Endico Potatoes Inc. Recall Sparks Listeria Concerns Across Seven States

Endico Potatoes Inc. has initiated a recall of its branded 2.5-pound bags of frozen vegetables, specifically peas and carrots, and mixed vegetables, due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. This recall affects distribution in seven U.S. states: New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Maryland, Florida, and the District of Columbia. The affected products are packaged in clear plastic bags displaying the green and red Endico label, bearing lot codes 110625 for peas and carrots and 170625 for mixed vegetables, with corresponding use-by dates of June 10, 2027, and June 16, 2027.

The recall was initiated following testing by the state of Pennsylvania, revealing the presence of Listeria in the affected lot. Consequently, Endico stopped the distribution of these products and launched an investigation to determine the contamination source. Despite no reported illnesses at this stage, Listeria poses significant health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups such as young children, elderly individuals, expectant mothers, and those with compromised immune systems. Symptoms of infection can include fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, and may escalate to severe, life-threatening conditions.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has advised consumers who purchased these recalled products to avoid their consumption and instead return them to the point of acquisition for a full refund. Consumers seeking further information can contact Endico directly at 1-800-431-1398. Although Listeria is known to be resilient against freezing and refrigeration, the FDA underscores the importance of maintaining stringent food safety practices to reduce the risk of cross-contamination, such as thorough handwashing and cleaning of kitchen surfaces.

This preventive recall highlights the ongoing vigilance needed in monitoring food safety standards to prevent outbreaks of food-borne illnesses. With Listeria infections being a significant concern, leading to severe health outcomes, the recall serves as a reminder of the crucial need for effective food handling and preparation practices.