Dole Fresh Vegetables Recalls Salad Kits Due to Potential Listeria Contamination

Dole Fresh Vegetables, Inc. has voluntarily recalled many Dole-branded and private-label salad kits. The recall is a precautionary measure, as the products were processed on the same line as a cheese recalled by the manufacturer, Rizo-Lopez Foods, due to possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination.

Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause severe infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.

According to Finacial Post, the recall was initiated due to concerns about cross-contamination of cheese in specific master packs. There is a possibility that the packaged cheese supplier's products might have been contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. No particular illnesses have been reported in connection with these products.

Affected Products and Distribution

The recall includes salad items distributed under brands such as Dole, President's Choice, and Marketside. The affected products can be identified by checking the upper-right-hand corner of the package for the lot codes. Market Screener reported that consumers are strongly advised not to consume these products if found in their refrigerators or freezers and to discard them immediately.

The recalled salad kits were distributed in multiple states across the United States, including Alabama, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. These products were also distributed in several Canadian provinces: Alberta, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Ontario, and Quebec.

No other Dole products are part of this voluntary recall. However, retailers are urged to conduct thorough checks of their store shelves and warehouse inventories to ensure that no recalled product is available for purchase by consumers.

Collaboration with Regulatory Officials

Dole Fresh Vegetables is closely coordinating with regulatory officials to address this situation promptly and effectively. The company is committed to taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety and well-being of consumers.

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