Listeria Contamination Prompts Recall of Burrata and Stracciatella Products in Italy
Consumers in Italy have been warned to check their refrigerators following a widespread recall of burrata and stracciatella cheeses due to the presence of Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause serious illness. The Italian Ministry of Health issued the alert after the Latteria di Aviano, a dairy producer, detected the pathogen during routine internal quality control checks. This recall underscores the ongoing vigilance required in food safety and the potential risks associated with soft cheeses. The incident highlights the importance of adhering to strict hygiene standards throughout the production process and the need for consumers to be aware of potential foodborne illness risks.
The recall affects several batches of burrata, smoked burrata, and stracciatella produced by Casearia del Ben Srl, located in Porcia (Pordenone), Italy. This isn’t an isolated incident; the same company faced similar recalls in October 2025 due to microbiological contamination, though the specific contaminant at that time was not publicly detailed. The current situation raises questions about the effectiveness of preventative measures at the production facility and the potential for recurring contamination issues. The Ministry of Health continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Products Affected and Lot Numbers
The Ministry of Health’s recall notice specifies the following products and lot numbers are affected. Consumers are urged to check their purchases against this list and discard any matching products immediately. The recall is a precautionary measure to protect public health, particularly vulnerable populations.
- Burrata (300g and 125g):
- Lot 160, expiration date 21/02/2026
- Lot 171, expiration date 23/02/2026
- Smoked Burrata (125g):
- Lot 160, expiration date 21/02/2026
- Lot 171, expiration date 23/02/2026
- Stracciatella (250g and 500g):
- Lot 160, expiration date 21/02/2026
- Lot 171, expiration date 23/02/2026
The Tosano retail chain also flagged the recall on February 20, 2026, further indicating the breadth of the distribution network affected. Consumers who purchased these products from Tosano or other retailers are advised to check the lot numbers carefully. The Italian Ministry of Health publishes alerts and recalls on its website, providing a central resource for consumers to stay informed about food safety issues. The official recall notice can be found here.
Understanding the Risks of Listeria
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause listeriosis, a serious infection particularly dangerous for certain groups. According to the World Health Organization, listeriosis is a serious infection usually caused by eating food contaminated with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal issues. While generally mild in healthy individuals, listeriosis can lead to severe complications, including sepsis and meningitis, especially in pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.
For pregnant women, listeriosis can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn. The elderly and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk of developing severe invasive disease. Symptoms typically appear within a few days of consuming contaminated food, but can take up to 70 days to manifest. Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are crucial to prevent serious health consequences.
Casearia del Ben Srl and Previous Recalls
The affected products are produced by Casearia del Ben Srl, which operates a facility at Via Maestri del Lavoro 29, Porcia (Pordenone), Italy, identified by the registration code IT X8634 CE. As previously mentioned, this is not the first time the company has been compelled to recall products. In October 2025, two batches of burrata, smoked burrata, and stracciatella were recalled due to unspecified microbiological contamination. This history of recalls raises concerns about the company’s quality control procedures and the potential for systemic issues within the production process.
The company initiated the current recall as a result of its own internal self-monitoring analyses, demonstrating a commitment to identifying and addressing potential safety concerns. However, the repeated nature of these incidents suggests a need for a thorough review of the facility’s hygiene practices, equipment maintenance, and employee training protocols. The Ministry of Health will likely conduct further inspections to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
What Consumers Should Do
The Ministry of Health advises consumers who have purchased any of the affected products to refrain from consuming them. Instead, they should return the products to the point of purchase for a full refund or replacement. Proper disposal of the contaminated products is essential to prevent accidental consumption. Consumers should also thoroughly clean any surfaces or utensils that may have come into contact with the recalled cheeses.
If you experience symptoms of listeriosis – fever, muscle aches, nausea, or diarrhea – after consuming these products, It’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Inform your healthcare provider about the potential exposure to Listeria monocytogenes. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and prevent serious complications.
Broader Implications for Food Safety
This recall serves as a reminder of the importance of robust food safety systems and the ongoing need for vigilance throughout the food supply chain. Listeria monocytogenes is a particularly challenging pathogen to control, as it can grow at refrigeration temperatures and survive in various food processing environments. Effective prevention strategies include strict adherence to hygiene protocols, regular sanitation of equipment, and thorough testing of raw materials and finished products.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) plays a crucial role in assessing the risks associated with foodborne pathogens and providing scientific advice to policymakers. EFSA’s website offers comprehensive information on food safety risks and mitigation strategies. The current recall will likely prompt a review of existing food safety regulations and potentially lead to stricter enforcement measures to prevent future contamination incidents.
Key Takeaways:
- Several batches of burrata and stracciatella have been recalled in Italy due to Listeria monocytogenes contamination.
- The recall affects products produced by Casearia del Ben Srl in Porcia, Italy.
- Listeria poses a significant risk to pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
- Consumers should check their refrigerators and return affected products to the point of purchase.
The Ministry of Health will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed by checking the Ministry’s website for the latest information on food safety alerts and recalls. The next update from the Ministry of Health is expected on February 28, 2026, when the results of further testing at the Casearia del Ben Srl facility will be released. Please share this information with your friends and family to help ensure everyone stays safe.
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