Willard, Ohio-based Wiers Farm Inc. has announced a recall of select whole cucumbers and bagged salad cucumbers 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, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Background
The presence of contamination was identified during testing carried out by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.
The items were sent to designated Walmart stores in Michigan, Indiana and Ohio.
Wiers Farm said they did not cultivate or gather the affected cucumbers and acted only as the sourcer and distributor.
Product Details
| Product Name | Size | Packaging | Pack Date |
| Whole Cucumbers | 1.5 to 2.5 inch diameter 6 to 9 inch length | None | June 5, 2024 |
| Wiers Farm Salad Cucumbers | 2 lb | Clear bag with blue base | June 5, 2024 June 6, 2024 |
Consumer Action
As with all food recalls, consumers should not consume the affected products even if they look or smell safe to drink.
Wiers Farm said that the recalled items are beyond their recommended shelf life and should no longer be available for sale. However, consumers who still possess these cucumbers should dispose of them immediately.
Consumers with additional questions or concerns can contact Wier Farm by phone at 419-933-2161 or by email at [email protected].
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 multiplies in foods stored in the refrigerator. Pasteurization and thorough cooking are the most effective methods of killing the bacteria and preventing infection.
Food Poisoning News has been covering a similar, yet likely unrelated, cucumber recall due to potential Salmonella contamination that has affected nearly 449 people across 31 states.
Commenting on this story, one national food safety attorney said, “This recall is a reminder that food safety protocols must be upheld and that quick action is needed from regulatory agencies and businesses to safeguard the health of consumers.”
