Costco, based in Issaquah, Washington, has issued a voluntary recall of Kirkland brand smoked salmon due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes (Listeria). Listeria is a bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Background
No information was provided in the recall notice as to how the potential presence of Listeria in the affected product was discovered.
Distribution
The recall notice said that the recalled product was distributed only in “select” Costco stores in their Southeast region.
Product Details
- Brand – Kirkland
- Product Name – Smoked Salmon
- Packaging – Plastic
- Costco Item Number – 1267000
- Lot Number – 8512801270
- On Sale Dates – October 9, 2024 to October 13, 2024
Consumer Action
As with all food recalls, consumers are strongly advised to discontinue use of the affected product even if it looks or smells safe to eat.
Anyone in possession of the recalled product is requested to not sell, serve, or distribute them.
The affected product should be returned to the location of purchase for a refund or disposed of immediately.
Consumers should thoroughly sanitize any surface or utensils that have come into contact with the recalled product.
Consumers with additional questions or concerns can contact Acme Smoked Fish Corp at 718-383-8585 from 8 am to 5 pm Eastern Standard Time.
Health Risks
The recall notice did not say if there have been any reported cases of illness in connection to the consumption of the recalled product.
Listeriosis, the infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes, is particularly dangerous for certain vulnerable populations. Pregnant individuals, people aged 65 or older, and those with weakened immune systems are at highest risk. Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions, sometimes preceded by gastrointestinal symptoms. In pregnant individuals, listeriosis can lead to miscarriages, stillbirths, premature delivery, or life-threatening infections in newborns.
Anyone experiencing symptoms of Listeriosis should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Commenting on this article, one national Listeria lawyer said, “We know that a Listeria infection can be extremely dangerous for certain groups and especially for pregnant women. Any consumer with the recalled smoked salmon should discontinue use as soon as possible.”
