Waitrose recalls Rainbow Trout Fillets due to potential contamination

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) have announced that Waitrose is recalling its pack of two British Hot Smoked Rainbow Trout Fillets as a precautionary measure, due to the product being potentially contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, creating health concerns.

The potentially contaminated product is the 125g pack of two British hot smoked rainbow trout fillets with a use by date of 11 June 2022.

In its product recall safety warning, Waitrose urged consumers to not consume the product and to return the product to the store for a full refund.

Waitrose made the decision to recall after Listeria monocytogenes (a type of bacteria that can cause the infection listeriosis) was found in the product. The FSA states that the risks posed by the presence of Listeria monocytogenes include flu like symptoms such as high temperature, being sick, chills, muscle pain, and diarrhoea. In rare cases the organism can cause life threatening conditions, such as meningitis.

Some people can be particularly vulnerable to listeria infections, such the elderly or those who are pregnant.

Waitrose will display point of sale notices in all stores selling the product, explaining why it is being recalled and what to do if already purchased. The retailer has also apologised for the necessity to recall and for any inconvenience caused.

Angela Bruno, associate solicitor in the Leigh Day food safety team, said:

“I am pleased that Waitrose is taking the necessary action to protect customers from the contaminated product, such as issuing a recall, alerting consumers to the risks, and offering a full refund. The bacteria found in the product could cause serious harm to vulnerable individuals, so improvements need to be made so that recalls such as this are not necessary in the future.”