Listeria Alert: Andalusian Health Authorities Withdraw Iberian Salchichón Due to Bacterial Contamination

The Ministry of Health and Consumer Affairs of the Andalusian Regional Government has issued a health alert after detecting the presence of listeria in a batch of Iberian salchichón, a traditional Spanish cured sausage.

Affected Product and Distribution

The affected product is Iberian salchichón casero (homemade) from batch 100724, produced by Embutidos La Serrana S.L. of Olvera (Cádiz). It has a “best before” date of 10/05/2025 and comes in pieces of approximately 350 grams.

The product was distributed to establishments in several towns in Cádiz, including Alcalá de los Gazules, Villamartín, Setenil de las Bodegas, El Gastor, Puerto Serrano, Zahara de la Sierra, Algodonales, and Olvera. It was also distributed in Ronda (Málaga) and Pruna (Seville).

However, other distributions or redistributions cannot be ruled out.

Amplified Alert and Production Suspension

The health alert has been extended to all Iberian salchichón casero from batch 100724. This includes 70 kilos in 201 pieces that are still retained at the production facility and have not been sold. However, another 177 kilos have been distributed to the aforementioned locations.

The Ministry of Health and Consumer Affairs has ordered the withdrawal of the affected batch and has suspended the production of sausages at the manufacturing plant. This measure is in addition to the previous suspension of the production of spreadable products.

The company has been asked to provide the analytical results of products made before the suspension of sausage production for commercialization.

Health Risks and Recommendations

Infection by Listeria monocytogenes can be asymptomatic or cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms, fever, and muscle aches in healthy individuals.

However, in certain risk groups, such as immunocompromised individuals, the elderly, young children, and pregnant women, more severe symptoms may occur.

Individuals who have this specific product and batch number at home are advised not to consume it and to return it to the point of purchase.

If anyone has consumed this affected product and batch and experiences symptoms consistent with listeriosis, they should seek medical attention at their local health center.

Previous Withdrawals and Ongoing Monitoring

This is not the first time that the Andalusian Regional Government has withdrawn products due to the presence of listeria. In July, four units of zurrapa blanca (a traditional Andalusian sauce) were withdrawn in Seville and Puerto Real (Cádiz) after Listeria monocytogenes was detected.

The Ministry of Health and Consumer Affairs continues to conduct inspections and samplings to ensure consumer safety. The situation is being closely monitored, and all necessary measures will be taken to protect public health.