Nearly 10 million pounds of recalled chicken and beef found in Trader Joe's, Aldi and other products
Birspak has issued a recall for more than nine million pounds of packaged meat and poultry products due to potential Listeria contamination, according to a report from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The recall affects various grocery stores, including Trader Joe's, H-E-B, Walmart, and Aldi.
List of Affected Products
The affected items were produced and shipped to restaurants and establishments between June 19, 2024, and October 8, 2024. The following is a list of specific products that are being recalled:
- H-E-B Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole: "Best before" date of 080925
- H-E-B Texas Ranch Chicken Casserole: "Best before" date of 082725
- H-E-B Texas Ranch Style Chicken with Ranchero Beans and Mexican Style Rice: "Best before" date of 090325
- Trader Joe’s Lemon Chicken and Arugula Salad: "Best before" date of 9/09/24 through 10/14/24
- Trader Joe’s Tarragon Chicken Salad Wrap: "Best before" date of 9/09/24 through 10/14/24
- Trader Joe's Turkey Club Wrap: "Best before" date of 9/09/24 through 10/14/24
- Fresh Express Gourmet Cafe Salads Chicken Caesar (6.3oz): "Use by" date before 10/23/2024
- Fresh Express Gourmet Cafe Salads Santa Fe Style (6.3oz): "Use by" date before 10/11/2024
- Little Salad Bar Santa Fe Style Salad (6.3oz): "Use by" date before 10/16/2024
- Marketside Caesar Salad with Chicken (6.25 oz): "Use by" date before 10/19/2024
- Marketside Santa Fe Style Salad with Chicken (6.35 oz): "Use by" date before 10/15/2024
- Marketside Caesar Salad with Chicken (12 oz): "Use by" date before 10/13/2024
- Marketside Southwest Style Salad with Chicken (11.75 oz): "Use by" date before 10/13/2024
- Little Salad Bar Chicken Caesar Salad (6.3 oz): "Use by" date before 10/20/2024
- HMS Chicken Alfredo: "Use by" date between 8/25/2025 and 10/8/2025
Health Risks Associated with Listeria
The Food Safety and Inspection Service conducted routine testing that confirmed the presence of Listeria in the finished products. Symptoms of Listeria infection may include:
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Headache
- Stiff neck
The elderly, children, people with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women are at higher risk for severe illness from Listeria.
Steps for Consumers
Fortunately, no illnesses have been reported due to this contamination. If you experience symptoms after consuming any of the affected products, it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately.
If you have purchased any of the recalled items, you are advised to return them to the place of purchase. Restaurants and other establishments have been instructed to cease using these products and either throw them away or return them.
Conclusion
The recall of nearly 10 million pounds of chicken and beef products serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety and consumer awareness. It is essential for individuals to stay informed about recalls and take appropriate actions to ensure their health and safety.