Urgent Milk Recall Issued Over Deadly E. Coli Contamination
An urgent public health warning has been issued after bottles of raw milk were pulled from shelves in Northern Ireland due to a dangerous bacterial contamination. Kenneth Hanna’s Farm Shop has recalled all two-litre bottles of its “Ken’s Raw Jersey Milk” after fears they may contain Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), a potentially deadly strain of bacteria.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) announced that the recall affects all batches and all use-by dates of the product. The milk, which is sold unpasteurised, poses a serious health risk if consumed. Authorities have advised consumers not to drink the milk and to either return it to the farm shop or dispose of it immediately. Warning notices have also been placed at the shop to alert customers about the risk.
STEC infections can cause severe symptoms, including bloody diarrhoea, intense abdominal pain, and in extreme cases, a condition known as haemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). This condition can lead to kidney failure and, in some cases, death—particularly among vulnerable groups like young children and the elderly. Symptoms of infection typically begin between one and ten days after exposure, with most cases showing signs within three to four days.
Consumers who have purchased this milk are strongly advised not to use it in any form, including cooking or baking. The FSA has emphasized that anyone experiencing symptoms after consuming the product should seek immediate medical attention. Additionally, the agency recommends staying away from school, work, or childcare settings until at least 48 hours after symptoms have stopped, to prevent spreading the infection.
This incident highlights the health dangers associated with raw milk, which has not undergone the pasteurisation process that kills harmful bacteria. While some consumers prefer raw milk for its perceived health benefits and taste, it carries a significantly higher risk of contamination from pathogens like E. coli, Listeria, and Salmonella.
The recall has triggered broader concerns about the regulation and sale of raw dairy products. The Food Standards Agency continues to monitor the situation and urges the public to report any adverse reactions to the relevant health authorities.
Anyone with concerns is encouraged to visit the Food Standards Agency’s website for the official recall notice and further guidance.
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