Asda and Morrisons have announced a formal recall of several pasta salad products sold in their stores. The decision follows concerns regarding potential listeria monocytogenes contamination. Listeria is a type of bacteria that can cause listeriosis, an infection that may lead to serious health complications, including meningitis, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.

Retailers have advised customers who have purchased the affected items not to consume them. Instead, shoppers are encouraged to return the products to the store of purchase for a full refund. The recall serves as a standard safety procedure to prevent the spread of foodborne illness. While the specific batches and product names vary, both retailers are working with food safety authorities to ensure all contaminated stock is removed from shelves. Customers are urged to check their refrigerators and pantries for the specific products listed on the retailers' websites or in-store notices. As of now, there have been no confirmed reports of illness linked to these specific products, but the recall remains in effect until the safety of the affected batches can be verified.