The frozen vegetable products were distributed to New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Florida through local distributors between July 18 and Aug. 4, according to the notice. Endico initiated the recall after a sampling done at one of the distributors revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes bacteria.
Symptoms vary based on the infection severity, with the more severe forms turning out to be life-threatening, especially for young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.
The FDA advises people to consult with a physician immediately if there are doubts about being infected with the bacteria.
The recalled Endico products were packaged in clear 2.5lbs. plastic bags with lot codes 110625 and 170625, and use-by dates of June 6, 2027, and June 16, 2027, for peas and carrots, and mixed vegetables, respectively.
No illnesses have been reported to date, the agency said.
Following the discovery of the bacteria, the company ceased all distribution of the product, and is conducting an investigation as to the origin of the problem, said the FDA.
The Epoch Times reached out to Endico for comment.
Listeria Outbreaks
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is currently one listeria outbreak in the United States.The outbreak has resulted in 17 cases, 16 hospitalizations, and three deaths across 13 states.
The meals were sold at Kroger and Walmart under the Marketside brand and the Home Chef brand.
The clinic suggested keeping things clean at all times. Among its recommendations was to wash hands with warm water before and after handling food, and wash utensils and cutting boards with hot, soapy water; scrub raw vegetables under plenty of running water, but desist from rinsing raw meat and poultry as this could spread the bacteria to other kitchen surfaces; cook food thoroughly to a safe temperature, and refrigerate what is perishable; and retain 0 degrees F or lower temperatures in freezers.
For pregnant women or people with weakened immunity, the clinic suggests being extra cautious with these foods: soft cheeses and Mexican-style cheeses, hot dogs and deli meats, meat spreads, smoked seafood, raw or lightly cooked sprouts, leftover cut melon, and unpasteurized milk.
The agency advised people with diarrhea to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
Listeria infection is the third leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the United States, with 1,600 people infected and 260 people dying each year from the infection.