City Foods, Inc., a Chicago-area meat processor, is recalling approximately 3,215 pounds of ready-to-eat pastrami and corned beef products that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service announced Aug. 8.
The recall, designated 015-2026 and classified as Class I, indicates a reasonable probability of serious adverse health consequences or death, FSIS said. Brands affected include Midamar, Bea’s Best and Kirsch Delicatessen.
The recalled products were distributed nationwide, FSIS said. The recall is separate from the concurrent jalapeño-related Salmonella alert, meaning two simultaneous Class I meat safety events are active.
Listeria monocytogenes causes listeriosis, a serious infection that is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, older adults and people with weakened immune systems. In pregnant women, the infection can cause miscarriage, stillbirth and serious illness in newborns.
Ready-to-eat deli meats are among the highest-risk products for Listeria contamination because they are typically consumed without further cooking, which would otherwise kill the bacteria. FSIS urged consumers to check their refrigerators for the affected products.
The simultaneous Listeria and Salmonella recalls represent an unusually active food safety period, with broad consumer exposure across multiple national brands and product categories.