Massive Meat Recall Raises Concerns Over Potential Listeria Threat

Text "Product Recall" on torn brown paper.

Alexander & Hornung, a unit of Perdue Premium Meat Company, recalls 2.3 million pounds of ham and pepperoni products due to potential Listeria contamination, prompting concerns about consumer safety and the reach of affected products.

At a Glance

Alexander & Hornung recalls 2,320,774 pounds of fully cooked ham and pepperoni products
Recall expanded from initial 234,391 pounds due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination
Affected products bear establishment number “EST. M10125” and were shipped nationwide
No illnesses reported, but consumers advised to check refrigerators and freezers for recalled items
High-risk groups include pregnant women, elderly, young children, and those with weakened immune systems

Massive Recall Affects Millions of Pounds of Meat Products

In a significant move that has caught the attention of consumers nationwide, Alexander & Hornung, a subsidiary of Perdue Premium Meat Company Inc., has initiated a recall of over 2.3 million pounds of fully cooked ham and pepperoni products. The recall, which has expanded dramatically from an initial 234,391 pounds, comes in response to concerns about potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a dangerous bacterium that can cause severe illness.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has been closely monitoring the situation. The affected products, which were produced on various dates, can be identified by the establishment number “EST. M10125” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items have been distributed to retail locations across the country, potentially impacting consumers in every state.

Alexander & Hornung is recalling 2,320,774 pounds of fully cooked ham and pepperoni products that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. https://t.co/q4e67rNvAc

— Food Safety News (@foodsafetynews) December 14, 2024

Health Risks and Consumer Precautions

While no confirmed reports of adverse reactions have been linked to these products, the potential health risks associated with Listeria contamination are serious. Listeriosis, the infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes, can be particularly dangerous for certain groups of people.

Symptoms of listeriosis can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. In some cases, these symptoms may be preceded by gastrointestinal issues. It’s important to note that symptoms may not appear immediately after consuming contaminated food; in fact, they can take up to 70 days to develop.

FSIS Urges Consumer Action

The FSIS is taking this recall very seriously and has issued strong recommendations to consumers. As stated by the agency, “FSIS is concerned that some product may be in consumers’ refrigerators or freezers.” This concern stems from the long shelf life of many of the affected products, which could still be present in homes across the country.

Instead, consumers are advised to either throw these products away or return them to the place of purchase. Anyone who believes they may have consumed the recalled products and is experiencing symptoms should contact their healthcare provider immediately. It’s crucial to inform medical professionals about the potential exposure to ensure proper treatment and monitoring.