Fresh Express, Publix Spinach Recalled In VA Over Listeria Risk: FDA

VIRGINIA — Fresh Express is voluntarily recalling two spinach products in seven states, including Virginia, because of a potential health risk from listeria monocytogenes, according to a notice from the U.S. Food & Drug Administration.

The company has recalled its 8 oz. bag of Fresh Express Spinach with the product code G332 and a use-by date of Dec. 15 and its 9 oz. bag of Publix Spinach with the product code G332 and a use-by date of Dec. 14.

So far, no illnesses caused by the tainted spinach have been reported, the FDA said.

In addition to stores in Virginia, the two recalled spinach items were distributed to retailers in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

Publix has a few stores in Virginia, including Fredericksburg, Glen Allen and Stafford locations.

The recall comes after a randomly selected spinach package tested positive for listeria during routine testing by the Florida Department of Agriculture.

Listeria can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune symptoms.

Short-term symptoms include high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Listeria infections can also cause miscarriages and stillbirths.

Consumers with these symptoms of listeriosis should consult their health care provider.
Those who have the recalled products in their refrigerators should throw them away, the FDA said.

To get a refund or more information, call the Fresh Express Consumer Response Center at 800-242-5472 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Refunds are also available where the products were purchased.