A California company has recalled some fruit products imported from the state due to concerns about potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination.
Wawona Packing Company is recalling a variety of fruits, including whole peaches, plums, nectarines and pluots sold by the Sweet 2 Eat brand, which were packaged and shipped between June 1 and July 12 of this year, CBS News reports. The recall also applies to baked goods made with the contaminated fruits.
"We are aware of no illnesses related to the consumption of these products," Brent Smittcamp, president of Wawona Packing, said in a statement. "By taking the precautionary step of recalling product, we will minimize even the slightest risk to public health, and that is our priority."
The company has listed specific packages as being affected, but does not know exactly where in the country the fruit was shipped, resulting in a nationwide recall, the company said in a statement. Wholesalers that resell the fruits include BJ's, Costco, Trader Joe's, Sam's Club and Whole Foods.
The Associated Press reports that the company issued the voluntary recall following internal testing at one of the company's packing facilities in central California. Production was instantly halted and the factory was sanitized.
The federal agency says the recalled products should be thrown out or returned to the store where they were purchased.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveals that patients with listeria may experience flu-like symptoms such as headache, fever, muscle aches and convulsions. People with weak immune systems and pregnant women are the most at-risk of developing more serious symptoms associated with the infection.
Symptoms typically appear within a month or two of consuming contaminated materials. While listeria can be deadly if not discovered in time, the CDC says that the disease can be treated with antibiotics and urges consumers to seek treatment if they begin exhibiting symptoms after eating possibly tainted foods.
Food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes may not look or smell spoiled but can still make you sick. Symptoms can include vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headache and neck stiffness.
Consumers with questions can contact Wawona Packing Co. at 1-888-232-9912.
