Massive Ham and Pepperoni Recall: Listeria Fears Trigger Action

Megaphone announcing "Product Recall" on chalkboard background.

Alexander & Hornung recalls over 2.3 million pounds of ham and pepperoni due to potential Listeria contamination, leaving consumers wondering about the safety of their holiday meals.

At a Glance

Alexander & Hornung, a unit of Perdue Premium Meat Company Inc., recalls 2,320,774 pounds of fully cooked ham and pepperoni products
Recall expanded from initial 234,391 pounds due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination
Affected products bear “EST. M10125” inside USDA mark of inspection and were shipped nationwide
No confirmed illnesses, but consumers advised not to consume recalled products
High-risk groups include pregnant women, elderly, young children, and those with weakened immune systems

Massive Recall Impacts Holiday Season

As Americans prepare for holiday gatherings, a significant food safety concern has emerged. Alexander & Hornung, a subsidiary of Perdue Premium Meat Company Inc., has issued a recall for over 2.3 million pounds of fully cooked ham and pepperoni products. The St. Clair Shores, Michigan-based company took this action due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a dangerous foodborne pathogen.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced the recall, which expanded from an initial 234,391 pounds to its current scale. Products affected by this recall bear the establishment number “EST. M10125” inside the USDA mark of inspection and were distributed to retail locations across the nation.

Alexander & Hornung is recalling 2,320,774 pounds of fully cooked ham and pepperoni products that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. https://t.co/q4e67rNvAc

— Food Safety News (@foodsafetynews) December 14, 2024

Listeria: A Silent Threat

Listeria monocytogenes is a particularly insidious bacterium that can cause listeriosis, a serious infection with potentially severe consequences. What makes this pathogen especially concerning is the extended incubation period, which can last up to 70 days. This delay between consumption of contaminated food and the onset of symptoms complicates the process of identifying and addressing outbreaks.

Symptoms of listeriosis can include vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headache, and neck stiffness. In more severe cases, the infection can lead to confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. Pregnant women, the elderly, young children, and individuals with compromised immune systems are at the highest risk for severe complications from listeriosis.

Consumer Safety Paramount

While no confirmed reports of adverse reactions have been linked to the consumption of these products, the potential for harm remains significant. The FSIS strongly advises consumers who have purchased the recalled items not to consume them. These products should be either thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

Anyone concerned about an illness should contact their healthcare provider immediately. It is crucial to inform medical professionals about the consumption of any potentially contaminated food products. This information can be vital for proper diagnosis and treatment, especially given the long incubation period associated with Listeria infections.

Vigilance Required

As the holiday season approaches, this recall serves as a stark reminder of the importance of food safety. Consumers are advised to check their refrigerators and freezers for any products that may be part of this recall. The FSIS continues to work with Alexander & Hornung to ensure that all potentially contaminated products are removed from the market.

This incident showcases the need for constant vigilance in our food supply chain. As American families prepare to gather for holiday meals, it’s crucial to stay informed about food safety recalls and to practice proper food handling and preparation techniques. By staying alert and taking necessary precautions, we can help protect ourselves and our loved ones from foodborne illnesses during this festive season and beyond.