BrucePac Issues Recall for Nearly 12 Million Pounds of Ready-to-Eat Meat and Poultry Due to Listeria Risk
In a significant health alert, BrucePac, a notable producer of precooked meat and poultry, has recalled approximately 12 million pounds of ready-to-eat food products due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. This recall affects a broad range of items, including premade salads, burritos, and wraps containing chicken, and was initially announced on October 9.
The recall was initiated after the Agriculture Department’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) discovered listeria in the products, prompting immediate action. BrucePac’s ready-to-eat chicken was identified as the source of contamination following a comprehensive investigation. Notably, the affected products were sold at various major retailers across the country, including Trader Joe’s, Wegmans, 7-Eleven, Kroger, Walmart, and Target, as well as some gas stations and corner stores. Some products were distributed to schools, although specific locations have not yet been disclosed.
The recalled items were produced between June 19 and October 8 and include combinations of chicken with other meats such as bacon or ham in premade meals. Although the expiration dates for most of these items have passed, some frozen meals under brands like Jenny Craig and Michelina’s remain valid until as late as 2025 or 2026. The FSIS has expanded the recall to include additional products and production dates, emphasizing the need for consumer awareness.
Importantly, there have been no reported illnesses or deaths linked to the affected BrucePac products at this time. However, the FSIS has urged consumers to check their refrigerators and homes for any of the recalled items, advising individuals to dispose of or return these products to the retailer. BrucePac has not yet offered details regarding potential refunds or rebates.
In a statement on their website, BrucePac assured customers of their commitment to safety and high-quality standards, emphasizing collaboration with the USDA to rectify the situation. An automated message for callers to the company indicates their priority on consumer health and well-being throughout the recall process.
Listeria infections pose significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women. According to the Food and Drug Administration, listeriosis ranks as the third-leading cause of food poisoning deaths in the United States, with annual estimates indicating that about 1,600 people are affected and 260 die from the illness. Symptoms typically arise within two weeks of consuming contaminated food but can occur as soon as a few hours or take up to ten weeks to manifest. Common symptoms include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, and gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and vomiting.
This is not an isolated incident; multiple listeria outbreaks occur every year. A recent recall by Boar’s Head involved over 7 million pounds of deli meat, linked to nine fatalities, while another involved cheese products from Rizo Lopez, contributing to two deaths and multiple hospitalizations, leading to an operational shutdown for the company.
As the situation evolves, both the USDA and BrucePac continue to work closely to ensure consumer safety and prevent further contamination in the food supply. Consumers are encouraged to stay vigilant and informed regarding their food choices, especially in light of these recent developments.
