Coles, the prominent Australian supermarket chain, has initiated a recall of several salad products containing spinach due to potential contamination. This action pertains to salads that were sold between March 20 and March 29. The products in question bear use-by dates extending to April 9 and may be contaminated with Shiga-toxin producing E. coli (STEC), a bacteria known to cause severe gastrointestinal illnesses.
The recalled items were available in supermarkets and online across Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, and the Australian Capital Territory, with some products also distributed in South Australia and the Northern Territory. Coles has advised consumers not to consume these salads, as doing so could pose health risks.
A comprehensive list of the affected products includes various packaging sizes of Coles spinach, stir fry mixes, and salads such as the Coles Kitchen Green Goddess Salad and Mixed Leaf Garden Salad, among others. Customers are urged to check their purchases for these specific products.
Coles has stressed that any food item found to be microbiologically contaminated poses a potential health threat. It is crucial for anyone who might be affected or has health concerns to consult with a medical professional. E. coli can lead to symptoms like diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal issues.