Cyprus recalls sheftalia: salmonella found in the product

In Cyprus, a batch of the traditional meat product sheftalia (σεφταλιά) is being recalled from sale after the detection of Salmonella bacteria, the Veterinary Control Service of the Ministry of Agriculture reported.

The hazardous samples were identified during a routine inspection of food businesses. Laboratory analyses revealed the presence of Salmonella spp. in certain batches of locally produced sheftalia, capable of causing severe food poisoning.

The Veterinary Service ordered the immediate withdrawal of the products from the market and warned retail chains to suspend the sale of the suspicious batches. The producer’s name is not disclosed until the investigation is completed, but it is known that the contaminated items were distributed in supermarkets and butcher shops across the island.

Residents are advised to refrain from consuming sheftalia until an official list of safe products is published. The authority reminds that salmonella is destroyed by prolonged heat treatment, but consumption of contaminated meat, even after incomplete cooking, can cause severe food poisoning.

Specialists are currently conducting repeat analyses and reviewing all associated suppliers. The results of the investigation and detailed data on the product batches will be published additionally.