Walmart Broccoli Recall Now Poses Deadly Risk

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated a recall of Marketside Broccoli Florets sold at Walmart to a Class I recall, the agency’s highest risk level. This classification indicates a “reasonable probability” that consuming the affected product could lead to severe health consequences or death. The recall, initially issued in late December 2024, involves 12-ounce bags of broccoli potentially contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, a dangerous bacteria.

Product Details

The recalled product includes:

• Brand: Marketside Broccoli Florets
• Size: 12 oz
• UPC Code: 6 81131 32884 5
• Lot Code: BFFG327A6
• Best If Used By Date: December 10, 2024

The broccoli was distributed to Walmart stores in 20 states, including California, Texas, Illinois, and Michigan. While the product is no longer available in stores, the FDA has expressed concern that it may still be in consumers’ freezers.

Discovery and Escalation

The contamination was identified during random sampling conducted by Texas Health & Human Services at a Walmart location. The recall was initially voluntary and precautionary, but on January 27, 2025, the FDA elevated it to a Class I recall due to the severity of the risk posed by Listeria monocytogenes. This bacteria can survive in cold storage and is particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations, including pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Health Risks

Listeria infection, or listeriosis, can cause symptoms such as:

• Fever
• Muscle aches
• Nausea or diarrhea
• Severe complications like miscarriage or stillbirth in pregnant women

The incubation period for listeriosis can extend up to 70 days after exposure, making it critical for consumers to monitor their health if they suspect exposure.

What Consumers Should Do

The FDA advises consumers who purchased the affected broccoli to:

1. Check Freezers: Look for the recalled product.
2. Do Not Consume: Even if the product appears normal.
3. Dispose Safely: Throw away the product or return it to Walmart for a refund.
4. Monitor Symptoms: Seek medical attention if symptoms of listeriosis develop.

States Affected

The recall impacts Walmart stores in the following states:
Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.

No Reported Illnesses Yet

As of February 12, 2025, no illnesses linked to the recalled broccoli have been reported. However, due to the long incubation period of listeriosis and the potential severity of infections, health officials are urging caution.

Consumers with questions can contact Braga Fresh Foods at 877-456-7445 or email WeCare@bragafresh.com for further assistance.

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