Totally Cool Inc. has issued a recall for 68 ice cream products from 13 brands due to potential listeria contamination. The recall affects products distributed nationwide, including popular brands like Jeni's, Friendly's, and Hershey's. Consumers are advised to return the products for a full refund. No illnesses have been reported yet, but listeria can cause serious health issues, particularly in vulnerable populations.
A major recall has been issued by Totally Cool Inc., affecting 68 ice cream products from 13 brands due to potential contamination with listeria monocytogenes. This bacteria can cause serious health complications, including listeriosis, which can be fatal in certain groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. The recall spans across various types of ice cream products including pints, cones, and sandwiches distributed nationwide.
The recall by Totally Cool Inc. includes a wide range of ice cream products such as pints, cones, and sandwiches. Notable brands affected include Jeni's, Friendly's, and Hershey's. The recall was triggered by FDA sampling that discovered the presence of listeria in the products. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. No illnesses related to this recall have been reported so far, highlighting the precautionary nature of the recall.
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause listeriosis, a serious infection that leads to symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal issues. In severe cases, it can cause meningitis, miscarriages, and even death, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems. Health experts advise immediate medical attention if symptoms develop after consuming recalled products.
In response to the recall, consumers are advised to either dispose of the affected products or return them to the purchase location for a refund. Totally Cool Inc. has provided contact information for consumers to address any concerns. The company has also halted production and distribution to prevent further risk. Past incidents of listeria contamination highlight the importance of rigorous safety protocols in food production to prevent similar occurrences.
The recall of ice cream products by Totally Cool Inc. serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of food safety and the potential health risks associated with listeria contamination. Consumers are urged to take immediate action by returning or disposing of recalled items, and to seek medical advice if symptoms of listeriosis appear. This incident underscores the need for continuous monitoring and stringent quality control in food production to ensure consumer safety.
"Infection with this bacteria merits prompt medical evaluation." - Amesh A. Adalja, MD