Costco Butter Recall: 80,000 Pounds Pulled From Shelves Due to Potential Listeria Contamination
Costco Wholesale Corporation has issued a voluntary recall for approximately 80,000 pounds of Kirkland Signature Salted Butter due to a potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. The recall was announced on [Date of Recall] and affects butter packages with a "best by" date of [Best By Date] or earlier.
What is Listeria?
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacteria that can cause serious illness, including listeriosis, a rare but potentially life-threatening infection. Symptoms of listeriosis can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. Pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for serious complications from listeriosis.
Why the Recall?
The recall was initiated after routine testing revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in the affected butter. While no illnesses have been reported in connection with this specific product, Costco takes food safety very seriously and is taking proactive steps to protect its customers.
Affected Products:
The recall specifically applies to the following product:
- Kirkland Signature Salted Butter
- 16-ounce packages
- "Best by" date of [Best By Date] or earlier
If you have purchased this product, do not consume it.
What to Do if You Have the Recalled Product:
- Do not eat the recalled butter.
- Discard the product immediately.
- Contact Costco Customer Service for information about a refund.
You can find more information about the recall on the Costco website.
Important Information:
- Listeria can survive in refrigeration temperatures.
- If you have consumed the recalled butter and experience any symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Preventing Listeria Contamination:
- Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling raw meat, poultry, seafood, or produce.
- Clean and sanitize surfaces and utensils that have come into contact with raw foods.
- Cook meat, poultry, and seafood to the proper internal temperature.
- Refrigerate perishable foods promptly.
- Avoid cross-contamination by separating raw meat, poultry, and seafood from other foods.
By taking these steps, you can reduce your risk of listeriosis.
For the latest updates on the Costco butter recall, check the FDA website or the official Costco website.
Keywords:
- Costco Butter Recall
- Kirkland Signature Salted Butter
- Listeria monocytogenes
- Listeria
- Listeriosis
- Food Safety
- Food Recall
- Product Recall
- Best by Date
- FDA
- Costco Customer Service
This information is for general knowledge and should not be considered medical advice. If you have any concerns, please consult a healthcare professional.