Ice Cream Bars Recalled in 23 States Over Listeria Threat

Overview of the Ice Cream Recall

More than 100,000 ice cream bars produced by Rich's Ice Cream have been recalled due to concerns about potential listeria contamination. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on July 17 that Florida-based Rich's Ice Cream Co. is recalling select products because of possible contamination with listeria monocytogenes. This recall affects lot numbers 24351 through 25156 and was initiated on June 27, as stated in the FDA notice. It is classified as a Class II recall, which means that use of or exposure to the product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences, or the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.

Affected Products

The affected products, sold in multiple states, include a variety of frozen treats:

• Chocolate Crunch Cake Bars
• Strawberry Shortcake Bars, Rich Bars
• Crumbled Cookie Bars
• Orange Cream Bars
• Fudge Frenzy Bars
• Cotton Candy Twirl Bars
• Savagely Sour Blue Raspberry Bars
• Savagely Sour Cherry Bars
• Cool Watermelon Bars

These items were individually packaged in plastic bags and sold in master cases.

States Impacted by the Recall

The affected products were distributed across 23 states, including:

• Arizona
• Alabama
• Ohio
• California
• Pennsylvania
• Georgia
• New York
• New Jersey
• Florida
• Texas
• Virginia
• Illinois
• Missouri
• Massachusetts
• Tennessee
• Iowa
• South Carolina
• Oregon
• Oklahoma
• Nevada
• Louisiana
• Wisconsin
• Nebraska

Additionally, the products were sold in Nassau, the capital of The Bahamas.

What to Do If You Purchased the Affected Products

At this time, the FDA and Rich's Ice Cream Co. have not specified what remedies are available for customers. The company has not yet responded to requests for a statement or additional information about the recall. Customers are advised to visit the company’s website for more details and to contact the company directly if they have questions or concerns.

Understanding Listeria Poisoning

Listeriosis, or listeria poisoning, is a foodborne bacterial infection most commonly caused by listeria monocytogenes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It is considered a serious condition and can be dangerous or life-threatening, especially for older adults, people with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women.

Listeria is the third leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the U.S., according to the CDC. The agency estimates that approximately 1,600 Americans are affected each year, with around 260 deaths resulting from these infections.

Symptoms of Listeriosis

Symptoms of listeriosis can include:

• Fever
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Confusion
• Loss of balance
• Convulsions
• Diarrhea
• Other gastrointestinal symptoms
• Miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, and/or life-threatening infection of newborn infants
• Death

Individuals in higher-risk categories who experience flu-like symptoms within two months after consuming contaminated food should seek medical attention immediately.

Conclusion

This recall highlights the importance of staying informed about food safety and taking appropriate precautions when purchasing and consuming frozen treats. Consumers are encouraged to check if any of the listed products are in their possession and to follow the guidance provided by the FDA and Rich's Ice Cream Co.