BrucePac and the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) have issued a significant recall involving almost 10 million pounds of beef and poultry items ready to consume. On October 9, 2024, the recall was announced owing to possible contamination with the dangerous bacteria Listeria monocytogenes, which can result in life-threatening disease.
When BrucePac’s ready-to-eat chicken products tested positive for Listeria after normal testing, the FSIS found the problem. Additional testing revealed that the goods were the source of the contamination, which led to a widespread recall of all meat products manufactured at the same Durant, Oklahoma, plant in addition to the chicken products.
Why Does This Recall Matter?
Contamination with Listeria can be harmful, particularly to vulnerable populations such as the elderly, pregnant women, and persons with compromised immune systems. Listeria monocytogenes-contaminated foods can cause listeriosis, an illness that can result in symptoms including fever, muscle pains, and an upset stomach.
In more extreme situations, the infection may migrate to the nervous system and cause more dangerous side effects, including meningitis. Listeriosis during pregnancy can cause stillbirths, miscarriages, or potentially fatal illnesses in the unborn child.
The magnitude of the recall affecting almost 10 million pounds of food dispersed across the nation—underscores the importance of the matter, even if no illnesses have been recorded in connection with it thus far. The impacted items are distributed through food service outlets and major grocery stores, so there might be a big consumer effect.
Information on the Affected Products
BrucePac produced the fully cooked meat and poultry products that are the subject of this recall between June 19, 2024, and October 8, 2024. These items were distributed nationwide to restaurants, grocery stores, and healthcare and educational facilities.
The recall is particularly extensive because the tainted poultry items were marketed under both BrucePac’s labels and several supermarket brands.
Customers should search for products with the establishment numbers “51205” or “P-51205” within or under the USDA mark of inspection to identify the recalled goods. This label, which is often included in the product package, is crucial for determining whether a particular product is covered by the recall.
Extension of the Memorandum
The recall initially included poultry items that were ready to consume. However, on October 10, 2024, more items and grocery store brands were added to the recall, making it even more comprehensive.
Major stores, including Aldi, Walmart, H-E-B, Trader Joe’s, and others, carried these products. Many of these items were sold in both the chilled and frozen areas and promoted under private labels unique to each store, such as Fresh Express.
This extension may impact a larger number of customers than initially thought. BrucePac and FSIS have supplied product lists with lot numbers and expiration dates to help determine which items are affected by the recall.
A summary of some of the most significant items covered by the recall is provided below:
Products Sold at H-E-B:
- HEB Texas Ranch Style Chicken with Ranchero Beans & Mexican Style Rice (12 oz.): Establishment number P-2117, Best By date: 09/03/25
- HEB Chicken Broccoli & Rice Casserole (32 oz.): Establishment number P-2117, Best By date: 08/09/25
- HEB Texas Ranch Chicken Casserole (30 oz.): Establishment number P-2117, Best By date: 08/27/25
Products Sold at Trader Joe’s:
- Turkey Club Wrap (9 oz.): Establishment number 46987, production dates: 09/03/24-10/08/24, Best By dates: 09/09/24-10/14/24
- Lemon Chicken & Arugula Salad (9.2 oz.): Establishment number 46987, production dates: 09/03/24-10/08/24, Best By dates: 09/09/24-10/14/24
- Tarragon Chicken Salad Wrap (10 oz.): Establishment number 46987, production dates: 09/03/24-10/08/24, Best By dates: 09/09/24-10/14/24
Products Sold Under the Fresh Express Brand:
- Marketside Southwest Style Salad with Chicken (11.75 oz.): Establishment number 46607, Use By date: prior to 10/13/2024
- Gourmet Cafe Salads Chicken Caesar (6.3 oz.): Establishment number 46607, Use By date: prior to 10/23/2024
- Gourmet Cafe Salads Santa Fe Style (6.3 oz.): Establishment number 46607, Use By date: prior to 10/11/2024
- Little Salad Bar Santa Fe Style Salad (6.3 oz.): Establishment number 46607, Use By date: prior to 10/16/2024
- Marketside Caesar Salad with Chicken (6.25 oz. and 12 oz.): Establishment number 46607, Use By dates: prior to 10/13/2024
As investigations continue, other goods may be added to this list, which is not all-inclusive. FSIS urges customers to check the FSIS website regularly for updates.
What Actions Are Appropriate for Customers?
Customers who have bought any of the impacted items must act immediately. The USDA and FSIS advise customers to verify the establishment number on any ready-to-eat meat and poultry products they own. If the product matches the establishment numbers or other identifying details connected to the recall, it should be thrown away or sent back to the retailer for a refund.
Additionally, establishments such as restaurants that may have acquired these items must immediately cease providing or selling them. Listeria may persist in cold conditions, so consuming it could still be dangerous even if a product seems safe or hasn’t shown any symptoms.
It is imperative to be watchful and search for recalled items since FSIS is apprehensive that some may still be in consumer homes, refrigerators, or freezers.
Possible Hazards to Health from Listeria Contamination
While no illnesses have been reported as of yet, consuming products contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes can cause a range of health problems. Listeriosis, the illness caused by this bacterium, is particularly dangerous for:
- Pregnant women, as it can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth.
- Elderly individuals and those with weakened immune systems, who are more likely to develop severe infections.
- Healthy individuals, who may still experience symptoms like fever, headaches, nausea, and diarrhea if infected.
In the event that you or someone in your household experiences any of these symptoms after consuming a recalled product, it’s recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Early treatment can help prevent more serious complications, especially in vulnerable individuals.
Conclusion
For customers who frequently buy pre-packaged dinners and salads, BrucePac’s recall of over 10 million pounds of ready-to-eat beef and poultry items is a huge event. These goods contain Listeria monocytogenes, which can be dangerous, especially for vulnerable groups. However, the risk can be reduced with knowledge and prompt action.
If you have any of the recalled products in your house, the best course of action is to verify the establishment number and, if the products meet the recall requirements, return or discard them. It’s critical to check the FSIS website often for updates since other goods may be added to the recall.
It is always important to prioritize your health and safety, so don’t be afraid to take the required precautions to keep your loved ones and yourself safe.
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