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FDA posts press releases and other notices of recalls from the firms involved as a service to consumers, the media, and other interested parties. FDA does not endorse either the product or the company. |
Contact:
Robin Sprague
831-775-2324
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Salinas, Calif. -- May 20, 2003, -- Fresh Express is recalling Hearts of Romaine salad 10oz code S111A18B with an expiration date of May 6, 2003 because it has 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 headaches, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
Hearts of Romaine was distributed through retail stores in the following states and provinces: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin, Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Ontario.
Consumers that may have a bag of Hearts of Romaine salad 10oz code S111A18B with a use-by-date of May 6, 2003 should throw the product away or bring it back to their retailer for a refund.
The company recently learned that a routine test of a single sample conducted on April 30th by an independent party indicated the presence of Listeria monocytogenes. It is not anticipated that any of this product is in the marketplace due to the fact that it is well beyond its expiration date and it is a highly perishable product.
Even though it is highly unlikely that any product so far beyond its expiration date still exists, this voluntary, precautionary recall is being issued to safeguard consumer interests.
No illnesses have been reported or associated with Fresh Express Hearts of Romaine product or any other Fresh Express products. Consumers with any questions may contact the company at (800) 242-5472.
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