Wed Oct 16 12:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Millions of Pounds of Meat Recalled Due to Listeria Contamination

**[CITY, STATE] -** A major food safety recall has been issued for over 10 million pounds of ready-to-eat chicken and turkey products due to potential Listeria contamination. The recall, issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), affects products produced by BrucePac, a pre-cooked meat producer, and sold nationwide at major retailers including Aldi, Trader Joe’s, HEB, and Walmart.

The recall includes over 200 different products, many of which are ready-made salad, rice, or pasta bowls containing chicken or turkey. The products were produced between June 19, 2024, and October 8, 2024.

While no illnesses have been reported in connection with the recall, the FSIS is urging consumers to discard any products that may be affected. The agency is concerned that some of the recalled products may still be available in restaurants, institutions, and other establishments, or have been used as ingredients in other products that are still on shelves or in consumers’ homes.

Listeria monocytogenes, the bacteria responsible for Listeria infections, was discovered during routine testing of BrucePac’s ready-to-eat poultry products. The FSIS traced the source of the bacteria back to the company’s ready-to-eat chicken.

Listeria infections can cause gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting, typically starting within 24 hours of consuming contaminated food. While most people experience mild symptoms that resolve within three days, some may develop a more severe, invasive infection where the bacteria spreads beyond the gut.

Invasive listeria is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. In pregnant women, it can lead to miscarriage, premature delivery, and stillbirth. For newborns, it can cause a life-threatening infection.

Consumers are advised to check the full list of recalled products and product labels on the USDA’s website. If you have any products included in the recall, do not eat them. Throw them away or return them to the place of purchase.

If you experience any symptoms of a Listeria infection and believe you may have consumed contaminated food, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

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