Wholesale Produce Supply of Minneapolis, Minnesota is recalling fresh-cut/processed cantaloupe and mixed fruit products after testing showed Listeria monocytogenes contamination. More than 25 products are affected by the recall.
The recall follows a routine sampling program conducted by the company that found finished products potentially contained bacteria. Wholesale Produce Supply has suspended production and distribution of the affected lots as the company continues to investigate the cause of the issue.
The products include cantaloupe, fruit bowls and mixed fruit platters and were sold to distributors in Nebraska, North Dakota and Wisconsin, which may have been distributed in other states under the “Harvest Cuts” and “Fresh and Finest” brands in traditional grocery stores. For a list of the more than 25 products subject to recall, click here.
Fresh Cut cantaloupe was sold in traditional plastic containers under the “Harvest Cuts” and “Fresh & Finest” labels in both products containing only cantaloupe, as well as in mixed containers including other fresh cut fruits.
No illnesses have been reported to date, but it can take up to 70 days for symptoms of a Listeria infection to appear.
Consumers who purchased affected “Harvest Cuts” or “Fresh and Finest” products are encouraged to return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions can contact Wholesale Produce Supply at 612-378-2025 and ask for Steve Foster, vice president of food safety and quality assurance.
About Listeria Infections
Foods contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes may not look, smell, or taste altered, but can still cause serious or even fatal infections. Anyone who has consumed any of the recalled products and developed symptoms of Listeria infection should seek medical attention and inform their doctor of possible Listeria exposure.
Additionally, anyone who has consumed any of the recalled products should self-monitor for symptoms over the coming weeks, as it can take up to 70 days after exposure to Listeria for symptoms of listeriosis to develop.
Symptoms of Listeria infection may include vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle pain, severe headache, and neck stiffness. Specific laboratory tests are needed to diagnose Listeria infections, which can mimic other illnesses.
Pregnant women, the elderly, young children, and people such as cancer patients with weakened immune systems are at particular risk of serious illness, life-threatening infections, other complications, and death. Even if infected pregnant women experience only mild flu-like symptoms, their infections can lead to premature delivery, infection of the newborn, or even stillbirth.
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