Cut cantaloupe, fruit bowls recalled because of Listeria contamination

Wholesale Produce Supply of Minneapolis, MN, is recalling fresh cut/processed cantaloupe and mixed fruit products, after testing showed contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. More than 25 products are subject to the recall.

The recall was the result of a routine sampling program by the company which revealed that the finished products potentially contained bacteria. Wholesale Produce Supply has suspended production and distribution of the affected lots as the company continues their investigation as to what caused the problem.

The products include cantaloupe, fruit bowls and trays of mixed fruit and were sold to distributors in Nebraska, North Dakota and Wisconsin, who may have distributed into other states under the “Harvest Cuts” and “Fresh and Finest” brands at traditional grocery locations. For a list of the more than 25 products subject to the recall, click here.

Fresh Cut cantaloupe was sold in traditional plastic clamshell containers under the “Harvest Cuts” and “Fresh & Finest” label in both cantaloupe-only products, as well as mixed containers that include other fresh cut-fruits.

No illnesses have been reported to date, but it can take up to 70 days for symptoms of Listeria infection to develop.

Consumers who have purchased “Harvest Cuts” or “Fresh and Finest” affected products are encouraged to return the product to place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Wholesale Produce Supply at 612-378-2025 and ask for Steve Foster vice president of Food Safety & QA.

About Listeria infections
Food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes may not look, smell or taste spoiled but can still cause serious and sometimes life-threatening infections. Anyone who has eaten any of the recalled products and developed symptoms of Listeria infection should seek medical treatment and tell their doctors about the possible Listeria exposure.

Also, anyone who has eaten any of the recalled products should monitor themselves for symptoms during the coming weeks because it can take up to 70 days after exposure to Listeria for symptoms of listeriosis to develop. 

Symptoms of Listeria infection can include vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headache, and neck stiffness. Specific laboratory tests are required to diagnose Listeria infections, which can mimic other illnesses. 

Pregnant women, the elderly, young children, and people such as cancer patients who have weakened immune systems are particularly at risk of serious illnesses, life-threatening infections, other complications and death. Although infected pregnant women may experience only mild, flu-like symptoms, their infections can lead to premature delivery, infection of the newborn, or even stillbirth.

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