WASHINGTON D.C. – Rich’s Ice Cream Company has initiated a recall of millions of ice cream bars after the discovery of Listeria bacteria contamination. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that the affected products were distributed to 23 U.S. states, including Texas, and also to the Bahamas.
The recall primarily targets certain ice cream bar products from the Florida-based company, which are suspected to contain Listeria monocytogenes. On July 17, the FDA classified this as a ‘Class II’ recall, indicating that consumption of these products could lead to temporary health problems or infections.
Listeriosis, the infection caused by consuming food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes bacteria, can lead to serious illness or gastrointestinal issues in individuals. Pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to severe complications. Statistics in the United States show that approximately 2,500 people are affected by listeriosis annually, with around 500 fatalities.
Consumers who may have purchased these ice cream bars are advised to dispose of them immediately and not consume them. The recall highlights the ongoing vigilance required in food safety to prevent bacterial outbreaks and protect public health.
