A kitchen staple sold at Sainsbury’s has been recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes being found in it.
The affected item is the 120g Inspired to Cook by Sainsbury's Pitted Black Olives with a few use-by dates - September 6, 2026, September 7, 2026 and September 10, 2026.
Shoppers are being warned that the item could cause flu-like symptoms or, in rare cases, cause serious complications, including meningitis.
Friday 4 September - Sainsbury’s recalls Inspired to Cook by Sainsbury’s Pitted Black Olives due to contamination with Listeria monocytogenes #FoodAlert https://t.co/pqcwnQvkb3 pic.twitter.com/64HepnEfGr
— Food Standards Agency (@foodgov) September 4, 2026
Sainsbury's recalls olives and issues 'do not eat' warning
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) says: “Symptoms caused by Listeria monocytogenes can be similar to flu and include high temperature, muscle ache or pain, chills, feeling or being sick and diarrhoea.
“However, in rare cases, the infection can be more severe, causing serious complications, such as meningitis.
“Some people are more vulnerable to Listeria infections, including those over 65 years of age, pregnant women and their unborn babies, babies less than one month old and people with weakened immune systems.”
Customers are being warned “do not eat it” and instead must return the item to their local Sainsbury’s store where they will get a full refund.
If you’d like more information about this recall, you can visit the website or contact the careline on 0800 028 8303.
The supermarket has apologised “for any inconvenience caused.”
What is a product recall?
The FSA explains: “If there is a problem with a food product that means it should not be sold, then it might be 'withdrawn' (taken off the shelves) or 'recalled' (when customers are asked to return the product).
“The FSA issues Product Recall Information Notices to let consumers and local authorities know about problems associated with food.
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“In some cases, a 'Food Alert for Action' is issued.
“This provides local authorities with details of specific action to be taken on behalf of consumers.”
Have you bought this recalled item recently? Let us know in the comments below.
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