Listeria Spinach Recall Prompted for Multiple Brands

Consumers in the Newburgh, New York area are urged to avoid certain "Fresh Spinach" products due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination.

The recall was announced by the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). It includes approximately 4,680 pounds of products distributed by Solata Foods LLC under various brand names.

Listeria Risk

Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause serious foodborne illness, known as listeriosis. Symptoms of listeriosis can include fever, muscle aches, headache, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

In pregnant women, listeria infection can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or serious illness in newborns.

Products Recalled

The recalled products are nine-ounce packages of "Fresh Spinach" of various brands, including Solata, Gaia, Full Circle, Farmer Direct, Uncle Vinny's, Bogopa, and Bulk.

The recalled spinach has lot numbers #40606 and #11006 printed on the package with an expiration date of 6/20/24 and 6/24/24 stamped on the side.

The UPC codes for the recalled products can be found on the FSIS website and at the point of purchase.

Timeline of Events

The contamination was discovered during a routine sampling by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Market Food Inspectors.

Subsequent analysis by Food Laboratory personnel revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in a single package of Bogopa "Fresh Spinach."

Although no illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall as of today, Solata Foods LLC is proactively recalling all potentially affected products.

Consumers who have purchased the recalled spinach are urged to:

• Discard the recalled products immediately or return them to the place of purchase.

• Thoroughly clean any surfaces that may have come in contact with the recalled spinach.

• If you believe you may have become ill after consuming the recalled product, consult a healthcare provider immediately.

FSIS Recommendations

The FSIS is conducting a retail effectiveness check to ensure all recalled products are removed from store shelves.

They advise consumers with questions about the recall to contact Solata Foods LLC at 1-800-234-9999 or visit their website for more information.

Solata Foods LLC is cooperating fully with the FSIS investigation and has issued a press release apologizing for the inconvenience and potential health risk caused by the contamination. They are working diligently to ensure all affected products are removed from the market.

Food Safety Tips in Response to Listeria Spinach

Listeriosis can be particularly dangerous for high-risk individuals, including pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

Here are some tips to prevent listeriosis:

• Regularly check the FSIS website or sign up for email alerts to stay informed about food recalls.

• Choose fresh produce that is free of blemishes or bruises, and refrigerate it promptly. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consuming them.

• Use a food thermometer to ensure proper cooking temperatures for all meat products.

• Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling food, and clean and sanitize all surfaces that come into contact with food.

By following these tips and staying informed about food recalls, consumers can help reduce their risk of listeriosis and other foodborne illnesses.