Costco has announced a major recall of its Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon, following concerns of potential listeria contamination, which the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified as high risk. The recall was initiated by Acme Smoked Fish Corporation after laboratory testing confirmed the presence of the harmful bacteria, listeria monocytogenes.
The initial recall occurred on October 25, 2024, affecting 111 cases of the smoked salmon, which is sold in twin 12-ounce black-bordered packages. According to the FDA, these products were distributed primarily to the Southeast Costco Distribution Center based in West Palm Beach, Florida, and various retail stores across the state.
This situation has recently escalated as the FDA reclassified the recall as Class I, indicating there is a reasonable probability of serious health consequences or even death from exposure to the tainted product. The urgency of this classification urges consumers to act swiftly if they believe they have purchased any of the affected salmon.
Acme Smoked Fish spokesperson, Deena Siegelbaum, confirmed: “All products were removed from the marketplace at the time.” She underscored the importance of checking one’s freezer for the salmon, as many customers may still have it stored after previously buying it.
The contaminated product bears the UPC code 0 96619 25697 6, with the lot number 8512801270, and has the best-used-by date of November 13, 2024. The Georgia-based food safety network is highlighting the fact some customers could still have this product, which must be returned to Costco, or discarded, for a full refund. The FDA has advised those who’ve consumed the salmon unaware of the recall to contact their healthcare provider for guidance.
Healthy individuals might only experience mild symptoms after consuming listeria, such as fever, nausea, and diarrhea. The risk, though, is far more substantial for vulnerable groups, including young children, pregnant women, and the elderly, who may develop serious infections known as listeriosis. The severity of listeriosis can include headaches, stiff neck, confusion, and even miscarriages.
Despite the serious nature of the recall, thankfully, no illnesses have been reported so far related to the contaminated product.
Ross Perez from the FDA stated, “A situation in which there is a reasonable probability... will cause serious adverse health consequences or death,” emphasizing how serious listeria infections can be.
For additional inquiries, consumers can reach out to Acme Smoked Fish Corporation through their contact numbers or emails. They can call 718-383-8585 on weekdays from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Eastern Standard Time, or reach out to recall coordinators via email.
This recall serves as a stark reminder for consumers to be vigilant about food safety, ensuring to regularly check their freezers for any products marked for recall. It’s always best to stay informed and prioritize health, especially when it involves products with potentially dangerous contaminants.