California officials find Listeria in mushrooms; nationwide recall initiated

California Terra Garden Inc. of Commerce, CA, is recalling all cases of its 150-gram/5.3-ounce packages of “Seafood Mushroom (Product of China)” because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

The recalled products were distributed from California through produce distributors or wholesalers to retail stores nationwide.

The contamination was found during routine testing by the California Health Department that revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in one 150-gram package of “Seafood” mushrooms.

The distribution of the product has been suspended.

Consumers who have purchased any package of “Seafood” mushroom are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.

The mushrooms come in a clear plastic package with the description “Seafood Mushroom” in English and French, and Guan’s logo in the front. At the back, there is UPC code, 859267007501. Product code is 3460 at the back top right.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.

Consumers with question may contact the company at 323-597-0346.

About Listeria infections
Food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes may not look or smell spoiled but can still cause serious and sometimes life-threatening infections. Anyone who has eaten any recalled mushrooms and developed symptoms of Listeria infection should seek medical treatment and tell their doctors about the possible Listeria exposure.

Also, anyone who has eaten any of the recalled mushrooms should monitor themselves for symptoms during the coming weeks because it can take up to 70 days after exposure to Listeria for symptoms of listeriosis to develop.

Symptoms of Listeria infection can include vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headache, and neck stiffness. Specific laboratory tests are required to diagnose Listeria infections, which can mimic other illnesses.

Pregnant women, the elderly, young children, and people such as cancer patients who have weakened immune systems are particularly at risk of serious illnesses, life-threatening infections, and other complications. Although infected pregnant women may experience only mild, flu-like symptoms, their infections can lead to premature delivery, infection of the newborn, or even stillbirth.

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