You may have seen the recent recalls of Camembert Cheese from major supermarkets because of listeria found to be present in certain batches. As well as a general risk to health there is also an extra warning for expectant mothers, as there are dangers associated with listeria infection that can be severe and even fatal for unborn babies.
Soft cheeses like Camembert are on the list of foods for pregnant women to avoid precisely because of the risk of listeria being present in the foodstuffs and the extra risk they face.
Advice on the NHS website says to avoid the cheese because: "Although infection with listeria (listeriosis) is rare, it is important to take special precautions in pregnancy, because even a mild form of the illness in a pregnant woman can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth or severe illness in a newborn baby."
The recalls of Camembert Cheese relate to the following:
- Co-operative Truly Irresistible Camembert
- Asda Camembert de Pays
- Sainsbury's Taste the Difference Camembert
All of these recalls can be found on the Food Standards Agency website here.
If you have consumed the affected products then you need to be on guard for the symptoms of listeriosis as listed here on the NHS website. It also details when to seek medical assistance.
You can find the official advice on foods to avoid whilst pregnant here.
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