Minneapolis company recalls guacamole after tests reveal Listeria contamination

Metro Produce Distributors Inc. of Minneapolis, MN, is voluntarily recalling all Lunds & Byerlys fresh guacamole products with a best before date of August 2, 2024, because they may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

The fresh guacamole was sold at Lunds & Byerlys grocery stores throughout the Twin Cities area and St. Cloud. The product was also available in selected food bars “Taco Mas” from July 27 to 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 at home because the expiration date is August 2.

No confirmed illnesses have been reported at the time the recall notice was posted.

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 halted production and distribution of the products while the investigation continues. This recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.

Consumers who purchased fresh Lunds & Byerlys guacamole products with a best before date of August 2, 2024 are urged to destroy the products or return them to a Lunds & Byerlys store for a full refund. Consumers with questions can contact Metro Produce at 612-436-3825.

The products 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 putrid, but it can still cause serious and sometimes life-threatening infections. Anyone who has eaten a recalled product and developed symptoms of a Listeria infection should seek medical attention and tell their doctor about the possible exposure to Listeria.

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

Symptoms of a Listeria infection may include vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headaches, and neck stiffness. Specific laboratory tests are needed to diagnose Listeria infections, which can mimic other diseases.

Pregnant women, the elderly, young children and people such as cancer patients with weakened immune systems are at particular risk of serious illness, life-threatening infections, other complications and death. Although infected pregnant women may experience only mild, flu-like symptoms, their infections can lead to preterm labor, infection of the newborn, or even stillbirth.

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