New Zealand authorities probe illnesses and issued recalls

New Zealand is recalling oysters and dried cured meats due to separate foodborne illness investigations.

Oysters: Te Matuku Oysters is recalling certain batches of Premium Export Grade Pacific Oysters due to possible norovirus contamination. Affected products, with use-by dates of August 27 and 29, 2024, include oysters in half-shell (1 dozen) and 200-gram oyster meat in a glass jar. New Zealand Food Safety (NZFS) is investigating after receiving reports of illness linked to these products. Putaki Bay oyster farm is currently closed. NZFS advises against eating raw oysters and recommends thorough cleaning and disinfection to prevent norovirus spread.

Dried Cured Meats: Safari Meats and SA Shop are recalling 13 dried and cured meat products due to inadequate food safety controls. These products, which do not undergo high-temperature cooking, were sold in Christchurch, online, and at various retailers but not in supermarkets.

Consumers should avoid these recalled products and follow hygiene guidelines to prevent illness.