Aldi, Target, Walmart, and Others Expand Frozen Waffle Recall Due to Listeria

If you’ve recently purchased frozen waffles or pancakes, it’s time to check your freezer. TreeHouse Foods, Inc. has significantly expanded its recent recall of frozen waffle and pancake products due to the potential risk of contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.

This foodborne bacteria can cause serious illness, particularly for vulnerable groups like young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Why Are These Products Being Recalled?

The recall initially started after routine testing at one of TreeHouse Foods’ manufacturing facilities revealed the possibility of contamination. Though no illnesses have been reported, TreeHouse Foods is taking precautionary measures by expanding the recall to include all frozen Belgian waffles and pancake products made at the affected facility.

Listeria monocytogenes can lead to severe infections, especially in pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with compromised immune systems. It may cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea in healthy individuals.

Affected Products and Retailers

The list of products affected by this recall is extensive—more than 900 varieties of waffles and pancakes are involved. These items were distributed across the United States and Canada under different brand names, including:

Great Value (sold at Walmart)
Good & Gather (sold at Target)
Breakfast Best (available at Aldi)
Clover Valley (sold at Dollar General)
365 Organic (sold at Whole Foods)
Simple Truth
Harris Teeter
Giant Eagle
Publix
Kodiak Cakes

For a complete list of products, consumers are advised to check the TreeHouse Foods website, which provides detailed information on the affected brands, varieties, and product packaging.

The lists also include the Universal Product Codes (UPCs), Lot Codes, and Best By Dates, making it easier for consumers to verify if they have purchased recalled products.

Photos of the product packaging are available online, providing additional visual assistance for identifying the affected items.

How to Identify Recalled Frozen Waffles and Pancakes

To ensure you’re not consuming any contaminated products, it’s essential to inspect your freezer. Here’s what to look for:

Check the brand name: Many popular brands and store brands are affected, including Walmart’s Great Value, Target’s Good & Gather, Aldi’s Breakfast Best, and Whole Foods’ 365 Organic.
Look for UPCs: The UPC is typically located near the barcode on the packaging.
Review the Best By Date and Lot Codes: These can help you identify if your product is part of the recall. The comprehensive list on TreeHouse’s website will guide you through the exact codes and dates affected.

Even if the product looks fine and smells normal, it is crucial to follow the recall guidelines and avoid consuming anything on the recall list.

What Should You Do If You Have Recalled Products?

If you discover that you’ve purchased any of the recalled waffles or pancakes, the next step is simple: Do not eat them.

Here’s what you should do:

Dispose of the product: The FDA advises immediately throwing away any recalled items.
Return for a refund: Many retailers will accept returns for recalled products, so if you prefer, you can bring the affected items back to the store for a full refund. Check the retailer’s return policy or contact customer service for assistance.
Contact TreeHouse Foods for more information: Consumers who have questions about the recall can contact TreeHouse Foods at 800-596-2903, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (CST).

If you’re unsure whether your waffles or pancakes are affected, it’s better to err on the side of caution and discard them. The FDA has advised consumers to act quickly and responsibly to avoid potential health risks.

Understanding Listeria: The Potential Health Risks

While no illnesses have been reported from this recall, it’s essential to understand the potential risks posed by Listeria monocytogenes.

Listeria is a type of bacteria commonly found in soil and water. It can contaminate food products, especially dairy, meat, and processed frozen goods like waffles and pancakes. The bacteria thrive in refrigerated conditions, which is why frozen products are especially vulnerable.

In most healthy individuals, a listeria infection may cause only mild, short-term symptoms, such as fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal issues. However, certain groups are at a much higher risk of severe illness, including:

Pregnant women: Listeria can cause miscarriages, stillbirths, and preterm labor. Pregnant women are about 10 times more likely to get a listeria infection.
Elderly individuals: Older adults are more susceptible to severe illness from listeria.
People with weakened immune systems: Individuals undergoing chemotherapy, those with HIV/AIDS, or anyone with a weakened immune system may be at higher risk of serious complications.

If you believe you’ve consumed a recalled product and are experiencing symptoms, seeking medical attention is crucial.

Stay Informed

Food recalls can be overwhelming, especially when they involve popular household items. To stay safe, it’s essential to regularly check food safety alerts from reliable sources like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

In this case, TreeHouse Foods and the FDA are doing their part to ensure that consumers know about the recall and take the necessary steps to protect their health. No illnesses have been reported, but the expanded recall reflects the company’s commitment to precaution and consumer safety.

In the future, consider signing up for food safety alerts from the FDA or other trusted organizations to stay updated on recalls and other essential food safety news.

Conclusion:

TreeHouse Foods’ expanded recall of frozen waffles and pancakes reminds us of the importance of food safety vigilance. Although no illnesses have been reported, it’s essential to take this recall seriously, especially given the potential health risks associated with Listeria monocytogenes.

Inspect your freezer for any recalled products, check the UPC codes and Best By Dates, and either dispose of or return the items. Stay informed, take action, and protect your health and the health of your loved ones.