FDA recall over 60 ice cream products produced by Totally Cool, Inc. due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. Several well-known brands are affected by this recall.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a nationwide recall of over 60 ice cream products produced by Totally Cool, Inc. due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. This recall impacts a variety of well-known brands, including Friendly’s, Hershey’s Ice Cream, Jeni’s, and Cumberland Farms. The presence of the bacteria was discovered during routine FDA sampling, leading to the halt of production and distribution of the affected products.
The Scope of the Recall
Totally Cool, Inc., based in Owings Mills, Maryland, is a major producer of ice cream, distributing products under various brand names across the United States. The recall includes a wide range of ice cream items, such as pints, ice cream cakes, and ice cream sandwiches. Some of the brands affected by this recall are:
- Friendly’s
- Abilyn’s Frozen Bakery
- Hershey’s Ice Cream
- Yelloh!
- Jeni’s (ice cream sandwiches)
- Cumberland Farms
- The Frozen Farmer
- Marco
- ChipWich
- AMAFruits
- Taharka
- Dolcezza Gelato
- LaSalle
These products have been sold in retail stores and via direct delivery, making the recall extensive and impacting consumers nationwide.
Understanding Listeria Monocytogenes
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.
Pregnant women are also at significant risk as the infection can lead to miscarriages and stillbirths. High fever, excruciating headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea are signs of a listeria infection.
Preventive Measures and Consumer Safety
As of right now, there have been no documented illnesses related to this recall. However, the FDA and Totally Cool, Inc. are taking proactive measures to prevent potential health risks. The company has ceased production and distribution of the affected products and is conducting a thorough investigation to determine the source of the contamination.
Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled products are advised to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund or dispose of them immediately. The FDA has published a comprehensive list of the recalled products, including date and plant information, on their website.
This recall is part of the FDA’s broader efforts to ensure food safety and protect public health. Earlier this year, the FDA concluded a multi-year investigation into listeria contamination in queso fresco and cotija cheeses, which resulted in 26 cases of listeria infection across 11 states. The FDA continues to monitor and investigate potential foodborne illnesses to prevent outbreaks and ensure consumer safety.
The Impact on Brands
Several well-known brands are affected by this recall, including Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams and Taharka Brothers. Jeni’s has clarified that only their frozen dessert sandwiches produced by Totally Cool are affected, and no other Jeni’s products are involved. Taharka Brothers has also stated that only a specific production run of two pint flavors was outsourced to Totally Cool, and they will resume production of these flavors at their own facility immediately.
Chipwich, another impacted brand, has voluntarily recalled its vanilla chocolate chip ice cream cookie sandwiches. Crave Better Foods, the manufacturer of Chipwich, emphasized that their operations are separate from those of Totally Cool, Inc.
Steps Consumers Can Take
Consumers can take several steps to protect themselves from potential listeria contamination:
- Check the Recall List: Visit the FDA’s website to view the full list of recalled products and ensure that any potentially contaminated items are returned or disposed of.
- Understand the Symptoms: Be aware of the symptoms of listeria infection and seek medical attention if you experience high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, or diarrhea.
- Store Food Safely: Listeria can survive in refrigerated and frozen environments, so it is crucial to follow proper food storage guidelines and maintain cleanliness in your kitchen.
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest food recalls and safety alerts from the FDA and other reliable sources.
Summary
The FDA’s nationwide recall of over 60 ice cream products due to potential listeria contamination underscores the importance of food safety and the agency’s commitment to protecting public health. While no illnesses have been reported, the recall serves as a precautionary measure to prevent potential outbreaks. Consumers are urged to check the recall list, return or dispose of affected products, and stay informed about food safety practices.
By taking these steps, consumers can reduce the risk of listeria infection and contribute to a safer food supply chain. Stay vigilant and prioritize food safety to ensure the well-being of yourself and your loved ones.
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