Understanding Listeria Monocytogenes
Listeria monocytogenes, commonly known as Listeria, is a type of bacteria that causes listeriosis, a serious infection with symptoms that can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. In more severe cases, it can cause headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. This infection is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, newborns, elderly people, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Listeria can be found in various foods, including deli meats, cheese, and even ice cream.
Recent Recall Announcements
Wiers Farm Recall
Wiers Farm Inc. has recently issued a voluntary recall of whole cucumbers and salad cucumbers due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. This recall was expanded to include a variety of produce items sold at major retailers like Walmart, Aldi, and Kroger across multiple states. The contamination was discovered by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development through routine sampling. While no illnesses have been reported to date, consumers are advised to discard the affected products or return them to the place of purchase.
Affected Retailers and States
- Retailers: Walmart, Save-a-Lot, Kroger, Shop N Save, Shop N Save Express, Shoppers Value, Franklin Foods Inc., Grove City Country Market, Fas Chek Market, Foodland, Pechin Market, Sherwood Forest Foods, Market Basket, Aldi
- States: CT, DE, IL, IN, KY, ME, MD, MI, MO, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, RI, TN, VA, WV
Additional Recalled Products
- Retail Packaged Items:
- Wiers Farm Bagged Poblano (UPC 073064202581)
- Wiers Farm Bagged Cubanelle (UPC 073064201836)
- Wiers Farm Bagged Green Beans (UPC 073064200846)
- Wiers Farm Bagged Salad Cucumber (UPC 073064459619)
- Wiers Farm Bagged Serrano (UPC 073064201829)
- Wiers Farm Organic Bell Pepper (UPC 073064201416)
- Wiers Farm Organic Cucumber (UPC 073064201423)
- Wiers Farm Organic Yellow Squash (UPC 073064201447)
- Wiers Farm Organic Zucchini Squash (UPC 073064201430)
- Freshire Farms Bagged Green Beans
- Freshire Farms Bagged Jalapenos
- Bulk Retail Items:
- Anaheim peppers
- Cilantro
- Cubanelle peppers
- Whole cucumber
- Green beans
- Green bell pepper
- Habanero peppers
- Hungarian wax peppers
- Jalapeno peppers
- Mixed vegetable box (Cleveland and Youngstown Foodbanks only)
- Mustard greens
- Pickling cucumber
- Plain parsley
- Poblano peppers
- Serrano peppers
- Tomatillos
Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled items are urged to check the UPC codes and packaging dates against the recall list provided by Wiers Farm. The company is working closely with regulatory officials to address the issue and ensure the safety of its products.
Health Risks and Symptoms
Listeria infections can be life-threatening, especially for vulnerable populations. Pregnant women need to be particularly cautious as listeriosis can lead to severe complications, including miscarriage, stillbirth, and neonatal infection. The CDC advises that anyone who has consumed a recalled product and experiences symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal issues should seek medical attention immediately.
Preventive Measures and Treatment
To prevent Listeria infection, it is crucial to practice proper food handling and hygiene. This includes:
- Avoiding High-Risk Foods: Pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems should avoid deli meats, soft cheeses, and other high-risk foods unless they are properly cooked.
- Proper Food Storage: Refrigerate perishable items promptly and keep your refrigerator clean.
- Cooking Thoroughly: Ensure that foods are cooked to the appropriate temperatures to kill harmful bacteria.
Treatment for listeriosis typically involves antibiotics, and early diagnosis is key to effective management of the infection.
Recent Outbreaks and Recalls
Deli Meat Listeria Outbreak
A recent Listeria outbreak linked to deli meats has caused 28 illnesses and two deaths across several states, including Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, and New York. The CDC is investigating the source of the contamination, and consumers are advised to be cautious with deli meats and other ready-to-eat products.
Tyson Chicken Recall
Tyson Foods also issued a recall for chicken products due to potential Listeria contamination. This recall highlights the widespread nature of Listeria outbreaks and the importance of monitoring food safety.
Cheese Listeria Recall
There have been multiple recalls of cheese products due to Listeria contamination. Consumers should be aware of the risks associated with consuming cheese on recall and ensure they are not consuming potentially contaminated products.
Wiers Farm Inc. and other affected companies are taking necessary steps to ensure consumer safety. For more information on the recall, consumers can contact Wiers Farm Inc. at (419) 933-2161 or customercare@wiersfarm.com. Stay informed and take precautions to protect yourself and your family from listeria infection.
