Costco Butter Recall: Affected Products & Safety
Costco, the beloved warehouse club known for its bulk deals and delicious Kirkland Signature products, has issued a recall for certain Kirkland Signature Salted Butter products due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. This bacterium can cause a serious illness known as listeriosis, which is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
What Products Are Affected?
The recall specifically targets Kirkland Signature Salted Butter with the following details:
- UPC Code: 00011113959927
- Production Dates: October 20, 2022, to November 2, 2022
- Expiration Dates: April 15, 2023, to May 20, 2023
These products are identified by the UPC code and production date located on the bottom of the butter package. If you have any of the affected butter, do not consume it.
What is Listeria Monocytogenes?
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacteria that can cause listeriosis, a potentially fatal foodborne illness. Symptoms of listeriosis can include:
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Stiff neck
- Confusion
- Loss of balance
- Convulsions
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Symptoms usually appear within 2 to 30 days after eating contaminated food.
What Should You Do?
If you have purchased Kirkland Signature Salted Butter with the affected UPC code and production date, you should:
- Do not eat the butter.
- Return the butter to any Costco location for a full refund.
- Discard any food that may have come into contact with the butter.
- Clean and sanitize any surfaces that may have come into contact with the butter.
- Contact your doctor if you experience any symptoms of listeriosis.
How Can You Avoid Listeriosis?
To minimize your risk of listeriosis, follow these food safety guidelines:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food.
- Clean and sanitize surfaces that come into contact with food, especially after handling raw meat, poultry, or seafood.
- Cook food to the proper temperature to kill bacteria.
- Refrigerate perishable foods promptly to prevent bacterial growth.
- Avoid eating foods that are past their expiration date.
- Be cautious when eating pre-made foods like hot dogs, luncheon meats, and soft cheeses.
Conclusion
This recall is a serious matter, and it is important to follow the steps outlined above to ensure your safety. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Costco customer service or your healthcare provider. Remember, food safety is everyone's responsibility!