The Ministry of Health has issued a warning about the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in batch 021 of Montino Semiduro cheese, produced by the Monteverde brand. The affected product carries the sanitary registration number A-CR-16-07818.
According to microbiological analysis carried out by the National Reference Center for Microbiological Food Safety at the Costa Rican Institute for Research and Teaching in Nutrition and Health (CRIMA-INCIENSA), this batch tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes. This result means it does not comply with standards set by Central American Technical Regulation RTCA 67.04.50:17, which governs safety criteria for certain dairy products including fresh cheeses.
Health authorities detected contamination through sampling in supermarkets as part of ongoing food control efforts to ensure compliance with current food safety regulations.
The Ministry of Health is coordinating with both the manufacturer and the National Animal Health Service (SENASA) to remove the contaminated batch from stores.
“1. Avoid buying or consuming the contaminated batch of the aforementioned product especially if you are pregnant, elderly or have weakened immune systems.
2. If you have purchased this specific batch, dispose of it or return it to your point of sale.
3. If you experience symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, headache, vomiting after consuming this product batch, consult your doctor or visit a nearby health center. Also notify the Ministry of Health,” according to an official statement from health authorities.
The ministry’s announcement urges consumers to take precautions and report any related health concerns.
