Waimata cheeses recalled after E. coli bacteria concerns

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

New Zealand Food Safety is supporting Gisborne’s Waimata Cheese Company in its recall of a specific batch of its camembert and brie cheeses due to the possible presence of E. coli.

The products affected by this recall (with a batch number 8367 and a best-before date of 28/02/24) are Waimata Cheese brand Camembert, Longbush Camembert and Longbush Brie.

“The concern with these cheeses is that there may be E. coli bacteria present,” New Zealand Food Safety’s acting deputy director general Jenny Bishop said.

The recalled products are being removed from shelves at stores nationwide.

E. coli was discovered as a result of routine testing. New Zealand Food Safety has not received any notification of associated illness.

“As is our usual practice, New Zealand Food Safety will be working with Waimata Cheese Company Limited to understand how the contamination occurred and prevent its recurrence,” Ms Bishop said.

“Symptoms of sickness caused by E. coli include stomach cramps and diarrhoea. Some people feel sick and vomit.

“Most people get better within five to seven days, but the effects can be serious for people with weakened immune systems, including the very young, frail older people, people with weakened immune systems and pregnant people.

“E. coli can travel easily and fast from person to person if infected people do not wash their hands properly.

“If you have consumed any of this product and are concerned for your health, contact your health professional, or call Healthline on 0800 61 11 16.

“Affected product should not be eaten. It can be returned to the place of purchase for a refund. Should you be unable to do this, throw it out.”

For further information and general enquiries, call the Ministry for Primary Industries on 0800 00 83 33 or email info@mpi.govt.nz