A recall has been issued for two cold-smoked salmon products sold in the South Island due to the possible presence of Listeria monocytogenes.
The affected products included Ahi Mokopuna Limited Partnership’s Akaroa King Salmon brand Mānuka Cold Smoked Slices (100g) with a use-by date of 29 Dec 25 (Batch No. 46780); and Mānuka Cold Smoked Trim (500g) with a use-by date of 29 Dec 25 (Batch No. 46780).
“The concern with these products is that they may contain Listeria, a foodborne bacterium that can make you sick,” New Zealand Food Safety deputy director-general Vincent Arbuckle said.
“These products should not be eaten. You can return them to the place of purchase for a refund. If that’s not possible, throw them out.”
The affected products were sold at selected stores in the South Island, including Akaroa Salmon Wigram Factory Shop in Wigram, Christchurch; Beckenham Butchery in Sydenham, Christchurch; and Taste Nature in Central Dunedin.
“Listeriosis infection can be serious among vulnerable groups, such as pregnant women and their unborn babies, newborns, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems,” Arbuckle said.
“Listeria differs to other harmful bacteria in that it can grow at refrigerator temperatures, so you have to be very careful about the foods you eat, or provide to others, if you or they are in a vulnerable group.
“It is particularly dangerous during pregnancy because it can cause miscarriage, premature labour or stillbirth, and infection in the new-born baby.”
Listeriosis infection in healthy adults was unlikely to be severe, at most causing mild diarrhoea and flu-like symptoms within a few days of eating contaminated food. For those in vulnerable groups, it typically took two to three weeks or even longer before symptoms appeared.
Anyone who consumed the affected products and was concerned about their health was advised to contact their health professional or call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for free advice.
The products under recall were identified through routine testing, and there had been no reports of associated illness, according to NZ Food Safety.
The products were removed from store shelves and have not been exported.
“As is our usual practice, NZFS will work with Ahi Mokopuna Limited Partnership to understand how the contamination occurred and prevent its recurrence.”
