FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Print Media: (202)-205-4144 March 4, 2000 P00-4 Consumer Media: 888-INFO-FDA
Regal Food Service of Houston, Texas, is recalling its 6.5 ounce Double Cheeseburgers because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.
Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
The recalled Double Cheeseburgers were sold to wholesale outlets and distributed to convenience stores, truck stops and vending machines in Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Florida, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Alabama.
The ready-to-eat Double Cheeseburgers, consisting of two meat patties, two cheese slices, and two pieces of bread, comes in a 6.5 ounce molded clear plastic package marked with a four digit code. Double cheeseburgers with all codes have been recalled.
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.
The potential for contamination was noted after testing by the Food and Drug Administration revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in 6.5 ounce Double Cheeseburgers.
The production of the product has been suspended while FDA and the company continue to investigate the source of the problem. Consumers who have purchased 6.5 ounce Double Cheeseburgers are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-800-683-7378.
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