Introduction to the Recall
M.C.I. Foods Inc. has recalled over 90,000 pounds of its ready-to-eat breakfast burritos and wraps because of a potential listeria contamination in the products’ eggs.
The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced the recall on Saturday after M.C.I. Foods notified the FSIS of a positive listeria contamination after conducting a routine test from its external suppliers.
The recalled burritos and wraps were produced between Sept. 17 and Oct. 14 and were shipped to food service institutions across the country, including schools.
“The Los Cabos, El Más Fino and Midamar brand products are included in the USDA’s National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs,” the FSIS announcement said.
What Foods Are Affected?
The following products are included in the recall:
- El Mas Fino’s Egg, Ham, and Cheese Breakfast Burrito (Lot Code: 80903)
- El Mas Fino’s Egg, Sausage, and Cheese Breakfast Burrito (Lot Code: 80897)
- Los Cabos’ Egg, Cheese, Potato & Cooked Sausage Crumbles (Made with Turkey) Breakfast Wrap (Lot Code: 80900)
- Los Cabos’ Egg, Cheese & Cooked Sausage Crumbles (Made with Turkey) Breakfast Wrap (Lot Code: 80872; 80876; 80881)
- Los Cabos’ Cheese, Cooked Sausage Crumbles (Made with Turkey) & Egg Breakfast Wrap (Lot Code: 80892; 80898; 80931)
- Midamar’s Egg, Cheese & Beef with Sausage Seasoning Breakfast Wrap (Lot Code: 80972; 80977)
Risks Associated with Listeria Contamination
No illnesses had been reported as of Saturday.
The consumption of food contaminated with listeria can cause listeriosis, an infection that is “serious and sometimes fatal” for older adults and people with weakened immune systems, according to the FSIS.
“Listeriosis can cause fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance and convulsions sometimes preceded by diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms,” the FSIS wrote.
“Listeriosis can cause fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance and convulsions sometimes preceded by diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms,” the FSIS wrote. “In pregnant women, the infection can cause miscarriages, stillbirths, premature delivery or life-threatening infection of the newborn.”
Listeria infection is the third leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the United States, with an estimated 1,250 people infected each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Conclusion
The recall of over 90,000 pounds of breakfast burritos and wraps due to potential listeria contamination is a significant food safety concern. Consumers, especially older adults, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems, should be aware of the risks associated with listeria contamination and take necessary precautions to avoid consuming contaminated food.
FAQs
- What products are included in the recall?
The recalled products include El Mas Fino’s Egg, Ham, and Cheese Breakfast Burrito, El Mas Fino’s Egg, Sausage, and Cheese Breakfast Burrito, Los Cabos’ Egg, Cheese, Potato & Cooked Sausage Crumbles (Made with Turkey) Breakfast Wrap, Los Cabos’ Egg, Cheese & Cooked Sausage Crumbles (Made with Turkey) Breakfast Wrap, Los Cabos’ Cheese, Cooked Sausage Crumbles (Made with Turkey) & Egg Breakfast Wrap, and Midamar’s Egg, Cheese & Beef with Sausage Seasoning Breakfast Wrap. - What are the risks associated with listeria contamination?
Listeria contamination can cause listeriosis, an infection that is “serious and sometimes fatal” for older adults and people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of listeriosis include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. - How can I protect myself from listeria contamination?
To protect yourself from listeria contamination, avoid consuming recalled products, and always follow safe food handling practices, such as washing your hands frequently, cooking food to the recommended temperature, and refrigerating perishable foods promptly.
