FDA Warns of Possible Listeria Contamination in Market Basket-Stocked Fruit

(Courtesy photograph.)

Peaches and nectarines stocked at Market Basket locations across Massachusetts have been recalled over a possible listeria contamination. (Courtesy photograph)

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has announced a recall of fresh peaches and nectarines sold at Massachusetts Market Basket locations.

The FDA confirmed Yonkers N.Y. distributor Jac. Vandenberg, Inc. is recalling nearly 3,000 cartons of fruit over possible listeria contamination concerns. In a statement on their website, Market Basket vows to address all food safety issues as soon as possible.

“When we are notified of a product recall, all store and distribution centers follow proper protocols to ensure that the affected products are not on our shelves,” the statement read.

WHAV has reached out to Market Basket’s corporate office for more information.

The peaches and nectarines in question were sold in bulk and had a PLU sticker of 4044, 3035 or 4378. The fruit’s country of origin is Chile, according to the FDA.

The FDA said the recall was triggered during a “routine sampling program” conducted by the packing house. The company has ceased distribution of the produce while an investigation into why finished products contained the bacteria continues.

Though no illnesses have yet to be reported in connection with the recall, the FDA encourages concerned shoppers to return questionable fruit to the place of purchase for a full refund. Symptoms of listeria infection can include fever, headache, stiffness and nausea, the FDA said. The illness is especially concerning for the elderly, young children and those with weakened immune systems.