Broccoli Recall: Marketside Bags Pulled Over Listeria Concerns in 20 States

Braga Fresh has voluntarily recalled 12-ounce bags of Marketside Broccoli Florets sold at Walmart locations in 20 states, citing potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. This pathogen can cause severe illness, particularly in vulnerable populations, including older adults, children, and those with weakened immune systems.

Details of the Recall
The recalled broccoli bags have a best-by date of December 10, 2024, and were distributed to Walmart stores in the following states:

  • Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.

The affected product bears a UPC code of “6 81131 32884 5” and a lot code of “BFFG327A6.” The product is labeled as “washed and ready-to-eat.” Although the product has been removed from store shelves, customers who purchased it may still have it in their freezers.

Health Risks of Listeriosis
Listeria monocytogenes can cause listeriosis, a potentially serious illness. According to the CDC, about 260 of the estimated 1,600 annual cases in the U.S. result in fatalities.

Symptoms of the illness can vary:

  • Digestive symptoms: Diarrhea and vomiting, typically appearing within 24 hours of consuming contaminated food.
  • Invasive symptoms: Fever, muscle aches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and seizures, which can develop up to two weeks later.

Pregnant individuals may experience mild symptoms but face a high risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or severe infection in newborns.

Next Steps for Consumers
Consumers are advised not to consume the recalled broccoli and to discard it immediately. Braga Fresh has assured the public that no illnesses have been reported related to this recall as of December 27.

For questions or concerns, customers can contact Braga Fresh directly at:

Company Statement
Braga Fresh stated that this advisory does not affect other Marketside or Braga Fresh products. The company initially announced the recall on Friday, urging customers to take necessary precautions.

Conclusion
While listeriosis cases are relatively rare, outbreaks remain a serious public health concern. Regular vigilance and adherence to food recall notices are critical to ensuring consumer safety.

keelee-mccain

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