USDA Recalls 10 Million Pounds of Ready-to-Eat Meat for Listeria
Massive Recall Affects Products Made at Oklahoma Plant
A company is recalling nearly 10 million pounds of meat and poultry products made at an Oklahoma plant because they may be contaminated with listeria bacteria that can cause illness and death. BrucePac of Woodburn, Oregon, recalled the roughly 5,000 tons of ready-to-eat foods this week after U.S. Agriculture Department officials detected listeria in samples of poultry during routine testing. Further tests identified BrucePac chicken as the source.
Recalled Products Include 75 Meat and Chicken Products
The recall includes 75 meat and chicken products, including grilled chicken breast strips that were made at the company’s facility in Durant, Oklahoma. They were produced between June 19 and Oct. 8 and shipped to restaurants, food service vendors, and other sites nationwide, government officials said.
Products May Be Still Available for Use
The products have a best-by date of June 19, 2025, to Oct. 8, 2025. Officials are concerned that the products may still be available for use or stored in refrigerators or freezers. The products should be thrown away, they added.
No Confirmed Cases of Illness Linked to Recall
There are no confirmed reports of illness linked to the recall. However, eating foods contaminated with listeria can cause potentially serious illness. About 1,600 people are infected with listeria bacteria each year in the U.S., and about 260 die, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Listeria Infections Typically Cause Fever, Muscle Aches, and Tiredness
Listeria infections typically cause fever, muscle aches, and tiredness and may cause stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. Symptoms can occur quickly or up to 10 weeks after eating contaminated food. The infections are especially dangerous for older people, those with weakened immune systems, or who are pregnant.
Conclusion
The USDA’s recall of nearly 10 million pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products is a significant step to protect public health. If you have any of the recalled products, do not eat them. Throw them away or return them to the place of purchase for a refund.
FAQs
* What is listeria? Listeria bacteria is a type of bacteria that can cause illness and even death.
* How many people are infected with listeria each year in the U.S.? About 1,600 people are infected with listeria bacteria each year in the U.S.
* What are the symptoms of listeria infections? Listeria infections typically cause fever, muscle aches, and tiredness and may cause stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions.
* Who is at risk for listeria infections? Older people, those with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women are at higher risk for listeria infections.
