Massive Ham and Pepperoni Recall Over Potential Listeria Concerns

Wooden blocks with "Product Recall" text.

Over 2.3 million pounds of ham and pepperoni are being recalled due to potential Listeria contamination, raising concerns across the nation.

At a Glance

Alexander & Hornung recalls 2,320,774 pounds of ham and pepperoni due to Listeria risk.
The recall expanded from 234,391 pounds to over 2.3 million pounds.
Recalled products produced on various dates and marked with “EST. M10125.”
FSIS advises consumers to avoid consuming the products due to health concerns.

The Recall Scope

Alexander & Hornung, a unit of Perdue Premium Meat Company Inc., has issued a recall for 2,320,774 pounds of fully cooked ham and pepperoni. This recall stems from the potential presence of Listeria monocytogenes, identified through company product sampling. Despite no reported cases of illness, the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) warns consumers about the possible contamination.

The recalled products, marked with “EST. M10125” inside the USDA inspection mark, were distributed to retail locations nationwide. The recall broadened from an initial 234,391 pounds to the massive current figure. FSIS emphasizes the urgency of this matter, urging customers to discard the items if found in storage.

Alexander & Hornung is recalling 2,320,774 pounds of fully cooked ham and pepperoni products that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. https://t.co/q4e67rNvAc

— Food Safety News (@foodsafetynews) December 14, 2024

Health Implications

Consuming Listeria-contaminated products poses severe health risks, particularly affecting high-risk groups such as pregnant women, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can manifest within days or even weeks post-consumption, including nausea, vomiting, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headaches, and neck stiffness.

The USDA advises people who might have consumed the affected products to seek medical attention if symptoms develop. The infection can lead to more severe outcomes like premature delivery or stillbirth in pregnant women. In general populations, symptoms such as confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions can occur, occasionally following gastrointestinal symptoms.

Safety Precautions

The Food Safety and Inspection Service remains vigilant about potential Listeria outbreaks. It instructs consumers to check their refrigerators and freezers to ensure any listed products are discarded immediately. With the potential for unnoticed contamination, adherence to these safety measures is crucial in preventing possible infections.

Listeriosis, primarily affecting older adults, those with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women, stresses the importance of following USDA guidance. In case of a potential risk, FSIS advises consulting healthcare providers to mitigate any health issues. Constant vigilance and compliance with such advisories are crucial in ensuring public safety against foodborne illnesses.