Here’s what you need to know:
- Date: November 28, 2024
- Announced by: FDA
- Company: Gracie’s Kitchens Inc.
- Product name: Ready-to-eat fruit and vegetable products (includes a variety of salads, veggie trays, fruit bowls, and more)
- Issue: Listeria monocytogenes
- Product details: Various pre-packaged fruit and vegetable products sold in Connecticut and New York
- Action to take: Discard or return products to the store for a refund
We’ve got all the details, keep reading!
What happened?
This past November 28th, Gracie’s Kitchens voluntarily recalled a range of their ready-to-eat fruit and vegetable products after discovering the possible presence of Listeria monocytogenes. Here’s the skinny: The issue came to light after some routine sampling by the company revealed the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes in the environment at their processing facility. The company then jumped into action and teamed up with the FDA to get the word out. The recalled products were distributed to various grocery stores located in Connecticut and New York. Products will have sell-by dates located on the labels with a range of 11/9/24-11/24/24. Some of the affected products are packaged in plastic or foam trays, and others in large fruit bowls and trays. The recall spans a variety of fresh-cut veggies like peppers, onions, and carrots, as well as fruit bowls, watermelon spears, and mango cups
What caused the issue?
The products were found to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
Here’s what you should do
If you have purchased the product, take action! Here’s what you should do: Check the labels of the products attached below and look for the UPC code and sell-by date. If you realize you have one of those products on your hands, dispose of the product or return it to the store where you purchased it for a refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 203-773-0795 Mon-Fr (9am-3pm EST) or [email protected]. See product labels here!
Gracie’s Kitchen Brand
King Kullen Brand
Wild by Nature
Behind the brand
Gracie’s Kitchens, Inc. is a processor of premium fresh-cut fruits and vegetables, high-quality Angus meats, and a co-packer / private label bottler of sauces. Based in New Haven, Connecticut, it’s a well-known producer of fresh, ready-to-eat fruit and vegetable products. This company has been around for years, providing consumers with convenient and tasty pre-packed veggies and fruit. FDA recalls happen more often than we’d like to admit, but Gracie’s is doing the right thing by quickly addressing the issue and collaborating with regulators.
Ensuring safe eats
This recall isn’t just about one company — it’s about keeping the industry in check. Every time a company recalls a product, it reinforces the importance of food safety protocols in food production. Manufacturers should test regularly for harmful bacteria, maintain clean processing facilities, and take quick action if any contamination is detected.
“A product recall is not just about addressing an issue—it’s about demonstrating accountability. Acting quickly and transparently not only protects consumers but also builds long-term trust in your brand.” Eran Mizrahi, Source86’ CEO
Wanna know more about recalls like this one? Talk to our team!
