Findus in trouble: batches of vegetables and corn recalled throughout Europe

From Germany to the United Kingdom via Austria, frozen food recalls are spreading across Europe due to the potential risk of Listeria contamination. This dangerous bacterium, which has been in an ongoing outbreak since 2015, causing 47 cases and 9 deaths in the continent, is transmitted through contaminated food but is killed by cooking. Several brands are involved in the precautionary measure involving corn and vegetables.

Batches of Findus minestrone soup and batches of Lidl vegetables and corn have been recalled, the companies announced on their websites.

"There are currently no known Listeria outbreaks in Italy, and the product recalls are being carried out as a precaution. Health Minister Giulia Grillo explained: "I am following the Listeria situation with the utmost attention. My offices have immediately implemented all the necessary checks and measures." The recalls follow a European alert from Hungary. Listeria is resistant to low temperatures and, the minister noted, is inactivated by cooking.

The affected Findus recalled lots are: 1kg Traditional Minestrone (L7311, L7251, L7308, L7310, L7334); Traditional Minestrone 400g (L7327, L7326, L7304, and L7303); Lightly Oriental Flavored Minestrone 600g (L7257, L7292, L7318, L8011), and Lightly Sweetened Semi Minestrone 600g (L7306). Anyone in possession of the affected products is asked to contact the toll-free number 800906030 or email urgent@findus.it for any information. The precautionary and voluntary recall, the company finally specifies, "refers exclusively to the batches of the products mentioned and does not in any way concern other batches of the same products, nor other Findus-branded products."