found in the product.

The recall affects Spar stores in the north west of England and for products that have the use-by date 20 September.

James Hall has issued point of sale notices to be displayed in all stores selling the product, advising shoppers why it is recalling it and telling anyone who has purchased it to return it to store for a full refund.

Symptoms caused by the organism can be similar to flu, including high temperature, muscle aches or pains, chills, feeling or being sick and diarrhoea.

However, in rare cases, the infection can be more severe, causing serious complications, such as meningitis, according to the recall notice issued by the Food Standards Agency.

Some people are more vulnerable to listeria infections, including those over 65, pregnant women and their unborn babies, babies less than one month old and people with weakened immune systems.

“During one of our standard food safety tests we discovered a food safety issue affecting Spar Corned Beef (120g), with a use by date of 20 September 2024,” said a James Hall spokesman.

“We took immediate action and the product has been removed from sale. Any customers who have bought the item should return them to store for a full refund.

“We take these situations extremely seriously and notified the FSA immediately. We are now working with them to resolve the matter with the utmost care.”