On Friday, Hormel Foods Sales announced the recall of some Planters nut products due to concerns of possible contamination with listeria monocytogenes, a potentially fatal bacteria. The recalled products include 4 oz. packages of PLANTERS® Honey Roasted Peanuts and 8.75 oz. cans of PLANTERS® Deluxe Lightly Salted Mixed Nuts. The products were shipped to distribution warehouses in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and North Carolina, as well as Dollar Tree distribution warehouses in South Carolina and Georgia. No illnesses have been reported so far, and all retailers have been notified of the recall. Customers with affected products can either discard them or return them to the store for a refund or exchange.
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacteria that can cause severe illness, especially in vulnerable populations such as pregnant individuals, newborns, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of listeriosis include fever, flu-like symptoms, headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and seizures. Invasive listeria infections can lead to miscarriages, stillbirths, premature deliveries, or life-threatening infections in newborns. Treatment usually involves antibiotics, but the infection can be fatal in some cases. The CDC recommends high-risk individuals to avoid certain foods that are more likely to cause listeriosis, including unpasteurized soft cheeses, unheated deli meats, premade deli salads, and raw or lightly cooked sprouts.
The CDC reports that about 1,600 people get sick with listeriosis each year, with around 260 deaths from the infection. Pregnant individuals and their newborns are at higher risk of complications from listeria, with symptoms ranging from mild flu-like illness to severe invasive infections. Invasive listeria can be life-threatening, with a mortality rate of about 1 in 20 for non-pregnant individuals who become infected. Prompt treatment with antibiotics is crucial for those affected by invasive listeria infections. It is essential for individuals in high-risk groups to take precautions to prevent exposure to potential sources of listeria and to seek medical attention if they develop symptoms of infection.
The recall of Planters nut products highlights the importance of food safety and quality control in preventing the spread of harmful bacteria like listeria. The company is conducting a full investigation to identify the source of contamination and prevent future incidents. Customers who have purchased the recalled products are urged to return them for a refund or exchange to prevent any potential health risks. Ensuring the safety of food products is a top priority for the company, and they are taking proactive measures to address the issue and protect public health. Consumers are advised to be aware of food recalls and take appropriate actions to safeguard their health and well-being.
