A listeria outbreak originating in French cheeses has triggered international food safety actions, with Luxembourg removing “Everyday” brand Camembert from supermarket shelves and Belgium reporting at least one confirmed case.
French health authorities have issued a nationwide cheese recall following a listeriosis outbreak that has resulted in 21 confirmed cases and two fatalities in recent weeks.
The alert particularly warns pregnant people, elderly individuals, and immunocompromised persons to monitor for symptoms resembling flu (fever, headaches, muscle pain), which may take up to eight weeks to manifest after exposure.
Suspected source identified
Investigators have traced the outbreak to potentially contaminated pasteurised cheeses produced by dairy company Chavegrand. The recall affects all soft cheeses with white mould rinds, including both cow’s milk varieties such as Camembert and Crémeux, and goat’s milk products like Bûches. These products were manufactured before 23 June and sold in France and internationally through 9 August.
Listeriosis, caused by naturally occurring Listeria bacteria, typically poses minimal risk to healthy individuals who may experience only mild (stomach) flu symptoms or none at all.
Luxembourg supermarket cheese included in recall
The Luxembourg Veterinary and Food Administration (ALVA) has confirmed the removal of “Everyday” brand Camembert from Colruyt supermarket shelves due to potential listeria contamination. Affected products include those sold between 26 June and 12 August, with consumers advised to discard any remaining purchases.
When contacted by RTL, ALVA had not yet clarified whether additional cheese varieties might be involved in the recall.
The outbreak has had cross-border implications, with Belgium’s Sciensano public health institute reporting at least one listeriosis case linked to the contamination. Belgian authorities have similarly recalled “Everyday” Camembert and “Fleur de pré” brand Bûchettes de chèvre.
PDF: Statement by Colruyt [FR]
Dining and Cooking