New infections from Listeria linked to fresh peaches, nectarines and plums

A new outbreak of infections from Listeria has sparked a recall of whole, fresh peaches, plums and nectarines.

The recall implicates 12 fresh fruits sold under at least three brands. The HMC Group Marketing Inc. company issued the recall for the fruit, which has been distributed nationwide. Click here to view packaging that can help consumers determine whether they have the fruit on hand.

According to the company’s recall notice, posted by the Food and Drug Administration, there have been 11 confirmed cases of Listeria monocytogenes infections linked to the fruit.

The peaches, plums and nectarines were sold in retail stores between May 1 and Nov. 15, 2022 and between May 1 and Nov. 15, 2023. The fruit was sold as individual pieces and in plastic pouches.

This recall includes only conventionally grown fruit. Peaches, plums, and nectarines currently available for sale at retail stores are not included in this recall.

“Although the recalled fruit is no longer available in retail stores, consumers may have frozen the recalled fruit at home for later use. Consumers are urged to check their freezers for the recalled fruit, not consume it, and discard it,” according to the recall notice. 

Consumers with further questions can contact the company’s consumer information desk at 844-483-3867.

About Listeria infections
Food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes may not look or smell spoiled but can still cause serious and sometimes life-threatening infections. Anyone who has eaten any recalledfruit 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, and other complications. 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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