Minnesotans Urged to Check Fridge After Food Recall Linked to Dangerous Bacteria

A nationwide food recall affecting products sold in Minnesota has been issued after routine testing uncovered a dangerous contaminant in a common grocery item.

Health officials are urging caution as consuming it could have serious consequences.

READ MORE: Our Dog Was Poisoned By a Common Wild Mushroom Found In Wisconsin Yards

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According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Hofood99 Inc. has issued a voluntary recall of its 200-gram packages of Enoki mushrooms after testing revealed contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.

The mushrooms are packaged in a green plastic wrap with UPC code 6 976532 310051 on the back label.

While no illnesses have been reported as of June 11, the FDA says the bacteria poses a serious risk. “Listeria monocytogenes can cause severe and sometimes fatal infections,” the agency noted in the recall. Young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable.

The contamination was first discovered in Michigan, where a sample collected from a retail store tested positive for the pathogen, according to the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD).

What are the symptoms of Listeria?

Listeria infections can cause high fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea, and in pregnant individuals, the bacteria has been linked to miscarriages and stillbirths.

Anyone in Minnesota who has purchased the recalled mushrooms is advised to either discard the product immediately or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Questions can be directed to Hofood99 Inc. at (917) 756-9833 during business hours, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time.