A popular provider of guacamole products has announced a voluntary recall of multiple of their products.
The products may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, which can cause a deadly infection.
Where Were Recalled Products Sold?
The recalled fresh guacamole was made by Metro Produce Distributors Inc. of Minneapolis, MN and sold at Lunds & Byerlys grocery stores located throughout the Twin Cities area and St. Cloud.
The products, which were also available at some “Taco Mas” food bars between July 27-31. The products are packaged in clear plastic containers.
No Confirmed Illnesses, But Concerns Persist
No illnesses have been reported stemming from the recalled products, but the company is concerned customers may still have the product at their home.
The recall occurred after routine sampling revealed that the finished product could contain the deadly bacteria.
Company Ceases Production
The Minnesotan company has ceased production and distribution of the recalled products and is cooperating with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Minnesota Department of Agriculture.
Anyone who has eaten the recalled products and has developed symptoms of listeria infection should seek medical attention immediately. Those who haven’t developed symptoms but have consumed the products should monitor themselves for symptoms for the next 70 days.
Who To Contact
Consumers who bought the recalled Lunds & Byerlys guacamole products, with use-by dates of August 2nd 2024, are urged to destroy them.
Alternately, they can return them to any Lunds & Byerlys stores for a full refund. Consumers with questions can contact Metro Produce at 612-436-3825.
Symptoms of Listeria infections
Food contaminated with Listeria often doesn’t look or smell spoiled, yet it can still cause life-threatening infections.
Symptoms of listeria infection include nausea, vomiting, muscle aches, fever, headaches and neck stiffness. Lab tests are required to diagnose listeria infections, as the infection can mimic other illnesses.
High Risk Groups
Pregnant people, the elderly, young children, and the immuno-comprised (such as cancer patients) are particularly at risk from listeria infections.
Although the symptoms for pregnant women may only be mild/flu-like, the infection can lead to stillbirth, infections for the baby and premature delivery.
List of Recalled Products
The five recalled products include: Lunds & Byerlys Fresh Guacamole (14 Ounce), Lunds & Byerlys Fresh Smokin’ Guacamole
(10 ounce), and Lunds & Byerlys Fresh Spicy Guacamole (10 ounce).
Also recalled is Lunds & Byerlys Pico de Gallo/Guacamole Tray (18 ounce), Lunds & Byerlys Deli Guacamole (56 ounce). All recalled products have a use-by date of August 2nd.
Increasing Food Recalls
The guacamole recall is part of a broader trend of food and drink recalls increasing in recent years. Since 2018, the US has recorded a 115% increase in such recalls.
Among the products recalled in recent weeks are Charles Boggini Company sodas, Hy-Vee cream cheese spreads and cookies and cream mixes, and lead-contaminated children’s applesauce pouches.
Not Just Humans Hit By Recall
It’s not just humans who have been hit by the growing number of recalls. In May, Pedigree dry dog food was recalled over fears of loose metal in its products.
In June, TDBBS recalled over 3,500 bags of dog treats owing to the same fear. Full details of these recalls can be found here.
