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.
Details of the Recall
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. “In pregnant women, the infection can cause miscarriages, stillbirths, premature delivery or life-threatening infection of the newborn.”
Prevalence of Listeria Infection
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 highlights the importance of food safety and the need for regular testing and inspection of food products. Consumers are advised to check the lot codes of the products they have purchased and to return or discard any affected products.
FAQs
- Q: What products are affected by the recall?
A: The recall includes El Mas Fino, Los Cabos, and Midamar brand breakfast burritos and wraps with specific lot codes. - Q: What is the risk of listeria contamination?
A: Listeria contamination can cause listeriosis, a serious and sometimes fatal infection, especially for older adults and people with weakened immune systems. - Q: What should consumers do if they have purchased affected products?
A: Consumers should check the lot codes of the products they have purchased and return or discard any affected products. - Q: How many people are infected with listeria each year?
A: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 1,250 people are infected with listeria each year in the United States.
