July 6, 2021 -- Americas most popular frozen chicken brand, Tyson Foods Inc., has recalled almost 8.5 million pounds of products due to possible listeria contamination, according to a statement released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Listeria, a bacteria that can live in animal feces, soil, dust, and other substances, can lead to infection when consumed.
A listeria infection can cause diarrhea, fever, and nausea. It is one of the main causes of food poisoning.
The recalled products, like precooked chicken strips and diced chicken breast, were produced between late December 2020 and mid-April 2021 and have EST. P-7089 on the packaging or inside the USDA mark of inspection.
Potentially contaminated products had been distributed across the United States in places like nursing homes, hospitals, restaurants, and Department of Defense facilities, as well as major retailers Wegmans, H-E-B, Kroger, Publix, and Walmart, among others.
The USDAs Food Safety and Inspection Service [FSIS] opened an investigation, alongside the CDC, after three illnesses, three hospitalizations, and one death due to listeria infection were potentially linked to the recalled products.
Listeria infection can be serious for seniors and those with weak immune systems, and potentially life-threatening for newborns.
Because listeria can live inside refrigerators and spreads easily, you should throw away all recalled products and wipe down surfaces that came in contact with the products with hot water and soap, according to CDC guidance.
For more information on the recall, contact Tyson Foods Inc. customer relations at 800-233-6332.
Show Sources
SOURCES:
News release, U.S. Department of Agriculture.
CDC: Listeria Outbreak Linked to Fully Cooked Chicken.
Statista: U.S. population: Which brands of frozen fried chicken do you use most often?
Amazon: Best Sellers in Frozen Chicken.