Nationwide Nut Product Recall Announced: Potential Contamination Concerns

Nationwide Nut Product Recall Announced: Potential Contamination Concerns

The FDA has just announced a nationwide recall of various nut products due to potential contamination risks, urging consumers to take immediate action.

At a Glance

  • Bags of Brazil nuts recalled due to high levels of mold and yeast.
  • The recall includes NOW Real Food’s Whole & Unsalted Raw Brazil Nuts.
  • The classification of the recall is a Class II level as of August 28.
  • Class I recall issued for Stutz Packing Company’s Shelled Walnuts due to Listeria contamination.
  • Affected products distributed nationwide and in select international locations.

Details on the Nut Recall

The FDA has issued a recall for many nut products after routine inspections found potential contamination risks. Bags of Brazil nuts under NOW Real Food’s Whole & Unsalted Raw Brazil Nuts were among the first to be flagged, owing to high levels of mold and yeast. Initial reports were made on August 14; the recall, now classified at a Class II level, indicates the potential for temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences.

This recall includes lot code 3343549 and UPC code 733739070128, sold in 12-ounce bags with a best before date of September 2025. Consumers are advised to heed the guidelines put forth by the FDA and review their purchases to ensure safety.

Listeria Concerns Mount

On the more severe end, a Class I recall has been issued for specific lots of Stutz Packing Company’s Shelled Walnuts due to Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The recall involves two lot codes: 24171 1 and 24172 1, both bearing the UPC code 7 15001 00908 1. These products were distributed in Arizona and Texas, totaling 2,538 cases. A Class I recall denotes a reasonable probability that the product could cause serious adverse health consequences.

“A Class I recall, the highest risk level, is issued when there is a ‘reasonable probability’ that the use of or exposure to a product could ’cause serious adverse health consequences or death.’

Stutz Packing Company has halted the production and distribution of the affected walnuts, following confirmation of contamination through routine sampling. Consumers are urged to discard the product or return it to the place of purchase. Specific symptoms of Listeria infection include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and, in severe cases, brain and blood infections, especially dangerous for immunocompromised individuals.

Health Risks and Precautions

The FDA has highlighted the health risks associated with mold and yeast contamination in foods. These contaminants cause various degrees of food deterioration and mycotoxins production, leading to potential allergic reactions and respiratory problems upon ingestion. The contamination signs include rot spots, scabs, slime, and white cottony mycelium, urging consumers to be vigilant.

One food safety expert warns, “These foodborne illnesses are dangerous in that they can have severe health impacts on people, including vomiting, diarrhea, fever and, in severe cases, brain infections and blood infections,” Michelle Anstey, a food safety expert from NSF, told Newsweek. “They can be especially dangerous for those who are immunocompromised, including pregnant women, children and older adults.”

The FDA’s prompt actions and transparent communication aim to minimize health risks and ensure consumer safety during this period of heightened vigilance. As the investigation continues, everyone is urged to stay updated with the FDA’s advisories, discard affected products, and consult healthcare professionals if experiencing any symptoms.

Sources

  1. Nationwide Nut Recall Update As FDA Sets Risk Level
  1. Nut Recall Update As Highest Risk Warning Issued By FDA
  1. Nationwide Nut Recall Update As FDA Sets Risk Level
  1. Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts
  1. FDA reclassifies nut recall to highest risk warning after testing positive for listeria
  1. Nut Recall Update As FDA Sets Highest Risk Level
  1. 2024’s Walnut Recall Is At FDA’s Highest Risk Level
  1. Nut Recall: FDA Updates Affected Products To Highest Risk Level
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