WASHINGTON—Approximately 10 million pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products have been recalled by BrucePac, a Durant, Oklahoma establishment, due to potential Listeria contamination. The announcement was made by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) on Wednesday, October 9, 2024.

The recalled items were produced between June 19, 2024, and October 8, 2024, and distributed to various establishments and distributors nationwide. They were then further distributed to restaurants and institutions. The affected products bear establishment numbers “51205 or P-51205” inside or under the USDA mark of inspection. A detailed list of product labels and codes will be released by the FSIS when available.

The recall was initiated after routine FSIS testing detected Listeria monocytogenes in ready-to-eat poultry products produced by BrucePac. Subsequent investigation confirmed BrucePac RTE chicken as the source of the contamination.

To date, there have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions or illnesses linked to the consumption of these products. However, the FSIS advises consumers, particularly those in high-risk groups, to exercise caution and contact their healthcare provider if they experience any flu-like symptoms within two months of consuming the affected products.

Listeriosis, caused by consumption of food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, can be particularly serious for older adults, individuals with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, and newborns. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, headache, confusion, convulsions, and more. In severe cases, the infection can spread beyond the gastrointestinal tract and become life-threatening.

The FSIS is actively monitoring the effectiveness of the recall and will publish a retail distribution list on their website once available. Consumers with questions regarding the recall can contact BrucePac, at 503-874-3000.

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.

Photo via Public Domain Pictures