Several batches of cooked ham have been recalled from supermarkets across Ireland after concerns over the possible presence of Listeria monocytogenes, according to the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI).
The recall affects selected products sold under the Brady Family, Tesco Finest, and Lidl Deluxe brands. Retailers have been instructed to remove the affected products from their shelves immediately and display recall notices to alert customers. Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled items are advised not to eat them.
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause listeriosis, a foodborne illness. The FSAI said symptoms may include mild flu-like illness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and other gastrointestinal problems. Although many cases are mild, the infection can occasionally become severe and lead to serious health complications.
Certain groups are considered particularly vulnerable to listeriosis, including pregnant women, newborn babies, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. For these people, the infection can pose a much greater health risk.
The products involved are manufactured by O'Brien Fine Foods. The company explained that the bacterium was detected during routine food safety testing in a single batch of one product. However, that batch was identified before distribution, quarantined, and never reached consumers.
Despite no evidence that the recalled products contain Listeria monocytogenes, O'Brien Fine Foods said they were produced in the same manufacturing area on the same day as the affected batch. As a result, the company decided to recall the products as a precautionary measure to protect public health.
In a statement, the company apologised for the disruption caused, saying it appreciated consumers' understanding and cooperation while the recall is carried out.
Brady Family Wood Smoked Real Irish Ham 6 Slices (80g), batch code 235417 with a use-by date of 16 July 2026.
Brady Family Hand Crumbed Real Irish Ham 6 Slices (80g), batch codes 235880 and 235765.
Lidl Deluxe Triple Oak Smoked Carved Irish Ham 5 Slices (130g), batch code 235461.
Lidl Deluxe Honey Roast Carved Irish Ham 5 Slices (130g), batch code 235473.
Tesco Finest Crumbed Shaved Ham 16 Slices (120g), batch code 235412.
In a separate food safety alert, the FSAI also announced the recall of Butchers Selection Irish Turkey Burgers Mediterranean Style with a use-by date of 5 July after Salmonella was detected.
Salmonella infection typically causes symptoms such as diarrhoea, stomach cramps, headache, fever, and, in some cases, vomiting. Most people recover within a few days, but young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems may experience more serious illness.
The FSAI is advising anyone who has purchased any of the recalled products to avoid consuming them and to return them to the place of purchase or dispose of them safely.
