Cheeses recalled over E.coli scare

A CHEESE manufacturer has recalled a number of products after the presence of Escherichia coli, which can cause gastroenteritis, vomiting and fever, was discovered.

The company, L'Étoile du Vercors, has recalled its Saint-Marcellin IGP, Saint-Félicien, Sechon de Vache and Tomme du Dauphiné cheeses sold between July 7 and July 27 under a range of brands.

All products have a best before date ranging between August 4 and September 3, 2014 and carry the Veterinary No. 38-409-001 FR CE identification.

While stockists have already removed the products from their shelves, some cheeses were sold before the withdrawal notice was issued.

Anyone who has bought any of the cheeses that are subject to the recall notice is asked to return it to the store from where they bought it for a refund.

Escherichia coli (E.coli) can cause sometimes bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain and vomiting, with or without fever.

These symptoms may be followed in a small minority of cases by severe kidney complications, mainly in children.

Anyone who has already eaten one of the cheeses and has any of the described symptoms, should consult their GP.

For further information, L’Etoile du Vercors has set up a telephone helpline - 0800 120 120. It is open from 9am to 6pm and is free to call from a landline.

Photo: Jenny Downing