FDA Warns of Listeria Contamination in “Fresh Spinach” Products Linked to Miscarriages and Stillbirths

Listeria contamination is a serious concern that can have severe health consequences, particularly for pregnant women. The FDA recently issued a warning about the potential dangers associated with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterial organism that can cause serious and even fatal infections. In response to these concerns, Solata Foods, a New York-based company, initiated a recall of its “Fresh Spinach” products and halted production of the item altogether.

The recall was prompted by the possibility that the affected food items may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. This bacterium poses a significant risk to vulnerable populations, including young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Pregnant women are especially susceptible to complications from Listeria infection, as it can lead to stillbirths and miscarriages.

The specific “Fresh Spinach” products being recalled have lot numbers 40606 and 11006, with expiration dates of June 20, 2024, and June 24, 2024. The UPC codes for these items can be found on the company’s website. The recalled products were sold under various brand names, including Solata, Gaia Organic, Full Circle Organic, Farmer Direct, Uncle Vinny’s, and Bogopa.

While no illnesses have been reported thus far in connection with these recalled products, the FDA emphasizes the potential severity of Listeria infection. Although healthy individuals may experience short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, pregnant women face the additional risk of miscarriages and stillbirths.

Customers who have purchased the affected “Fresh Spinach” products are advised to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. For any inquiries regarding the recall, Solata Foods can be reached at (845) 393-0089.

The contamination of Solata Foods’ “Fresh Spinach” products was initially suspected when a sample of Bogopa’s “Fresh Spinach” product tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes. This discovery prompted the company to halt production temporarily. It is worth noting that this recall is not an isolated incident, as other products have also been recalled recently due to Listeria contamination.

Totally Cool, Inc. recalled multiple brands of ice cream products on June 24 after Listeria contamination was found in one of the samples. The company took immediate action to cease production and distribution of the affected items. Hormel Foods Sales also recalled some of its nut products in May due to concerns about Listeria contamination.

These recalls highlight the ongoing issue of Listeria outbreaks in the United States. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were four listeria outbreaks in 2022 and three in 2023. So far this year, one outbreak has been reported.

One notable outbreak occurred in 2024 and was detailed in a CDC food safety alert issued on April 10. This particular outbreak was linked to queso fresco and cotija cheese produced by Rizo-Lopez Foods. The recalled items included yogurts, crema, and cheeses. The outbreak resulted in 26 illnesses, 23 hospitalizations, and two deaths across 11 states. The CDC has officially declared this outbreak over.

Listeria infections can have varying symptoms depending on the individual and the part of the body affected. When the infection spreads beyond the intestine, it is considered an invasive illness. Symptoms of invasive listeria infection typically appear within two weeks of consuming contaminated food and may include fever, seizures, confusion, loss of balance, muscle aches, fatigue, and confusion.

In non-pregnant individuals, symptoms can be severe, with nearly 1 in 20 cases resulting in death. Listeria can also cause intestinal illness, which is often not diagnosed due to limited testing of patient stool samples. This type of illness usually lasts for one to three days and presents symptoms within 24 hours of consuming contaminated food.

The CDC estimates that listeria infection is the third leading cause of death from foodborne illnesses in the United States. In pregnant women, the consequences can be particularly devastating, with newborn deaths occurring in approximately 3% of cases and fetal loss in around 20% of cases.

If individuals have consumed food that has been recalled or linked to a listeria outbreak, the CDC advises them to seek medical attention, especially if they are pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or are over the age of 65. Prompt action is crucial in mitigating the potential risks associated with listeria infection.

In conclusion, the recent recall of Solata Foods’ “Fresh Spinach” products due to Listeria contamination highlights the importance of food safety and the potential dangers associated with this bacterium. Pregnant women, in particular, should be vigilant in avoiding contaminated food to protect themselves and their unborn children. The recalls from other companies further emphasize the ongoing issue of Listeria outbreaks in the United States. It is crucial for individuals to stay informed about these recalls and take appropriate measures to ensure their safety and well-being.