Veggie Patch Meatless Burger Recall Issued Due to Listeria Risk

A recall has been issued by Stop & Shop for Veggie Patch meatless burgers, after random testing by the manufacturer found the presence of Listeria Monocytogens, which could pose a serious and potentially life-threatening health risk to consumers. 

The FDA posed information this week about the Veggie Patch Ultimate Meatless Burgers recall, which was issued by Stop & Shop Supermarket Company LLC on November 30.

Although no cases of listeria food poisoning have been reported in connection with the recalled meatless burgers, presence of the bacteria has been discovered.

The recall affects  Veggie Patch Ultimate Meatless Burgers that are already fully cooked and refrigerated. These burgers were sold in 9 ounce trays with a “Use-By” date of January 12, 2013, and have a UPC# of 61012900211, which can be found on the back of the package.

Listeria infections pose a serious risk to young children and the elderly due to a weakened immune system. For pregnant women, listeriosis can pose a serious risk of miscarriages and still births.

In many cases, individuals do not experience symptoms immediately, which may involve fever, muscle aches, nausea or diarrhea. In more severe cases, listeria poisoning may lead to meningitis, mental changes, brain abscesses, or death.

While listeria illness is one of the rarer forms of food poisoning, it frequently results in hospitalization and about a quarter of those who contract the illness die from the infection.

Stop and Shop has not received any reports of illnesses to date but is asking consumers to not eat the recalled products and discard any unused portions. Consumers may return to Stop & Shop with their receipt to receive a full refund. For other inquiries customers may contact Stop & Shop at (800) 767-7772 or visit their website at www.stopandshop.com.