The sandwiches were sold in 330 gram packages bearing the UPC 0 56040 37452 6, an expiry date of May 18, and the Establishment number 318.

They were distributed in Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island.

Listeria bacteria can pose a serious health threat, but so far there have been no reports of illnesses linked to the product.

Listeriosis can cause high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness and nausea.

Pregnant women, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk.