The FDA has issued a recall for a line of ice cream dessert cakes due to contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium linked to food poisoning.
Totally Cool, Inc., based in Maryland, is voluntarily pulling its Friendly’s Celebration Ice Cream Cake from stores after testing revealed the contamination. This product was first recalled in June, and its risk classification has been updated.
As of August 1, the recall has been classified as Class I, the highest risk level. This designation indicates a “reasonable probability” that exposure to the product could lead to serious health consequences or even death.
The recall affects all products with best by dates from May 20 to May 28, 2024. The affected item can be identified by UPC code 29839000920 and one of the following plant codes: 24-65, 24-0065, 2465, or 240065.
According to a company statement on the FDA website, “Totally Cool is continuing its investigation and implementing preventive measures.” They also assured that no other products from the company are impacted.
Symptoms of listeriosis can be quite severe, especially for vulnerable populations. The CDC states that about 1,600 people suffer from listeriosis annually in the U.S., leading to approximately 260 deaths.
Listeria infections can have serious consequences, including miscarriages and severe illness in individuals with weakened immune systems, such as infants and the elderly.
Additionally, there is currently a separate recall involving deli meats linked to a multi-state outbreak that has already resulted in several illnesses and fatalities.
If you have any questions regarding the Totally Cool recall, you can reach the company at 410-363-7801 or via email at [email protected], Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET.