Listeria-tainted cheeses: what went wrong in the monitoring system?
The French health authorities are currently investigating a listeria outbreak linked to a recall of several types of cheese. Since December 2024, 21 cases of listeriosis have been reported in France, with 18 cases emerging from June 2025 onwards, and two fatalities reported. The ages of the affected individuals range from 34 to 95.
The recall, which took place on Saturday, August 9, involves 40 different types of cheeses, including Brie, Cheddar, Camembert, Coulommiers, and Double Cream. These cheeses were distributed by major retailers such as Carrefour, Auchan, Leclerc, and Lidl, and are marketed under 105 references.
The affected cheeses are pasteurized milk cheeses, and the contamination is believed to be due to Listeria monocytogenes. The cheeses were produced by Chavegrand dairy in Creuse before June 23, 2025.
The French dairy company Chavegrand has recalled all batches of cheeses produced before June 23, 2025, as a precaution. The investigation into the outbreak is being led by Santé Publique France, with support from the National Listeria Reference Centre at Institut Pasteur, the General Directorate of Food (DGAL), and the General Directorate of Health (DGS).
The outbreak has spread to other countries including Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, and Czechia, with at least four confirmed cases outside France.
Public health authorities warn that even though the cheeses were made from pasteurized milk, contamination is possible due to the widespread environmental presence of Listeria monocytogenes. They urge consumers who have purchased these products not to consume them and to monitor their health, especially if symptoms like fever, headaches, and body aches appear within up to eight weeks after consumption.
Consumers are advised not to eat the recalled cheeses and to consult a doctor if symptoms consistent with listeriosis develop after consumption. The health mark FR 23.117.001 CE/UE can be used to identify recalled batches.
This is a developing story and more updates will be provided as information becomes available.
- The investigation into the listeria outbreak in France is being led by Santé Publique France, who are closely analyzing the link between the outbreak and health-and-wellness issues associated with the consumption of certain types of cheeses.
- The French authorities issued warning across various lifestyle domains, including food-and-drink sectors, as they urge consumers to avoid eating recalled cheeses and seek medical attention if symptoms of listeriosis occur, emphasizing the importance of science in maintaining public health standards.
