Infection warning as Asda recalls type of cheese over bacteria

Asda has recalled a type of cheese amid concerns it could contain a bacteria which causes sickness. The supermarket is urging customers not to eat its Extra Special taleggio, sold in a 200g packet, with a use-by date of April 14.

It comes as the retailer has concerns the product could contain listeria monocytogenes. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) says listeria monocytogenes have been found in some of these products, prompting Asda's decision to recall the cheese.

Anyone who has purchased the product, in the weight and with the use-by date listed above, can return it to Asda for a full refund. The FSA says shoppers who have purchased the item must not eat it.

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Listeria monocytogenes can cause a range of problems, according to the FSA. It says: "Symptoms caused by this organism can be similar to flu and include high temperature, muscle ache or pain, chills, feeling or being sick and diarrhoea.

"However, in rare cases, the infection can be more severe, causing serious complications, such as meningitis. Some people are more vulnerable to listeria infections, including those over 65 years of age, pregnant women and their unborn babies, babies less than one month old and people with weakened immune systems."

Customers returning the cheese do not need to bring their receipt. Notices about the recall are to be displayed in Asda supermarkets until April 26.

In the notice, Asda says: "We are very sorry for any inconvenience caused. If you would like any further information, please contact: Asda Customer Relations - 0800 952 0101."