Frozen Waffle has voluntarily recalled by TreeHouse Foods, Inc hundreds of frozen waffle items due to possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination, a serious health alert. Popular brands sold at major US and Canadian retailers like Walmart, Target, Aldi, and Food Lion are affected by this recall.
Frozen Waffle recall was initiated on Friday, October 19, after routine testing at one of TreeHouse Foods’ manufacturing facilities detected possible listeria contamination. The company has informed both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Canadian food safety regulators about the situation
Listeria infections can cause mild symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle pain, nausea, and diarrhea. However, they can also lead to more severe health issues, particularly for vulnerable populations including pregnant women, newborns, individuals over 65, and those with weakened immune systems. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1,600 people in the U.S. are infected with listeria each year, resulting in around 260 deaths.
Affected Products
A variety of brands, including Walmart’s Great Value, Target’s Good & Gather, and private labels from retailers including Kroger and Schnucks, are among the waffles that are being recalled. It is recommended that consumers look for any of these products in their freezers. If they are located, they must to get rid of them or bring them back to the shop to get a refund. On their website, TreeHouse Foods has provided a thorough list of the impacted products, along with information like lot numbers and UPC codes to assist customers in identifying possibly tainted goods.
No Reports of Illness
As of now, TreeHouse Foods has reported no confirmed cases of illness linked to the recalled waffles. However, consumers are urged to remain vigilant. Symptoms of listeriosis can take up to 70 days to develop after consuming contaminated food, making it crucial for anyone who has eaten these products to monitor their health closely.
Public Health Implications
This recall comes amid heightened concerns about food safety in the U.S., following several recent listeria outbreaks linked to other food products. The CDC has noted that listeria poses a significant health risk, especially for certain groups. Pregnant women may experience mild symptoms but are at risk for severe complications such as miscarriages or stillbirths.
What Should Consumers Do?
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1. Check Product Labels | Look for the UPC code on the back of the carton along with the lot code and best-by date. |
| 2. Dispose or Return | If your product is included in the recall list, dispose of it safely or return it to the store for a full refund. |
| 3. Stay Informed | Keep an eye on updates from TreeHouse Foods and health authorities regarding this recall. |
