United States: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) implemented a manufacturing stoppage of various milkshake products due to their association with 11 mortalities and 60 persons hospitalized with serious health problems. Long-term care homes and hospitals mainly distributed the affected products, as reported by Yahoo.com.
Details of the Recall
The Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Supplemental Shake products in four oz. packages originate from Prairie Farms’ Fort Wayne, Indiana production facility. Lyons Magnus took voluntary action to recall the products after validating Listeria monocytogenes discovered in the products.
- Affected Locations: 38 cases reported across 21 states.
- Impact: 11 fatalities and 27 hospitalizations.
- High-Risk Areas: Long-term care facilities and hospitals.
Company Response and Actions Taken
Lyons Magnus immediately ceased product purchases from the affected Prairie Farms facility, informed customers, and initiated a nationwide distribution recall.
Health Risks and Symptoms
Listeriosis, caused by Listeria monocytogenes, can have a long incubation period, with symptoms appearing between 2 to 10 weeks after consumption.
Symptoms include
- Confusion and stiff neck
- Convulsions
- High fever and muscle aches
High-Risk Groups:
- Pregnant women
- Elderly individuals (65 and older)
- People with weakened immune systems
Past Outbreaks and Public Health Concern:
This incident follows a previous Listeria outbreak across four states last year, which resulted in one infant death and illness in ten adults linked to ready-to-eat meat products.