FDA warns Americans of potentially dangerous Enoki mushrooms being sold nationwide after testing positive for deadly listeria bacteria.
At a Glance
- Harvest NYC Inc. has recalled 200-gram packages of Enoki mushrooms due to listeria contamination
- The contaminated products were distributed nationwide by Hofood99 Inc. between January 11-31
- Affected packages have green plastic packaging with barcode 6975730520101
- No illnesses have been reported yet, but listeria can cause severe and sometimes fatal infections
- Consumers should immediately destroy or return these products for a full refund
Nationwide Recall Initiated After Testing
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that Harvest NYC Inc. is recalling 200-gram packages of Enoki Mushrooms due to potential contamination with listeria monocytogenes. The contaminated products were distributed nationwide by Hofood99 Inc. and were available for purchase between January 11 and January 31. The recall was triggered after routine testing of product samples from a Buffalo, New York store revealed the presence of the dangerous bacteria.
The affected Enoki Mushrooms can be identified by their distinctive green plastic packaging and barcode 6975730520101. While no illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall at this time, authorities are taking the situation seriously given the potential health risks associated with listeria contamination. Customers who have purchased these mushrooms during the specified period are being advised to take immediate action.
Health Risks Associated with Listeria
Listeria monocytogenes poses significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations. The FDA has emphasized that this organism can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening infections in young children, elderly individuals, and people with compromised immune systems. For these high-risk groups, prompt disposal of the contaminated product is especially important to prevent possible exposure to the bacteria.
Even healthy individuals can experience unpleasant symptoms from listeria infection, typically including high fever, severe headaches, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. These symptoms generally appear within a few days of consuming contaminated food, though in some cases they may not emerge for up to two months. The bacteria is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, as it can lead to miscarriages or stillbirths.
Consumer Response and Precautions
The FDA has provided clear instructions for consumers who may have purchased the recalled mushrooms. Anyone who bought Enoki Mushrooms from Harvest NYC Inc. between January 11 and January 31 should check their refrigerators for products matching the recall description. If found, these items should not be consumed under any circumstances, regardless of whether they appear normal in appearance or smell.
This recall follows a similar action by New Age International Inc., which recently recalled its Daily Veggies brand Enoki Mushrooms due to listeria concerns. Enoki mushrooms, which are commonly used in Asian cuisine and known for their long stems and small caps, have been subject to multiple recalls in recent years due to listeria contamination. Despite their nutritional benefits, consumers should remain vigilant about food safety recalls, especially when it comes to products that have shown recurring safety issues.
