Hibiscus Coast residents are being urged to check their milk supplies following a recall by Henderson Dairy.

Specific batches of its Farm Fresh Raw Milk may contain Listeria, a bacterium that poses serious health risks.

New Zealand Food Safety acting deputy director-general Jenny Bishop explained the concern, stating, "The concern with this unpasteurised milk is that it may contain Listeria, a foodborne bacterium that can make you sick."

Listeriosis infection can be particularly severe for pregnant individuals, newborns, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

The recall affects the following products sold by Henderson Dairy:

• 1 litre Farm Fresh Raw Milk batch code 240724 with use-by 280724
• 1 litre Farm Fresh Raw Milk batch code 260724 with use-by 300724

"These products should not be consumed. Return them to Henderson Dairy for a refund or, if that’s not possible, throw them out," advised Ms Bishop. She also noted that Listeria can grow at refrigerator temperatures, making it especially dangerous for vulnerable groups. "It is particularly dangerous during pregnancy because it can cause miscarriage, premature labour or stillbirth, and infection in the newborn baby."

While healthy adults may experience only mild diarrhoea and flu-like symptoms, those in vulnerable groups might not exhibit symptoms until 2 to 3 weeks after consuming contaminated food.

If concerned, consumers are advised to contact their health professional or call Healthline on 0800 61 11 16 for advice.

Routine testing identified the contamination, with no reports of illness linked to the affected products.

"As is our usual practice, New Zealand Food Safety will work with Henderson Dairy to understand how the contamination occurred and prevent its recurrence," said Ms Bishop.

Customers should check the batch code on the milk bottle lid and return any affected product for a full refund.

For further information, contact MPI on 0800 00 83 33 or email [email protected]