Listeria Concerns Spur 6-State Recall Of Spinach, Kale, Collard Greens

ACOSS AMERICA — Kale, spinach and collard green products sold under the Lancaster, Giant and Robinson Fresh brand names have been recalled in six states due to possible listeria contamination.

The products were distributed in Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia.

Produced at Lancaster Foods’ Maryland, facility, the products have already passed the “best if used by date” of May 1, according to the company’s voluntary recall notice posted on the Food and Drug Administration website.

Lancaster Foods initiated the recall after a random sample bag tested by the New York Agriculture and Markets Food Safety Division was found to be positive for the listeria pathogen.

No illnesses have been reported. The products are being removed from store produce sections, and consumers who bought them should discard them.

Listeria infections can be serious and sometimes fatal in young children, frail or older people, and others with weakened immune systems. Short-term symptoms include high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea.

A complete list of the recalled products is found on the FDA website. Questions may be directed to Lancaster Foods Customer Service at 877-844-3441 from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. EDT, Monday through Friday.