Made Fresh Salads Inc, a New York-based food producer, has voluntarily recalled all of its Ready to Eat Deli Style Salads and cream cheeses because the products may be contaminated with listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria that can cause severe diarrhea and muscle aches.
The recall covers several dozen containers of ready-made salads and cheeses that were shipped to retail stores and distributors across New York City, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
The products were sold in 30-pound and 5-pound white plastic tubs bearing either a Made Fresh Salads label or a Northside label, as well as in half-size aluminum pans. They carry expiration dates ranging from September 3 through September 18, printed on the bottom left corner of the label.
The FDA's recall notice also states that some of the products may have been repackaged by retail locations in deli-style or other retail packaging, meaning shoppers may not immediately recognize the original branding.
Why the recall was issued
FDA officials said the recall was initiated after sample tests conducted by the agency and the company found that some areas of the facility producing the salads and cheeses tested positive for listeria monocytogenes.
No illnesses have been reported so far. While most people who become infected recover on their own, the FDA warned that listeria infection can cause organ failure and, in pregnant women, miscarriage or stillbirth in rare but severe cases.
Company response
Made Fresh Salads has ceased production and distribution of the affected products and is investigating the cause of the contamination. Consumers who have purchased the recalled items are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Those with questions can contact the company at (718) 765-0082, Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm. A full list of the recalled products is available on the FDA's website.
Third recall in less than a year
This is the third recall reported by Made Fresh Salads Inc within the past year. In October, the company recalled all lots and codes of its LoBoy and Made Fresh Salad brand Macaroni Salad and Tuna Deluxe Salad after inspectors from the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets found listeria.
In February, it recalled 14 cream cheese and tofu spread items after its own routine sampling found that part of a mixer used to make the finished product was contaminated with listeria.
Both of those earlier recalls were designated Class I by the FDA, a category reserved for situations in which there is a reasonable probability that use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death. The new recall has not yet been classified.
What is listeria
Listeria, also called listeriosis, is a serious infection caused by eating food contaminated with the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. It is found in moist environments including soil, water, decaying vegetation and animals, and it can survive refrigeration and other standard food preservation methods.
Many foods can harbor the bacteria, but it is most commonly found in unpasteurized milk, soft cheeses and ready-to-eat foods such as pre-packaged sandwiches. Cooked shellfish, cured meats and fish, including sushi, and pre-cut fruit are also considered risks.
Health risks of infection
Around 1,250 Americans are infected with listeria each year. Most recover on their own, but the infection can cause fever, muscle aches, headache, a stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance and convulsions, sometimes preceded by diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms. It can also cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
About 250 Americans die of the infection each year, which can happen if it spreads beyond the gut and affects the central nervous system.
