The FDA has escalated the recall of Marketside Broccoli Florets sold at Walmart to a Class I level due to potential listeria contamination. This classification indicates a high risk of severe health consequences or death. The recall affects 12-ounce bags with a best-used-by date of December 10, 2024, and consumers are advised to discard any remaining product. No illnesses have been reported yet.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently escalated the recall of Marketside Broccoli Florets sold at Walmart to a Class I level, the most severe classification. This decision follows concerns of potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause serious health issues. The recall affects a specific batch of 12-ounce bags with a best-used-by date of December 10, 2024. Consumers who may still have this product in their freezers are urged to discard it immediately.
The FDA's Class I recall classification signifies a situation where there is a reasonable probability that the use of a product could result in serious health consequences or death. In this case, the recall involves Marketside Broccoli Florets, a product sold at Walmart, which may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. This bacterium can cause severe infections, especially in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Although no illnesses have been reported so far, the potential for serious health risks has prompted this precautionary measure. The FDA's decision underscores the importance of consumer safety, urging those who have purchased the product to avoid consumption and dispose of it immediately [1].
The recall specifically targets 12-ounce bags of Marketside Broccoli Florets that were distributed to Walmart stores across 20 states, including Illinois, Texas, and California. These bags are marked with a UPC code 6 81131 32884 5 and a lot code BFFG327A6. The contamination was identified during routine sampling by Texas Health & Human Services, which found a positive result for Listeria in one of the samples. While the product is no longer available in stores, there is a possibility that consumers may have frozen it for future use. The FDA advises those in possession of the product to check the packaging and discard it if it matches the specified codes [2].
Consumers are urged not to panic but to take immediate action if they have purchased the recalled broccoli. The FDA recommends not consuming the product and disposing of it safely to prevent any health risks. Consumers should also avoid donating the product or feeding it to pets, as animals can also be affected by foodborne pathogens. The recall notice provides specific instructions for handling the product, including returning it to the store for a refund or safely discarding it. For further information, consumers can contact Braga Fresh directly via their provided hotline [3].
The escalation of the Marketside Broccoli Florets recall to a Class I level highlights the FDA's commitment to public safety in the face of potential health threats. Consumers are advised to remain vigilant and adhere to the recall instructions to mitigate any risks associated with Listeria contamination. While no illnesses have been reported, the precautionary measures are essential to ensure the well-being of the public. Those affected by the recall can seek further guidance from the FDA or Braga Fresh.
"A situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death." - FDA