Del Monte Fresh Produce is recalling Granny Smith apples because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. At the time of the recall, no illnesses had been reported, but consumers who have purchased these apples should not eat them as Listeria can cause serious sometimes fatal infections.
Those most at risk for Listeria infection are pregnant women, young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, stuffiness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Listeria can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
The recalled apples were distributed in clear plastic bags containing 6 “Granny Smith” green apples. But the apples were sold individually on fruit displays at Coremark and 7-Eleven convenience stores from October 1 to October 12, 2015. States affected include CO, KS, MO, NE, NM, OK, SD, UT and WY.
The problem was discovered when a customer performed microbial testing on raw apples received.
Consumers who suspect that they have purchased “Granny Smith” green apples affected by this recall should dispose it in the garbage and contact Del Monte Fresh Produce for a refund. Affected retailers have been requested to remove the product from sale.
