A significant food safety alert has been issued across Australia, prompting a major recall of popular deli meats. Food safety authorities have detected the presence of listeria in a range of pre-sliced beef and ham products, leading to an urgent withdrawal from supermarket shelves.
Affected Products and Retailers
The recall specifically targets five different 1kg sliced products manufactured by Gotzinger Smallgoods. Consumers in New South Wales and Queensland are being urged to check their refrigerators for the following items with specific use-by dates:
- Sliced Silverside 1kg - Use by 20 December 2025
- Sliced Roast Beef 1kg - Use by 13 December 2025
- 4x4 Sliced Ham 1kg - Use by 13 December 2025
- Champagne Ham Sliced 1kg - Use by 17 December 2025
- Provincial Ham Sliced 1kg - Use by 5 December 2025
The affected products were widely available at major supermarket chains including Woolworths, Coles, and Costco, as well as independent retailers such as IGAs, FoodWorks, Harris Farm Markets, and Super Butcher stores.
Health Risks and Consumer Advice
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is leading the recall effort and has issued clear guidance for the public. The watchdog has confirmed that the bacteria found, Listeria monocytogenes, poses a serious health threat.
This pathogen can cause severe illness, particularly for vulnerable groups. Pregnant women, unborn babies, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems are at the highest risk of developing serious complications from infection.
FSANZ's official recall notice states: 'Consumers should return the products to the place of purchase for a full refund. Any consumers concerned about their health should seek medical advice.'
Company Response and Precautionary Measures
Gotzinger Smallgoods has responded swiftly to the crisis. A company spokesperson confirmed that all impacted products have been immediately removed from sale.
'These recalled sliced products are produced separately from our other ranges, and no other Gotzinger Smallgoods products are affected,' the spokesperson stated. 'We remain fully committed to the highest food safety standards and are reviewing our processes.'
In an abundance of caution, the company has also temporarily withdrawn several other products from the same lines, even though they are not part of the official recall. The firm is now working directly with distributors to recover all affected stock from the supply chain.
