TreeHouse Foods Expands Recall Of Frozen Waffle And Pancake Products

In a surprising turn of events, TreeHouse Foods has expanded its recall of frozen waffle and pancake products, affecting numerous brands. Initially, the company voluntarily recalled 25 of its frozen waffle products due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. This bacteria can pose serious health risks, especially to vulnerable populations, prompting the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to intervene.

The FDA's announcement revealed that the recall now extends to include "frozen toaster waffle, Belgian waffle and pancake products" from an additional 24 brands. This extensive recall highlights the ongoing concerns related to food safety and the need for consumers to be vigilant about the products they purchase.

TreeHouse Foods is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of its customers. They are working closely with retailers to retrieve and destroy the affected products, urging consumers to check their freezers for any items included in the recall. As we delve deeper into this recall situation, it is essential to be informed about the specific brands and products affected, as well as the potential health risks associated with Listeria contamination.

Details of the Recall

The recall was initiated after additional testing at TreeHouse Foods' manufacturing facility indicated potential contamination. The FDA's expanded recall now includes a wide range of brand names, signaling a serious focus on consumer safety. The specific brands added to the recall list include:

• 365 Organic
• Brookshire's
• Central Market
• Culinary Tours
• Duncan Hines
• Full Circle
• Gordon Choice
• Gordon Food Service
• H-E-B
• Irresistibles Life Smart
• Kroger
• Krusteaz
• Nature's Basket
• Nature's Path Organic
• Nature's Promise
• O Organics
• Presidents Choice
• Private Selection
• Signature Select
• Simple Truth Organic
• Trader Joe's
• Wegmans
• Wild Harvest
• Yelloh

Health Risks Associated with Listeria

Listeria monocytogenes is a harmful bacterium that can lead to severe illness, particularly in pregnant women, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of listeriosis can include high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In some cases, it may lead to more severe outcomes, such as miscarriages or stillbirths in pregnant women.

The CDC estimates that listeriosis causes about 1,600 infections and 260 deaths annually in the United States, making it a significant public health concern. The FDA advises consumers to check for affected products by looking for the UPC codes and Best By dates on the packaging. All Lot Codes involved in this recall will begin with "2C."

As of now, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the recalled products, but consumers are urged to take the matter seriously. If you have any of the affected products in your freezer, it is advised to dispose of them or return them to the place of purchase for a refund.

Consumer Guidance and Actions

Consumers can identify the affected products by checking the UPC codes on the back of the cartons, as well as the Lot Codes and Best By Dates. The FDA has provided clear guidance on what to look for to ensure safety. If you notice any of the identified products, it is essential to either return them to the store or dispose of them immediately.

TreeHouse Foods is committed to retrieving and destroying the recalled items and is actively working with retail partners to facilitate this process. The company encourages all consumers to remain vigilant and proactive in checking their food supplies regularly.

In conclusion, food safety is a collective responsibility. Staying informed about recalls can help protect you and your family from potential health risks associated with contaminated food products.