Countdown recalls frozen veggie mix
Countdown supermarkets are recalling a frozen vegetable mix as a precaution amid fears it could contain a particularly dangerous strain of listeria that has been linked to nine deaths overseas.
The Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) confirmed the recalled products have been traced back to a Hungarian facility, known to be the source of the listeria.
A Countdown spokeswoman said the supermarket had been advised there was a potential risk its Bell Farms Steam Veggies, Carrot, Corn and Broccoli bags contained the bacteria.
The company withdrew one batch of the Bell Farms frozen vegetables on Friday from all Countdown, SuperValue, and FreshChoice stores and has since recalled all batches of the product. Anyone who has purchased this product can return it to any of our stores for a full refund.
Frozen vegetables generally pose no risk if cooked correctly before eating, she said. Listeria can cause illness in pregnant woman and their unborn babies, newborns, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.
Information on the recall is available here. More information on food safety and listeria can be found here.
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.
Warnings about scams
This Fraud Awareness Week, we’re reminding everyone to stay sharp and look out for the warning signs of scams to stop them before they start.
Here’s what to watch out for:
🔍 Unrealistic offers or promises of easy money that are too good to be true
🔍 Pressure tactics: Scammers may rush or threaten you to act immediately.
🔍 Requests for personal info: Be cautious if you’re asked for bank details, passwords, or sensitive information.
🔍 Unusual payment methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
🔍 Unverified contacts: Emails, calls, or messages from unknown or suspicious sources.
How to protect yourself:
✅ Stop and think before sharing personal details or making payments.
✅ Don't click on any links until you know that it is safe.
✅ Verify the source: Contact the organisation directly using official channels.
✅ If something’s not right, it's OK to hang up, walk away, ignore it and move on.
If you wish to report a scam, contact Police on 105 or report it online via 105.police.govt.nz/use-105.
Tactile texture
Welcome texture into your room by using leftover Resene Anaglypta wallpaper to accentuate furniture and décor items. Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.
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