The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has issued a stark warning: stay away from Yu Shang Food, Inc.'s ready-to-eat meat and poultry products. This alert follows an outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections potentially tied to consumption of these products, leading to a large-scale recall. Listeria, a harmful bacteria, can cause severe health issues, including death, especially in vulnerable populations. All Yu Shang Food, Inc.-based ready-to-eat meat and poultry products that came into the market before October 28, are now being pulled from shelves, as detailed by the CDPH.

As per the CDPH's latest notice, there are currently 19 reported cases of Listeria infection across eight states, with 10 cases originating from California. Unfortunate and heart-wrenching, the outbreak has resulted in the deaths of 2 newborn infants. The infection, primarily impacting the Asian community with at least half of the cases reported amongst Chinese individuals, was largely traced back to products purchased from Asian grocery stores or online, as stated in the CDPH's report. "The consumption of these food products can result in devastating consequences, and our hearts go out to the family and loved ones of the infants who passed away," Dr. Tomás J. Aragón, CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer expressed his condolences on the matter.

The Listeria scare does not stop at the household level; all forms of commercial distribution are advised to cease immediately. Restaurants, grocers, and other businesses that have stocked or served Yu Shang brand food items need to contact their local health department for further instructions. In the event of encountering these products still on sale, individuals are encouraged to file a complaint through the CDPH Complaint Hotline at (800) 495-3232 or submit an electronic report to the CDPH Food and Drug Branch. Those experiencing Listeria-related symptoms should seek medical attention promptly.