Alexander & Hornung recalls over 2.3 million pounds of ham and pepperoni products due to potential Listeria contamination, raising concerns for consumers nationwide.
At a Glance
- Alexander & Hornung recalls 2,320,774 pounds of fully cooked ham and pepperoni products
- Recall expanded from initial 234,391 pounds due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination
- Affected products bear establishment number “EST. M10125” and were shipped nationwide
- No confirmed adverse reactions reported, but consumers advised to check refrigerators and freezers
- High-risk groups include pregnant women, elderly, young children, and immunocompromised individuals
Massive Recall Affects Millions of Pounds of Meat Products
Alexander & Hornung, a subsidiary of Perdue Premium Meat Company Inc., has issued a substantial recall of fully cooked ham and pepperoni products. The St. Clair Shores, Michigan-based company is recalling 2,320,774 pounds of meat due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. This recall significantly expands upon an initial recall of 234,391 pounds, highlighting the severity of the situation.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has announced that the affected products were produced on various dates and bear the establishment number “EST. M10125” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were distributed to retail locations across the country, potentially putting consumers nationwide at risk.
Alexander & Hornung is recalling 2,320,774 pounds of fully cooked ham and pepperoni products that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. https://t.co/q4e67rNvAc
— Food Safety News (@foodsafetynews) December 14, 2024
Listeria Contamination: A Serious Health Concern
The contamination was discovered through the company’s own product sampling, which tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes. This bacteria can cause listeriosis, a serious infection that primarily affects older adults, individuals with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women and their newborns.
Symptoms of listeriosis can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. These symptoms may be preceded by gastrointestinal issues. It’s important to note that symptoms can take up to 70 days to develop, making it crucial for consumers to be vigilant even weeks after consuming potentially contaminated products.
Consumer Warnings and Precautions
While no confirmed reports of adverse reactions have been reported as of yet, the FSIS is concerned that some of the recalled products may still be in consumers’ refrigerators or freezers. The agency strongly advises against consuming these products.
Consumers who have purchased these products are urged to check their refrigerators and freezers immediately. If found, the products should not be consumed and should be disposed of properly or returned to the place of purchase. Those concerned about potential illness should contact their healthcare provider promptly, informing them about the consumption of potentially contaminated food.
High-Risk Groups and Special Considerations
Certain groups are at higher risk for severe complications from Listeria infections. These include pregnant women, the elderly, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Pregnant women, in particular, should be extra cautious as Listeria can cause severe outcomes such as premature delivery or stillbirth, even if the mother experiences only mild symptoms.
As this recall affects a substantial amount of product distributed nationwide, it is crucial for all consumers to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect their health and the health of their families. The FSIS and Alexander & Hornung continue to work together to ensure public safety and prevent any potential outbreaks related to this recall.
Sources:
Premium Meat Recalled, 2.3 Million Pounds
2.3 Million Pounds of Ham and Pepperoni Recalled due to Listeria Risk
Perdue Premium Meats Recall, Ham and Pepperoni Affected
