Massive Recall of Ready-to-Eat Meat and Poultry Due to Listeria Risk
BrucePac, a company based in Oklahoma, is recalling millions of pounds of meat products across the United States due to potential contamination with listeria monocytogenes bacteria. This information was provided by the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).
Details of the Recall
The recall involves approximately 9,986,245 pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry, according to an announcement by the FSIS on October 9. The consumption of food contaminated with L. monocytogenes can lead to listeriosis, a severe infection that primarily affects older adults, individuals with compromised immune systems, and pregnant women and their newborns. Symptoms of listeriosis include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions, often preceded by diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms.
BrucePac, which operates two manufacturing plants and distributes its products nationwide, produced the recalled items between June 19, 2024, and October 8, 2024. These products were then shipped to distributors and other establishments and were eventually sold to restaurants and institutions. The recalled items bear establishment numbers "51205 or P-51205" printed inside or below the USDA mark of inspection.
No Confirmed Cases Yet
As of now, there have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions, according to the announcement. However, anyone who is concerned about potential illness is advised to contact a healthcare provider. The risk of contamination was discovered during routine testing of BrucePac products by the FSIS, which found that these items tested positive for listeria monocytogenes.
The FSIS expressed concern that some of the contaminated products might still be available for use in restaurants, institutions, and other establishments. These establishments may have used the affected meat and poultry in ready-to-eat products that could still be on store shelves or in consumers' refrigerators or freezers. The agency urged these establishments not to serve or use these products and advised that they should either dispose of them or return them to the place of purchase.
In recent months, several companies have withdrawn their products from the market due to concerns about listeria contamination.
The Threat of Listeria
Listeria is the third leading cause of death from foodborne illnesses in the United States, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The agency estimates that about 1,600 Americans contract listeria each year, resulting in approximately 260 deaths.
More than half of all infections occur among people aged 65 years and older. "As you get older, your immune system has a harder time recognizing and getting rid of harmful germs, including Listeria. You also have less stomach acid, which can help kill germs," the CDC states. Among pregnant women, one in 25,000 contracts the pathogen annually. Even if the mother does not feel sick, listeria can spread to the baby and cause harm.
The CDC advises people to choose safer foods to prevent listeria infection, such as avoiding foods like unpasteurized soft cheeses, unheated deli meats, cold cuts, hot dogs, fermented or dry sausages, and refrigerated smoked fish.
Bottom Line
The recall of nearly 10 million pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products due to potential listeria contamination is a significant event that underscores the importance of food safety. The potential health risks associated with listeria are severe, particularly for older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems. It is crucial for consumers to stay informed about such recalls and take appropriate precautions. What are your thoughts on this matter? Feel free to share this article with your friends and discuss it. You can also sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is available every day at 6 pm.
