Urgent Health Alert: Kimchi and Korean Food Recall Sparks Listeria Warning Across Australia

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has issued an urgent public health warning following the recall of several popular Korean food products due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination. J&D Distribution, a major distributor, has initiated the recall of various items, including JjaJang Myun Sauce and different types of Kimchi, distributed across Queensland and New South Wales.

The affected products include specific batches of 'Jongga JjaJang Myun Sauce', 'Jongga Kimchi 500g', 'Jongga Kimchi 1kg', and 'Jongga Kimchi 2kg', identified by their Best Before dates.

Consumers are strongly advised to check their refrigerators for these items, particularly those with the specified batch information.

Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause severe illness, especially in vulnerable populations. Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea.

In more serious cases, it can lead to septicaemia or meningitis. Pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are particularly susceptible to severe complications, including miscarriage, stillbirth, or serious infection in newborns.

J&D Distribution has urged all consumers who have purchased these products not to consume them.

Instead, they should immediately return the items to the place of purchase for a full refund. Anyone who has consumed the recalled products and is experiencing symptoms is advised to seek medical attention without delay.

This recall highlights the critical importance of food safety standards and prompt action when potential contamination risks are identified.

Authorities are working to ensure all affected products are removed from shelves and to prevent further distribution, safeguarding public health.