EFET Issues New Warning on Recalled Feta Cheese Due to Listeria Contamination
Corfu, April 18 – The Hellenic Food Authority (EFET) has released a supplementary announcement concerning the recall of ‘Feta Vytinas’ cheese. This action follows the detection of the pathogenic microorganism Listeria monocytogenes in the product. The updated information clarifies that the recalled feta was distributed not only in bulk (from barrels) but also in various pre-packaged forms, making consumer identification potentially more challenging.
Recall Details and Distribution Information
The product in question, commercially named ‘FETA VYTINAS – P.O.P. BARREL’, bears the batch number 24/07/2027 (FE-2751), with an expiration date of 24/07/2027 and a production date of 24/01/2026. It is produced by the company ‘NIKOLAOS TSATSOULIS & SONS O.E.’.
Initial announcements focused on the bulk distribution of the contaminated feta. However, EFET’s latest statement highlights that the same batch has been sold in pre-packaged vacuum-sealed forms of various sizes (e.g., 0.5 kg, 1 kg, and 3 kg). These pre-packaged units were distributed through various retail and wholesale businesses across the market.
EFET emphasizes the importance for consumers to carefully check the identification details of any feta cheese they may have purchased, especially if it matches the specified batch number and dates. The presence of Listeria monocytogenes can lead to listeriosis, a serious infection that can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Consumer Guidance and Next Steps
In light of this new information, EFET advises consumers who may have purchased ‘Feta Vytinas’ with the aforementioned batch details, regardless of its packaging form, to refrain from consuming it. Consumers are urged to return the product to the point of purchase or dispose of it safely.
The authority continues its investigations into the matter and will provide further updates as they become available. This recall underscores the continuous efforts of food safety authorities to protect public health and ensure the safety of food products available in the market.
This incident is part of a broader commitment by EFET to monitor and respond to food safety issues, ensuring that consumers are well-informed and protected from potential health risks associated with contaminated products.
