Wilcox Ice Cream of East Arlington, VT, and Leonardo’s Gelato have issued a voluntary recall of all their ice cream, yogurt, and gelato products due to possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. The Vermont Department of Agriculture discovered that a batch of Super Premium Mint Chip ice cream, manufactured on 11/14/23, tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes during a routine sampling.
Expanding on the initial concern, the companies have decided to recall all products manufactured at their facility during the same period to ensure the safety of their consumers. The recalled products were distributed in retail stores and Co-Ops across Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and New York.
The list of recalled products includes various flavors and sizes from Wilcox’s Premium and Super Premium product lines, Wilcox’s Premium Yogurt line, Wilcox’s Ice Cream 802 Ice Cream Bars, and Leonardo’s Gelato pints and 4 oz cups. Customers are advised not to consume these products.
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause severe infections, even in healthy individuals. It may not show visible signs of contamination, making it difficult to detect with the naked eye. If consumed, it can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening illnesses.
Symptoms of Listeria infection include vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headache, and neck stiffness. These symptoms may appear up to 70 days after exposure. Pregnant women, the elderly, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of developing severe complications from Listeria infection.
No illnesses or injuries have been reported in connection with the recalled products at the time of this announcement.
Customers who have consumed any of the recalled items are advised to monitor themselves for symptoms and seek medical attention if they develop symptoms of Listeria infection. It is crucial to inform healthcare professionals about the potential exposure to Listeria.
For more information, customers can contact Wilcox Ice Cream at [insert contact information for the company] or Leonardo’s Gelato at [insert contact information for the company].
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What caused the recall?
A: The recall was initiated due to the potential contamination of Wilcox Ice Cream and Leonardo’s Gelato products with Listeria monocytogenes.
Q: Which products are affected?
A: All flavors and sizes of Wilcox brand ice cream, yogurt, and ice cream bars, as well as Leonardo’s brand gelato, manufactured at their facility during the specified period, are part of the recall.
Q: Where were the recalled products distributed?
A: The recalled products were distributed in retail stores and Co-Ops located in Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and New York.
Q: What are the symptoms of Listeria infection?
A: Symptoms of Listeria infection may include vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headache, and neck stiffness.
Q: Are there any reported illnesses or injuries?
A: As of now, no illnesses or injuries have been reported in connection with the recalled products.
Q: What should I do if I have consumed the recalled products?
A: If you have consumed any of the recalled items, it is advisable to monitor yourself for symptoms of Listeria infection and seek medical attention if symptoms develop.
Q: Who is most at risk?
A: Pregnant women, the elderly, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk of developing severe complications from Listeria infection.
Sources:
Food Safety News