Production resumes at Ballymaguire Foods following Listeria outbreak linked to one death

Ballymaguire Foods has received approval to recommence production following the detection of Listeria at one of their sites. 

This follows a comprehensive process undertaken in coordination with the HSE’s Environmental Health Officers and the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI).

Just weeks ago, over 200 products made by Ballymaguire Foods were recalled due to fears of Listeria monocytogenes.

Following this, there was nine confirmed cases of Listeriosis, with one person dying as a result of the illness. 

The official approval, given by the National Environmental Health Service of the HSE, to resume production follows the completion of a thorough review. 

A spokesperson confirmed that production will resume from Friday, August 8 with products returning to retail shelves from Tuesday, August 12. 

The food company appointed Professor Patrick Wall, a public health expert and former Chief Executive of the FSAI, to lead their response, which was carried out in close collaboration with all relevant public health and regulatory authorities.

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Commenting on this, Professor Wall said: “Listeria is a naturally occurring, complex and challenging bacteria that, while rare, requires close attention and strong controls in food environments. Managing it is not just about routine hygiene—it requires a deep understanding of how it behaves and an unrelenting attention to detail.

“In response to this incident, Ballymaguire Foods has implemented protocols that go beyond best practice, fully align with regulatory standards and set a benchmark that exceeds industry norms.

“The actions taken are backed by substantial investment and reflect a renewed focus on precision, accountability, and continuous improvement throughout the organisation. Every measure is grounded in international best practice and scientific evidence, with a focus on maintaining the highest standards of food hygiene and consumer health protection. The decision to grant approval for production to resume reflects the authorities’ confidence in the steps taken," he added.

The Professor went on to say that following the Listeria outbreak, the steps that Ballymaguire Foods have taken reflect a "genuine commitment to protecting every consumer" with "transparency and integrity.”

Also commenting was Edward Spellman, Co-Founder and Managing Director at Ballymaguire Foods. He said: “Our team worked closely with public health authorities and independent experts throughout this review and I want to acknowledge their support, rigour and professionalism.

“Food safety has always been central to who we are. This experience has challenged us to go even further—to enhance our systems, deepen our expertise and apply new industry-leading standards.

“We acknowledge the concern this situation has caused. We are resolute in our commitment to learn from it and to strengthening the trust placed in us by our partners, customers, and consumers," Mr Spellman concluded.