FDA Issues Class One Recall For Solata Foods LLC Spinach Products Due To Listeria Risks

On Friday, the federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a serious recall of various spinach products manufactured by Solata Foods LLC, categorizing it as class one. This designation indicates that consuming these items poses a significant risk, potentially leading to serious health consequences or even death. The recall was first initiated by Solata Foods LLC on June 21, prompted by concerns regarding possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. A recall notice was subsequently published by the FDA on June 27, highlighting the dangers associated with this bacterium.

Infection with Listeria monocytogenes can lead to severe and sometimes fatal illnesses, especially in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and pregnant women. Symptoms may include high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. The recalled products primarily consist of spinach and mixed salads, marketed under several brand names including Solata, Gaia Organic, Full Circle Organic, Farmer Direct, Uncle Vinny's, and Bogopa.

All recalled items feature expiration dates of June 20, 2024, and June 24, 2024, stamped on the packaging. These products were distributed to local stores in New York, New Jersey, and New Hampshire, bearing lot numbers #40606 and #11006. The full list of affected products includes various spinach and salad mixes, each with unique UPC codes, emphasizing the broad scope of this recall.

• Greens Solata Spinach 10x9Bag (854311007391)
• Greens Gaia Organic Spring Mix 6x1.7Clam (850039434075)
• Greens Full Circle Organic Spring Mix 6x10Clam (036800490529)
• Greens Uncle Vinny's Savoy Spinach 8x10Bag (804879442769)
• Greens Bogopa Spinach 9x9Bag (819964014695)

The FDA's class one recall indicates that there is a reasonable probability that exposure to these contaminated products could lead to serious health issues or even fatalities. The agency has advised consumers to avoid these products and has encouraged anyone with questions to reach out to Solata Foods LLC directly at (845) 393-0089.

As of the last update, there have been no reported illnesses linked to the affected spinach products. However, contamination was identified through samples taken by New York State Department of Agriculture and Market food inspectors, with subsequent laboratory analysis confirming the presence of Listeria monocytogenes.

In addition to the spinach recall, the FDA also classified a separate tomato sauce recall from Hudson Harvest Wholesale as grade two in severity, following reports of swelling, leaking, or bursting jars, which raised concerns about possible under-processing. Furthermore, the U.S. Department of Agriculture issued a warning regarding corned beef and chicken spread products that were illegally imported from the Philippines, illustrating ongoing vigilance in food safety.

For those who regularly consume spinach products from Solata Foods LLC, it is crucial to stay informed about these recalls and understand the potential health risks associated with consuming contaminated food items. The FDA continues to monitor the situation and ensure that consumers are protected from harmful products.