10 Million Pounds of Meat Recalled—Is Your Health at Risk?
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In an era where convenience often trumps all, ready-to-eat meals have become a staple in many American households. However, the recent news from the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) serves as a stark reminder that convenience should never come at the cost of safety.
On October 9, 2024, a staggering recall was announced that could have a direct impact on your next meal and, more importantly, your health.
BrucePac, an Oklahoma-based manufacturer, has recalled approximately 9,986,245 pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.
This bacteria can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Even healthy individuals may suffer short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Listeria infection can also cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
The recalled products—produced between June 19, 2024, and October 8, 2024—were shipped to distributors nationwide and subsequently distributed to restaurants and institutions.
The breadth of this recall is particularly concerning given the volume of product and the wide distribution network, meaning that many Americans could potentially be affected.
The products in question bear the establishment numbers “51205” or “P-51205” inside or under the USDA mark of inspection.
While the full list of products and product labels has not been released, consumers are urged to check BrucePac's website for updates and to scrutinize labels closely when purchasing meat and poultry products.
As of now, there have been no confirmed reports of illness or adverse reactions due to the consumption of these products.
However, the risk posed by Listeria is not to be taken lightly. If you suspect that you may have consumed a recalled product and are experiencing adverse health effects, it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately.
For those with questions regarding the recall, BrucePac has made available contact information for Jeff Golangco, VP Business Development, at 503-874-3000. Additionally, the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline can be reached at 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854), or inquiries can be sent via email to [email protected].
Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones:
1. Stay Informed: Regularly check for food recall announcements via the FSIS website or subscribe to our daily newsletter.
In a recent story, the FDA issued a food recall for eggs due to a serious salmonella outbreak. The authorities also issued another food recall involving vegetables.
2. Examine Labels: Look for the establishment numbers on meat and poultry products to ensure they are not part of a recall.
3. Practice Safe Food Handling: Always cook meat to the recommended temperatures and prevent cross-contamination by keeping raw meat separate from other foods.
4. Be Proactive: If you have potentially contaminated products, do not consume them. Instead, return them to the place of purchase or dispose of them safely.
5. Monitor Your Health: If you experience symptoms that could be related to Listeria infection, seek medical attention promptly.
Remember, staying informed and proactive about food recalls is not just about safeguarding our meals—it's about protecting our health and the health of our communities. Let's continue to support each other in making informed choices and maintaining the highest standards of food safety.
Have you been affected by this recall? Do you have tips for ensuring food safety at home? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below.
On October 9, 2024, a staggering recall was announced that could have a direct impact on your next meal and, more importantly, your health.
BrucePac, an Oklahoma-based manufacturer, has recalled approximately 9,986,245 pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.
This bacteria can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Even healthy individuals may suffer short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Listeria infection can also cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
The recall was initiated after routine testing by the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) found positive results for Listeria in ready-to-eat poultry products produced by BrucePac. Image source: Pexels.
The recalled products—produced between June 19, 2024, and October 8, 2024—were shipped to distributors nationwide and subsequently distributed to restaurants and institutions.
The breadth of this recall is particularly concerning given the volume of product and the wide distribution network, meaning that many Americans could potentially be affected.
The products in question bear the establishment numbers “51205” or “P-51205” inside or under the USDA mark of inspection.
While the full list of products and product labels has not been released, consumers are urged to check BrucePac's website for updates and to scrutinize labels closely when purchasing meat and poultry products.
As of now, there have been no confirmed reports of illness or adverse reactions due to the consumption of these products.
However, the risk posed by Listeria is not to be taken lightly. If you suspect that you may have consumed a recalled product and are experiencing adverse health effects, it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately.
For those with questions regarding the recall, BrucePac has made available contact information for Jeff Golangco, VP Business Development, at 503-874-3000. Additionally, the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline can be reached at 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854), or inquiries can be sent via email to [email protected].
Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones:
1. Stay Informed: Regularly check for food recall announcements via the FSIS website or subscribe to our daily newsletter.
In a recent story, the FDA issued a food recall for eggs due to a serious salmonella outbreak. The authorities also issued another food recall involving vegetables.
2. Examine Labels: Look for the establishment numbers on meat and poultry products to ensure they are not part of a recall.
3. Practice Safe Food Handling: Always cook meat to the recommended temperatures and prevent cross-contamination by keeping raw meat separate from other foods.
4. Be Proactive: If you have potentially contaminated products, do not consume them. Instead, return them to the place of purchase or dispose of them safely.
5. Monitor Your Health: If you experience symptoms that could be related to Listeria infection, seek medical attention promptly.
Remember, staying informed and proactive about food recalls is not just about safeguarding our meals—it's about protecting our health and the health of our communities. Let's continue to support each other in making informed choices and maintaining the highest standards of food safety.
Have you been affected by this recall? Do you have tips for ensuring food safety at home? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below.
