Listeria warning issued for anchovies sold in Valencia and Murcia
Authorities urge consumers not to eat anchovies in oil and garlic after listeria found in Iber Cocktail brand
A food safety alert has been issued across parts of Spain after listeria was found in a batch of anchovies in oil and garlic.The Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (AESAN) has advised the public not to eat the affected product, which is sold under the Iber Cocktail brand and carries an expiry date of Monday August 4, 2025.
According to AESAN, the contaminated batch was initially distributed to the autonomous communities of Murcia and the Valencian Community. However, it’s possible that some products may have been redistributed to other parts of the country.
The presence of Listeria monocytogenes was confirmed by health authorities in Murcia, who shared the findings through the national rapid alert system known as SCIRI (Coordinated System for Rapid Information Exchange). AESAN has since notified all relevant regional health authorities to help ensure the product is withdrawn from sale as quickly as possible.
The agency has issued a clear recommendation: “Consumers are advised not to consume this product.”
Anyone who has already eaten anchovies from the affected batch and is experiencing symptoms such as fever, vomiting or diarrhoea is urged to seek medical advice. These can be signs of listeriosis, an illness that can be particularly serious for pregnant women, older adults and those with weakened immune systems.
Although no cases of illness have yet been reported in connection with the product, the warning is being treated seriously to prevent any potential health risk.
AESAN continues to monitor the situation and is working closely with other authorities to trace any further distribution. In the meantime, consumers are encouraged to check their cupboards and fridges for the Iber Cocktail anchovies and to dispose of any packs that match the description.
Image: Leelo the first/Pexels
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