Hormel Foods Sales LLC, based in Minnesota, recently issued a recall for two Planters products produced at one of its facilities due to potential contamination with listeria monocytogenes. The contaminated products, Honey Roasted Peanuts and Deluxe Lightly Salted Mixed Nuts, were distributed to Publix and Dollar Tree warehouses in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, and South Carolina in the southeast portion of the US. The presence of listeria monocytogenes in these products poses a risk of causing serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.
The discovery of the contaminated products was made by Hormel after they had already been produced and distributed in April. Listeria monocytogenes can lead to short-term symptoms like high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea in otherwise healthy individuals. Additionally, pregnant women are at risk of miscarriages or stillbirths if they consume products contaminated with this organism. The recall specifically involves 4-ounce packages of Planters Honey Roasted Peanuts and 8.75-ounce cans of Planters Deluxe Lightly Salted Mixed Nuts, which have specific UPC codes and best-by dates for identification.
The affected products, packaged by Hormel for Planters, are limited to Honey Roasted Peanuts and Deluxe Lightly Salted Mixed Nuts that were distributed to specific states in the southeast US. Both types of products have unique UPC codes and best-by dates to assist in identifying the recalled items. Hormel has confirmed that these are the only products impacted by the recall, and there have been no reports of illness linked to the consumption of the contaminated nuts. The company has notified all retailers involved in the distribution of the affected products and is advising consumers not to consume the recalled items but to return them to the store of purchase for a replacement or full refund.
Highlighting their dedication to food safety, Hormel emphasized that investigating the potential source of contamination is a top priority. As they work to ensure the safety and quality of their products, Hormel encourages consumers with any questions or concerns about the recall to contact their customer relations department at 800-523-4635. This proactive approach aims to address any issues related to the recall of the Planters products and to protect consumers from the potential risks associated with the presence of listeria monocytogenes in the contaminated nuts.
