FDA Upgrades Broccoli Recall to Most Serious Category

In late December, Braga Fresh issued an advisory for a specific lot of Marketside Broccoli Florets after Listeria monocytogenes was discovered in samples from a Texas Walmart. The FDA has now upgraded this recall to a Class I, the most serious category, indicating a high risk of serious adverse health consequences or death.

Details of the Recall

The affected broccoli was distributed to Walmart stores in 20 states: Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. The specific product is 12-ounce packages of Marketside Broccoli Florets with a best-by date of Dec. 10, 2024, and a lot code of BFFG327A6.

No illnesses had been reported at the time of the initial advisory, but consumers were urged to discard the product and contact Braga Fresh with any concerns. The FDA’s website indicates that the recall is still ongoing.

Understanding Listeriosis

Listeriosis is an infection caused by foodborne Listeria monocytogenes bacteria. It affects around 1,600 people each year in the United States, leading to approximately 260 deaths. Those at the highest risk include pregnant women, newborns, young children, individuals over 65, and those with weakened immune systems. Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable, with the infection potentially causing miscarriages, stillbirths, or preterm labor.

Symptoms of listeriosis include fever, diarrhea, headache, stiff neck, nausea, loss of balance, abdominal pain, confusion, and convulsions. Pregnant women may only experience flu-like symptoms and fever. It is essential for individuals in high-risk groups to seek medical attention if they suspect they have been exposed to Listeria.

FAQs

1. What is the current status of the broccoli recall?

The FDA has upgraded the broccoli recall to a Class I, indicating a high risk of serious health consequences. The recall is still ongoing.

2. Which states were affected by the distribution of the contaminated broccoli?

The affected broccoli was distributed to Walmart stores in 20 states, including Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.

3. What are the symptoms of listeriosis?

Symptoms of listeriosis include fever, diarrhea, headache, stiff neck, nausea, loss of balance, abdominal pain, confusion, and convulsions. Pregnant women may only experience flu-like symptoms and fever.

4. Who is at the highest risk of listeriosis?

Individuals at the highest risk of listeriosis include pregnant women, newborns, young children, those over 65, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

5. What should I do if I have purchased the recalled broccoli?

If you have purchased the affected broccoli, discard it immediately and contact Braga Fresh with any concerns. Monitor your health for any symptoms of listeriosis and seek medical attention if needed.