Bacon Bits Recall: Risk of Listeria Contamination

Approximately 3,590 pounds of applewood smoked bacon bit toppings have been recalled due to possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria which could cause a severe and potentially fatal form of food poisoning known as Listeriosis.

The bacon bits recall applies to products manufactured on November 13, 2008 and distributed to institutional establishments and restaurants in Texas, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Colorado, California and Florida.

They were packaged in 10 pound cases labeled “Golden Crisp Applewood Smoked Precooked Bacon Toppings” and “John Morrell Applewood Smoked Precooked Bacon Toppings”, with an establishment number “EST. 28” and Julian date of “8318.”

Although no reports of illness have been confirmed as a result of the bacon toppings, testing has indicated that the bacon bits may be contaminated with the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes, which could cause an infection of the gastrointestinal tract known as Listeriosis.

For individuals who consumed food with bacon toppings since November 13, 2008 and experienced symptoms of Listeriosis, such as high fever, severe headaches, neck stiffness and nausea, the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline is available 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET at 1(888) MPHotline.

In severe cases, Listeria bacteria can spread from the intestines to the nervous system, potentially causing meningitis and other complications.

Elderly individuals, young children, pregnant women and those with a weak immune system are at an increased risk of infection. Approximately 2,500 cases of listeriosis food poisoning occur every year in the United States, and typically about 500 of the cases result in death. For pregnant women, listeriosis may also lead to premature deliveries, stillbirth, miscarriage or infections in the new born.