Tree House Foods, Inc., a large supplier of frozen waffles and other breakfast products, has recently expanded its recall of frozen waffles, Belgian waffles, and pancakes due to a possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.
This harmful bacteria can lead to serious foodborne illness, especially in people with weaker immune systems, older adults, pregnant women, and newborns.
This recall initially involved a smaller batch of frozen waffles, but it has now grown to include a wide range of products. Consumers are urged to check their freezers, as the potentially affected items were distributed to several major retailers across the United States and Canada.
Why the Recall Happened
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported that TreeHouse Foods voluntarily initiated the recall after routine testing in one of its manufacturing plants detected the presence of Listeria.
Though no illnesses have been linked to these products, Listeria contamination poses a significant health risk.
What is Listeria?
Listeria monocytogenes is a dangerous bacterium that can cause listeriosis, a potentially deadly infection. Symptoms of listeriosis include:
- High fever
- Muscle aches
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
It can spread to the nervous system in severe cases, leading to meningitis or sepsis. Pregnant women are especially vulnerable as the infection can cause miscarriage or serious illness in newborns.
Affected Frozen Waffle and Pancake Products
This recall affects various frozen, Belgian waffles, and pancake products sold under various brands at popular stores like Aldi, Target, Walmart, Dollar General, and more.
Among the brands included in the recall are:
- Great Value (Walmart)
- Breakfast Best (Aldi)
- Good & Gather (Target)
- Clover Valley (Dollar General)
- 365 Organic (Whole Foods)
- Simple Truth (Kroger)
- Kodiak Cakes
- Harris Teeter
- Publix
The recall spans more than 900 products with different packaging and sizes. These items were sold throughout the United States and Canada, meaning many consumers may have unknowingly purchased the affected products.
TreeHouse Foods’ website provides a detailed list of the brands, product names, and identifying details (such as Universal Product Codes (UPCs), Lot Codes, and Best Dates).
You can also find images of the recalled products to help you identify them in your freezer.
How to Identify the Recalled Products
To determine if the waffles or pancakes in your freezer are part of this recall, check the packaging for the following:
- Brand Name – Is it a brand from the recalled list (such as Great Value, Good & Gather, or Breakfast Best)?
- UPC Codes – Cross-check the Universal Product Code (UPC) against the list provided by TreeHouse Foods.
- Best By Dates and Lot Codes – These codes can help you confirm whether your product is among those affected.
If you’re unsure, it’s better to be cautious and avoid consuming the product. For further information, contact the retailer where you purchased the item.
What To Do If You Have Recalled Waffles or Pancakes
If you discover that one of the recalled products is in your freezer, do not eat it. Even if the waffles or pancakes look and smell fine, Listeria contamination may not be detectable by sight or smell.
Instead, you should:
- Dispose of the product by throwing it away securely to prevent anyone else from consuming it.
- Return the product to the store where you purchased it for a full refund.
No Illnesses Reported So Far
No reported cases of illness linked to the recalled products have been reported. However, since Listeria can have a long incubation period (up to 70 days), it’s important to remain vigilant for symptoms if you have consumed any of the affected items.
Precautions and Preventive Steps
While Listeria infections are relatively rare, they can be very serious. Here are some tips for reducing your risk of infection:
- Thoroughly cook frozen products – Cooking food at high temperatures kills most harmful bacteria, including Listeria. Follow the instructions on frozen food packages to ensure proper heating.
- Keep your refrigerator clean – Wipe down shelves regularly to prevent cross-contamination from leaking food packages.
- Monitor recall alerts – Staying informed about food recalls helps protect your household from potential foodborne illnesses.
Learn More About Listeria
Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for more information about listeriosis and how to protect yourself. The site offers detailed guidance on the symptoms, prevention, and treatment of this illness.
Conclusion
While this frozen waffle recall is alarming, it’s a good reminder to stay informed about the products we buy and eat. If you regularly shop at Aldi, Target, Walmart, or other major retailers, checking your freezer for these potentially contaminated products is especially important.
If you have any doubt about a frozen waffle or pancake product, return it to the store for a refund or dispose of it safely.
Being proactive and following the recommended steps can help keep you and your family safe from Listeria and other foodborne risks.
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