Soybean Sprouts Recall Issued Due to Risk of Listeria Infection

Henry Farm’s Inc. soybean sprouts sold in Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. are being recalled due to fears that they may be contaminated with listeria bacteria.

The soybean sprout recall was announced by the FDA this week, after Listeria monocytogenes was discovered in samples during testing by the Virginia Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services (VDAS) Food safety and Security program in Virginia.

Listeria monocytogenes is the bacteria responsible for causing listeriosis, a serious infection that kills about one out of every five people who contract the illness. There have been no reported cases of food poisoning or illness associated with the recalled soybean sprouts.

The recall affects all clear plastic packages of 1.5 lbs. Grown in Natural Spring Water Soybean Sprouts, which were sold in uncoded packages. It also affects all bulk 10 lbs. plastic bags of Soybean Sprouts, which were sold in unlabeled and uncoded packages, as well as clear plastic packages containing 1 lb. of Grown in Natural Spring Water Natto Soybean Sprouts, which were also sold in uncoded packages. All were distributed to retail stores in the Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. area.

The FDA advises consumers who have purchased soybean sprouts distributed by Henry Farms to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions can call Henry Farms, Inc. at (301) 802-2996, or they can contact the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Food Safety and Security Program at (804) 786-3520.

Listeria infection poses a particular risk for children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems. For pregnant women, illness from Listeria bacteria can cause miscarriages and still births.

Blood tests are usually required to diagnose listeriosis, which presents with symptoms of muscle aches, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, severe headaches and fever. If the bacteria spreads from the intestines to the bloodstream and nervous system, it could cause meningitis and other complications.