Sainsbury’s has recalled a popular own-brand olive product after Listeria monocytogenes was detected, prompting the supermarket to advise customers not to eat the affected packs.
The recall involves Inspired to Cook by Sainsbury’s Pitted Black Olives, sold in 120g packs. The affected products carry use-by dates of 6 September, 7 September and 10 September 2026. Sainsbury’s is asking customers who have purchased the affected product not to consume it and to return it to their nearest store for a full refund.
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause listeriosis, a foodborne infection. Symptoms can include a high temperature, muscle aches or pains, chills, nausea and diarrhoea. While many cases are relatively mild, infection can become more serious in vulnerable groups, with potentially severe complications including meningitis.
The risk is particularly important for older people, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems, who can be more susceptible to serious illness. Consumers who have eaten the affected product and subsequently develop concerning or severe symptoms should seek medical advice.
Sainsbury’s has apologised to customers for the inconvenience caused by the recall and has stated that no other products are affected by this particular withdrawal. Customers returning the affected olives are entitled to a full refund, according to the recall information.
The recall highlights the importance of traceability and food-safety controls across supermarket supply chains. Even relatively simple grocery products can require extensive monitoring, from production and processing through to packaging, distribution and sale in stores.
For supermarkets, a rapid response to a potential contamination issue is essential. Identifying affected batches and removing them from sale helps prevent further consumption while giving customers clear information about what products and dates they should check at home.
Sainsbury’s customers who have the 120g Inspired to Cook Pitted Black Olives with the affected dates should therefore check their cupboards and refrigerators before consuming the product. The advice is straightforward: do not eat the affected olives and return them to a Sainsbury’s store for a refund.
The recall comes as supermarkets continue to face close scrutiny over food safety, product traceability and the speed with which potentially unsafe products are identified and communicated to consumers.