Two of Australia’s biggest supermarket chains, Aldi and Woolworths, have urgently recalled several salad products due to potential contamination risks. Authorities have warned consumers against eating the affected products and advised them to return them for a full refund.
Food Standards Australia Issues Urgent Warning
Food Standards Australia has alerted shoppers about the contamination concerns surrounding multiple salad products sold at Aldi and Woolworths. The watchdog flagged several Fresh Salad Co baby spinach products sold at Aldi due to potential microbial (STEC) contamination.
“Food products contaminated with STEC may cause illness if consumed,” Food Standards Australia stated.
Shortly after the Aldi salad recalls, Woolworths also announced the recall of several salad items sold in Queensland.
Figure 1: Food Standards Australia has alerted shoppers about the contamination concerns surrounding multiple salad products sold at Aldi and Woolworths [Food Standards Australia New Zealand]
What is STEC Contamination?
The contamination involves Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC), a harmful strain of bacteria that can cause serious illness.
“Escherichia coli are a group of bacteria that are found in the gut of nearly all people and animals. There are many different strains of E. coli,” the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care explained.
“Some cause no illness at all. Others cause minor illness, and yet others cause serious illness.”
Health authorities have urged consumers who feel unwell after eating the affected products to seek medical advice immediately.
Figure 2: Shiga Toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) [bioMérieux]
Aldi Salad Recalled Across Queensland and Northern NSW
Aldi has removed several Fresh Salad Co products from its shelves in Queensland and select stores in northern NSW. The recalled products include:
- Fresh Salad Co Baby Spinach 120g – Use by March 28
- Fresh Salad Co Fresh & Fast Stir Fry 400g – Use by March 27
- Fresh Salad Co Baby Spinach & Rocket 120g – Use by March 27
- Fresh Salad Co Baby Spinach 280g – Use by March 30
Stores affected by the Aldi recall include Tweed Heads South, Ballina, Grafton, Coffs Harbour, Lismore, Casino, Toormina, Armidale, Byron Bay, Goonellabah, Tweed Mall, and Moonee Beach.
Consumers should avoid consuming these products and return them to Aldi for a full refund.
Woolworths Salad Recall Hits Queensland
Woolworths has recalled seven salad products sold in Queensland supermarkets and online. The affected items include:
- Woolworths Mixed Leaf 120g – Use by March 26
- Woolworths Cook Stir Fry Kit with Teriyaki Sauce 400g – Use by March 26
- Woolworths Cook Stir Fry Mix Rainbow Vegetables 400g – Use by March 26
- Woolworths Kale & Spinach 300g – Use by March 26
- Woolworths Spinach and Rocket 120g – Use by March 26
- Woolworths Spinach and Rocket 60g – Use by March 26
- Woolworths Spinach 60g – Use by March 26
Customers can return the recalled products to any Woolworths store for a full refund.
Health Concerns and Consumer Advice
Health officials warn that eating contaminated salad products may lead to illness. STEC bacteria can cause severe stomach cramps, diarrhoea, and vomiting.
“Consumers should not eat these products,” Food Standards Australia stated.
“Any consumers concerned about their health should seek medical advice.”
Supermarkets have apologised for the inconvenience and assured customers they are working to resolve the issue.
Check Your Fridge and Act Now
If you recently purchased spinach or mixed salads from Aldi or Woolworths, check the packaging for the listed use-by dates. Dispose of any recalled items or return them to the store for a refund.
Both supermarkets have stressed that they are taking immediate steps to ensure food safety and prevent further issues.
The Aldi recall and Woolworths salad recall highlight the importance of food safety measures. Authorities will continue investigating the source of the contamination and monitor the situation closely.
