Four French cheeses recalled in listeria warning

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has advised a product withdrawal is being undertaken by small independent retailers on four French soft cheeses imported from one manufacturer.

The Fromagerie de la Houssaye cheeses are being recalled due to the presence of the listeria bacteria which the FSAI said "presents a significant risk to consumers’ health".

The FSAI is advising consumers to check if they have purchased these products and if they have, not to eat the affected cheese but to return them to the point of purchase.

Details of the four cheeses are:

Livarot (230g), Pont l'eveque (350g), Pave d'Auge and Deauville, all produced between May 19 and July 28 this year.

The four affected cheeses are ready-to-eat,

"Listeria infection is very serious and can be life-threatening," the FSAI said.

"Only small amounts need to be consumed to cause significant infection. Specific segments of the population would be deemed to be of particular risk including pregnant women, elderly people and people with impaired immune functions.

"Consumers who have the affected products are advised to dispose or return them to the store where they were purchased. Consumers who may have already consumed this product and are feeling unwell, should seek medical advice.

The FSAI operates an advice line on 1890 33 66 77.