Tahsildaroğlu Issues Statement After 'Deadly Bacteria' Detected in Cheese

Tahsildaroğlu has responded to a food safety scandal involving the detection of Listeria monocytogenes bacteria in its 'Kırık Beyaz Peynir' (Cracked White Cheese). The issue came to light after a consumer who ate the cheese reported falling ill. Following the complaint, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry swiftly intervened, collecting a sample from a retail shelf and initiating an analysis. The laboratory results indicated the presence of the harmful bacteria in the specific batch (lot number 290625, 400g). Consequently, the ministry ordered the product to be withdrawn from the market as a precautionary measure. Tahsildaroğlu confirmed the recall process and stated that an internal investigation was launched. The company collected environmental samples from 37 points within its production facility, along with samples from the affected batch and consecutive batches, for analysis at accredited laboratories. According to Tahsildaroğlu, these analyses did not detect Listeria monocytogenes. The company emphasized that the contaminated product was manufactured on a separate production and packaging line, and no irregularities were found in their other products. They also asserted that their facilities operate in compliance with national regulations and GFSI-recognized international food safety standards, undergoing regular inspections. Tahsildaroğlu urged the public not to believe unsubstantiated claims circulating on social media and some media outlets that exaggerate the scope of the incident and target their other products and brand. The company is pursuing legal action against those spreading false information.

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Following a consumer complaint received via the Alo 174 Food Hotline, a sample was taken from a chain store shelf of our 400-gram Aged Classic Kırık Beyaz Peynir product with lot number 290625. The analysis conducted by the Kocaeli Food Control Laboratory Directorate found the product to be unsuitable regarding L. monocytogenes, and this was reported to our company.