Hundreds of tubs of cream cheeses have been recalled and given the FDA's most serious warning because they may be contaminated with deadly bacteria.
New York-based Made Fresh Salads has recalled several flavors of its 5lb cream cheese tubs because they may be contaminated with listeria, a type of bacteria that causes severe diarrhea and muscle aches.
The recall includes 14 flavors of cream cheese and whipped tofu that were all sold with expiration dates through February 27, 2026.
Flavors affected are apple cinnamon, caramel apple, blueberry, garlic and herb, jalapeno, jalapeno cheddar, lox, scallion, strawberry, sundried tomato, vegetable, walnut raisin, whipped and tofu whipped.
Products were distributed in Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx and the greater New York City area by direct delivery to retail stores and other distributors.
The recall was initiated as the result of routine sampling by the company, which revealed that part of a mixer used to manufacture the products was contaminated with listeria. The company has stopped production using the mixer in question and removed it from service.
Though the original recall was issued last month, the FDA this week gave it the classification of Class I, which indicates 'a situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.'
No illnesses have been reported.
While most of the 1,250 Americans infected with listeria each year recover on their own, the FDA warns that the infection 'can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.' About 250 Americans die of the infection each year.
Listeria, also called listeriosis, is a serious infection caused by eating food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.
It can be found in moist environments, soil, water, decaying vegetation and animals, and can survive refrigeration and other food preservation measures.
Many foods can harbor the bug, but it is usually found in unpasteurized milk, soft cheeses and ready-to-eat foods, such as pre-packed sandwiches. Cooked shellfish, cured meats and fish, including sushi and pre-cut fruit, are also a risk.
Most people who eat food contaminated with listeria will not become seriously ill.
But in some cases, it can cause confusion and seizures, miscarriages among pregnant women, and even death.
This can happen when the infection spreads beyond the gut and affects the central nervous system, which can lead to numbness and seizures.
The FDA said consumers who have purchased the recalled products should return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions can also contact the company at 1-718-765-0082 Monday through Friday 9am to 5pm EST.