Pasta Meals Recalled Over Listeria Concerns
Several companies are recalling pasta and ready-to-eat meals because of a possible Listeria contamination. The products were sold at major retailers across the United States. Consumers should check their refrigerators for affected items.
Which Products Are Recalled?
The recall involves various pasta salads, ready-to-eat meals, and similar products. These items were available at stores like Trader Joe’s, Walmart, Kroger, and Albertsons. The specific products and lot codes vary by retailer. Check the official recall notices for complete lists.
What is Listeria?
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause a serious infection called listeriosis. This infection primarily affects pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. In some cases, listeriosis can be fatal.
What Should Consumers Do?
Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled products should not eat them. Instead, they should dispose of the items immediately or return them to the store for a full refund. It is also recommended to clean and sanitize refrigerators and any surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled products.
How to Identify Recalled Products
Check the product name, dates, and lot codes on the packaging. Compare this information with the details provided in the official recall announcements from the retailers and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). If you are unsure whether a product is affected, it is best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
Where Were the Products Sold?
The recalled items were sold at various locations across the United States. Check the specific recall notices from each retailer (Trader Joe’s, Walmart, Kroger, and Albertsons) to determine if the products were available in your area. These notices include lists of states and store locations where the recalled items were sold.
Company Statements
The companies involved are working with the FDA to investigate the source of the contamination and to ensure that all affected products are removed from store shelves. They are also issuing public statements to inform consumers about the recall and to provide guidance on what to do if they have purchased a recalled product. In addition, they are encouraging consumers with questions or concerns to contact their customer service departments for assistance.
Source: usatoday.com
