Additional snack foods and dairy items sold at major retailers like Costco and Trader Joe’s are being recalled due to a deadly listeria outbreak traced to a California company. So far, the contaminated foods have killed two people and sickened at least 25 since 2014.
On Monday, Rizo Lopez Foods of Modesto recalled over 60 soft cheese products, yogurt, and sour cream.
These products were sold under the brand names Tio Francisco, Don Francisco, Rizo Bros, Rio Grande, Food City, El Huache, La Ordena, San Carlos, Campesino, Santa Maria, Dos Ranchitos, Casa Cardenas, and 365 Whole Foods Market. These were sold to food establishments, delis, and stores nationwide.
The recalls come after officials investigated certain cases in 2017 and 2021. The officials confirmed the sources of the outbreak only after new lab tests in December.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture also issued a public health alert for Amazon-brand burritos containing Rizo Lopez ingredients.
Officials urge consumers to consult FDA tables listing all recalled items, sizes, and best-by dates.
About 1,600 listeria infections are reported every year, predominantly among pregnant women, seniors over 65, and those with weak immune systems. Symptoms like fever, fatigue, and muscle aches usually become apparent within two weeks of eating contaminated items.
The CDC said that consumers who own the recalled products should not only throw them away, but also clean their refrigerator, countertops, and other contact sites. Listeria can survive in the refrigerator, and it can spread to other foods and surfaces.
This year, listeria concerns have even cast a shadow over Super Bowl staples that families may plan to enjoy together. No amount of touchdown euphoria can cure listeria’s potentially fatal consequences – especially among those most vulnerable.
The Associated Press contributed to this article.