Frozen Waffles Recalled Due To Listeria Fears

TreeHouse Foods has issued a voluntary recall of multiple frozen waffle brands due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination, affecting products sold in the U.S. and Canada at various retailers.

At a Glance

TreeHouse Foods has recalled frozen waffles due to potential listeria contamination.
The recall affects multiple brands sold at major retailers in the U.S. and Canada.
No illnesses have been reported, but consumers are advised to check freezers and dispose of recalled products.
Listeria can cause serious infections, particularly in vulnerable populations.
Consumers can identify recalled products by UPC codes, Lot Codes, and “Best By” dates.

Recall Details and Affected Products

TreeHouse Foods, a major food manufacturer, has announced a significant recall of frozen waffles due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The recall affects numerous brands and products sold at various retailers across the United States and Canada, including major chains such as Walmart, Target, and Dollar General. The contamination was discovered during routine testing at the company’s manufacturing facility in Brantford, Ontario, Canada.

The recall encompasses a wide range of brands, including Food Lion, Always Save, Great Value, Essentials, Kodiak Cakes, Simple Truth, Western Family, and several others. Consumers are urged to check their freezers for any of the products in question and verify if they are part of the recall.

FOOD RECALL: Hundreds of varieties of frozen waffles may have possible listeria contamination. They were produced by TreeHouse foods and sold at Walmart, Target and grocery chains across the country. https://t.co/xRdl2qSYXF pic.twitter.com/7a8krYYxRm

— CBS Evening News (@CBSEveningNews) October 20, 2024

Health Risks and Precautions

Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. It is also known to pose a significant risk to pregnant women, potentially leading to miscarriages and stillbirths. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that Listeria is the third leading cause of death from foodborne illnesses in the United States. About 1,600 people contract the illness annually, with around 260 people dying from it.

While no illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall, health officials advise consumers to be vigilant. Symptoms of Listeria infection can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. In some cases, individuals may experience milder gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting. If you have consumed any of the recalled products and are experiencing these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

Consumer Response and Company Actions

TreeHouse Foods is taking swift action to address this potential health risk. The company has provided detailed information on how to identify the recalled products, including UPC codes, Lot Codes, and “Best By” dates. A comprehensive list of affected products is available on the FDA website. Consumers who have purchased these items are advised to dispose of them immediately or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.

The company has encouraged consumers who may have questions or concerns about the recall to contact them. Individuals can contact TreeHouse Foods at 800-596-2903 for additional information. This proactive approach demonstrates the company’s commitment to consumer safety and transparency in addressing potential food safety issues.

Broader Implications and Food Safety Awareness

This recall serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in food safety and the importance of rigorous testing protocols in the food industry. It also highlights the need for consumers to stay informed about food recalls and to take them seriously, even when no illnesses have been reported. The food industry and regulatory bodies continue to work together to improve safety measures and respond quickly to potential threats to public health.