Recall Issued for Broccoli Sold in 20 States

A recall of Marketside Broccoli Florets sold at Walmart in 20 states has been issued over rising concerns of Listeria contamination.

At a Glance

Braga Fresh recalls Marketside Broccoli Florets sold at Walmart in 20 states due to Listeria risk.
12-ounce bags with a best-by date of December 10 are affected, and some products may still be in freezers.
No illnesses have been reported, but consumers should discard potentially affected products.
Listeria can cause severe infections, especially in vulnerable populations.

Listeria Contamination Triggers Recall

Braga Fresh, based in California, identified a potential Listeria contamination in Marketside Broccoli Florets. As a result, it has voluntarily recalled the 12-ounce bags sold at Walmart in 20 states. The recall affects products with the UPC code “6 81131 32884 5” and lot code “BFFG327A6.” While no illnesses have been reported as of December 27, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends immediate disposal of the affected products to prevent outbreaks. The products, with a best-by date of December 10, should no longer be in stores, but officials note that some affected products may still be in people’s freezers.

The recall spans 20 states states, including Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, and California, among others. Consumers are urged not to consume these products and instead discard them. Those with questions or concerns can reach out to Braga Fresh at 877-456-7445 or email [email protected] for more information.

Listeria risk prompts recall of Marketside Broccoli Florets sold at Walmart https://t.co/z9rrlS2uLZ

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Understanding the Threat of Listeria

Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that poses significant health risks to certain groups, including the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of Listeria infection range from high fever and nausea to severe headaches and abdominal pain. In pregnant women, the risks include possible miscarriages or stillbirths.

Older adults face a heightened risk of complications from Listeria infections. As immune defenses weaken with age, recognizing and clearing harmful bacteria becomes challenging, often leading to hospitalization.

Industry Response to Recall

The recall applies solely to the specified Marketside Broccoli Florets and does not affect other Marketside or Braga Fresh products. This voluntary effort is part of Braga Fresh’s commitment to consumer health and food safety. In recent months, similar Listeria-related recalls have extended to enoki mushrooms and mustard greens, underscoring the importance of vigilant food safety practices across the industry.

For consumers, adhering to the CDC’s food safety guidelines remains critical. Practicing proper food handling and remaining informed about recalls can effectively reduce the risks posed by such bacterial contaminations in the future.