Broccoli Sold at Walmart Hit By Recall

Marketside Broccoli Florets sold at Walmart in 20 states have been recalled due to potential listeria contamination, raising public health concerns.

At a Glance

A precautionary advisory has been issued for broccoli florets sold at Walmart in 20 states due to potential Listeria contamination.
No illnesses have been reported, but the advisory covers a specific lot of 12 oz. bags.
The contamination was discovered through random sampling by Texas Health & Human Services.
Consumers are advised not to eat the affected product and to discard it if stored in freezers.

Details of the Recall

A recent advisory warns consumers about Marketside Broccoli Florets available in Walmart stores across 20 states due to potential listeria contamination. The advisory specifically concerns a single production lot of 12 oz. bags marked with UPC Code 6 81131 32884 5, Lot Code BFFG327A6, and a best-if-used-by date of Dec 10, 2024. The alert was raised after Texas Health & Human Services uncovered the risk through their standard random sampling procedures.

The good news is that no illnesses have been reported as of this advisory, which remains precautionary. However, there’s a concern that some consumers might have stored these packages in their freezers for future use, potentially prolonging the risk of exposure. Affected states include Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.

Marketside Broccoli recalled due to possible listeria contamination. https://t.co/RRpl4vv3AW

— KOAM News Now (@koamfox14) January 1, 2025

Health Risks and Recommendations

Consumers are strongly advised not to consume the potentially contaminated broccoli due to severe health risks posed by listeria infections. Vulnerable populations, including young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, face heightened risks of contraction, which can lead to serious infections. Pregnant women are particularly at risk, as listeria infections can lead to miscarriages or stillbirths.

The advisory has spared other products under the Marketside or Braga Fresh brands from scrutiny, focusing strictly on this specific lot of broccoli florets. Those in possession of the product are advised to dispose of it immediately. For further information, concerned consumers can contact Braga Fresh directly at 877-456-7445, a measure to ensure their safety and address any queries regarding the recall.

Broader Context of Listeria Concerns

Listeria concerns are not new; several other food recalls pop up regularly due to its potential contamination. Castroville-based New Age International recently recalled Enoki Mushrooms, while Baker Farms had to recall mustard greens. The CDC currently investigates a separate outbreak linked to deli meats, with reports of 19 infections and two fatalities.

These outbreaks emphasize the CDC’s continued stance on the importance of proper hygiene and sanitation practices to curb listeria contamination. With approximately 1,600 cases of listeriosis affecting predominantly older adults annually, vigilance is necessary. This situation is a timely reminder to prioritize food safety to protect our communities and vulnerable populations from this potentially dangerous bacterium.