In response to a recall initiated by Rizo Lopez Foods, Inc. who produces and supplies cheese products, BrightFarms is recalling its Southwest Chipotle salad kit with best-by-dates from Dec. 31, 2023, through Feb. 22, 2024, because of potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes in the Cotija Cheese, an ingredient found in the salad kits.

The Rizo Lopez Foods recall is in relation to a decade-long outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections that has killed two people and sickened 26 people. For more information on the outbreak investigation go to FDA Outbreak Investigation.

The affected cheese product in the Bright Farms product is contained in a fully enclosed and sealed plastic “masterpack” inside the salad kit and contains a best-by-date through March 27, 2024. The product comes in a clear, plastic container. Information about the “best by” date, UPC can be found at the bottom of the package. 

Consumers who have purchased the affected products should dispose of the “masterpack” containing the Cotija cheese or discard the full salad kit and present a photo of the product, receipt, or reference their loyalty card history at their place of purchase for a full refund. Retailers have been instructed to remove all recalled products from store shelves.

The recalled products were distributed to retailers in the following states: Delaware, Maryland, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington D.C.

As a result of this recall, the company has temporarily suspended distribution of the Southwest Chipotle salad kit.

Consumers with questions are encouraged to call 866-857-8745 or email info@brightfarms.com with the subject line: Recall.

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 recalledproduct 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.