Consumers in the southeastern U.S. find themselves returning recent Kirkland salmon purchases as Costco issues a recall due to a potential Listeria outbreak.
At a Glance
- Costco recalls smoked salmon due to Listeria risk.
- Affected lot number: 8512801270, sold in southeastern U.S.
- Acme Smoked Fish Corp. initiated the recall.
- Consumers advised to return products for refunds.
- 1,600 listeriosis cases annually, with 260 fatalities.
Recall Details and Risks
Costco has issued a recall for its “Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon” due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. The recall affects twin packs sold specifically in southeastern U.S. Costco locations, bearing the lot number 8512801270. This product was made available from October 9 to October 13, 2024. Listeria contamination poses severe risks as it can lead to life-threatening infections, especially for pregnant individuals and those with weakened immune systems.
Acme Smoked Fish Corporation, producer of the recalled salmon, initiated the precautionary withdrawal of the product, advising consumers not to eat it. Customers are urged to return the affected products to Costco for a full refund. Costco has shared the recall notice on its website and contacted affected customers directly through various communication methods to ensure maximum consumer protection.
Costco recalls several items amid listeria concerns https://t.co/AXekKTpFtG
— FOX Business (@FoxBusiness) October 21, 2024
Attention to Health Risks
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report approximately 1,600 cases of listeriosis annually, resulting in about 260 fatalities. Symptoms of listeriosis include diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and muscle aches, which can escalate to more serious conditions in invasive cases. Pregnant individuals face a heightened risk, as listeriosis can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or life-threatening infections in newborns. It is essential for high-risk groups to heed the recall and avoid consuming the affected products.
The CDC describes how a listeria infection “usually leads to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn” in pregnant women.
This health alert is part of a broader issue, with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announcing recalls of over 11.7 million pounds of meat and poultry products due to similar contamination concerns. These recalls underscore the critical importance of maintaining production safety standards to protect public health and prevent widespread outbreaks.
Costco customers are urged to return recent recalled products over listeria contamination concerns, with some of them part of the massive BrucePac recall. https://t.co/YD1WNkaDh3
— FOX 9 (@FOX9) October 21, 2024
Manufacturer Response and Consumer Safety
Acme Smoked Fish Corporation responded with an “abundance of caution” by issuing the voluntary recall to address the contamination risk. The company is collaborating closely with regulatory bodies to investigate the source of the contamination and review safety protocols. Consumers affected by the recall can rest assured knowing that measures are being taken to prevent similar incidents and ensure product safety.
“With an abundance of caution, Acme Smoked Fish Corp. has initiated a voluntary recall on certain packages of Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes,” CEO of Acme Smoked Fish Corporation said in a statement.
