New York officials are alerting consumers to the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in Ding Hao brand “Bean Sprouts,” packaged by Chang Farm in South Deerfield, MA, and distributed through Bean Sprouts Trading Inc. located in Brooklyn, NY.

The affected Ding Hao brand “Bean Sprouts” is packaged in a 10-pound flexible plastic bag. The product does not have a production code or sell-by date listed on the package.

The presence of Listeria monocytogenes was found in the product following routine sampling by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets food inspectors and subsequent analysis of the product by the New York State Food Laboratory.

Consumers who have purchased the Ding Hao brand “Bean Sprouts” may return the product to the place of purchase. Consumers with questions about the recalled product may contact Chang Farm at 413-665-3341.

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 recalled product and developed symptoms of Listeria infection should seek medical treatment and tell their doctors about 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.