BrightFarms, based in Selinsgrove, PA, has issued a voluntary recall of spinach supplied by Element Farms from their Pompton Plains, New Jersey farm. The spinach, distributed under the BrightFarms brand, is suspected of potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. Additionally, due to potential cross-contamination, a limited quantity of four salad kit products is also being recalled from BrightFarms’s Selinsgrove facility.
The recalled products, including Baby Spinach, Mediterranean Crunch Kit, Chickpea Caesar Crunch Kit, Bacon Ranch Crunch Kit, and Southwest Chipotle, were distributed to retailers across seven states: Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. Packaged in 4-ounce clear plastic containers, consumers are advised to check the “best by” date, UPC, and facility code located at the bottom of the package.
Listeria monocytogenes contamination may not be visually detectable or alter the smell of the affected food, making it imperative for consumers to be cautious. Consumption of contaminated products can lead to severe, and sometimes life-threatening, infections. Symptoms may include vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headache, and neck stiffness. Specific laboratory tests are required to diagnose Listeria infections, which can mimic other illnesses.
Particularly at risk are pregnant women, the elderly, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients. While healthy individuals may experience mild symptoms, infections in pregnant women can lead to serious complications like premature delivery, infection of the newborn, or stillbirth.
The products affected by this recall can be recognized by checking the containers for the following details:
The recall follows routine sampling conducted by Element Farms, which revealed a positive result for Listeria monocytogenes. No positive test results or reported illnesses have been associated with the recalled products. BrightFarms, in response, has temporarily halted the distribution of Element Farms-grown spinach.
Consumers who have purchased the affected products are strongly advised not to consume them. Instead, they should discard the items or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. BrightFarms has set up a helpline at 1-866-857-8745 for consumers with questions, operational from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. EDT, or inquiries can be directed to info@brightfarms.com with the subject line: Recall.
The recall highlights the ongoing commitment to food safety and customer well-being, as BrightFarms addresses potential risks associated with Listeria contamination in their spinach and salad kit products.