Asda and Morrisons have issued urgent recalls for three pasta salad products due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause food poisoning and, in rare cases, lead to severe complications such as meningitis. The products, manufactured by Greencore, have been withdrawn from shelves as a precautionary measure.
The affected items are Asda Cheese and Tomato Pasta Salad, Asda Nacho Cheese Pasta Salad, and Morrisons Chicken and Bacon Pasta. Customers who have purchased any of these products are advised not to consume them and instead return them to the store where they bought them for a full refund, with or without a receipt.
What Are the Symptoms of Listeria Infection?
Listeria monocytogenes can cause symptoms similar to flu, including a high temperature, chills, muscle aches or pain, and sometimes nausea or diarrhoea. While most healthy individuals recover without treatment, the infection can escalate into more serious conditions, including meningitis, although this is rare.
Certain groups are particularly vulnerable to severe listeria infections. Extra caution is advised for people aged over 65, pregnant women and their unborn babies, infants less than one month old, and individuals with weakened immune systems due to underlying health conditions or treatments.
Recall Details and Product Information
The recall applies to specific batches with the following details:
- Asda Cheese and Tomato Pasta Salad – Product code: 5063089221990, pack size: 300g, use by: August 10, 2026.
- Asda Nacho Cheese Pasta Salad – Product code: 5063717198311, pack size: 500g, use by: August 9, 2026.
- Morrisons Chicken and Bacon Pasta – Product code: 5010251790587, pack size: 300g, use by: August 7, 2026.
Point of sale notices will be displayed in all retail stores currently selling these products. These notices explain why the products are being recalled and advise customers on the steps to take if they have already purchased them.
Official Guidance from the Food Standards Agency
A Food Standards Agency (FSA) spokesman said: "If you have bought the above product, do not eat it. Instead, return it to your nearest store where you will be given a full refund. You do not need your receipt. For further information Asda customers can contact Asda Customer Relations 0330 053 0111 and Morrisons customers can contact Customer Services 0345 611 6111."
The FSA regularly publishes Product Recall Information Notices to inform consumers and local authorities about food safety concerns. When a product is deemed unsafe, it may be 'withdrawn' (removed from shelves) or 'recalled' (where customers are asked to return the item). This recall falls under the latter category, urging immediate action from consumers.
Why This Matters for Public Health
Listeria infections, though relatively uncommon, can be serious. The bacteria can survive and even multiply in refrigerated temperatures, making it a particular concern in ready-to-eat products like pasta salads. The recall highlights the importance of food safety protocols and the vigilance of manufacturers and retailers in protecting consumers.
Consumers who have purchased these items should check their refrigerators and return the products to the store immediately. The full refund process is straightforward and does not require a receipt, ensuring that affected customers can act quickly without inconvenience.
For ongoing updates on food recalls and safety alerts, consumers are encouraged to monitor the FSA website and heed official notices. This incident serves as a reminder to always check product labels and follow recall instructions to prevent potential health risks.
