St. Louis-based Sherman Produce is voluntarily recalling walnuts comprising of 241 cases of bulk walnuts packaged in 25 lb bulk cardboard boxes and Schnucks brand 10 oz trays with UPC 00338390032 with best by dates 03/15 and 04/15 because the products are potentially contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. Listeria monocytogenes is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
These products were sold to retailers in MO and IL from March – May 2014.
No illnesses have been reported to date.
The recall was initiated after FDA sampling detected Listeria monocytogenes in walnuts sampled at the facility. All walnuts processed in the facility during the same timeframe as the product found positive are being recalled.
Consumers who have purchased walnuts are urged not to consume them. Consumers are advised to dispose of them or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with any questions may call Sherman Produce at 314-231-2896, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST weekdays.
Source: FDA