Posted BY: Bill | NwoReport
Green organic kiwifruit is being recalled in 14 states due to potential listeria contamination, as reported by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The recall is initiated by David Oppenheimer and Company, who found Listeria monocytogenes in some clamshell packages of kiwi during testing. The affected products, bearing the Zespri brand and specific UPC and GTIN bar codes, were shipped between June 14 and July 7, 2023. The recall includes states like Florida, Georgia, Texas, and more, encompassing a range of regions.
The contamination has been traced back to two New Zealand grower lots. Although no illnesses have been reported so far, listeriosis, a severe and sometimes fatal infection, can result from consuming contaminated fruit. Listeria poses a greater risk to vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can range from high fever, nausea, and diarrhea to more serious complications including stillbirths and miscarriages in pregnant women. The bacteria’s ability to survive refrigeration and freezing is a concern.
What Is Listeria?
Federal health officials say that listeria is a bacteria that can cause severe or fatal illness in children, the elderly, or individuals with compromised immune systems. Healthy people can suffer short-term problems including a high fever, nausea, stiffness, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and headaches. Among pregnant women, the organism can cause stillbirths and miscarriages.
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This incident comes amidst a broader context of recalls due to listeria concerns. Another recall involved Real Kosher brand Soft Serve On The Go ice cream in 19 states, prompted by potential listeria contamination. While the affected ice cream cups led to illnesses in New York and Pennsylvania, the company has ceased production and assures the public of its commitment to safety. These recalls highlight the need for vigilance in food safety measures, particularly for products susceptible to listeria contamination, which can occur during various stages of production and handling.
In conclusion, the recall of green organic kiwifruit serves as a precautionary measure against potential listeria contamination. The FDA’s role in monitoring and addressing food safety concerns underscores the importance of these actions to protect public health. While no illnesses have been reported in connection to the recalled kiwifruit, the recall itself emphasizes the proactive steps taken by companies to ensure consumer safety. The incidents also remind consumers to be mindful of food handling and consumption practices, particularly for vulnerable groups susceptible to listeria-related complications.
