Published
A number of food retailers are recalling spinach and mixed salad products from stores in multiple states following detection of shiga-toxin producing E. coli (STEC) in 2 spinach products.
The recalls are being conducted by Aldi, Woolworths, Metcash and Coles for multiple products with use-by dates ranging from 26 March to 9 April 2025.
STEC was detected in 2 pre-packaged, ready-to-eat spinach products purchased from separate Queensland supermarkets as part of proactive public health surveillance conducted over several days.
Retailers have elected to undertake and extend the recalls in response to the detections as a precaution to protect public health.
Public health and food authorities are investigating the source of the contamination with measures being taken to prevent potentially contaminated product from entering the food supply.
No illnesses have been linked to the recalled products. The recalls are a proactive measure to protect Australian consumers.
Food products contaminated with STEC may cause illness if consumed.
Consumers should not eat products subject to the recalls and can return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Any consumers concerned about their health should seek medical advice.
Food recalls
- Coles - Various mixed salad leaves
- Metcash - Community Co Mixed Leaf Products
- Woolworths- Various Fresh Cut Salad Products
- Aldi Stores - Fresh Salad Co - Various Baby Spinach Products
STEC
STEC can cause gastroenteritis, or 'gastro', resulting in serious illness in about 10% of cases.
Anyone can get infected with STEC but young children, the elderly and people with weak immune systems are more likely to get seriously ill.
STEC can get into soil, water and food from the faeces of animals, for example from livestock or animal manure.