Over 60 Ice Cream Products Recalled Due to Listeria Risk

Over 60 Ice Cream Products Recalled Due to Listeria Risk

Key Takeaways

• Well-known ice cream brands, including Hershey’s, Chipwich, and Jeni’s, have been recalled due to potential Listeria contamination.

• No illnesses have been reported, but the FDA advises consumers to return the recalled products.

• Listeria poses a significant health risk, particularly to pregnant individuals, infants, elderly adults, and those with weakened immune systems.

More Than 60 Ice Cream Products Recalled Over Listeria Contamination Risk

More than 60 ice cream products, including popular brands like Hershey’s, Chipwich, and Jeni’s, have been recalled due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The Maryland-based company, Completely Cool, Inc., issued the recall after the FDA found the bacteria during routine sampling. Though no illnesses have been reported, the FDA has urged consumers to return affected products for a full refund.

Understanding Listeria and Its Risks

Listeria monocytogenes is a harmful bacteria that can cause serious infections, particularly in high-risk groups. It can lead to a mild gastrointestinal illness, with symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting, usually occurring within 24 hours of consuming contaminated food. However, invasive Listeria infections, which spread beyond the digestive system, can lead to more severe symptoms such as fever, headache, and fatigue. Pregnant individuals, infants, elderly adults, and those with compromised immune systems are at heightened risk of severe illness or even death due to Listeria infections.

Challenges of Controlling Listeria in Food Processing

Listeria is known to be difficult to eliminate from food processing environments. The bacteria can survive on surfaces and equipment, spreading to food products. It can even thrive in cold environments, making it resistant to refrigeration. This persistence in food facilities contributes to the spread of contamination, as evidenced by earlier outbreaks linked to queso fresco and cotija cheese.

What Consumers Should Do

If you have purchased ice cream from any of the affected brands, it is crucial to return the products to the place of purchase for a full refund. For further inquiries, consumers can contact Completely Cool, Inc. at 410-363-7801 or via email at [email protected].

Important Reminder: Listeria and Food Safety

Listeria is the third leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the United States, according to the CDC. While Listeria infections are rare, they can be particularly dangerous for vulnerable groups, making it essential to follow safety guidelines and heed product recalls.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What should I do if I have Listeria-contaminated ice cream?
  Return it to the store for a refund and avoid consuming it.

• How can I prevent Listeria infection?
  Be vigilant about food safety, clean your kitchen regularly, and avoid consuming foods known to carry a higher risk of contamination.

Expert Tips for Safe Food Consumption

• Regularly check for product recalls to stay informed about potential risks.

• Practice safe food handling, including thorough cleaning of utensils and surfaces.

• Be cautious when consuming dairy products or ready-to-eat foods, especially if you’re pregnant or in a high-risk group.

Stay Informed and Safe

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