There’s an important update regarding food safety that you need to know about. More vegetables and bagged salads are being recalled due to fears of contamination with potentially harmful bacteria.
Ohio-based Wiers Farm Inc. has expanded its original recall, initially issued on July 12, to include additional produce sold at major retailers like Walmart, Aldi, and Kroger. The concern is that these products may be contaminated with listeria monocytogenes, according to a notice from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The expanded recall now includes a variety of vegetables such as bagged cucumbers, peppers, yellow squash, zucchini squash, green beans, and jalapenos. These items were sold in bags, individually, or by the pound in stores across at least 13 states.
The recall was issued “out of an abundance of caution” while the company investigates findings reported by the Michigan Department of Agriculture, which prompted the expanded recall.
Wiers Farm, Inc Expands Voluntary Recall on Whole and Salad Cucumbers Due to Possible Contamination with Listeria https://t.co/DWF4AoyxU3 pic.twitter.com/yKFR74XQFM
— U.S. FDA Recalls (@FDArecalls) July 24, 2024
Wiers Farm’s initial recall earlier this month was limited to select whole cucumbers and bagged salad cucumbers due to possible listeria contamination. Notably, these products were not grown or harvested by Wiers Farm but were sourced from out of state and handled and distributed by the company. Wiers Farm is now working closely with the Ohio Department of Agriculture to investigate the issue further.
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause listeriosis when people consume contaminated food. The symptoms of listeriosis can vary from mild to severe. Mild symptoms include fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
However, in more severe cases, individuals may experience headaches, stiff necks, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. The infection can be particularly dangerous and even fatal for young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. It can also cause miscarriages and stillbirths in pregnant women.
The FDA advises consumers who have purchased any of the recalled products to avoid consuming them and to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. It’s crucial to pay attention to these recalls and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones.
