Milk has been recalled across two Australian states due to potential E. coli contamination.

The issue was identified as a result of company testing. It is not clear what strain of E. coli is involved but there have been no reports of illness.

7-Eleven Pty Ltd recalled its own brand 2-liter full cream milk with a use-by of Feb. 24 that was sold at multiple stores in New South Wales (NSW) and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).

Aldi recalled Farmdale full cream milk 3 liters with a use-by of Feb. 25 that was available for sale in the ACT and certain NSW Aldi stores.

Lion Dairy & Drinks recalled it’s Dairy Farmers 1 liter full cream white milk products with a use-by date of Feb. 25 and it’s Dairy Farmers 3 liter full cream white milk products with a use-by date of Feb. 24.

These products were manufactured at the firm’s Penrith dairy site and have been distributed across New South Wales through Coles, Woolworths, and IGA sites and some independent outlets such as milk bars, cafes and convenience stores.

The company also recalled Dairy Choice full cream 2 liters and Community Co. The Good dro full cream 2 liters with a use-by date of Feb. 25 and sold in NSW.

Items were distributed in NSW for sale at IGA stores and various independents including milk bars, cafes and convenience stores. Lion Dairy & Drinks contract packs the 2 liter Community Co Good dro product for Metcash and their IGA stores.

Investigation and mitigation measures
A statement from the company said there have been no consumer complaints to date about the products.

“Lion Dairy & Drinks is committed to the highest standards of quality and safety and consumers and customers can be assured that we are undertaking a thorough investigation and will put in place steps to mitigate it happening again.

“This is a food safety issue. As this may cause illness if the product is consumed, Lion Dairy & Drinks immediately moved to recall the products from the market. We encourage anyone who has consumed the products being recalled and who feels unwell to seek medical advice as required.

“This recall does not impact other Dairy Farmers dairy products made in New South Wales or in other states. The recall of these specific Dairy Choice and Community Co The Good dro products do not impact any other of the same products also manufactured by Lion Dairy & Drinks in states outside New South Wales.”

Lion Dairy & Drinks forms part of the broader Lion Group. The Dairy & Drinks business employs around 2,300 people across Australia with some based in Singapore, Malaysia, and China. The portfolio includes Dairy Farmers, Pura, Dare, Farmers unio, Yoplait, Daily Juice, The Juice Brothers and Berri.

Dairy & Drinks’ activities in Australia are the manufacture, marketing, sales and distribution of white milk, flavored milk, fresh dairy foods, and fruit juices. The Australian manufacturing footprint includes 11 sites including milk, yogurt, and juice facilities.

Symptoms of E. coli infection include abdominal cramps and diarrhea that can become bloody. Fever and vomiting may also occur. The incubation period can range from three to eight days and most patients recover within 10 days.