Henderson Dairy is recalling two batches of its Farm Fresh Raw Milk because of concerns it may contain Listeria.
The affected products are:
1 litre Farm Fresh Raw Milk batch code 240724 with use-by 280724.
1 litre Farm Fresh Raw Milk batch code 260724 with use-by 300724.
New Zealand Food Safety acting deputy director-general Jenny Bishop said the concern with the unpasteurised milk is that it may contain Listeria, a foodborne bacterium that can make you sick.
“Listeriosis infection can be serious among pregnant people, newborns, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
“These products should not be consumed. Return them to Henderson Dairy for a refund or, if that’s not possible, throw them out.”
Bishop said Listeria differs from 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 newborn baby.”
Infection in healthy adults is unlikely to be severe, at most causing mild diarrhoea and flu-like symptoms within a few days of eating contaminated food. For those in the vulnerable groups, it usually takes two to three weeks – or even longer – before symptoms appear.
If you have consumed any of this product and are concerned for your health, contact your health professional, or call Healthline on 0800 61 11 16 for free advice.
“As is our usual practice, New Zealand Food Safety will work with Henderson Dairy to understand how the contamination occurred and prevent its recurrence,” Bishop said.
