Salmonella scare over seed mixes
Several supermarket giants have been forced to take sesame seed mixes from their shelves over fears of salmonella poisoning, it emerged today.
The Food Safety Authority of Ireland said the products were supplied to shops by North firm Kestrel Foods.
Tesco, Superquinn and Supervalu have all been told to withdraw the batches after routine testing in the UK found traces of the potentially deadly bug.
Professor Alan Reilly, FSAI chief executive, said consumers are at a high risk as the product does not need to be cooked before eating.
However it is understood nobody has fallen ill.
“The FSAI is concerned that the product could cause food poisoning if consumed,” Prof Reilly said.
“This product is ready-to-eat, so the risk posed is that the salmonella would not be destroyed before consumption.
“Consumers who have affected product are advised to dispose of it or return it to the store where it was purchased.
“Consumers who may have already consumed this product and are feeling unwell, should seek medical advice.”
The FSAI contacted stores to which Kestrel Foods supplied these products to ensure that all affected batches are being withdrawn from sale.
It said the three supermarkets are co-operating.
The affected batches are:
:: Tesco Wholefoods Seed Mix – all batches.
:: Superquinn Forest Feast Sesame Seeds 50g – all batches.
:: SuperValu Goodness Seed Mix 70g – Best before Mar 31, 2010.
:: SuperValu Goodness Seed Mix 300g – Best before Mar 31, 2010.
:: SuperValu Sesame Seeds 150g – Best before Mar 31, 2010.
