Endico Potatoes Initiates Frozen Vegetables Recall Due to Listeria Contamination Risk

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a recall by Endico Potatoes Inc. of its Endico brand frozen peas and carrots and mixed vegetables due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. The company, based in New York, initiated this recall following the detection of the bacteria at a distributor in Pennsylvania. As part of the response, Endico has ceased further distribution and is collaborating with the FDA to trace the source of the contamination.

The affected frozen vegetables, packaged in 2.5-pound clear plastic bags under the Endico label, were distributed between July 18, 2025, and August 4, 2025. They reached markets in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Florida through various local distributors. Specifically, the recall applies to peas and carrots with the Lot number 110625 (Production Date 6/11/25, Use By Date 6/10/27) and mixed vegetables with Lot 170625 (Production Date 6/17/25, Use By Date 6/16/27).

Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium capable of causing listeriosis, particularly hazardous to children, the elderly, pregnant individuals, and those with compromised immune systems. Infection symptoms can range from mild gastrointestinal issues to severe systemic effects, including fever, muscle aches, and neurological symptoms in more serious cases. Although no illnesses have been linked to this recall, consumption of contaminated food can be life-threatening, highlighting the importance of immediate preventive measures.

Consumers possessing the recalled Endico products are advised to avoid consuming them and return the packages to the place of purchase for a full refund. The company has provided a contact number (1-800-431-1398) for any inquiries regarding the recall.

The detection in Pennsylvania was part of a routine sampling at a distributor, which led to discovering the Listeria contamination. Upon confirmation, Endico halted all future shipments and engaged with FDA officials to scrutinize the distribution chain and prevent further risks.

The unique resilience of Listeria monocytogenes allows it to survive at low temperatures, posing a risk to refrigerated or frozen foods if contaminated at any point during harvesting, processing, or packaging. Endico's recall serves as a critical reminder of the foodborne illness risks posed by Listeria, underscoring the delicate nature of food safety protocols in the frozen and chilled food sectors.

Mitigating food safety risks involves not only rapid recall actions but also enhancing preventive measures within the supply chain to prevent incidents from occurring. Consumers and retailers are urged to remain vigilant and adhere to guidelines provided by health authorities to ensure public health and safety.

In sum, while no health issues have been reported in the context of this specific recall, health officials are emphasizing caution to avoid potential cases of illness. Immediate consumer action to discard or return the affected products can help avert health risks associated with Listeria contamination, as the FDA and Endico continue their thorough investigation into the incident.