Rochestery, NY-based Wegmans Food Markets has issued a voluntary recall of select Abilyn’s Ice Cream Cakes due to the 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, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Background
In a statement, Abilyn’s Frozen Bakery said that, on June 21, one of their production partners notified them that recent product testing by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found the presence of potential Listeria contamination on the production line used to make the company’s frozen ice cream cakes.
The company also said there was no evidence that any of its products had been contaminated but that the recall was initiated out of caution.
The products were sold at Wegmans grocery stores although none of the announcements specified if the products were distributed to certain states or stores.
Product Details
- Product Name – Abilyn’s Ice Cream Cake in various flavors (see below)
- Best By Dates – 4/20/24 to 4/20/25
| Flavor | Size | UPC Code |
| Vanilla & Chocolate | 30 oz. | 8-51545-00800-2 |
| Vanilla & Chocolate | 60 oz. | Not provided |
| For the Love of Chocolate | 30 oz. | 8-51545-00805-7 |
| Cookies & Cream | 30 oz. | 8-51545-00804-0 |
| Chocolate Cookie Chip Cookie Dough | 30 oz. | 8-51545-00807-1 |
Consumer Action
Consumers should search their freezers for the recalled ice cream product.
As with all food recalls, the recalled products should not be consumed even if they smell or look safe to eat.
Consumers may return any recalled products for a full refund or should dispose of them immediately.
Consumers with additional questions or concerns can call Wegman’s at 855-934-3663 from Monday to Friday, 8am to 7pm or Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 5pm.
Health Risks
Listeriosis is an infection that causes fever, gastrointestinal symptoms, and muscle aches and is caused by the consumption of food contaminated by bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. Unlike other strains of bacteria, listeria multiples in foods stored in the refrigerator. Pasteurization and thorough cooking are the most effective methods of killing the bacteria and preventing infection.
The people most commonly affected by listeriosis include pregnant women, newborns, individuals with weakened immune systems, the elderly, and cancer patients.
Commenting on this story, one national food safety attorney said, “I strongly recommend that consumers in possession of the recalled product should throw it away or return to the store. Listeriosis can be especially dangerous for many members of our population.”
