Blimpie Beef Sandwich Recall: Possible Listeria contamination

Approximately 5,250 pounds of frozen Blimpie beef sandwich portions sold since November 14, 2008, have been recalled due to possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, which is the bacterium that causes listeriosis food poisoning.

The Blimpie recall applies to ready-to-eat frozen beef sandwich portions sold in 3.5 ounce, individually wrapped packages. The label indicates “Blimpie Fully Cooked Seasoned Beef Shaved Steaks Thinly Sliced with Onions” and contains the establishment number “EST. 2727” inside the USDA mark of inspection. The products available for consumer purchase also contain a Julian date of “3198,” “3228” or “3238.”

Listeria monocytogenes is most commonly found in raw meats, uncooked vegetables, soft cheeses, pates, smoked fish and un-pasteurized milk products. When commercially produced products are found to be contaminated with Listeria, it is often traced to problems during their manufacturing, processing or packaging.

The Blimpie beef sandwich portions were distributed to retail locations in Georgia, California, Florida, Illinois and New York. The bacteria could be present in products manufactured on November 14, 17, 18 or 20, 2008, by Home Market Foods, Inc.

Consuming foods contaminated with Listeria bacteria could cause mild to severe infection of the gastrointestinal tract, with symptoms of food poisoning like muscle ache, nausea, diarrhea and fever.

Individuals with weak immune systems, infants, elderly and pregnant women are most susceptible to developing Listeriosis. In severe cases, the nervous system could be affected and the infection could be fatal. For pregnant women, listeriosis food poisoning may lead to miscarriages, premature deliveries, still births or infections in the new born.

Approximately 2,500 cases of listeriosis are reported every year in the United States, and about 500 of those cases result in death.

The USDA reports that the Blimpie beef sandwich contamination was discovered by the manufacturer during routine testing, and no reports of food poisoning or illness have been received.