An Update on Enoki Mushrooms Listeria Outbreak
Following the outbreak of listeriosis due to enoki mushrooms in multiple states across the United States, the outbreak has become international: Australia has now reported cases of listeriosis due to enoki mushrooms. Testing by whole genome sequencing has confirmed it is the same strain of Listeria monocytogenes that has caused numerous infections and multiple deaths. According to the CDC, at least 36 people in the United States in 17 different states have tested positive for the Listeria strain responsible for the outbreak. Four of these cases resulted in death. Six of these cases were in pregnant women, with two of the cases resulting in loss of the fetus. In America, the recalls on enoki mushrooms, a product of Korea, began as early as 03/09/20 with Sun Hong Foods recall of enoki mushrooms, followed by a recall by Guan’s Mushroom Co of enoki mushrooms on 03/23/20, and H&C Food Inc. enoki mushrooms recall on 04/07/20. In Canada, Golden Mushroom branded enoki mushrooms were recalled on 03/24/20 and no cases of listeriosis have been confirmed due to the contaminated enoki mushrooms.
As of April 18, 2020, there have been six confirmed cases of listeriosis due to the enoki mushrooms in Australia. Green Co. enoki mushrooms were recalled on April 14, 2020, by Choi’s Mushrooms in quantities of 200g and 300g. The packages have date markings 04/22/20, 05/05/20, 05/12/20, 05/19/20, or 05/26/20. The product was distributed in the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, and Victoria in asian supermarkets. Consumers who have purchased enoki mushrooms are advised not to consume the product, rather dispose of it properly or return to place of purchase for a refund. The Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is investigating the source of contamination, along with the FDA and Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).
National food lawyer Ron Simon warns of the dangers of Listeriosis, the infection caused by the consumption of Listeria monocytogenes. He explains that, according to the CDC, in people with strong immune systems, Listeriosis symptoms typically resolve without treatment in a few weeks; however, in those immuno-compromised, such as young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems, a formal diagnosis and antibiotic treatment may be needed. In people other than pregnant women, symptoms include flu-like symptoms, loss of balance, confusion, convulsions, and a stiff neck. Pregnant women are the highest risk group of Listeriosis because the infection can be severe for the fetus if not treated, leading to miscarriage or severe infection. Symptoms of Listeriosis in pregnant women often present as flu-like symptoms, such as muscle aches, headache, and a fever. Symptoms of Listeriosis typically begin 1-4 weeks after ingestion of listeria, though symptoms can began as early as one day and as late as 70 days after consumption. If you believe you are suffering from Listeriosis, contact your physician immediately.
