Aldi and Market Basket Cheese Recalled Due to Listeria Contamination
Aldi and Market Basket have issued a voluntary recall of certain cheese products due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. The recall was announced on [date] and affects various cheese varieties sold at both supermarket chains.
What Cheese Products Are Recalled?
The following cheese products are included in the recall:
- [List the specific names of the recalled cheeses sold at Aldi, including brand names, varieties, and packaging sizes].
- [List the specific names of the recalled cheeses sold at Market Basket, including brand names, varieties, and packaging sizes].
The recall applies to products with specific "best by" dates. Consumers are advised to check the packaging of any cheese purchased from Aldi or Market Basket for the specific dates and product names listed in the recall notice.
Why Is Listeria a Concern?
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause listeriosis, a serious infection that primarily affects pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms of listeriosis can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. In pregnant women, it can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or serious illness in the newborn.
While listeriosis is rare, it can be life-threatening. If you have consumed any of the recalled cheeses and experience any of the symptoms listed above, seek medical attention immediately.
What to Do If You Have Recalled Cheese
If you have purchased any of the recalled cheeses, do not consume them. Instead, immediately discard the product or return it to the store where you purchased it for a full refund.
Do not attempt to eat or freeze the recalled cheese. Listeria can survive in cold temperatures, making it unsafe to consume even after freezing.
Preventing Listeria Contamination
To reduce the risk of listeriosis, follow these food safety tips:
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food.
- Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating.
- Cook meat, poultry, and seafood thoroughly to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
- Refrigerate perishable foods promptly and keep them at 40°F (4°C) or below.
- Avoid cross-contamination by separating raw meat, poultry, and seafood from other foods.
- Clean and sanitize all surfaces that come into contact with raw meat, poultry, and seafood.
This recall is a reminder of the importance of food safety and being aware of potential health risks associated with contaminated food products. Always check for product recalls and follow food safety guidelines to protect yourself and your family.
For more information about the recall, contact:
- Aldi: [Provide the contact information, such as phone number or website, for Aldi customer service]
- Market Basket: [Provide the contact information, such as phone number or website, for Market Basket customer service]
You can also report any adverse reactions to the FDA:
- FDA MedWatch: [Provide the link or contact information for FDA MedWatch]
This article was created to provide information about the Aldi and Market Basket cheese recall. It is not intended to provide medical advice. If you have concerns about listeriosis or any other health issue, consult with a medical professional.