If you’ve recently stocked up on ready-to-cook meals, especially chicken pasta kits, it’s crucial to check your refrigerator. Seviroli Foods has initiated a significant recall of its chicken alfredo kits across multiple states, including Georgia, due to potential Listeria contamination. This recall, classified as Class 1 by the FDA, signifies a high-risk situation where consumption of the affected product could lead to serious health consequences or even death.
Why Was Seviroli Foods Chicken Alfredo Recalled?
The recall, which impacts over a million pounds of chicken alfredo kits, was triggered by the presence of listeria monocytogenes. This harmful bacteria can cause listeriosis, an infection particularly dangerous for individuals with weakened immune systems, the elderly, pregnant women, and newborns, as highlighted by the Mayo Clinic. Listeriosis can manifest in severe symptoms and, in vulnerable populations, can be fatal.
The contaminated chicken originated from BrucePac, an Oklahoma-based supplier. BrucePac itself has issued a massive recall of over 11 million pounds of meat and poultry across various brands due to the same Listeria concern. For a comprehensive list of all products affected by the BrucePac recall, you can visit the FSIS website.
Recalled Seviroli Foods Chicken Alfredo Kit
Which Seviroli Foods Products Are Recalled and Where?
The Seviroli Foods chicken alfredo kits recall is extensive, affecting products distributed to retailers in fifteen states:
- California
- Florida
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Louisiana
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- New York
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- Texas
- Wyoming
Consumers in these states who have purchased Seviroli Foods chicken alfredo kits should verify if their product is included in the recall. The FDA recall notice (accessdata.fda.gov) provides specific product details and lot codes to help consumers identify recalled items.
What Should You Do If You Have Recalled Chicken Alfredo?
If you find that you have purchased a recalled Seviroli Foods chicken alfredo kit, the most important step is to not consume it. The FDA advises consumers to discard the product immediately to prevent any risk of listeria infection.
While it was initially reported that the recalled kits were still on shelves, Seviroli Foods has clarified that the affected products have been removed from stores since the recall’s initiation in October. Furthermore, Seviroli Foods has switched to a new chicken vendor, indicating proactive steps to prevent future incidents.
Understanding the Severity of a Class 1 Recall
The FDA’s Class 1 recall classification underscores the seriousness of this situation. It is reserved for recalls where there is a “reasonable probability” that using or being exposed to the product will cause “serious adverse health consequences or death.” This classification highlights the potential danger associated with Listeria contamination, especially for vulnerable populations.
This recall serves as a critical reminder of the importance of food safety and the rigorous measures in place to protect public health. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about food recalls and to take immediate action if they have purchased a recalled product. Regularly checking for food recall notices from the FDA and USDA is a proactive way to ensure food safety in your home.