In conjunction with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Hormel Foods Sales, LLC of Austin, Minnesota has issued a voluntary recall for specific batches of PLANTERS® Honey Roasted Peanuts and Deluxe Lightly Salted Mixed Nuts. The recall was prompted by concerns that these products may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause serious health issues, especially in vulnerable populations.
Background
The company has not yet disclosed how the contamination was discovered but that an investigation into the cause of the incident has been initiated. Hormel has said that the affected products were produced last month at one of its plants.
The affected products were distributed to Publix warehouses in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina and to Dollar Tree warehouses in Georgia and South Carolina.
Product Details
- PLANTERS® Honey Roasted Peanuts
- Size – 4 oz. packages
- UPC – 2900002097
- Best if Used By Date: 04 11 25
- PLANTERS® Deluxe Lightly Salted Mixed Nuts
- Size – 8.75 oz. cans
- UPC – 2900001621
- Best if Used by Date: 05APR26
Consumer Action
Consumers should check their pantries and cabinets for the recalled products. Any affected products that are found should not be consumed and should be discarded or returned to point of purchase for a refund.
Consumers with questions or concerns can also contact Hormel Foods Customer Relations by phone at 800-523-4635, on their website here, or by chat at www.planters.com from 8am to 11am and 2pm to 4pm Central time Monday through Friday.
Health Risks
Fortunately, no illnesses or adverse reactions related to the affected products have been reported but consumers who may have been exposed to or are exhibiting symptoms of Listeria infection should see their healthcare provider.
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium commonly found in soil, water, and some animals. It can survive and multiply at low temperatures, making it a concern for refrigerated and ready-to-eat foods. While healthy individuals may experience only mild symptoms, it poses a significant risk to children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. Pregnant women are especially susceptible as Listeria can cause miscarriages and stillbirths.
Short term symptoms of Listeria infection include muscle aches, fever, and diarrhea. If the infection spreads to the nervous system, more serious symptoms such as stiff neck, seizures, sudden inability to balance, mental confusion, and headache may occur.
Commenting on this story, one national food safety lawyer said, “Food safety is paramount and consumers must take proactive steps to protect themselves. Any consumer who thinks they have been exposed to the recalled nuts should visit their doctor immediately.”
