The holiday season often sees families stocking up on ready-to-eat meals for convenience, but recent news may prompt a closer look at your fridge and freezer.
Yu Shang Food, Inc., a Spartanburg, South Carolina-based company, has issued a significant recall of approximately 72,240 pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products due to potential Listeria contamination.
This recall, initially announced on November 9, 2024, was expanded on November 25 to include additional items, creating concern for consumers nationwide.
Listeria monocytogenes, the bacteria at the center of the recall, poses serious health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Here’s everything you need to know about the recall, the products affected, and what to do if you’ve purchased them.
Details of the Recall
What Prompted the Recall?
On October 21, during routine inspections, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) detected Listeria monocytogenes in both food and environmental samples from Yu Shang Food’s processing plant. In response, the company initiated a recall to ensure public safety.
Since then, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has linked the contaminated products to a Listeria outbreak. Reports indicate 11 confirmed cases across California, Illinois, New Jersey, and New York, resulting in nine hospitalizations and one tragic death.
The CDC believes the actual number of illnesses may be higher, as many people recover without seeking medical care or testing.
Products Impacted by the Recall
The recall includes nearly 30 ready-to-eat meat and poultry products, all produced before October 28, 2024. These items bear the establishment numbers “P-46684” or “EST. M46684” on the USDA inspection label.
Some notable products include:
- Japanese Chasu Pork Belly
- Braised Pork Belly in Brown Sauce
- Spicy Duck Head
- Cooked Chicken Livers
- Pickled Chicken Feet
- Braised Beef Shank
- Spicy Pork Feet
- Lambs Head Soup (frozen)
A comprehensive list of the recalled products is available online. Consumers should inspect their purchases carefully and immediately stop using any affected items.
Health Risks of Listeria Contamination
Listeria monocytogenes can cause listeriosis, a potentially severe illness. Symptoms can appear as early as the same day of consumption or as late as 10 days afterward.
Common Symptoms
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Flu-like aches and fatigue
In severe cases, the infection can become invasive, leading to serious complications such as meningitis or blood infections. Pregnant individuals are particularly vulnerable, as listeriosis can cause pregnancy complications, including miscarriage or stillbirth.
If you suspect you’ve consumed contaminated food and are experiencing symptoms, consult a healthcare provider immediately.
What to Do If You Have Recalled Products
The USDA and CDC urge consumers to take the following steps:
- Inspect Your Purchases: Check your refrigerator or freezer for any recalled items.
- Dispose of Contaminated Products: Throw them away or return them to the store where they were purchased.
- Sanitize Surfaces: Clean and disinfect areas where the recalled products were stored to prevent cross-contamination.
- Monitor Your Health: Be alert for any symptoms of listeriosis and seek medical attention if needed.
Impact and Industry Responsibility
The recall highlights the importance of strict food safety protocols and routine inspections. Listeria contamination can occur during processing, packaging, or storage, making it crucial for food companies to maintain rigorous hygiene standards. Yu Shang Food’s recall serves as a reminder of the potential dangers posed by lapses in safety measures.
This incident also underscores the role of agencies like the USDA and CDC in protecting public health. Their swift actions have helped identify the source of the outbreak and provided guidance to consumers on how to stay safe.
Conclusion
The Yu Shang Food recall is a sobering example of how quickly a foodborne illness outbreak can escalate. By staying informed and vigilant, consumers can protect themselves and their families from potential risks.
As you prepare meals this holiday season, remember the importance of food safety. Check labels, follow recall notices, and prioritize hygiene to ensure your celebrations are healthy and worry-free.
FAQs
1. What products are included in the recall?
The recall includes nearly 30 ready-to-eat meat and poultry products produced before October 28, 2024. These items bear establishment numbers “P-46684” or “EST. M46684” on the USDA inspection label.
2. What is Listeria, and how does it affect health?
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that causes listeriosis, an infection marked by symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and flu-like aches. Severe cases can lead to meningitis, blood infections, or complications in pregnancy.
3. What should I do if I have purchased a recalled product?
Dispose of the product or return it to the store where you bought it. Clean any surfaces the product may have touched to avoid cross-contamination.
4. How can I tell if I have listeriosis?
Symptoms may appear within a few hours to 10 days after consuming contaminated food. Look for signs like fever, fatigue, diarrhea, and muscle aches. If you experience these symptoms, consult a healthcare provider.
5. Where can I find more information about the recall?
Details about the recall and a full list of affected products are available through the USDA or Yu Shang Food’s customer service resources. You can also contact your local health department for additional guidance.
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