Walmart & Others Recall Dairy Product
A nationwide dairy recall has been expanded to include products sold at major retailers such as Costco, Walmart, and others, in connection to a deadly listeria outbreak. The recall comes after evidence linked dairy ingredients made by Rizo-López Foods, Inc. to the ongoing listeria monocytogenes outbreak that has been under investigation since 2014. The company has recalled various products including snack wraps, taco kits, salad kits, and other foods sold at grocery stores across the U.S.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at least 26 people have fallen ill from consuming Rizo-López Foods' cheeses, crema, and yogurt, with 2 deaths and 23 hospitalizations reported in 11 states including Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Nevada, North Carolina, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, and Washington. This outbreak of listeria monocytogenes is especially dangerous for children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can range from fever, muscle aches, and nausea to more severe effects such as organ failure.
The recall was expanded after a sample of Rizo Bros Aged Cotija cheese tested positive for listeria monocytogenes during a routine testing conducted by the Hawaii State Department of Health in January 2024, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This prompted the company to recall one batch of the cheese on January 11, 2024. However, new cases reported in December 2023 prompted the CDC and FDA to further investigate and in response, Rizo-López Foods issued a voluntary recall of their cheese, yogurt, and sour cream products on February 5, 2024.
The CDC and FDA warn consumers not to eat, sell, or serve any of the recalled products and to throw them away immediately. The affected dairy products were sold under various brand names such as Bright Farms, Campesino, Casa Cardenas, Dole, Don Francisco, and more. They were also sold at popular retailers like Costco, Walmart, Save Mart, and Sprouts Farmers Market.
Retailers that sold the recalled products as unbranded taco kits and meals include Albertsons, Safeway, Pavilions, and Vons, among others. The FDA advises customers who have these products in their homes to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
The CDC also urges anyone who has consumed these products and is experiencing symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea to seek medical attention immediately. It is crucial to report any suspected cases of listeriosis to a healthcare provider to receive appropriate treatment.
Listeria monocytogenes infections can be especially harmful to pregnant women, causing miscarriage, stillbirth, or severe illness in the newborn. Thus, pregnant women and their babies should avoid consuming any of the recalled products.
The FDA and CDC are working closely with Rizo-López Foods to identify the source of the contamination and prevent future outbreaks. In the meantime, consumers are advised to check their refrigerators for any of the recalled products and dispose of them properly. They are also reminded to practice good food safety habits, such as thoroughly cooking foods and washing hands and surfaces after handling potentially contaminated foods.
This nationwide dairy recall serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of foodborne illnesses and the importance of proper food handling and storage practices. The FDA and CDC will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as necessary. In the meantime, consumers are urged to be cautious and vigilant when purchasing and consuming dairy products.