Person perishes due to listeriosis amidst food safety agency's confirmation of widespread outbreak
In a significant public health alert, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has announced a recall of over 200 ready-made meal products due to the potential presence of *Listeria monocytogenes*. The affected meals, which include chicken curries, lasagnes, bolognaises, pasta bakes, cottage pies, chow meins, and various side dishes, were sold in major retailers across Ireland, such as Tesco, SuperValu, Aldi, and Centra.
The outbreak, which has resulted in nine confirmed cases of listeriosis, including one adult fatality, has been linked to food manufacturer Ballymaguire Foods. The company, known for its 20-year quality track record, immediately informed retail customers and relevant authorities upon identifying the issue.
As a precautionary measure, production at the affected facility has been temporarily suspended. The FSAI has also requested wholesalers and distributors to contact their affected customers and recall the products. They are asked to provide a point-of-sale recall notice to their retailer customers.
Pregnant women, babies, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are more vulnerable to listeria infections. Symptoms of listeriosis range from mild flu-like or gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) to severe complications in these vulnerable groups. Consumers are strongly advised not to consume the recalled products and to check their freezers and dispose of any implicated ready meals.
This extensive outbreak associated with Ballymaguire Foods has led to a large-scale recall of ready meals sold in multiple Irish supermarkets, one confirmed death, and ongoing public health actions to contain and investigate the situation. The FSAI has deployed a National Outbreak Control team to investigate the outbreak.
It is worth noting that this is not the first time Ballymaguire Foods has faced issues with contamination in their products. Earlier, on June 30, 2025, the company recalled various branded Bacon & Cabbage dinners for possible listeria contamination.
The incubation period for listeria infections is on average three weeks but can range from three to 70 days. The FSAI is investigating an ongoing outbreak of listeriosis, and consumers are advised to stay informed and follow official recall guidance.
- The outbreak of listeriosis, often associated with chronic diseases, has escalated the need for heightened medical-condition awareness, as nine confirmed cases have been reported, including one adult fatality.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness, experts emphasize the importance of nutrition and cooking practices, particularly in light of the ongoing listeria outbreak, to minimize the risks for vulnerable groups like pregnant women, babies, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
- To maintain a balanced lifestyle, it is crucial to prioritize fitness-and-exercise regimens and sustainable eating habits, which may help boost the body's immunity against such respiratory-conditions and chronic-diseases as listeriosis.
- While food-and-drink safety is typically within the domain of health-and-wellness, the recent discovery of listeria in various ready-made meals from major retailers like Tesco, SuperValu, Aldi, and Centra points to the need for more stringent quality checks and adherence to standards in the food industry.
- Mental-health advocates also remind us that maintaining overall well-being involves nourishing our mental state, offering a wonderful opportunity to practice stress-management techniques or mindfulness practices during this challenging time.
- As we look forward to securing the health and safety of our communities, it is essential to remain vigilant, stay informed, and continue following official guidance from authorities like the Food Safety Authority of Ireland during ongoing public health situations like the ongoing listeriosis outbreak.
