Costco Recalls Smoked Salmon Due to Listeria Contamination Concerns
What you need to know about the recall
The recall affects Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon, which was sold in 16-ounce packages at Costco stores nationwide. The affected product has a sell-by date of April 15, 2023 or later.
The recall was issued after samples of the smoked salmon were found to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria that can cause serious illness, including fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Costco is urging customers who have purchased the affected product to return it to the store for a full refund. Customers can also contact Costco's customer service department at 1-800-774-2678 for more information.
What is Listeria?
Listeria is a type of bacteria that can cause the infection listeriosis. Listeriosis is a serious infection that can cause fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, listeriosis can lead to sepsis, meningitis, and even death.
Listeriosis is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. Pregnant women who are infected with Listeria can pass the infection on to their unborn child, which can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature birth.
Symptoms of Listeriosis
The symptoms of listeriosis can vary depending on the severity of the infection. Mild cases of listeriosis may only cause mild symptoms, such as fever, muscle aches, and nausea. More severe cases of listeriosis can cause serious symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and sepsis. In severe cases, listeriosis can be fatal.
Treatment for Listeriosis
The treatment for listeriosis is antibiotics. Antibiotics can be used to kill the Listeria bacteria and prevent the infection from spreading. In severe cases of listeriosis, hospitalization may be necessary.
How to prevent Listeriosis
There are a few things you can do to prevent listeriosis:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before eating.
- Cook food to the proper temperature.
- Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat, poultry, or seafood.
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating.
- Clean your refrigerator regularly.
