Nationwide Recall Expands to 12 Million Pounds of Potentially Contaminated Meat and Poultry

A nationwide recall of meat and poultry products potentially contaminated with listeria has expanded to nearly 12 million pounds, including ready-to-eat meals sent to U.S. schools, restaurants, and major retailers, according to federal officials.

Safeguarding the Nation's Food Supply: A Comprehensive Recall Effort

Expanding Recall Encompasses Diverse Food Products

The updated recall now includes a wide range of prepared foods, such as salads, burritos, and other items sold at major retailers like Costco, Trader Joe's, Target, Walmart, and Kroger. The meat used in these products was processed at a manufacturing plant in Durant, Oklahoma, operated by BrucePac, a Woodburn, Oregon-based company that supplies precooked meat and poultry to industrial, foodservice, and retail companies across the country.

Listeria Contamination Detected Through Routine Testing

Routine testing conducted by the U.S. Agriculture Department (USDA) revealed the presence of potentially dangerous listeria bacteria in samples of BrucePac chicken. No illnesses have been confirmed in connection with the recall, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has not launched an outbreak investigation.

Extensive List of Affected Products Identified

The recall, issued on October 9th, includes foods produced between May 31st and October 8th. The USDA has published a comprehensive 342-page list of hundreds of potentially affected products, ranging from chicken wraps sold at Trader Joe's to chicken burritos sold at Costco, as well as various types of salads sold at stores like Target and Walmart. These products were also distributed to school districts and restaurants across the country.

Identifying Recalled Items: USDA Establishment Numbers

Consumers can identify the recalled foods by looking for the establishment numbers "51205 or P-51205" inside or under the USDA mark of inspection. The USDA recall site provides a searchable database to help consumers determine if their products are affected.

Proper Handling and Disposal of Recalled Items

The USDA advises consumers to either throw away the recalled foods or return them to the store for a refund. Eating foods contaminated with listeria can lead to potentially serious illness, and the public is urged to exercise caution and follow the recall guidelines.

Listeria Infections: Symptoms and Risks

Listeria infections typically cause fever, muscle aches, and tiredness, and may also lead to more severe symptoms like a stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. These infections can occur quickly or up to 10 weeks after consuming contaminated food and are especially dangerous for older individuals, those with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women.

Ongoing Listeria Outbreak Linked to Deli Meat

The current recall is the latest in a series of listeria-related incidents, with the same type of bacteria responsible for an outbreak tied to Boar's Head deli meat that has resulted in at least 10 deaths since May.The comprehensive recall effort and the ongoing vigilance of federal agencies underscore the importance of maintaining a safe and secure food supply for the American public. As the situation continues to unfold, consumers are advised to stay informed and take appropriate actions to protect themselves and their families.