The reason given is a possible contamination with dangerous and potentially life-threatening Escherichia coli bacteria (EHEC). The product was also available on the Bavarian market.
According to the company, certain toxin-producing strains of EHEC bacteria were detected in a production batch with the best-before date of August 27, 2025. These bacteria can cause severe illness in humans. Consumers are therefore strongly advised not to eat the affected product.
The recall applies to packages of Schleizer Onion Mettwurst (500 grams) with the production date of August 11, 2025, the best-before date of August 27, 2025, and the batch number 133, which is printed on the closure clip. Customers can return the affected sausage to retailers and will be refunded the purchase price.
The company announced that the recalled product was sold not only in Bavaria, but also in Baden-Württemberg, Hamburg, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, North Rhine-Westphalia, Saxony-Anhalt, Brandenburg, Hesse, Lower Saxony, Saxony, and Thuringia.
EHEC Infections and Their Risks
The detected EHEC bacteria produce powerful toxins that can cause severe gastrointestinal illnesses, abdominal pain, and bloody diarrhea in affected individuals. In addition, there is a risk of developing hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a condition that can lead to acute kidney failure.
Children are considered particularly at risk because their immune systems and organs are not yet fully developed. Older adults and people with pre-existing health conditions are also more likely to suffer from severe illness. The incubation period – the time between ingesting contaminated food and the onset of symptoms – averages three to four days.
A Look Back at Previous EHEC Outbreaks
In 2011, Germany experienced a major EHEC outbreak. Around 3,800 cases were recorded, and more than 50 people died. The outbreak was traced to sprouts contaminated with EHEC, grown from fenugreek seeds imported from Egypt. More recently, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania has seen another increase in EHEC infections, primarily affecting children.
Source: dpa
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