Advice To Consumers Regarding Certain Blue Cheese Products

Investigations led by Health Protection Scotland (HPS) into an outbreak of E. coli O157 have pointed to a link with particular batches of a blue cheese product called Dunsyre Blue made with an unpasteurised milk, manufactured by a company called Errington Cheese. The company is carrying out a voluntary recall.

Consumers who have purchased this product may still have these items in their fridge at home. Food Standards Scotland (FSS) is advising that on a precautionary basis Dunsyre Blue cheese purchased between 18 May 2016 and 29 July 2016 with the following batch codes (C22, D14) should not be consumed.

These products can be identified by the batch code on the packaging and should either be returned to the retailer, or disposed of. If consumers still have concerns, or are unable to identify batch codes they should contact Errington Cheese directly, or the retailers where they purchased the product.

FSS is working closely with South Lanarkshire Council and Errington Cheese to investigate this matter, and ensure that appropriate measures are in place to ensure unsafe food is not placed on the market.

It is the responsibility of all food businesses to ensure that appropriate measures are taken to prevent contamination and ensure the food they place on the market is safe to eat. The production of unpasteurised cheese has an increased risk of contamination with‎ harmful bacteria that can cause illness.

FSS advises that vulnerable groups including pregnant women, children and the elderly should not consume unpasteurised milk and dairy products such as cheese made from unpasteurised milk due to the increased risk of food poisoning.

If you would like to view full details of the product recall please go here.

Consumers who want to know more about this outbreak can access more information on the HPS website.