A significant product recall has been issued for a widely distributed brand of freeze-dried fruit, sparking immediate consumer alert across the United States. Doehler Dry Ingredient Solutions, LLC has initiated the recall of its Member’s Mark brand freeze-dried fruit variety packs amidst serious concerns over potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium known to cause severe illness.
The specific products affected by this urgent food recall are the Member’s Mark Freeze Dried Fruit Variety Pack, sold in 15-count boxes. Consumers can identify the recalled items by the UPC number 1 93968 50900 2. As of the latest update from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), no illnesses directly linked to the consumption of these products have been reported.
The threat posed by Listeria monocytogenes is particularly insidious due to the often-delayed onset of symptoms. While the average time from exposure to illness is approximately 30 days, individuals can develop symptoms as long as 90 days after ingesting contaminated food. This substantial delay underscores the critical importance of prompt action following a product recall notification.
Symptoms of listeria infection can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. Pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable to severe complications, including miscarriage, stillbirth, and potentially fatal infections. Recognizing these symptoms and seeking immediate medical attention is paramount for public health.
Consumers who have purchased the recalled Member’s Mark freeze-dried fruit are strongly advised not to consume it. For any additional questions or concerns regarding the recall, customers can directly contact Doehler Dry Ingredient Solutions, LLC’s Customer Service. The company is available via phone at (770) 387-0451 on weekdays, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, demonstrating their commitment to addressing food safety inquiries.
This incident highlights the ongoing emphasis by health authorities on robust food safety practices. The FDA continues to issue crucial FDA guidance on proper food storage and handling, particularly for ready-to-eat items that do not require further cooking. Maintaining perishable foods at or below 40°F is a vital step in preventing bacterial growth and ensuring consumer health.
Beyond proper refrigeration, consumers are also advised to promptly discard any recalled products to eliminate the risk of accidental consumption. Furthermore, thorough sanitization of any surfaces that may have come into contact with suspected contaminated items is crucial. This proactive measure helps prevent cross-contamination and further safeguards public health within households, reinforcing comprehensive food safety protocols.
The current recall is one of numerous initiated this year, underscoring persistent challenges within the food industry. Recalls have stemmed from various issues, including damaged products, the risk of foodborne illness, general contamination, and undeclared food allergens. Each product recall serves as a vital reminder of the continuous need for vigilance in maintaining stringent food safety standards from production to consumer.
