The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated the recall of Marketside Broccoli Florets sold at Walmart stores in 20 states to a Class I recall, indicating the highest risk level for potential health hazards, according to USA Today. This action follows concerns over possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause severe and sometimes fatal infections.
The recall pertains specifically to 12-ounce bags of pre-washed, ready-to-eat Marketside Broccoli Florets. Consumers can identify the affected products by checking for the following details:
- Best-if-used-by date: December 10, 2024
- UPC code: 6 81131 32884 5 (located on the back of the bag)
- Lot code: BFFG327A6 (found on the front of the bag)
Across 20 States
These products were distributed to Walmart stores across 20 states, including Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming, according to Click on Detroit News.
The potential contamination was identified through random sampling conducted by the Texas Department of Health. Following these findings, Braga Fresh, the California-based supplier of the broccoli florets, initiated a voluntary recall on December 27, 2024.
In a statement, the FDA emphasized the severity of the situation by upgrading the recall to a Class I status, which is reserved for situations where there is a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.
What is Listeria?
Listeria monocytogenes is a pathogen that can lead to listeriosis, a serious infection particularly dangerous for young children, elderly individuals, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can include high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In pregnant women, listeriosis can cause miscarriages and stillbirths, according to The Hill.
As of now, no illnesses related to this recall have been reported. However, due to the severity of potential health risks, consumers are strongly advised to check their refrigerators and freezers for the specified product. If found, the broccoli should be disposed of immediately or returned to the place of purchase for a refund.
The FDA also encourages consumers who may have consumed the affected product and are experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention promptly. Additionally, any adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program.
This incident underscores the importance of food safety and the need for consumers to remain vigilant about product recalls. Regularly checking for recall notices and being aware of product details can help prevent potential health risks. The FDA continues to work closely with manufacturers and retailers to ensure that contaminated products are swiftly removed from the market and that consumers are informed promptly.
