JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Sandwich-maker M.E. Thompson Inc. has expanded the recall of its Anytime Deli Turkey & Ham Footlong sandwich to include its Italian Footlong and Classic Cuban because the products have the potential to be contaminated with listeria monocytogenes.
Listeria monocytogenes is an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.
The initial date of the recall was Jan. 24, 2012.
The following products with expiration dates from Jan. 19 through May 2 and lot numbers from 00112 through 10412 are being recalled:
- Turkey & Ham Footlong UPC 0543200194
- Italian Footlong UPC 0543200196
- Classic Cuban UPC 0543200156
The sub sandwiches were distributed Jan. 2 through April 13 to convenience stores and grocery stores nationwide under the labels Anytime Deli, Sandwich Central and Dandee.
All sandwiches are packaged in white butcher wrap. The “best buy” date and/or the lot number are located on the white press on a circular label. The UPC code is located on the bottom of the product beneath the ingredient and nutrition facts label.
No confirmed illnesses have been reported to date.
Healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
The recall was the result of a routine sampling program by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, which revealed that the finished products contained listeria monocytogenes. No other finished products, since the original sampling, have been shown to contain listeria. The company is recalling the products as a precautionary measure.
Consumers who may have purchased a sandwich for later consumption are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at (800) 394-6258 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST.
Jacksonville, Fla.-based M.E. Thompson Inc. assembles and packages food for wholesale distribution.
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