When it comes to the food you eat, safety is a top priority. That is why it is important to know about a recent recall involving broccoli sold at Walmart stores across 20 states, including Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. The recall stems from concerns over potential Listeria contamination. Here is everything you need to know, from affected brands and lot numbers to what you should do if you have purchased this product.
What brands are affected by the Walmart broccoli recall?
The broccoli in question comes from the Marketside brand, specifically 12-ounce bags of Marketside Broccoli Florets. This brand is sold exclusively at Walmart and is known for its “washed and ready-to-eat” products. The recall was initiated by Braga Fresh, the producer of the broccoli, due to possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.
Listeria is a serious issue, especially for certain groups of people, such as young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Even healthy adults can experience severe symptoms, including fever, muscle aches, and digestive issues.
Braga Fresh clarified that this recall only affects specific Marketside Broccoli Florets and does not apply to any other products under the Marketside or Braga Fresh brands.
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What states are included in the recall?
The recalled broccoli was distributed to Walmart locations across 20 states, spanning a wide geographical area. If you live in one of the following states, you need to check your fridge or freezer for this product:
- Midwest: Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Illinois, Michigan
- West Coast: Alaska, California, Oregon, Washington
- Mountain West: Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming
- South and Southwest: Arkansas, Arizona, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas
Even if the product is no longer on store shelves, it is possible that you might still have it in your home if you purchased it recently.
How to identify the affected broccoli bags
It is easy to identify the broccoli that is part of this recall. Simply check the packaging for the following details:
- UPC code: 6 81131 32884 5
- Lot code: BFFG327A6
- Best-by date: December 10
If your bag matches all of these identifiers, it is best to stop using it immediately and follow the recommended actions below.
What to do if you have the recalled product
If you find out that you have bought the recalled broccoli, here is what to do:
- Do not eat it. Even though it may look visually appealing or smell just fine, there is definitely a chance that it is contaminated.
- Get rid of it. Make sure that it is not accessible by animals as well as other people.
- Call the company. Toll-free numbers available at Braga Fresh are 877-456-7445 and open up between the hours of 8am and 4pm from Monday to Friday. Alternatively, you can just send an email at WeCare@bragafresh.com for further assistance.
Braga Fresh has to add that no illness cases have been reported as of the 27th of December. However, all hands are on deck to ensure consumer safety.
Why is this recall important?
Food recalls serve as more than mere routine announcements. There are steps towards safeguarding public health. Listeria is capable of causing serious, rare and even fatal ailments. This makes it necessary for you to stay current on any information regarding recalls such as this is a good way of keeping yourself and loved ones safe.
