WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has heightened concerns surrounding a broccoli recall initially issued last month, warning consumers of deadly risks.
The agency announced on January 27 that the recall of ready-to-eat 12-ounce Marketside Broccoli Florets, originally slated with a best-if-used-by date of December 10, 2024, has now been classified as a Class I recall.
Under the FDA’s criteria, a Class I recall signifies a considerable chance that the product could lead to serious health issues or death upon use or exposure. This elevation in risk status follows a preliminary voluntary recall by California-based Braga Fresh issued on December 27, 2024.
Despite the expired date indicating the broccoli might no longer be on shelves, there remains potential danger as consumers may have opted to freeze the product for future use. According to a joint statement from the FDA and Braga Fresh, individuals in possession of these broccoli florets should safely dispose of them immediately.
The root of the recall lies in potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that presents grave health risks. Listeria infections can severely impact young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems, sometimes leading to fatal outcomes. Symptoms range from intense headaches and nausea to potentially causing miscarriages in pregnant women.
The contamination concerns arose from a Texas Walmart, where a routine sampling conducted by Texas Health & Human Services detected a positive result for Listeria in one of several tests.
Distribution of the recalled broccoli florets occurred across a number of Walmart stores spread across multiple states, including but not limited to Alaska, Arkansas, and Texas. Consumers can identify the specific batch involved in the recall by checking for a UPC code 6 81131 32884 5 on the back of the packaging, corresponding to a lot code BFFG327A6 on the front.
The FDA emphasizes that anyone in possession of the affected product should refrain from consumption and ensure its disposal to prevent the risk of infection.
