The FDA is collaborating with the CDC to investigate an outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections that might be linked to “Soft Serve on the Go” ice cream cups produced by Real Kosher Ice Cream in Brooklyn, NY.
The Division of Public Health Services within the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has issued a warning against consuming any varieties of “Soft Serve On The Go” ice cream cups manufactured by Real Kosher Ice Cream. This caution stems from a nationwide outbreak of Listeriosis that has been connected to these particular ice cream cups. While no instances of illness linked to this outbreak have been detected in New Hampshire thus far, cases of Listeria infection in other states have been linked to this specific product.
According to the CDC’s analysis of the data they acquired from the investigation of the ice cream cups, individuals who became ill reported consuming “Soft Serve On The Go” ice cream before becoming sick. A sample of unopened “Soft Serve On the Go” ice cream was collected from the residence of an affected individual by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. This sample tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes. Further analysis is underway to confirm if this strain of Listeria is the same one causing illnesses in this outbreak.
Real Kosher Ice Cream is cooperating with the FDA’s investigation and has initiated a voluntary recall of all flavors of their 8-ounce “Soft Serve On The Go” cups. These products were distributed to retailers in 20 states. The said states are listed: CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, IL, MA, MD, MI, MN, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, VA, WV. Real Kosher Ice Cream has also temporarily halted the production of these items.
Listeria monocytogenes is a microorganism that can lead to severe and potentially fatal infections, particularly among young children, elderly individuals, and those with compromised immune systems.
Consumers, restaurants, and retailers who bought these “Soft Serve On The Go” ice cream cups are urged to discard or return the ice cream products for a full refund.
According to the FDA, common symptoms of listeria monocytogenes can include fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If the listeriosis becomes more severe, it can lead to headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. The symptoms can be much more severe for children under the age of 3, people older than 60, and people with weakened immune systems. Extreme symptoms might include death.
