FDA Elevates Broccoli Recall to Highest Risk Level Due to Potential Listeria Contamination

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 6, 2025

The Bahamas Agricultural Health and Food Safety Authority (BAHFSA) wishes to inform the public that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated the recall of Marketside Broccoli Florets sold at Walmart stores to a Class I recall, indicating a reasonable probability that consumption could lead to serious health consequences or death. This action follows the detection of Listeria monocytogenes in the product.

Key Details:

  • Product Information: The recall pertains to 12-ounce bags of Marketside Broccoli Florets with a "Best if Used By" date of December 10, 2024, and lot code BFFG327A6. The UPC code is 6 81131 32884 5.
  • Distribution: The affected product was distributed to Walmart locations in 20 states: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon ... , and Wyoming.
  • Discovery: The potential contamination was identified through random sampling by Texas Health & Human Services at a Walmart store in Texas. One of multiple samples tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes.
  • Recall Initiation: Braga Fresh Foods voluntarily recalled 35,508 bags of the affected broccoli on December 27, 2024. Although the product's expiration date has passed and it is no longer on store shelves, consumers may still have it stored in their freezers.

Health Implications:

Listeria monocytogenes can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in young children, frail or elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal ... , and diarrhea. In pregnant women, Listeria infection can lead to miscarriages and stillbirths.

Consumer Guidance:

Consumers are urged to check their freezers for the recalled broccoli. If found, do not consume the product; instead, dispose of it immediately. To date, no illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall. However, individuals who have consumed the product and experience symptoms should contact their healthcare provider promptly.

If you have purchased or been affected by broccoli with the UPC code 6 81131 32884 5 please contact BAHFSA at 1-242-603-3260.