Choices Markets in Canada is recalling their brand name deli products containing green peas because they may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes bacteria. No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with these products, but listeriosis, the illness caused by this bacteria, can take up to 70 days to manifest.
The recalled products were sold at Choices Markets in British Columbia. The brand name on all of the products is Choices Own. They include Extra Lean Grass Fed Beef Shepherd’s Pie in 500 gram packages. All by before dates from 16.MA.01 up to and including 16.JN.16 are recalled, with UPC number 0 234502 007995. Shepherd’s Pie Family Size in 1 kg packages is recalled, with all best before dates from 16.MA.01 up to and including 16.JN.16. The UPC number is 0 235908 013993. Moroccan Chickpea Salad in variable sizes is also recalled. The best before dates on that product are from 16.AL.29 up to and including 16.JN.17 and the UPC number starts with 0 234343. Finally, Chicken Coconut Curry in 475 gram packages is recalled. All best before dates from 16.AL.25 up to and including 16.JN.18 are recalled, with UPC number 0 235229 006995. You can see pictures of the recalled products at the CFIA web site.
If you purchased any of these products, do not eat them, even if you cook them before consuming. Throw them away in a sealed container or return to the place of purchase for a refund. Then clean out your refrigerator or freezer with a mild bleach solution to kill any bacteria, since Listeria can grow at refrigerator temperatures and freezing does not kill it.
If you ate any of these products, watch yourself for the symptoms of listeriosis for the next 70 days. They include vomiting, nausea, high fever, muscle aches, high fever, and neck stiffness. If you do get ill, especially if you are elderly or pregnant, see your doctor.
