Listeria Outbreak? Massive Recall Issued For 2 Million Bakery Items!

Federal safety regulators have announced a recall of nearly 2 million baked goods due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. The recall, initiated on January 7, 2025, was upgraded to a Class II recall on February 5, according to The New York Times. The affected products were manufactured by FGF Brands, a company that distributes baked goods across the United States and Canada.

In a statement, FGF Brands described the recall as a "precautionary measure based on non-product-related findings" at one of its U.S. doughnut facilities. The company emphasized that no doughnuts or food contact surfaces tested positive for Listeria and reassured consumers that the recall was completed in early January, meaning no currently available products are affected.

Recalled products include a variety of baked goods such as chocolate, raspberry, Bavarian doughnuts, French crullers, eclairs, and coffee rolls. Some of these items were sold at Dunkin’ and were produced before December 13, 2024. However, the exact source of potential contamination remains unidentified.

Understanding Listeria and Its Risks

Listeria monocytogenes is a dangerous bacterium responsible for listeriosis, which ranks as the third leading cause of foodborne illness-related deaths in the United States. Symptoms of infection include fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. In severe cases, individuals may experience a stiff neck, headache, confusion, or seizures, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Certain groups are particularly vulnerable to listeriosis, including older adults, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. In pregnant women, Listeria infection can lead to serious complications such as miscarriage, premature birth, or life-threatening infections in newborns.

Precautionary Measures to Stay Safe

Given the risks associated with Listeria, consumers should take the following precautions:

1. Check for Recalls – Stay updated on product recalls by visiting the FDA and CDC websites or checking store notices before purchasing baked goods.

2. Discard Recalled Items – If you have purchased any of the recalled products, dispose of them immediately to avoid potential exposure.

3. Sanitize Surfaces – Clean and disinfect any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with the recalled products.

4. Store Food Properly – Keep perishable items refrigerated at or below 40 degrees F (4 degrees C) and avoid consuming baked goods past their expiration dates.

5. Practice Good Hygiene – Wash hands thoroughly after handling potentially contaminated foods to minimize the risk of infection.

6. Seek Medical Advice – If you experience symptoms of listeriosis, especially if you belong to a high-risk group, consult a healthcare provider promptly.

While no illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall, federal safety regulators urge consumers to remain cautious.

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