In a significant public health alert, Almark Foods has expanded its recall of hard-boiled eggs due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a harmful bacterium that can lead to serious infections. The recall encompasses various well-known brands, including Eggland’s Best, Kirkland, and Kroger, affecting all hard-boiled egg products produced at the company’s Gainesville, Georgia facility. This includes retail, pillow pack, pouch pack, frozen diced, and protein kit offerings.
Listeria poses particular dangers for vulnerable populations, such as infants, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. While healthy adults may experience mild symptoms like fever, headache, and gastrointestinal distress, Listeria infections can result in severe outcomes, including miscarriages and stillbirths in pregnant women. It is reported that pregnant women and patients with cancer are ten times more susceptible to Listeria infections compared to the general population.
Almark Foods supplies many retailers, including major chains like Walmart, Costco, and Trader Joe’s. The initial recall was announced on December 20, 2019, and was later expanded on December 23 due to a linked outbreak that resulted in several illnesses and one confirmed death in Texas. The CDC advises at-risk individuals to discard any store-bought hard-boiled eggs or related items, such as egg salad, and to thoroughly clean any storage areas where these products were kept. Moreover, before dining out, consumers are encouraged to verify with restaurants that they do not source hard-boiled eggs from Almark Foods.
Consumers can identify affected products by checking the “Best If Used By” date. Those beginning with the letter “G” denote items manufactured at the Gainesville facility and are therefore included in the recall. Products marked with “N” or “Y” are safe and not part of this recall.
This year has seen a notable increase in food recalls, including a significant incident with Tyson Foods involving chicken nuggets and multiple romaine lettuce recalls due to E. coli outbreaks across 16 states. Symptoms of an E. coli infection can range from nausea and diarrhea to abdominal pain and dehydration. It is crucial to take Listeria seriously; if any related symptoms arise, seek medical attention without delay.
The recalled hard-boiled eggs are ingredients in popular items such as Trader Joe’s Egg Salad and Old Fashioned Potato Salad, which have been distributed to stores in 30 states. As a precaution, Almark has temporarily halted all production at its Gainesville facility. For a comprehensive list of affected products and brands, you can refer to the FDA’s official site.
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In summary, the ongoing recall of hard-boiled eggs by Almark Foods highlights the importance of food safety, particularly for at-risk populations. With the potential risks associated with Listeria, consumers should remain vigilant and informed about the products they consume.
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