A recent recall of fresh broccoli florets sold at Walmart stores has shoppers concerned about potential Listeria contamination. Here’s a breakdown of the recall, the risks involved, and what to do if you’ve purchased the affected product.
The Recall Details
On 01/02/2025, Walmart issued a voluntary recall of its Marketside brand broccoli florets due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. The recall affects specific products sold in 11 states: Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, and Tennessee.
Affected Product:
- Marketside Classic Broccoli Florets
- UPC Code: 681131019896
- Use By Date: October 23, 2025 (or earlier)
Important Note: This recall only affects broccoli florets with the specific UPC code and Use By date mentioned above. Other Walmart Marketside products, including frozen broccoli, are not included in this recall.
What is Listeria monocytogenes?
Listeria monocytogenes is a type of bacteria that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
What to Do if You Purchased the Recalled Broccoli
If you have purchased Marketside Classic Broccoli Florets with the specified UPC code and Use By date, do not consume them.
- Return the product: Return the recalled broccoli to the Walmart store where you purchased it for a full refund.
- Check your refrigerator: Thoroughly clean your refrigerator, especially any areas where the recalled broccoli was stored, to prevent potential cross-contamination.
- Monitor for symptoms: If you have consumed the recalled broccoli and experience any symptoms of Listeria infection, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Listeria Prevention Tips
- Practice safe food handling: Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling food.
- Clean surfaces: Clean all cutting boards, utensils, and countertops with hot, soapy water after preparing each food item.
- Cook food thoroughly: Ensure that all meats, poultry, and seafood are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Refrigerate promptly: Refrigerate perishable foods within two hours of purchase or preparation.
- Avoid cross-contamination: Keep raw meat, poultry, and seafood separate from other foods in your refrigerator and during preparation.
Staying Informed
It’s important to stay informed about food recalls to protect yourself and your family. Here are some resources to help you stay up-to-date:
- FDA Food Safety Recalls: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website provides information on current food recalls, including details about the recalled products and potential health risks.
- CDC Food Safety Alerts: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issues food safety alerts when there is a significant foodborne outbreak.
- Company Websites: Check the websites of food manufacturers and retailers for information on recalls and food safety.
The Importance of Food Safety
This Walmart broccoli recall serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety practices. By following proper food handling and storage guidelines, you can significantly reduce your risk of foodborne illness. Stay informed, be vigilant, and prioritize food safety in your home.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have concerns about your health, 1 please consult a healthcare professional.
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