Lidl and SuperValu meat recalled in Ireland with urgent ‘do not eat’ warning

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has issued an urgent recall for specific batches of Irish pork mince sold at Lidl and SuperValu stores across Ireland. The recall, initiated by producer Kepak, follows the detection of Salmonella, a bacteria that can cause severe food poisoning.

Which pork mince products are affected by the recall?

The recall targets specific batches of Irish pork mince with a use-by date of 16/06/26. According to the FSAI, the affected products include the Lidl Family Pack 100% Irish Pork Mince 800g (batch L5159, approval IE 329 EC).

SuperValu customers should check for Fresh Irish Pork Mince in two sizes. The 400g pack is affected under batch L5159 (approval IE 329 EC), while the 800g pack is affected under batch L6159 (approval IE 329 EC).

What are the health risks associated with Salmonella?

The FSAI stated that Salmonella can lead to severe illness. Common symptoms include abdominal cramps, headache, fever, and diarrhea, which may occasionally be bloody.

The illness generally lasts between four and seven days. According to the authority, infants, the elderly, and individuals with impaired immune systems are more likely to experience severe illness that may require hospital admission.

How can consumers obtain a refund?

Lidl Ireland has instructed customers not to consume the affected 800g Family Pack. A spokesperson for Lidl stated that customers can return the product to any store for a full refund, regardless of whether they have a receipt.

SuperValu has issued similar guidance, urging customers to check their freezers and return the implicated pork mince to their nearest store for a refund. Consumers with questions can contact Lidl at 01 920 3010 or SuperValu at 021 4217619.

What may happen next?

Retailers may continue to update point-of-sale notices as they ensure all implicated batches are removed from inventory. Kepak and the FSAI could potentially issue further guidance if additional batches are identified as contaminated.

Consumers who have already consumed the product and are experiencing symptoms may seek medical attention, particularly those in high-risk groups mentioned by the FSAI.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I have the affected pork mince?
Do not eat the product. Return it to the store where it was purchased for a full refund.

What are the most common symptoms of Salmonella?
The most common symptom is diarrhea, which can sometimes be bloody, often accompanied by fever, headache, and abdominal cramps.

Which specific stores are involved in this recall?
The recall affects pork mince sold in Lidl and SuperValu stores across Ireland.

How often do you check the batch numbers and use-by dates on your meat purchases?