The Government of Victoria has warned residents in the region about the discovery of the Listeria bacteria on Coles brand chocolate trifles that had an expiry date of July 3, 2011.

According to the Department of Health, the bacteria cause minor to moderate symptoms of similar to the flu. It is considered dangerous for pregnant women and people with weak immune systems.

It has been reported that the bacteria can begin causing symptoms between 3 to 70 days after consumption. Victoria's acting Chief Health Officer Dr. Rosemary Lester said that Listeria was found in a batch of Coles Chocolate Trifles that went on sale beginning on June 23.

According to a Coles’ spokesperson, the cause behind the Listeria contamination is unknown and occurred in a batch of chocolates that were considered to be properly handled. The chocolates were found to be contaminated after a regular product safety examination and health authorities were alerted immediately.

As for now, there have been no reported cases of illness, but Dr. Lester has suggested that if anyone has developed symptoms’ of the flu after the eating any of the chocolates then they should immediately consult a doctor and be tested for Listeriosis.