People became ill from eating artisan cheeses recalled due to an E.coli outbreak.

Dozens of people have been hit with food poisoning in an E.coli outbreak linked to artisan cheese, just ahead of Christmas Day. Health chiefs have now confirmed 30 Shiga toxin-producing E.coli infections in the UK, a strain of bacteria which can cause severe diarrhoea, abdominal pain and haemolytic uremic syndrome, which can lead to fatal kidney failure.

In response to the outbreak, four types of Mrs Kirkham’s Lancashire cheeses have been recalled and given a 'do not eat' warning. The Food Standards Agency and UK Health Security Agency alert applies to Mrs Kirkham’s Mild and Creamy Lancashire, Mrs Kirkham’s Tasty Lancashire, Mrs Kirkham’s Mature Lancashire and Mrs Kirkham’s Smoked Lancashire.

Tina Potter, head of incidents at the FSA, said: “We are aware that this recalled product may be popular over the festive period, especially as it has been sold as part of a Christmas gift hamper and so we are urging consumers to check whether they have bought or been gifted this product. Due to this outbreak of E.coli O145 we are urging all consumers to ensure they follow the advice in the product recall notices, which details all of the products which may pose a risk. We are also asking people to share this advice with friends and family who may have either purchased the recalled product or have received it as a gift."

People who have purchased the affected cheeses are advised to store it safely, fully wrapped and ensure it is not in contact with other foods. It is also important to wash your hands, equipment, utensils and surfaces that may have come into contact with the product thoroughly. The product can be returned to where it was bought from for a full refund. Point of sale notices will be displayed where the products were sold explaining why they have been recalled and what to do if they have been purchased.

When it comes to storing Christmas food, GP Dr Babak Ashrafi from Asda Online Doctor warned that people should use their common sense. He said: “It is generally safe to keep food for a couple of days after Christmas, as long as it is refrigerated and stored properly. But use your best judgement before eating any leftovers, and be sure to throw away any food that doesn’t look or smell safe to eat. Leaving meat at room temperature, or not refrigerating it at low enough temperatures, can encourage bacteria to grow and lead to foodborne illnesses."

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