LEWISTOWN - Giant Food Stores and Martin's Food Markets have stopped selling Dole Hearts of Romaine, UPC 7143000956, with a use-by date of June 26, after Cole Fresh Vegetables recalled the produce citing a possible health risk of listeria monocytogenes, according to a press release from the stores.
Listeria is a common organism found in nature. Consumption of food contaminated with listeria monocytogenes can cause listeriosis, an uncommon but potentially fatal disease. Healthy people rarely contract listeriosis, but an affected person might experience high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness and nausea. Listeriosis can also cause miscarriages and stillbirths, as well as serious and sometimes fatal infections in those with weakened immune systems, such as infants, the elderly and people with HIV or who are undergoing chemotherapy.
No illnesses have been reported to date, and Shiela Penepacker, a manager at Giant Food Store in Burnham, said her store received a report indicating there is no local threat. A manager from the Giant Food Store in Lewistown declined to comment.
Customers who have purchased the product should discard any unused portions or bring their purchase receipt to the store for a full refund.
Consumers looking for additional information on the recall may call Dole Food Company consumer response center at (800) 356-3111 or Giant/Martin's customer service at (888) 814-4268, or visit www.giantfoodstores.com for more information.
