Tejal Somvanshi
A major recall of packaged salad products has been expanded across Australia after health authorities discovered potential E. coli contamination. The recall now affects numerous mixed salad leaf products sold at Coles and IGA supermarkets throughout multiple states.
Food Standards Australia New Zealand updated their recall notice on March 27, warning consumers about the potential health risks associated with these products. The affected items have use-by dates up to and including April 9, 2025.
Queensland’s public health surveillance first detected the contamination in two pre-packaged, ready-to-eat spinach products. Testing revealed the presence of shiga-toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), a bacteria that can cause serious illness.
“Food products contaminated with STEC may cause illness if consumed. It can cause gastroenteritis, resulting in serious illness in about 10 percent of cases, especially very young children, the elderly, or those with compromised immune systems,” said Dr. Shannon Melody, Tasmanian Public Health Specialist Medical Advisor.
The recall initially affected products in Queensland and northern New South Wales but has since expanded to include Coles supermarkets in Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, the Northern Territory, and the ACT.
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More than 20 different products are now included in the recall. At Coles, these range from basic spinach packages to prepared meals like the Mediterranean Style Bowl and Roasted Pumpkin, Feta and Walnut Salad. IGA’s recalled products include Community Co branded items such as Aussie Salad Mix and Baby Spinach varieties.
Both retailers have pulled the affected products from shelves. Consumers who have purchased these items are advised not to eat them and to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
While no illnesses have yet been linked to these products, health authorities are conducting further investigations to determine the source of the contamination.
E. coli infections typically cause symptoms including diarrhea (which can be bloody), abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever. In severe cases, particularly among vulnerable populations, it can lead to more serious complications including kidney failure.
Customers with concerns about their health should seek medical advice, especially if they’ve consumed any of the recalled products.
The complete list of recalled products and further updates can be found on the Food Standards Australia New Zealand website.
Frequently Asked Questions
The recall affects products sold at Coles supermarkets, Coles Local stores, Coles Online, IGA, and independent grocers across multiple states in Australia. Products with use-by dates up to and including April 9, 2025 are included in the recall.
More than 20 different products have been recalled, including various Coles branded spinach products, mixed salad leaves, and prepared salad bowls. IGA has recalled Community Co branded products including Aussie Salad Mix, Baby Spinach varieties, and other leafy green products. For the complete list, check the Food Standards Australia New Zealand website.
Symptoms of E. coli infection typically include diarrhea (which can be bloody), abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Symptoms usually appear 3-4 days after exposure and most people recover within a week. However, in some cases, particularly among vulnerable populations like young children and the elderly, it can lead to more serious complications.
If you’ve purchased any of the recalled products, do not consume them. You can return the products to the place of purchase for a full refund. Coles Online customers can contact Coles Online Customer Care on 1800 455 400 for a refund or credit. If you’ve already consumed the product and are concerned about your health, seek medical advice.
According to the source documents, no illnesses have been linked to the recalled products as of March 30, 2025. However, health authorities are conducting investigations as a precautionary measure after detecting shiga-toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) in two pre-packaged spinach products during routine surveillance testing.
The contamination was detected through proactive public health surveillance in Queensland. Testing found shiga-toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) in two pre-packaged, ready-to-eat spinach products purchased from separate supermarkets. Following this discovery, the recall was expanded as a precautionary measure while authorities investigate the source of contamination.
