Country Fresh is extending their Oct. 2 recall of watermelon chunks to include various containers of “Freshness Guaranteed“ cut and/or sliced apples, grapes, mangos, pineapples, and cantaloupe sold at Walmart because of possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination.

The recall affects product codes of items shipped directly to Walmarts in Arizona, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas.

The recall was issued because Listeria monocytogenes was detected on equipment used in packing this product during a recent FDA inspection.

The product was packaged in a variety of clamshell containers with best-if-used by dates between Oct. 3 and 11, 2020.

The FDA says that Walmart retail stores are removing the recalled product from store shelves and inventories immediately. Customers are advised to discard any of the recalled products immediately and not consume it.

Country Fresh is working in close coordination with the FDA in its continuing investigation to resolve the matter promptly. If consumers have any questions, they can contact Country Fresh customer service at 1-877-251-8300.

about Listeria infections
Food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes may not look or smell spoiled but can still cause serious and sometimes life-threatening infections. Anyone who has eaten any of the recalled products and developed symptoms of Listeria infection should seek medical treatment and tell their doctors about the possible Listeria exposure.

Also, anyone who has eaten any of the recalled products should monitor themselves for symptoms during the coming weeks because it can take up to 70 days after exposure to Listeria for symptoms of listeriosis to develop.

Symptoms of Listeria infection can include vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headache, and neck stiffness. Specific laboratory tests are required to diagnose Listeria infections, which can mimic other illnesses.

Pregnant women, the elderly, young children, and people such as cancer patients who have weakened immune systems are particularly at risk of serious illnesses, life-threatening infections, and other complications. Although infected pregnant women may experience only mild, flu-like symptoms, their infections can lead to premature delivery, infection of the newborn or even stillbirth.