Listeria Outbreak: Popular Super Bowl Staples Recalled Due to Contamination
In a shocking turn of events, several popular Super Bowl staples have been recalled due to a listeria outbreak. The affected products include seven-layer bean dip, chicken enchiladas, cilantro salad dressing, and taco kits. The source of this outbreak has been identified as dairy products made by Rizo Lopez Foods, a well-known brand in the industry. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that this listeria outbreak has already claimed two lives and sickened more than two dozen people since 2014.
Expanding on the recall, the CDC announced that dairy products and other items made with the recalled dairy products have now been included in the recall. This includes popular brands like Trader Joe’s and 365 Whole Foods Market. Other affected brands include Bright Farms, Campesino, Casa Cardenas, Dole, Don Francisco, Don Pancho, Dos Ranchitos, El Huache, Food City, Fresh Express, H-E-B, La Ordena, Marketside, President’s Choice, Ready Pac Bistro, Rio Grande, Rizo Bros, Rojos, San Carlos, Santa Maria, Tio Francisco, Trader Joe’s, and 365 Whole Foods Market.
According to the CDC, a total of 26 people from eleven states have been infected with the listeria strain associated with this outbreak. Out of those infected, 23 have been hospitalized, and sadly, two individuals have lost their lives in Texas and California. However, the CDC also acknowledges that the actual number of affected individuals is likely higher since some people may recover without seeking medical care or undergoing testing.
Health officials have been investigating illnesses related to this outbreak since 2017 and 2021. However, it was only recently that they were able to confirm the source based on new laboratory and inspection information. The CDC reopened the investigation in January 2024 after more people fell ill in December 2023 and the outbreak strain was found in a cheese sample from Rizo-López Foods.
Listeria is a serious infection that can have fatal consequences, especially for young children and individuals with weakened immune systems. Pregnant women are also at risk, as listeria can cause miscarriages or stillbirths. Symptoms of listeria infection include fever, muscle aches, tiredness, and in some cases, headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures. These symptoms typically appear within two weeks of consuming contaminated food.
In light of this outbreak, the CDC is urging consumers who may have purchased the recalled products to immediately dispose of them or return them to the place of purchase. It is crucial not to consume any of the recalled cheeses or dairy products. Rizo-López Foods, the company responsible for the contaminated products, has advised consumers to check their refrigerators and freezers for any of the listed items and dispose of them accordingly. For further assistance or information, consumers can contact the company’s 24-hour helpline at (833)296-2233.
As this situation unfolds, it is essential for individuals to stay informed and take necessary precautions. The CDC continues to monitor the outbreak closely and provide updates as new information becomes available. It is crucial for everyone to prioritize their health and safety by avoiding consumption of the affected products and following the guidelines provided by health officials.
In conclusion, the listeria outbreak associated with popular Super Bowl staples has raised concerns about food safety and the importance of thorough inspections and investigations. The recall serves as a reminder for both consumers and manufacturers to prioritize quality control measures to prevent such outbreaks in the future. By staying vigilant and informed, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from potential health risks associated with contaminated food products.
