Another food recall has made headlines, raising more questions about the safety of everyday groceries. This time, the FDA has issued a recall involving a range of produce—including potatoes, lemons, limes, Valencia oranges, and even organic limes—due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.
What triggered the recall?
During a routine inspection of Freshouse II’s packing facility in Salisbury, North Carolina, Listeria was detected on some of the equipment. As a precaution, the company has halted production and distribution of any products packed on the affected machinery. Corrective actions and a full review of cleaning protocols are already underway.
The recalled items were distributed to retail and wholesale locations in North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Maryland.
What is Listeria, and why is it dangerous?
Listeria is a bacteria commonly found in soil, water, and animal waste. It’s especially tricky because it thrives in cold environments—even in the fridge—and can’t be detected by taste or smell. While dairy products are a well-known source, Listeria has also been identified in deli meats, soft cheeses, hummus, and produce like cantaloupe.
For people with weakened immune systems—including pregnant women, the elderly, infants, and those with chronic conditions like diabetes, HIV, or cancer—Listeria can be extremely serious. In healthy individuals, symptoms may include nausea, abdominal pain, muscle aches, and diarrhea. However, if the infection spreads to the nervous system, it becomes a more severe condition known as listeriosis, which can be fatal in about 20% of cases.
Symptoms of listeriosis can include:
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Headache
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Stiff neck
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Confusion
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Loss of balance
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Convulsions
Listeria can spread inside the home
Contamination doesn’t stop at the grocery store. Once brought into a household, Listeria can spread across refrigerator shelves and kitchen counters. Unlike most bacteria, it can multiply even at refrigerator temperatures. According to the FDA, keeping a clean kitchen and refrigerator is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread.
Each year, about 1,600 cases of Listeria infection are reported in the U.S., with approximately 260 resulting in death, according to the CDC.
Products included in the recall
No illnesses have been reported so far, but consumers are urged to check for the following items and take action if they’ve purchased any:
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Freshouse Limes (2lb mesh bags)
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Nature’s Promise Organic Limes (1lb mesh bags)
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Fresh From the Start Red B Potatoes (3lb mesh bags)
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Fresh From the Start Lemons (2lb mesh bags)
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Wegmans Lemons (2lb mesh bags)
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Wegmans Valencia Oranges (4lb mesh bags)
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Various wholesale bulk lemons, limes, red potatoes, and oranges (40–50lb mesh bags)
Consumers experiencing symptoms like fever, abdominal pain, or headache after consuming these items should seek medical advice immediately.
How to reduce the risk of Listeria at home
Preventive steps can go a long way in minimizing the risk of contamination:
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Keep the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below.
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Store food properly using sealed containers or wrap.
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Discard leftovers after three days.
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Clean fridge shelves with disposable paper towels and disinfect regularly.
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Wash countertops, utensils, and cutting boards with hot, soapy water after preparing meals.
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Cook meats, poultry, and egg dishes to a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
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Rinse fresh vegetables thoroughly under running water.
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Always wash hands before and after handling food, especially raw meat.
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Keep raw meats separate from ready-to-eat foods.
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Use deli meats within 3–5 days after opening.
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Stay informed by regularly checking FDA and CDC websites for the latest food recalls and safety alerts.
Food recalls are concerning, but with the right precautions and awareness, it’s possible to reduce the risks and keep kitchens safer.
