Produce at Walmart is being recalled after amid concerns of possible listeria contamination. Listeria is a harmful bacteria that if an infection is caused, can result in fatalities. Keep reading for more information, including exactly which items are included in the recall and what you should do if you’ve purchased a recalled product.
Produce Recall At Walmart
Wiers Farms has voluntarily announced the recall to include produce sold in twelve different states and at various Walmart and Aldi locations. The affected products were sold at select Walmart stores in Ohio, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia, and select Aldi stores in Ohio, Kentucky, New York, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. The following products are included in the recall:
- Wiers Farm Bagged Poblano - UPC 073064202581 – 16 oz bag
- Wiers Farm Bagged Cubanelle - UPC 073064201836 – 16 oz bag
- Wiers Farm Bagged Green Beans – UPC 073064200846 – variable weight bag
- Wiers Farm Bagged Salad Cucumber – UPC 073064459619 – 2 lb. bag
- Wiers Farm Bagged Serrano – UPC 073064201829 – 4 oz bag
- Wiers Farm Organic Bell Pepper – UPC 073064201416 – 2 count tray
- Wiers Farm Organic Cucumber – UPC 073064201423 – 2 count tray
- Wiers Farm Organic Yellow Squash – UPC 073064201447 – 2 count tray
- Wiers Farm Organic Zucchini Squash – UPC 073064201430 – 2 count tray
- Freshire Farms Bagged Green Beans – 16 oz bag
- Freshire Farms Bagged Jalapenos – 8 oz bag
Listeria Contamination
According to the Ohio-based farm, the products were packaged between July 5th and July 12th this year. So far, there have been no illnesses reported in connection with this recall, but customers are advised to dispose of any recalled items out of an abundance of caution: ""Wiers Farm Inc. is committed to implementing all measures necessary to fully resolve this situation," a statement reads.
Listeria is a bacteria that is extremely dangerous when consumed, especially when it comes to people who are pregnant, people who are at least 65 years old, and people with weakened immune systems. Listeria commonly contaminates leafy greens, ice cream, peaces, nectarines, and plums.
Listeria Outbreak Across 12 States
Though not connected to this recall, there have been two deaths in the United States as a result of a listeria outbreak. The deaths have been connected to listeria contaminating deli meat. "Listeria spreads easily among deli equipment, surfaces, hands, and food," the CDC explained. "Refrigeration does not kill Listeria, but reheating to a high enough temperature before eating will kill any germs that may be on these meats."
The known deaths were recorded in Illinois and New Jersey, but cases have been reported in Georgia, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Wisconsin as well.
What To Do If You've Purchased A Recalled Product
If you've purchased the recalled produce, dispose of it immediately and do not consume it. If you have consumed the recalled produce, but aren't experiencing any symptoms, just be aware of any abnormal reactions.
If you are experiencing symptoms, including fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal issues, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Any other questions or concerns can be directed to 419-933-2161.
