A recent health advisory from USMoneymatters.com reports the recall of peaches, plums, and nectarines distributed by HMC Farms across the United States. This recall is due to a listeria outbreak, which has resulted in 11 illnesses, including one tragic fatality and 10 hospitalizations. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a food safety alert and is actively investigating any potential contamination of other fruit or products derived from them.
HMC Farms, based in Kingsburg, California, is voluntarily recalling peaches, plums, and nectarines sold between May 1 and November 15 of this year, including the same period in 2022. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) discovered listeria in a sample of HMC Farms peaches during testing in late October.
The affected fruits were marketed nationwide, including at major retailers such as Walmart and Sam’s Clubs. The contaminated fruits may carry listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium capable of causing severe and sometimes fatal infections.
As of November 17, the CDC has reported cases in seven states: California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, and Ohio. Tragically, one person in California has succumbed to the illness, while another individual fell ill during pregnancy and experienced preterm labor.
Listeria infections pose a significant risk, especially to young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. The symptoms can range from high fever and severe headaches to stomach pain. Importantly, listeria can also lead to miscarriages and stillbirths.
The affected fruit was sold in 2-pound bags branded “HMC Farms” or “Signature Farms,” with specific codes for each type of fruit. The recall specifically excludes organically grown fruit, as highlighted by both the company and the CDC.
Consumers are urged to check their homes, including freezers, for the recalled fruit and dispose of it immediately. For further information, individuals can contact the company at (844) 483-3867, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern time.
