Wisconsin Food Company Recalls Products Sold in Iowa & Minnesota for Listeria Contamination

According to an FDA recall alert, Jack and the Green Sprouts, Inc., a company based in River Falls, Wisconsin, has issued an urgent recall of its 5-ounce packages of Alfalfa and Alfalfa Onion sprouts. These products, sold in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa at grocery stores and local co-ops, may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, a dangerous bacterium known to cause serious illness. The last major listeria outbreak led to at least 10 deaths and many ill across the United States when Boar's Head meats issued a massive recall covering millions of pounds of deli meat.

What Is Listeria?

Listeria monocytogenes is a type of bacteria that can cause listeriosis, a severe infection that can be especially harmful to certain groups of people. While healthy individuals might experience mild symptoms such as high fever, headaches, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, listeriosis poses a much higher risk to vulnerable populations. This includes young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. In these cases, the infection can be life-threatening.

One of the most alarming concerns is the risk to pregnant women, as a Listeria infection can lead to miscarriages, stillbirths, and preterm labor. For the elderly and people with compromised immune systems, listeriosis can result in serious complications, including septicemia, meningitis, or even death. Given these risks, quick action to avoid exposure is critical.

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Details of the Recall

The affected Alfalfa and Alfalfa Onion sprouts are packaged in 5-ounce, clear plastic containers and are marked with lot #300 (UPC 763247198915) or lot #246 (UPC 763247195945). While no illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall, Jack and the Green Sprouts, Inc. discovered the potential contamination during routine testing, which revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in the product. As a precaution, the company has suspended production while they investigate the source of the problem.

If you have purchased any 5-ounce packages of Alfalfa or Alfalfa Onion sprouts from Jack and the Green Sprouts, it is recommended that you discard them immediately or return them to the store for a full refund. Consuming the contaminated sprouts could put you and your family at risk of a Listeria infection. For additional information or questions, consumers can contact the company at 715-425-9495 during business hours, Monday through Friday, from 8 AM to 2 PM CST.

Preventing Listeria Infections

To minimize the risk of Listeria, it’s important to follow food safety practices, especially when handling fresh produce. Thoroughly wash all fruits and vegetables, even if they will be peeled or cooked, and avoid consuming raw sprouts if you are pregnant, elderly, or have a weakened immune system, as they can harbor harmful bacteria.

By staying informed and cautious, consumers can protect themselves and others from the dangers of listeriosis. Stay alert for updates on this recall and always prioritize food safety in your home.