Popular Tacos Recalled Amid Health Concern: What’s Behind the Risk?

Text "Product Recall" on torn brown paper.

The recall of Home Chef Chicken Street Tacos by Kroger has raised health concerns due to potential listeria contamination affecting 31 states.

At a Glance

  • The recall affects 24,072 taco meal kit units across 31 states.
  • Initially a Class 1 recall, it was revised to Class II by the FDA.
  • Listeria poses severe health risks, especially to vulnerable populations.
  • Consumers should check their storage and return or dispose of affected products.

Kroger Recalls Chicken Street Tacos

Kroger has announced a recall of its Home Chef Chicken Street Tacos due to the risk of listeria contamination. This action follows concerns initiated by chicken supplier BrucePac, leading to the recall of 24,072 units across 31 states. Consumers are advised to identify affected products and remove them from their homes. The recall, initially labeled Class I, has now been adjusted to Class II by the FDA, indicating temporary or reversible adverse health consequences are possible.

The list of affected states includes many across the Midwest and South. Consumers can contact Kroger or visit their website for specific product information and instructions on obtaining a refund. This recall extends to related products, such as Pancho Chicken Quesadilla and Green Chili Chicken Enchilada meal kits, all containing chicken from BrucePac.

Meal Kits Linked to Supplier Recall

Background on this recall points to BrucePac, a supplier whose previous large-scale meat recall affected numerous retailers. Mesa County Public Health issued warnings regarding these products, including Sprouts Farmers Market’s chicken taco kits. Listeria monocytogenes can cause severe infections, particularly in vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms range from fever to gastrointestinal distress.

“A situation in which use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.” – FDA

Consumers are urged to check their refrigerators and eat only safe, verified products. Reser’s Fine Foods, distributor of these meal kits, has voluntarily recalled items spanning 30 states. If you have additional questions, reach out to Reser’s at 888-223-2127 during business hours for more guidance.

Health Implications of Listeria

Listeria remains a significant concern in the food industry due to its potential to cause serious illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cite it as the third leading cause of foodborne illness fatalities in the United States. Annually, about 1,600 cases lead to approximately 260 deaths. Pregnant women face heightened risks, such as miscarriage or serious health issues for newborns, if exposed.

“The product may be contaminated with listeria monocytogenes and, if eaten, could result in severe illness to those individuals who are pregnant or have a weakened immune system.” – Kroger Co.

Efforts to ensure food safety involve rapid dissemination of recall information and proactive prevention measures. As the USDA and FDA handle similar cases, customers should stay informed about product recalls and practice good food safety measures at home. Regularly checking for official updates can protect public health and minimize potential impacts.

Sources

1. Taco Recall in 31 States As FDA Sets Risk Level Over Listeria Fears

2. Taco Kits Recalled in 30 States for Listeria Risk, FDA Elevates to Highest Risk Level

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