Recall
Announcement (ODA/ODH) 2003-27
May
21, 2003
Salinas,
Calif.-- 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.