A health warning has prompted a potato recall affecting six Western states: Arizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Nevada. This recall involves more than 10,000 potato products, specifically Veggies Made Great brand Broccoli Cheddar Breakfast Potato Bakes, due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.
Initially reported in early May, the recall was voluntarily initiated following concerns over Listeria contamination. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has now updated the risk level of the recall to Class II, indicating that the products could cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences.
The recall affects consumers in:
Food Safety News advises consumers who have consumed the recalled products to seek medical advice and monitor for symptoms, which can take up to 70 days to appear. Symptoms include vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headache, and neck stiffness. Vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, the elderly, young children, and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk.
Listeria monocytogenes can contaminate food without altering its appearance or smell. Annually, the CDC estimates 1,600 Listeria infections in the U.S., resulting in approximately 260 deaths, making it the third leading cause of death from foodborne illness.
The FDA continues to monitor the recall, ensuring all contaminated products are removed from the market. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed through FDA updates and public notices regarding the recall.
For further information and updates on the potato recall, visit the FDA website or follow their weekly Enforcement Report.
Source: FDA website