The Worst Time of My Life
On Monday, August 17 our quality control system identified a Listeria contamination in two separate batches of our soft cheeses.
As a result of this we immediately notified the appropriate authorities (the Tasmanian Dairy Industry Authority (TDIA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)) as well as voluntarily withdrawing all our soft cheeses from the market.
Bruny Island Cheese Co. is currently conducting a Tasmanian recall of all soft cheese with a best before date between September 1, 2009 to October 13, 2009. In addition to this, in order to ensure the risk to public safety is removed, we are voluntarily withdrawing all of our products nationally.
Our customers and our industry peers recognise our passion for excellence and quality – and would expect nothing less than our responsible and professional concern for any potential risk posed to consumers.
Bruny Island Cheese Co. has built its reputation on producing high value, niche products that are recognised nationally as a contributor to the quality Tasmanian brand. We have been overwhelmed by the messages of support from customers, chefs, distributors, the media and other cheese makers who understand the importance of artisan producers such as us. We are determined to quickly emerge from this very difficult situation stronger than ever.
This can only be achieved through determination, innovation and courage. Bruny Island Cheese Co. has been at the forefront of the artisan cheese industry in this country for some years and our commitment to continuing to produce the highest quality artisan cheese remains.
We will continue to work with the TDIA and DHHS to ensure these high levels of quality that we demand are preserved.