Minneapolis company recalls guacamole after testing shows Listeria contamination

Metro Produce Distributors Inc. of Minneapolis, MN, is voluntarily recalling all Lunds & Byerlys fresh guacamole products with a use-by date of Aug. 2, 2024, because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

The fresh guacamole was sold at Lunds & Byerlys grocery stores located throughout the Twin Cities area and St. Cloud. The product was also available in select locations “Taco Mas” food bars from July 27-31. The products are packaged in clear plastic containers, according to the company’s recall notice posted by the Food and Drug Administration.

There is concern that consumers may have the recalled product in their homes because its use by date is Aug. 2.

No confirmed illnesses have been reported to as of the posting of the recall notice.

The recall was the result of a routine sampling program by the company, which revealed that the finished products could potentially contain the bacteria. 

The company has ceased the production and distribution of the products as they continue their investigation. This recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.

Consumers who have purchased Lunds & Byerlys fresh guacamole products with a use-by date of Aug. 2, 2024 are urged to destroy the products or return them to any Lunds & Byerlys stores for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Metro Produce at 612-436-3825.

The products listed below are subject to the recall. Click here to view the chart on the FDA website.

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 recalledproduct 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 products 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, other complications and death. 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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