Wiers Farm Inc. Takes Action on Potential Listeria Contamination
The recent recall of cucumbers due to potential listeria contamination has been expanded to include additional produce sold in various New York stores. Following an initial recall on July 12, Wiers Farm Inc. of Willard, Ohio, announced an expanded recall on Monday, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This decision came after the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development discovered the possible Listeria contamination through routine sampling. Both Wiers Farm Inc. and the Ohio Department of Agriculture are actively investigating the issue to ensure consumer safety.
The recalled products were sold in Walmart, Aldi, Save-a-Lot, and Shop N Save stores across New York. The FDA’s recall notice emphasizes Wiers Farm Inc.’s commitment to resolving this situation comprehensively, implementing all necessary measures to address the contamination risk.
Which Products Have Been Recalled?
The expanded recall now includes a variety of additional produce items. The affected products were packed between July 5 and July 12, 2024. Fortunately, there have been no reported illnesses or consumer complaints to date. The recalled items include:
Retail packaged items sold at select Walmart locations in NY:
- Wiers Farm Bagged Poblano, UPC 073064202581, 16 oz. bag
- Wiers Farm Bagged Cubanelle, UPC 073064201836, 16 oz. bag
- Wiers Farm Bagged Green Beans, UPC 073064200846, variable weight bag
- Wiers Farm Bagged Salad Cucumber, UPC 073064459619, 2 lb. bag
- Wiers Farm Bagged Serrano, UPC 073064201829, 4 oz. bag
- Wiers Farm Organic Bell Pepper, UPC 073064201416, 2 count tray
- Wiers Farm Organic Cucumber, UPC 073064201423, 2 count tray
- Wiers Farm Organic Yellow Squash, UPC 073064201447, 2 count tray
- Wiers Farm Organic Zucchini Squash, UPC 073064201430, 2 count tray
Retail packaged items sold at Aldi stores in NY:
- Freshire Farms Bagged Green Beans, 16 oz. bag
- Freshire Farms Bagged Jalapenos, 8 oz. bag
Bulk retail items sold individually or by the pound at Walmart and Save-a-Lot stores in NY:
- Anaheim peppers
- Cilantro (sold in bunches)
- Cubanelle peppers
- Cucumber (whole)
- Green beans
- Green bell pepper
- Habanero peppers
- Hungarian Wax peppers
- Jalapeno peppers
- Mustard greens (sold in bunches)
- Pickling cucumber
- Plain parsley (sold in bunches)
- Poblano peppers
- Serrano peppers
- Tomatillos
Bulk retail items sold individually or by the pound at Shop N Save stores in NY:
- Cucumber
- Green bell pepper
- Pickling cucumber
Symptoms and Risks of Listeria
Listeria infection can present a variety of symptoms, particularly affecting vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. Common symptoms include fever, flu-like symptoms, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, seizures, diarrhea, and vomiting. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that anyone who has consumed potentially contaminated produce and experiences these symptoms should seek medical attention promptly.
What to Do If You Have Purchased Recalled Products
Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled products are urged to discard them immediately. Wiers Farm Inc. has provided contact information for any questions or concerns: consumers can call 419-933-2161 or email customercare@wiersfarm.com.
Legal Recourse for Affected Consumers
If you have suffered harm or injury from consuming the contaminated produce, you may be entitled to seek damages through a product liability lawsuit. These cases can help cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs. The lawsuit process typically involves an initial consultation with a product liability attorney to assess the case’s merits. If the case proceeds, the attorney will file a complaint, gather evidence during the discovery phase, negotiate settlements, and, if necessary, represent you in court.
Importance of Legal Representation
Engaging an attorney is crucial in navigating the complexities of a product liability lawsuit. An experienced attorney can manage all aspects of the case, ensuring that your rights are protected and maximizing the potential for a favorable outcome. Legal representation is essential in securing compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other damages resulting from the contaminated produce.