Warning, if you have recently purchased smoked salmon or trout from major retailers such as Leclerc, Carrefour, Auchan, or Intermarché, it may be time to check your products! In the last few days, several batches of these smoked fish have been removed from the shelves due to listeria contamination, a bacterium that is dangerous to health. But which products are affected, and what should you do if you have some at home? Here is the key information.
Massive recall of smoked fish
Since October 9, 2024, a large product recall has been underway in several supermarket chains in France. The cause is the presence of listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria responsible for listeriosis, which can cause serious complications, particularly in pregnant women, the elderly and immunocompromised individuals. According to the information available, the products incriminated are mainly batches of smoked trout and salmon sold under various distributor brands, including Leclerc, Système U, Carrefour, Intermarché and Auchan.
The affected products are distributed throughout France, and although no cases of human contamination have yet been reported, health authorities are calling for the utmost vigilance. Retailers have issued press releases to inform consumers to remove the products from their diet and return them to the store. Among the items in question, the expiration dates vary between October 11 and 22, 2024, which includes batches that may still be in circulation.
The risks of listeria
Listeriosis is a serious, although rare, infection caused by the ingestion of this bacteria. It can manifest itself through flu-like symptoms (fever, aches, headaches), but in some cases, it develops into severe forms, including blood infections (septicemia) or meningitis. The authorities therefore recommend that consumers monitor their health if they have consumed these products and consult a doctor if in doubt.
Experts say the products affected by the massive recall were the result of a manufacturing issue that allowed the bacteria to grow. Although cooking destroys listeria, smoked products such as salmon or trout, eaten without further cooking, may pose an increased risk of contamination.
What to do if you purchased these products?
If you have recently purchased smoked salmon or trout, the first step is to check the information on the packaging, including the brand, batch, and expiration date. If you have a product that is part of the recalled batches, it is imperative that you do not consume it, even if it appears to be in good condition or well preserved. The affected stores are offering refunds for products returned to their points of sale.
Consumers are encouraged to return suspected products to the store for a refund or destroy them if they cannot be returned. Anyone who has consumed these products and is experiencing symptoms should contact their doctor immediately.