E.coli Bacteria: Contaminated Children, Saint-Marcellin and Saint-Félicien Cheeses Recalled

General News
The cheeses concerned were manufactured by the company Fromagerie Alpine, in Drôme.

These cheeses sold in several retail chains are withdrawn from the market. The first analyzes are the link with the bacterium Escherichia coli.

Vomiting, diarrhea … 13   cases of Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) due to Escherichia coli O26 infection have occurred in young children since 21 March 2019 in several regions.

Cheeses made in the Drôme

Among these children, three would have a possible link with the consumption of cheeses Saint Félicien and Saint Marcellin  manufactured by Fromagerie Alpine in Romans-sur-Isère (Drôme), indicates the Ministry of Health and Solidarity in a statement.

“Health authorities have undertaken the necessary investigations to identify the source of food contamination at the origin of these cases and to protect consumers.”

Precautionary measure

As a precaution, the health authorities decided to proceed Saturday 27th April with the withdrawal of the market of the products concerned and to make a recall with the consumers.

According to the preliminary results of the investigations, “many of these children have consumed Saint-Félicien and Saint Marcellin cheeses before the onset of their symptoms,” says the alert.

People who have consumed the products concerned and have symptoms are advised to consult their doctor as soon as possible, mentioning this consumption and the possible link with the bacterium Escherichia coli.

The lot concerned

  • Sanitary mark (stamp): FR 26 181 001 CE
  • Denomination of the products: SAINT-FELICIEN and SAINT MARCELLIN
  • Presentation: 180g whole cheese (Saint-Félicien) 80g (Saint Marcellin)
  • Lots: all lots from l 032 to l 116
  • Trademarks: FROMAGERIE ALPINE, CARREFOUR, REFLECTION OF FRANCE, LECLERC, LIDL, AUCHAN, ROCHAMBEAU, PRINCE OF WOODS, SONNAILLES AND PREALPIN
  • Distribution: France whole

Generally speaking, “raw milk and cheese made from raw milk should not be eaten by young children”, the health authorities remind:

“You should prefer cooked pressed cheese (Emmental type, Comté cheese, etc.), processed cheese and pasteurized cheese. The same recommendation should be followed for pregnant women, immunocompromised persons and the elderly.”

Practical information: Fromagerie Alpine has set up a phone number, 04 75 70 01 01.

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