Australian cheese recalled over possible bacterial contamination that can cause food poisoning

An Australian cheese product has been recalled due to a potential contamination of Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause food poisoning.

The Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) first issued the notification of the recall for Unicorn Classic Camembert, a 125g cheese product.

As the product was also imported into Singapore, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has directed the importer, Xie Chun Trading, to recall the product. The recall is currently in progress.

The affected batch has an expiry date of Nov 8.

Listeria monocytogenes is a foodborne bacterium that poses a higher risk in certain foods, including unpasteurised dairy products, soft cheese ripened by mould, refrigerated meat spreads, smoked fish, and ready-to-eat deli meats and sausages.

Symptoms of listeria infection may include fever, muscle ache, nausea, and diarrhoea.

Consumers who have purchased the implicated Unicorn Classic Camembert cheese are strongly advised not to consume it. Those who have already consumed the product and are concerned about their health are encouraged to seek medical advice. For enquiries, consumers can contact their point of purchase.

SFA will continue to monitor the situation closely and ensure that necessary measures are taken to protect public health and safety.