SPAR Northern Ireland has issued a recall for several of its chicken products after Listeria monocytogenes was discovered in them.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) published the alert on May 12, with a wording update following on May 13.
The recall affects specific batches of SPAR Enjoy Local Cooked Chicken Pieces, Slices, and Fillets, according to the FSA.
All affected products have the batch code 5126 and a use-by date of May 21, 2025.
Listeria symptoms can be similar to flu
GETTYThe recall affects the following three products:
Pack size: 150g
Batch code: 5126
Use by: 21 May 2025
Pack size: 150g
Batch code: 5126
Use by: 21 May 2025
Pack size: 300g
Batch code: 5126
Use by: 21 May 2025
"If you have bought the above products, do not eat them," urged the FSA.
SPAR Northern Ireland has confirmed that point-of-sale notices will be displayed where the products were sold.
The retailer has set up a dedicated customer service line for those with concerns about the recall. Customers with queries can contact SPAR Customer Services on 0289 034 2733.
These notices explain to customers why the products are being recalled and provide instructions on what to do.
"Symptoms caused by this organism can be similar to flu and include high temperature, muscle ache or pain, chills, feeling or being sick and diarrhoea," notes the FSA. "However, in rare cases, the infection can be more severe, causing serious complications, such as meningitis."
In rare cases, the infection can be more severe, causing serious complications such as meningitis. Some groups are particularly vulnerable to listeria infections.
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Customers are being advised not to consume affected batches of the product
NCThese include people over 65 years of age, pregnant women and their unborn babies, babies less than one month old and people with weakened immune systems.
The FSA has emphasised the importance of the recall due to these potential health risks.
Product Recall Information Notices are issued to inform consumers and local authorities about problems associated with food products.
In some cases, a 'Food Alert for Action' may be issued, providing local authorities with specific actions to take on behalf of consumers.
