Recall Overview and Public Health Impact
The Food Standards Agency announced that The Curing Barn is recalling British Bresaola due to possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The recall affects 60 g packs with a use‑by date of June 10, 2026. This action was reported on April 5, 2026 and quickly spread through news outlets.
Product Details and Recall Scope
The contaminated product is sold in retail stores across the United Kingdom. Only the 60 g British Bresaola with the specific use‑by date is involved. Customers can identify the recall notice on store shelves or on the company website. The notice explains that the product should not be eaten and must be returned for a full refund.
Health Risks of Listeria
Listeria monocytogenes can cause flu‑like symptoms including high temperature, muscle aches, chills, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In rare cases the infection may lead to serious complications such as meningitis. The bacteria are particularly dangerous for older adults, pregnant women, newborns, and people with weakened immune systems.
Who Is at Higher Risk
The following groups are more vulnerable to severe listeria infection:
- People over 65 years of age
- Pregnant women and their unborn babies
- Infants less than one month old
- Individuals with compromised immune systems
These populations should avoid the recalled product and follow the recall instructions carefully.
Company Response and Consumer Instructions
The Curing Barn has placed point‑of‑sale notices in all retail locations selling the affected product. The notice tells customers why the product is being recalled and what steps to take next. If you have purchased the product, you should not eat it and must return it to the store for a full refund.
The company also posted a detailed customer notice as a PDF file that explains the recall in full. This document can be accessed through the Food Standards Agency website. The notice reinforces the importance of returning the product rather than discarding it.
How to Stay Informed About the Recall
Consumers can monitor updates on the Food Standards Agency’s official recall page. The agency provides clear guidance on food safety alerts and withdrawal procedures. For the latest information, visit the recall alert page using the link below.
View the official recall noticeAdditional coverage of the story is available from STV News, which reported the recall on April 5, 2026.
Steps for Consumers and Return Process
Shoppers who have purchased the 60g pack of British Bresaola should check the packaging for the batch codes listed on the product label Source 1. The affected codes are WLRC, J1Z2, 0WD0 and J85J and the use‑by date is June 10, 2026 Source 2. If any of these codes appear, the product must not be consumed and should be returned immediately Source 3. The recall notice emphasizes that a receipt is not required for the return, making the process simple for all customers Source 4. Stores that stock the item, including Tesco, will display a clear sign directing customers to the return counter Source 1.
Identifying the Affected Product
The product is sold in a distinctive clear plastic pouch that weighs 60 grams and is priced at £4.50 per pack Source 2. The label also lists the manufacturer as The Curing Barn and includes a small printed area where the batch code and use‑by date are printed in black ink Source 3. Customers should compare the printed code with the list of four codes provided by the Food Standards Agency Source 4. If the code matches any of the listed codes, the product is part of the recall and must be set aside for return Source 1. It is important to note that the recall applies only to the specific batch codes and not to all Bresaola products on the shelf Source 2.
How to Return the Product
Customers can bring the recalled pack to any store that sold it and request a full refund at the customer service desk Source 3. No proof of purchase is required, which simplifies the return for shoppers who may have discarded the receipt Source 4. Store staff are instructed to process the refund without delay and to offer a replacement if the customer wishes to purchase a different brand Source 1. For those who prefer a postal return, The Curing Barn has set up a prepaid envelope that can be requested via their website Source 2. The company will issue a refund within five business days of receiving the returned product Source 3.
Who Is Most at Risk and How to Recognize Listeria Symptoms
While Listeria monocytogenes can affect anyone, certain groups face a higher chance of severe illness if they consume contaminated food. The Food Standards Agency highlights that older adults, pregnant women, newborns, and people with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable. Understanding who belongs to these categories helps consumers assess personal risk and take appropriate precautions.
Vulnerable Populations
Older adults over the age of 65 are more susceptible because the immune system naturally weakens with age. Pregnant women experience changes in metabolism that can make infections more difficult to fight, and the bacteria can cross the placenta, potentially harming the unborn baby. Newborns less than one month old have immature immune defenses, placing them at significant risk. Additionally, individuals undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, or anyone on long‑term immunosuppressive medication should treat any potential exposure as a serious health concern.
Typical Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms of listeriosis often mimic common flu‑like illnesses, which can delay proper diagnosis. Affected individuals may experience high temperature, muscle ache, chills, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. In rare but serious cases, the infection can spread to the nervous system, leading to meningitis or septicemia. Because symptoms can appear up to 70 days after ingestion, vigilance is essential for anyone who believes they may have consumed the recalled product.
When to Seek Medical Assistance
Anyone belonging to a high‑risk group who develops any combination of the above symptoms should contact a healthcare professional promptly. Early medical intervention can prevent complications and reduce the likelihood of severe outcomes. Even if symptoms are mild, vulnerable individuals should not ignore them, as listeriosis can progress silently. Prompt reporting of any suspected food‑borne illness to local health authorities also helps prevent further outbreaks.
Practical Steps for High‑Risk Individuals
If you fall into a vulnerable category, follow these simple actions to protect your health: 1) Immediately check the batch code and use‑by date on any The Curing Barn British Bresaola you have at home. 2) Verify that the code matches one of the recalled identifiers – WLRC, J1Z2, 0WD0, or J85J with a use‑by date of June 10, 2026. 3) If the product matches a recalled batch, do not consume it under any circumstances. 4) Return the item to the store for a full refund without needing a receipt, as the company explicitly states this policy. 5) Keep a record of the purchase date and location in case you need to provide additional information to the retailer.
How to Return the Product Safely
The recall instructions emphasize that customers can return the affected 60 g pack to any retailer that sold it, such as Tesco, without presenting a receipt. Simply bring the product to the customer service desk and request a refund. This process eliminates the need for paperwork and ensures a swift resolution. For added convenience, many stores now accept returns through self‑service kiosks, further streamlining the refund experience.
Preventing Future Exposure
While recalls are an important safety net, consumers can reduce their risk by staying informed about product alerts and regularly checking the FSA recall page for updates. When shopping, always inspect packaging for batch codes and expiration dates, especially for ready‑to‑eat meat products that do not require cooking. Proper storage at temperatures below 5 °C and consumption within the recommended window also minimizes bacterial growth.
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