Major UK supermarket recalls chicken products over listeria risk

SPAR has recalled three of its cooked chicken products after Listeria monocytogenes, a food poisoning bug that can lead to serious health complications, was detected.

The affected items are:

• SPAR Enjoy Local Cooked Chicken Pieces (150g)
• SPAR Enjoy Local Cooked Chicken Slices (150g)
• SPAR Enjoy Local Cooked Chicken Fillets (300g)

All packs carry the batch code 5126 and a use-by date of 21 May 2025.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued a clear warning to the public. “If you have bought the above products, do not eat them,” it said. “Instead, return the products to where they were bought for a full refund. Any customers with queries or concerns can contact SPAR Customer Services on 0289 034 2733.”

Listeria can cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle aches, nausea and diarrhoea. In severe cases, it can lead to meningitis and pose a serious risk to vulnerable groups including over-65s, pregnant women and their unborn babies, infants under one month old and people with weakened immune systems.

Point-of-sale notices are being displayed in stores where the affected products were sold, advising consumers of the recall and return process.

Listeria contamination is a well-documented risk in chilled, ready-to-eat foods, which require strict temperature control and hygiene standards.

Common sources include:

• Cold, cooked sliced meats and cured meats
• Smoked and cured fish (including sushi)
• Soft cheeses like camembert and brie
• Pre-prepared sandwiches and salads

This recall follows Castelli UK Ltd’s withdrawal of Le Superbe Raclette from Tesco last week due to a similar contamination issue.