Harvest NYC Inc. recalls all 200-gram packages of enoki mushrooms sold nationwide due to a potential listeria contamination, sparking safety concerns.
Top Takeaways
- Harvest NYC Inc. recalls enoki mushrooms due to possible listeria contamination.
- The FDA advised this recall after listeria was found in New York samples.
- Listeria infections pose serious risks to vulnerable populations.
- No illnesses have been reported to date.
Overview of the Recall
The recall of enoki mushrooms by Harvest NYC Inc. was issued due to potential contamination by Listeria monocytogenes. The contaminated packages, distributed by Hofood99 Inc., are marked with the barcode 6975730520101, and packaged in green plastic. The purpose of the recall is to prevent serious health risks linked to listeria infections. Consumers are advised to return or dispose of mushrooms bought between January 11 and 31.
Despite the recall’s potential severity, no illnesses have been confirmed related to these enoki mushrooms. The FDA, which announced the recall, indicated they found listeria in mushroom samples from a Buffalo, New York, store. This follows other recalls of enoki mushrooms due to similar contamination issues, including a recent case involving New Age International Inc.
Health Risks of Listeria
Listeria monocytogenes can cause acute symptoms in susceptible individuals, such as young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. The FDA states, “because they may be contaminated with listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems.” Severe symptoms include high fever, stiffness, and severe headache, and in pregnant women, the infection could lead to miscarriages or stillbirths.”
The FDA’s advisory serves as a reminder of the potential danger and encourages consumers to act proactively by removing any enoki mushrooms purchased this month from their household inventory.
Consumer Actions and Precedents
The FDA has urged consumers, “to destroy the products immediately or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund,” to prevent the potential adverse effects of consuming these enoki mushrooms. This recent recall adds to a growing list of similar actions in the mushroom industry, suggesting a concerning trend in contamination risks.
Enoki mushrooms are a nutritional staple in Asian cuisines, but vigilance is paramount in light of repeated contamination incidents. Harvest NYC Inc. and Hofood99 Inc. have cooperated fully with authorities to ensure consumer safety through this recall.
