Chinese imported Enoki mushrooms have been recalled nationwide after testing positive for Listeria, a dangerous bacteria that can cause severe illness and even death in vulnerable populations, particularly while the FDA continues to allow foreign food imports with questionable safety records.
Key Takeaways
- Hofood99 Inc. has recalled all 200-gram packages of Enoki Mushrooms with UPC code 6 976532 310051 due to Listeria contamination discovered by Michigan state agriculture officials
- The contaminated mushrooms were distributed nationwide with no illnesses reported yet, though symptoms can take up to 70 days to develop
- Listeria poses severe risks to pregnant women (miscarriages/stillbirths), elderly, children, and those with weakened immune systems
- Consumers should return the product for a refund or destroy it immediately and can contact the company at 917-756-9833 with questions
FDA Testing Confirms Dangerous Contamination
In a move highlighting ongoing concerns about food safety in America, especially with imported products, Hofood99 Inc. has issued a nationwide recall of its Enoki Mushrooms after testing confirmed potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The recall, announced on June 11, 2025, affects 200-gram packages sold in green plastic packaging bearing the UPC code 6 976532 310051. While no illnesses have been reported so far, the contamination discovery raises serious questions about our food safety inspection system for foreign imports.
“The contamination was discovered after samples were collected from a store in Michigan and subsequent analysis by Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD) Laboratory Division revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes,” stated FDA.
This discovery came through state-level testing rather than at the point of entry, suggesting potential gaps in our food safety protocols for imported goods. The FDA’s system relies heavily on manufacturers to self-report and conduct voluntary recalls rather than implementing more rigorous preventative measures, especially for products coming from countries with questionable food safety records.
Severe Health Risks for Vulnerable Americans
Listeria contamination poses significant dangers to many Americans, particularly vulnerable populations including pregnant women, young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. Infections can cause fever, muscle aches, headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. For pregnant women, the consequences can be particularly devastating, potentially leading to miscarriages or stillbirths – devastating outcomes that demonstrate the importance of proper food safety measures.
What makes Listeria particularly concerning is its extended incubation period – symptoms can take up to 70 days to develop after exposure, making it difficult to trace the source of infection. The bacteria requires specialized laboratory testing for diagnosis, further complicating treatment efforts. For healthy adults, symptoms may include vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headaches, and neck stiffness.
FDA’s Reactive Approach to Food Safety
While the FDA monitors food recalls, its approach remains largely reactive rather than preventative. This incident highlights how our current system operates – waiting for contamination to be discovered rather than preventing it from entering our food supply in the first place. Considering the serious risks associated with Listeria, especially for vulnerable populations, a more proactive approach to imported food safety would better protect American consumers.
“Most recalls in the U.S. are carried out voluntarily by the product manufacturer and when a company issues a public warning, typically via news release, to inform the public of a voluntary product recall, the FDA shares that release on our website as a public service,” stated FDA.
Consumers who have purchased these mushrooms are advised not to consume them under any circumstances. The product should either be destroyed or returned to the place of purchase for a full refund. Those with questions regarding this recall can contact Hofood99 directly at 917-756-9833. While we wait for more comprehensive import safety reforms, American consumers must remain vigilant about the foods they purchase and consume, especially products imported from countries with less stringent safety standards.
