Simply Potatoes Recalled Due To Listeria

Listeriosis is the leading cause of death among food borne bacterial pathogens with 2,500 illnesses and 500 deaths annually in the U.S. Simply Potatoes has recalled the retail potato products, no food service potato products were included with the recall. The affected products include the items listed below and have the use by dates of March 29, 2009 - April 3, 2009.

So far, no illnesses have been reported in the consumption of the Simply Potatoes products. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration considers Northern Star Co. potato products as a "not ready to eat" food product. This is a product that consumers must cook before eating. According to information received from the Northern Star Co. website, the proper way to cook the Simply Potatoes product is with an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit for two minutes. This will kill the Listeria bacteria.

Basically, Northern Star is saying you can still purchase these products, just make sure you cook them at 160 degrees Fahrenheit. They are also giving consumers the option to return the Simply Potatoes product back to the store where it was purchased and receive a full refund or replacement.

Here are symptoms to look out for if you suspect you or a loved one has eaten the tainted Simply Potatoes product: fever, severe headache, stiff neck and nausea. It is said that people in good health rarely contract listeriosis, but it can cause fatal infections in babies and the elderly. Also pregnant women should not eat this product, as they are in the high risk category along with infants and the aged.

Consumers with questions may call the company at (800) 228-8105.