A major product recall has been issued for Gotzinger Smallgoods deli meats sold in New South Wales and Queensland, sparking concerns over listeria contamination. Consumers are urged to check their fridges and return specific deli products to the store. Here’s what you need to know.
Why the Recall?
Gotzinger Smallgoods, a popular deli brand, has voluntarily recalled several of its sliced meat products due to the detection of Listeria monocytogenes. Listeria is a harmful bacterium that can cause serious illness, particularly in vulnerable groups like pregnant women, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. For these at-risk groups, listeria infection can lead to severe complications, including miscarriage or stillbirth, and even death in rare cases.
According to Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ), the affected products were sold across retail outlets and butcher shops in New South Wales and Queensland. The recall specifically targets products with use-by dates up to December 20, 2025. The items include: 1kg Sliced Silverside – Use-by date: December 20, 2025. 1kg Sliced Roast Beef – Use-by date: December 13, 2025. 1kg 4×4 Sliced Ham – Use-by date: December 13, 2025. 1kg Sliced Champagne Ham – Use-by date: December 17, 2025. 1kg Sliced Provincial Ham – Use-by date: December 5, 2025.
If you have any of these products in your fridge, it’s essential to stop eating them and return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
What Should Consumers Do?
Consumers who have purchased the affected products are being advised not to eat them and to return the items immediately for a refund. If you’ve already consumed any of the recalled deli meats and feel unwell, it’s important to seek medical advice. Symptoms of listeria infection can include fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal distress. While most healthy individuals recover without complications, those in vulnerable categories may experience more severe reactions.
In the statement issued by Gotzinger Smallgoods, the company expressed their commitment to food safety and worked with food safety authorities to remove the affected products from the market. While only the products listed in the recall are affected, Gotzinger has reassured customers that no other items from the brand are impacted by the contamination.
Food Safety in Australia
This recall serves as a reminder of the risks associated with ready-to-eat deli meats and the importance of strict food safety practices. Listeria contamination can occur in many types of deli meats, which are typically consumed without cooking. The good news is that food safety authorities are constantly working to monitor and reduce these risks. Companies like Gotzinger are required to respond promptly when food safety concerns arise, which is why this voluntary recall was initiated quickly after the detection.
While it’s unsettling to hear about a recall affecting popular products, it’s important to note that such measures are in place to protect public health. Food recalls happen regularly as part of rigorous safety checks, and companies are generally proactive when contamination is detected. For consumers, these recalls serve as a reminder to stay vigilant and follow any safety advisories issued by health authorities.
