Costco recently announced recalls on three popular food products due to possible contamination risks. This includes Nutristore Freeze-Dried Deluxe Meat, Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon, and Krusteaz Belgian Waffles.
Here’s what you need to know about these recalls, the risks involved, and how to handle any affected items if they’re in your home.
Why These Products Are Being Recalled
The recalls stem from concerns over potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination, a type of bacteria that can cause serious illness, especially in vulnerable individuals. Here’s a breakdown of each recall:
- Nutristore Freeze-Dried Deluxe Meat: The issue affects only the freeze-dried grilled chicken in the Nutristore Deluxe Meat Variety #10 Cans. The brand issued a voluntary recall due to potential contamination, asking customers to return unused products.
- Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon: This recall involves smoked salmon packages sold by Acme Fish Corp., the supplier, due to possible Listeria contamination in specific lots sold in mid-October.
- Krusteaz Belgian Waffles: These waffles, sold in Costco stores in late October, also face a Listeria risk, affecting only the 24-count packs.
Let’s explore each product and recall details further so you can identify and respond if you have one of these items.
1. Nutristore Freeze-Dried Deluxe Meat Variety #10 Cans
Nutristore has issued a voluntary recall on its Freeze-Dried Deluxe Meat Variety #10 Cans due to potential Listeria contamination in the grilled chicken portion. This recall affects only the grilled chicken variety and does not involve other Nutristore products.
Product Details
- Item Name: Nutristore Freeze-Dried Deluxe Meat Variety #10 Cans
- Costco Item Number: 1638795
- Product Description: 12-count canned meat variety pack containing grilled chicken
- Risk: Potential Listeria contamination
- Resolution: Return to Costco for a full refund if you have this item.
Listeria can cause serious illness, especially in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Nutristore advises that customers should not consume the chicken if they still have it on hand and should return the variety pack to Costco for a refund.
2. Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon
Costco’s Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon, supplied by Acme Smoked Fish Corp., has also been recalled for potential Listeria contamination. This recall includes a specific lot of two-packs of smoked salmon sold between October 9 and 13.
Product Details
- Item Name: Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon
- Supplier: Acme Smoked Fish Corp.
- Lot Number: 8512801270
- Costco Item Number: 1267000
- Product Description: Two-pack smoked salmon
- Risk: Potential Listeria contamination
- Resolution: Return to Costco for a full refund if purchased within the specified dates.
Listeria is especially dangerous for pregnant women, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. Costco advises customers to return the salmon to the store for a full refund if they purchase it from the affected lot.
3. Krusteaz Belgian Waffles
The recall on Krusteaz Belgian Waffles covers the 24-count boxes sold at Costco between October 13 and 21. The supplier, TreeHouse Foods, issued the recall after potential Listeria contamination was detected.
Product Details
- Item Name: Krusteaz Belgian Waffles (24-count)
- Supplier: TreeHouse Foods
- Item Number: 54734
- Product Description: 24-pack of Belgian waffles
- Risk: Potential Listeria contamination
- Resolution: Return to Costco for a refund if purchased during the specified dates.
If you have this product in your freezer, Costco urges you not to consume it and return it for a full refund.
What You Need to Know About Listeria
Listeria monocytogenes can cause listeriosis, an infection with fever symptoms, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. The disease can be severe, particularly for high-risk groups.
If you have consumed any recalled items and are experiencing symptoms, it is best to contact a healthcare professional.
Steps to Handle Recalled Items from Costco
If you have purchased any of these recalled items, follow these steps:
- Do Not Consume the Product: Do not eat any recalled products. Listeria can survive even at low temperatures, such as refrigerators or freezers.
- Return to Costco: Return the item to your local Costco warehouse for a full refund. You do not need a receipt, but the product should match the recall specifications.
- Check the Dates and Lot Numbers: Confirm that your item falls within the recall details, including specific purchase dates and lot numbers.
Conclusion
Costco’s top priority is food safety, and they take recalls seriously to protect their customers.
The Nutristore Freeze-Dried Deluxe Meat recalls Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon and Krusteaz Belgian Waffles, which serve as a reminder to stay informed about food safety. Costco will offer a full refund at any location if you have any of these products.
By staying vigilant and responding to recalls like this, you can help keep yourself and your family safe from potential foodborne illnesses.
FAQs
Contact a healthcare provider if you’ve consumed recalled items and feel unwell, especially if you experience symptoms like fever, muscle aches, or gastrointestinal issues. Listeriosis can be particularly severe for certain groups, including pregnant women, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
Check the product’s item number, lot number, and purchase date. Costco has listed this information on its recall page, and you can also refer to this guide for each item’s specific recall details.
You can return the recalled items to any Costco location for a refund. You do not need your receipt, but the product should match the recall details.
If you choose not to return the product, dispose of it in a sealed bag within your regular trash. Ensure it’s sealed well to avoid contaminating other food or surfaces.
Freezing does not kill Listeria, so avoiding consuming any recalled product, even if it’s been in the freezer, is best. Please return it to Costco or dispose of it safely.
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