In a recent development, Stutz Packing Company, based out of Indio, CA, has issued a voluntary recall on one-pound packages of Shelled Walnuts after a routine product sampling found them to be potentially contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism capable of causing serious infections. This recall affects walnuts distributed to food bank warehouses in Texas and Arizona, which may have further reached consumers via food banks, school lunch programs, shelters, and prison food systems, according to a statement obtained by The Houston Chronicle.
As a preventative measure, Stutz has halted the production and distribution of the affected product amidst the ongoing investigation by the company and the FDA. Although no illnesses have been reported as of Monday, the risk presented by these walnuts is not to be underestimated – especially in individuals with weakened immune systems, for whom listeriosis can be fatal. The Food Safety News warns that symptoms, which can include high fever, severe headache, and nausea, may take up to 70 days after exposure to appear. Therefore, continuous vigilance is recommended for individuals who have consumed the recalled nuts.
The specific product in question comes in a clear plastic package with a noticeable red outline white box printed in the center. The UPC Code on these packages is 7 15001 00908 1, and the affected lot codes are 24171 1 or 24172 1, as detailed by both aforementioned sources. For the public's safety, consumers in possession of these walnuts are advised to either discard the product or return it to the place of purchase. Concerned customers can seek further information by contacting Stutz Packing Company representative Sasha Morales via email at [email protected] or by calling 760-230-9547, between the hours of 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. from Monday through Friday.
As mentioned in Food Safety News, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems are at a heightened risk, and even otherwise healthy individuals are advised to be aware of potential symptoms and to seek medical attention should they occur.
In the meantime, investigations continue as the FDA and Stutz Packing Company work to ensure that all sources of contamination are identified and addressed to prevent further risk. Consumers in possession of the recalled walnuts are urged to take the appropriate steps to safeguard their health and that of others who might have been exposed to the contaminated nuts.
