Introduction to the Public Health Warning
The U.S. Department of Agriculture is warning customers that ready-to-eat meals produced by FreshRealm could have listeria contamination. The USDA’s Food and Safety Inspection Service issued a public health warning on Tuesday over products sold by Blue Apron and Marley Spoon, both containing riced cauliflower that tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes.
Affected Products
The health alert pertains to two products:
- Sold by Blue Apron: 13.05-oz. plastic tray packages labeled "DISH by Blue Apron Cheesy Chicken Mac with Vegetables" with lot codes 25240 and 25247. The product bears establishment number "P-3081."
- Sold by Marley Spoon: 10.5-oz. packages labeled “BALANCE by Marley Spoon BBQ Sauce Beef Meatballs with Cheesy Cauliflower” with lot code 25255. The product bears establishment number “Est. 47718.”
Status of the Outbreak
There have been no confirmed reports of illness or other adverse reactions, and the products are not related to any ongoing outbreak investigations, according to the USDA. There was no recall issued because the products are no longer available for purchase. Still, the USDA says it is concerned that the products could be in customers’ refrigerators and freezers.
Recommendations for Consumers
Customers who have bought the products are urged not to consume them. The USDA advises customers throw the products away or return them to the place of purchase. Listeria infections can cause fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance and convulsions sometimes preceded by diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms, according to the USDA.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the USDA’s warning about potential listeria contamination in ready-to-eat meals from FreshRealm, sold through Blue Apron and Marley Spoon, is a critical public health alert. Consumers are advised to be vigilant and take immediate action if they have purchased the affected products to avoid any potential health risks.
FAQs
Q: What products are affected by the public health warning?
A: The affected products are "DISH by Blue Apron Cheesy Chicken Mac with Vegetables" with lot codes 25240 and 25247, and “BALANCE by Marley Spoon BBQ Sauce Beef Meatballs with Cheesy Cauliflower” with lot code 25255.
Q: What should I do if I have purchased the affected products?
A: You should not consume the products. Instead, throw them away or return them to the place of purchase.
Q: Are there any confirmed cases of illness related to the affected products?
A: No, there have been no confirmed reports of illness or other adverse reactions related to the consumption of these products.
Q: Why was no recall issued for the products?
A: The products are no longer available for purchase, but the USDA is concerned that they may still be in customers’ refrigerators or freezers, which is why a public health warning was issued instead.
