The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has announced a significant recall involving over 72,000 pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products due to potential Listeria contamination.
The products, manufactured by Yu Shang Food, Inc., based in Spartanburg, South Carolina, are linked to an ongoing Listeria outbreak.
Here’s what you need to know about the recall, the risks involved, and how to stay safe.
What Products Are Recalled?
The recall, initially announced on November 9, 2024, has been expanded as of November 25 to include additional items. This recall includes any ready-to-eat food produced by Yu Shang Food before October 28, 2024. Affected products are labeled with the establishment number “P-46684” or “EST. M46684” on the USDA inspection seal.
The recall impacts nearly 30 different products, including a variety of ready-to-eat chicken, beef, and pork products distributed nationwide.
Visit the USDA’s website or Yu Shang Food’s official pages for a full list of recalled products and their labels.
How Was the Contamination Detected?
On October 21, FSIS staff discovered Listeria monocytogenes in some ready-to-eat food samples from Yu Shang Food during routine testing. Environmental samples taken from the production plant also tested positive for the bacteria.
This prompted an investigation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which linked the contaminated products to an active Listeria outbreak in several states.
States Impacted by the Outbreak
As of now, the outbreak has been associated with 11 reported illnesses in the following states:
- California
- Illinois
- New Jersey
- New York
Nine of the affected individuals have been hospitalized, and at least one person has tragically lost their life.
The CDC warns that the number of cases is likely higher than reported, as not all infected individuals seek medical care or undergo testing.
Understanding Listeria and Its Symptoms
Listeria is a harmful bacterium that can cause a severe infection called listeriosis. Symptoms can appear as soon as the same day you eat contaminated food or as long as 10 days later.
Common symptoms of listeriosis:
- Nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting (early symptoms)
- Fever, muscle aches, and fatigue (invasive symptoms)
In severe cases, listeriosis can spread beyond the intestines to other parts of the body, posing severe risks, especially for pregnant women, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
If you experience any concerning symptoms after consuming a recalled product, seeking medical attention is crucial.
What Should You Do if You Have Recalled Products?
The USDA advises anyone with the affected products in their refrigerator or freezer to immediately dispose of them or return them to the place of purchase.
- Do not eat the products, even if they smell or look fine.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces and containers that may have come into contact with the recalled items.
For questions or more information, you can contact Yu Shang Food directly:
- Ling Li (Plant Manager)
- Email: ling16099@yahoo.com
- Phone: 864-310-6313
How to Stay Safe During a Listeria Outbreak
Preventing listeriosis involves proper food safety practices, especially when handling ready-to-eat or perishable items.
Tips to protect yourself:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling food.
- Refrigerate or freeze perishable items promptly.
- Clean and sanitize food preparation surfaces regularly.
- Avoid eating recalled products, even if symptoms are not present.
Pregnant women, older adults, and those with compromised immune systems should take extra precautions and avoid high-risk foods like deli meats and unpasteurized dairy.
Conclusion
This recall serves as a critical reminder of the importance of food safety. The USDA and FSIS are working diligently to address the issue and protect consumers from further harm.
If you suspect you have a recalled product or experience symptoms of listeriosis, take action immediately. Keeping yourself informed and following safe food-handling practices can significantly reduce risk during such outbreaks.
Stay safe, and spread the word to help prevent others from being affected.
FAQs
What products are included in the recall?
The recall includes ready-to-eat chicken, beef, and pork products produced before October 28, 2024. The USDA label shows the establishment number “P-46684” or “EST. M46684.”
What should I do if I have eaten a recalled product?
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you’ve consumed an affected item and are experiencing symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, or muscle aches.
Can I return the recalled items to the store?
Yes, you can return the products to the place of purchase for a refund or dispose of them safely.
How does Listeria contamination happen?
Listeria contamination can occur in food production facilities through improper cleaning, cross-contamination, or environmental exposure.
Who is most at risk for severe illness from Listeria?
High-risk groups include pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.