‘Contaminated’ olives are urgently recalled by major UK supermarket chain over listeria fears

A MAJOR UK supermarket has urged shoppers not to eat “contaminated” olives after a sickness-inducing bacteria was found. Customers have been advised to watch out for symptoms of muscle aches, chills and fever. The product contains a sickness-inducing bacteria Credit: sainsbury's Sainsbury’s has recalled its Inspired to Cook by Sainsbury’s Pitted Black Olives after the presence of Listeria monocytogenes was detected. The retailer said that batches with the best before dates of September 6, September 7 and September 10, 2026 have been affected. Sign up for The Sun newsletter Thank you! Shoppers have been advised to “not eat” the product and instead return it to stores for a full refund. In a written statement, the company said: “Sainsbury’s are recalling the above product due to a possible presence of ListeriaMonocytogenes. “We are asking customers that have purchased the above product not to consume it and to return the product to their nearest Sainsbury’s store, where they will receive a full refund.” Those infected with Listeria monocytogenes may present with flu-like symptoms, including fever, muscle aches or pains, chills and diarrhoea. Anyone over the age of 65, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems may be more vulnerable to infection, and may be subject to more serious complications, such as meningitis. As a result, customers who may be experiencing severe side effects should contact a medical professional immediately. Most read in The Sun Sainsbury’s has apologised for “the inconvenience caused” and said that no other products had been affected by the recall. Listeria bacteria can be found in soil, water and animal waste and infections may occur by eating unpasteurised products, tainted meat or raw vegetables. Symptoms may occur within two weeks of eating contaminated food and typically last a few days. Comment now