A popular provider of guacamole products has announced a voluntary recall of multiple of their products.
The products may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, which can cause a deadly infection.
Where Were Recalled Products Sold?
The recalled fresh guacamole was made by Metro Produce Distributors Inc. of Minneapolis, MN and sold at Lunds & Byerlys grocery stores located throughout the Twin Cities area and St. Cloud.
The products, which were also available at some “Taco Mas” food bars between July 27-31. The products are packaged in clear plastic containers.
No Confirmed Illnesses, But Concerns Persist
No illnesses have been reported stemming from the recalled products, but the company is concerned customers may still have the product at their home.
The recall occurred after routine sampling revealed that the finished product could contain the deadly bacteria.
Company Ceases Production
The Minnesotan company has ceased production and distribution of the recalled products and is cooperating with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Minnesota Department of Agriculture.
Anyone who has eaten the recalled products and has developed symptoms of listeria infection should seek medical attention immediately. Those who haven’t developed symptoms but have consumed the products should monitor themselves for symptoms for the next 70 days.
Who To Contact
Consumers who bought the recalled Lunds & Byerlys guacamole products, with use-by dates of August 2nd 2024, are urged to destroy them.
Alternately, they can return them to any Lunds & Byerlys stores for a full refund. Consumers with questions can contact Metro Produce at 612-436-3825.
Symptoms of Listeria infections
Food contaminated with Listeria often doesn’t look or smell spoiled, yet it can still cause life-threatening infections.
Symptoms of listeria infection include nausea, vomiting, muscle aches, fever, headaches and neck stiffness. Lab tests are required to diagnose listeria infections, as the infection can mimic other illnesses.
High Risk Groups
Pregnant people, the elderly, young children, and the immuno-comprised (such as cancer patients) are particularly at risk from listeria infections.
Although the symptoms for pregnant women may only be mild/flu-like, the infection can lead to stillbirth, infections for the baby and premature delivery.
List of Recalled Products
The five recalled products include: Lunds & Byerlys Fresh Guacamole (14 Ounce), Lunds & Byerlys Fresh Smokin’ Guacamole
(10 ounce), and Lunds & Byerlys Fresh Spicy Guacamole (10 ounce).
Also recalled is Lunds & Byerlys Pico de Gallo/Guacamole Tray (18 ounce), Lunds & Byerlys Deli Guacamole (56 ounce). All recalled products have a use-by date of August 2nd.
Increasing Food Recalls
The guacamole recall is part of a broader trend of food and drink recalls increasing in recent years. Since 2018, the US has recorded a 115% increase in such recalls.
Among the products recalled in recent weeks are Charles Boggini Company sodas, Hy-Vee cream cheese spreads and cookies and cream mixes, and lead-contaminated children’s applesauce pouches.
Not Just Humans Hit By Recall
It’s not just humans who have been hit by the growing number of recalls. In May, Pedigree dry dog food was recalled over fears of loose metal in its products.
In June, TDBBS recalled over 3,500 bags of dog treats owing to the same fear. Full details of these recalls can be found here.
Listeria Scare: Guacamole Pulled from Shelves
A major guacamole recall hit the US market in 2023. The FDA identified Listeria monocytogenes contamination in several brands.
Listeria can cause severe illness, especially in vulnerable populations. This recall affected over 100,000 units of packaged guacamole products.
Avocado Industry Faces Third Major Recall
The 2023 guacamole recall marks the third significant incident since 2019. Previous recalls involved Salmonella and Listeria contaminations.
These incidents have cost the industry millions in lost revenue. Food safety experts emphasize the need for stricter processing protocols.
From Aztec Staple to Modern Health Hazard
Guacamole originates from Aztec cuisine dating back to the 16th century. The dish gained popularity in the US during the 1990s.
Americans now consume over 100 million pounds of guacamole annually. This recall highlights the challenges of mass-producing traditional foods.
FDA Tightens Regulations Following Guacamole Scare
The FDA has implemented stricter testing requirements for guacamole producers. These new regulations aim to prevent future contamination incidents.
Producers must now conduct Listeria tests every 4 hours during processing. This change increases production costs by an estimated 5-10%.
Global Impact: US Guacamole Recall Ripples Abroad
The US guacamole recall affected exports to 12 countries. International trade in avocados and guacamole exceeds $2 billion annually.
This incident prompted global discussions on food safety standards. It may lead to harmonized international regulations for avocado products.
