Cheese lovers being urged to avoid a popular product in one UK country amid fears it may be contaminated with dangerous bacteria.

Horgan’s Delicatessen Supplies has pulled its SPAR Chèvre Goats Cheese from shelves after it was found to potentially contain Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause serious illness, especially in vulnerable individuals. The affected product, which has a use-by date of August 12, 2025, has been distributed to outlets across Northern Ireland.

The recall is specific to 100g packs sold in Northern Ireland and according to SPAR’s own listings, about 293 stores stock the product. SPAR said in an official customer notice: “There is a risk that Chèvre Goats Cheese 100g may contain Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that is potentially harmful if consumed.

“Please return the affected products to store, where a full refund will be given. No receipt is required.”

Listeria monocytogenes can cause listeriosis, which is an infection that can lead to flu-like symptoms such as high fever, muscle aches, chills, nausea, and diarrhoea.

Warning notices have been placed in stores at the point of sale in order to alert shoppers.

These notices outline the reason for the recall and offer clear instructions on what to do next if customers have already bought the product. 

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) confirmed the recall of the product and issued a food allert. 

The FSA wrote: “Symptoms caused by Listeria monocytogenes can be similar to flu and include high temperature, muscle ache or pain, chills, feeling or being sick and diarrhoea.

“However, in rare cases, the infection can be more severe, causing serious complications such as meningitis.

“Some people are more vulnerable to listeria infections, including those over 65 years of age, pregnant women and their unborn babies, babies less than one month old and people with weakened immune systems.”

“If you have bought the above product, do not eat it. Instead, return the product to where it was bought for a full refund.”