Wholesale Produce Supply, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, has issued a recall of its fresh cut and processed cantaloupe products due to the potential presence of Listeria monocytogenes. This bacterium can lead to serious infections, particularly among young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms in healthy people may include fever, headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Listeria infection is also known to cause miscarriages and stillbirths in pregnant women.
The recalled cantaloupe was distributed to Nebraska, North Dakota, and Wisconsin through distributors who may have further supplied other states. The affected products were sold under the “Harvest Cuts” and “Fresh and Finest” brands at traditional grocery stores. Packaging included plastic clamshell containers with either cantaloupe-only or mixed fruit assortments.
As of now, there have been no reported illnesses related to these products.
According to the company’s statement: "The recall was the result of a routine sampling program by the company which revealed that the finished products potentially contained bacteria. Wholesale Produce Supply has suspended production and distribution of the affected lots as the company continues their investigation as to what caused the problem."
Consumers who purchased these products are advised to return them for a full refund at their place of purchase. For questions regarding this recall, customers can contact Wholesale Produce Supply at (612) 378-2025 and ask for Steve Foster VP of Food Safety & QA.
