A recall on packages of walnuts has been issued due to potential contamination with a bacterium that can lead to severe infections, including potentially fatal outcomes.
The California-based Stutz Packing Company has taken a voluntary step to recall its Shelled Walnuts over concerns of Listeria monocytogenes contamination, a bacterium responsible for food poisoning. The discovery of this bacterium, which can result in serious illnesses requiring hospitalization, was made during routine testing.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Monday that the affected product was distributed to food bank warehouses in Texas and Arizona, which then spread to various distribution centers serving consumers, smaller food banks, school lunch programs, shelters, and prison food systems.
The product in question is packaged in clear plastic wrap with a red-outlined white box at the center, weighing 1 pound each and identified by a UPC code of 7 15001 00908 1, and lot codes of 24171 1 or 24172 1.
Listeria poses a significant risk to the elderly and individuals with weakened immune systems. It has also been associated with miscarriages and stillbirths in pregnant women.
Symptoms typically manifest within days or weeks following exposure to the bacterium. Mild cases may involve fever, muscle aches, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, while severe infections can lead to symptoms such as headaches, stiff neck, balance issues, confusion, and seizures.
Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that approximately 1,600 individuals in the U.S. contract listeriosis annually, resulting in around 260 deaths. Listeria is reported as the third highest cause of death from foodborne illnesses nationwide by the CDC.
Consumers seeking further information can reach out to Sasha Morales at [email protected], or call 760-230-9547 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. PST from Monday to Friday.
This recall by Stutz Packing Company is part of a series of recent incidents involving products testing positive for bacteria causing food poisoning. Earlier this month, the U.S. Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) recalled two imported chicken products due to listeria contamination. Additionally, in June, a listeria-related recall affected 14 states with numerous sandwiches produced by Classic Delight.