Product recalls happen often now, and it’s important to stay informed to keep your family safe. Being aware of the latest recalls can help prevent sickness or food safety issues, like with chicken, mushrooms, and snack mixes. Here’s a closer look at some major recalls that are affecting grocery stores, restaurants, and homes all over the U.S.
Why Product Recalls Matter
Recalls occur when a product is not safe, like if it has something harmful in it or doesn’t list all the ingredients. When this happens, the products are taken off the shelves right away, and people are told to either bring them back or throw them away.
By staying informed about these recalls, you can prevent serious health complications, including foodborne illnesses like listeria, which can be dangerous, especially for pregnant women, older adults & people with weakened immune systems.
Let’s examine the recent recalls reported and discuss what you need to do to protect yourself.
1. Ready-To-Eat Chicken & Beef Recall
One big recall is happening because around 12 million pounds of cooked chicken and beef might have listeria. This meat was used in meals that are ready to eat like salads, burritos, wraps, and pasta. The bad products were sold in popular grocery stores like Costco, Trader Joe’s, Target, Walmart, Kroger, H-E-B, and Aldi.
The recall doesn’t only affect grocery stores. It also impacts restaurants, schools & other places in the country. If you bought any ready-made meals from these places recently, check the labels or receipts & return any affected items immediately.
What to do:
- Return the product to the store for a full refund.
- Restaurants and institutions should also discard any affected products.
For more details, contact Jeff Golangco, VP of Business Development at BrucePac, at (503) 874-3000 or the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at (888) 674-6854.
2. Enoki Mushrooms Recall Due to Listeria Contamination
Another recall to note is for Enoki King branded mushrooms, which may be contaminated with listeria. These mushrooms were distributed to retailers across the U.S., and the recall involves packages sold in 5.3-ounce plastic containers. Look for lot 4877 and a UPC code 860011505600 on the packaging.
Listeria can cause severe illness, with symptoms including fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can lead to more serious complications, such as meningitis or septicemia.
What to do:
- Dispose of the mushrooms immediately.
- Contact the company at 718-290-6617 if you have questions.
3. Sausage Recall Due to Foreign Objects
A recall involving 14 different sausage products was issued after reports of pieces of a glove being found in the food. These sausages were distributed nationwide, with the code “EST 69B” on the packaging. Unfortunately, not all sausages were labeled with a specific brand, making identifying them harder.
What to do:
- Check for the “EST 69B” code if you recently purchased sausages.
- Return the product for a refund.
- Contact the CFIA at 1-800-442-2342 or email information@inspection.gc.ca for further assistance.
4. Chocolate Fudge Recall Due to Mold Contamination
A favorite sweet treat, Montreal Fudge brand Chocolate Fudge with Nuts, was recently recalled due to possible mold contamination. The affected fudge was sold in 5.6-ounce packages at T.J. Maxx and Marshall’s stores in 41 states.
The recall involves specific lot numbers (0241500805, 0241690105, and 0241690205) and expiration dates marked as “2025/MR/01” or “2025/MR/17.” Mold growth can make people sick, especially those with weak immune systems. It can cause allergies, breathing issues, and other health problems.
What to do:
- Return the fudge to the store for a full refund.
- Contact the manufacturer at info@authentikfudge.com for more details.
5. Grabeez Snack Mix Recall for Undeclared Allergens
If you’re a fan of Grabeez brand The Big Cheese Snack Mix, note that this product was recalled due to undeclared almonds and cashews, which pose a severe risk to people with nut allergies.
The recall affects 3.25-ounce containers sold with a best-before date of “041625” and a UPC of “0 94184 00439 8.” These products were distributed in several states.
Hidden allergens can be very dangerous, causing a severe allergic reaction in people with nut allergies. That’s why it’s important to read food labels carefully, especially if you have food sensitivities.
What to do:
- Please dispose of the snack mix or return it to the store.
- Contact Grabeez at marketing@trulygoodfoods.com or 704-602-0610 if you have questions.
Final Thoughts:
Keeping track of recalls can be overwhelming, but staying informed is essential for your family’s safety. If you have any of these products in your kitchen, following the steps outlined for each recall is necessary.
Whether returning items to the store, contacting the manufacturer, or simply discarding the product, taking immediate action is crucial to prevent health risks.
Check sources like the USDA, FDA, and Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) websites regularly to stay updated on future recalls. You can also sign up for recall alerts to ensure you’re the first to know when a product in your home is affected.
By taking a proactive approach, you’ll protect your health and ensure that you’re making the safest choices for yourself and your loved ones.
