SINGAPORE – All rockmelons imported from Australia that have been implicated in a deadly bacteria outbreak have been recalled, said the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority (AVA) on Monday (March 5).

In a press statement, the AVA said it was notified by counterparts from Australia and New Zealand regarding a recall in Australia of whole rockmelons, which have been linked to an outbreak of human listeriosis.

"AVA has since worked with importers to remove the remaining unsold rockmelons from the implicated consignments," it said.

"The recall has been completed. There has been no further import of rockmelons from the affected grower since, and import has been suspended."

Listeriosis is a bacterial infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes. The bacteria is found in the environment, such as soil, water, effluents and the faeces of humans and animals.

Pregnant women, the elderly or individuals with a weakened immune system are at highest risk of serious disease which could include brain and heart infections or complications in the foetus/newborn.

Two consignments of rockmelons from a grower in North South Wales, Australia were imported and available for sale from February 12 to March 2.

The AVA said that the rockmelons from the affected consignments were being sold at Sheng Siong supermarket outlets and wet markets. When notified by AVA, Sheng Siong voluntarily removed the affected rockmelons.

The AVA added that all rockmelons that are currently available for sale are not implicated in the recall.

"To ensure food safety, AVA has taken samples of locally sold rockmelons from other sources for food safety tests, including testing for listeria," it said.

The AVA is also following up with the Food Standards Australia and New Zealand regarding updates to the incident.

"Consumers who suspect that they have purchased the implicated rockmelons within the affected time period are advised not to consume it. Those who do not feel well after consumption should seek medical attention," said the AVA.