Listeria Concerns Prompt Action on Almost 10 Million lbs of Meat
Consumers across the United States are urged to check their freezers after a massive recall of ready-to-eat (RTE) meat and poultry products due to possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination.
The recall, initiated by Oklahoma-based BrucePac, affects an alarming amount – nearly 10 million pounds (9,986,245 lbs) – of potentially contaminated items.
The issue came to light after the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) conducted routine product testing. Their analysis of RTE poultry products produced by BrucePac identified Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections.
Details of the Recall
While a complete list of affected products is still being compiled, the FSIS has provided some key identifiers. The recalled items were produced from June 19, 2024, to October 8, 2024, and bear the establishment numbers "51205 or P-51205" inside or under the USDA mark of inspection.
They were distributed to restaurants and institutions nationwide, and there's a possibility they could be present in some home freezers.
What is Listeria?
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium commonly found in soil and water. It can contaminate food products like unpasteurized dairy products, uncooked meats, processed meats, and even fresh produce if proper sanitation procedures are not followed during processing or handling.
This poses a particular risk for vulnerable populations, including:
Pregnant women: Listeria can easily pass from mother to fetus during pregnancy and can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or serious illness in newborns.
Newborns: Babies are especially susceptible to Listeriosis (infection caused by Listeria) within the first few weeks of life. Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, fussiness, and seizures.
Older adults: The immune system weakens with age, making older adults more susceptible to Listeria infection. Symptoms in this population can resemble the flu.
People with weakened immune systems: Individuals with chronic illnesses, organ transplants, or undergoing chemotherapy are at higher risk due to compromised immune function.
Symptoms of Listeria
Symptoms of Listeriosis typically appear within 3 weeks of consuming contaminated food. They can range from mild, including fever, muscle aches, headache, nausea, and vomiting, to severe, such as meningitis, sepsis, and even death.
Pregnant women experiencing flu-like symptoms should consult a healthcare professional immediately, as Listeria infection can lead to complications like miscarriage or premature birth. If you suspect you may have consumed contaminated meat and are experiencing symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
Protecting Yourself
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk of Listeria exposure:
Check for Recalls: Always stay updated on current food recalls. You can find a comprehensive list on the FDA's website https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts.
Read Labels Carefully: Pay close attention to the "use-by" date on your meat purchases. Don't consume any product past its expiration date.
Purchase from Reputable Sources: Buy meat from well-known and reliable retailers that prioritize food safety practices.
Practice Proper Storage: Keep your meat refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C) and consume it within a reasonable timeframe, preferably within the recommended "use-by" date.
Cleanliness is Key: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food.
Separate Your Meats: Avoid cross-contamination by using separate utensils for scooping meat and other foods.