Important Guacamole Recall Update: FDA Classifies as High-Risk Product
According to News Week, The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified guacamole, peppers, and vegetables sold by Supreme Service Solutions LLC in Kroger stores as a high-risk product. This determination follows concerns about contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause serious and potentially fatal infections, known as listeriosis.
Health Risks of Listeria Monocytogenes
Listeriosis can result in severe symptoms for healthy individuals, including headaches, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. However, the risks escalate for vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Pregnant women are particularly at risk, as Listeria infection can lead to miscarriages and stillbirths.
Details of the Recall
On September 17, the FDA announced that out of the 19 products involved in the voluntary recall, 11 had received a Class 1 rating. This highest risk classification signifies “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.” The FDA has advised consumers to discard these products immediately.
| Product | Product Code | Risk Class* |
|---|---|---|
| Supreme Guacamole Chunky Mild | 8-50053-68588 | Class I |
| Supreme Guacamole Chunky Medium 17 oz | 8-50053-68589 | Class I |
| Supreme Pico/Guacamole 16 oz | 8-50054-89443 | Class I |
| Supreme Peppers Tri Blend 8 oz | 8-50053-68534 | Class I |
| Supreme Jalapenos Diced 7 oz | 8-50053-68536 | Class I |
| Supreme Peppers W/Onions 7 oz | 8-50053-68538 | Class I |
| Supreme Peppers Snacking 12 oz | 8-50053-68553 | Class I |
| Supreme Grilling Veggies 19 oz | 8-50053-68584 | Class I |
| Supreme Vegetable Kabobs 27 oz | 8-50053-68585 | Class I |
| Supreme Vegetable Bowl 26 oz | 8-60010-50713 | Class I |
Product Information
All recalled products have surpassed their “best by” dates, which range from July 9 to July 28. The contamination was identified by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development during routine sampling, leading to the voluntary recall by Supreme Service Solutions LLC.
These vegetables were sold in clear plastic grab-and-go containers at Kroger stores located in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, and Ohio. Distribution was managed by Wiers Farm Inc. of Willard, Ohio.
Current Status of Illnesses
As of now, no illnesses or deaths related to this recall have been reported since it was announced on July 19. This follows a recent outbreak in August, where nine people died and 57 were hospitalized across 18 states due to listeria linked to contaminated Boar’s Head deli meats. The severity of the situation highlights the importance of food safety and monitoring.
Products Under Recall
Among the items receiving Class 1 status are chunky guacamole, pico-guac combo, various pepper blends, and vegetables suitable for grilling or kebabs. Consumers are urged to stay vigilant and check their products for any involvement in the recall.
