Possible Listeria Contamination Triggers Recall of Taylor Farms Broccoli Salad Kit Products

The Maryland-based food company Taylor Farms is recalling more than 5,000 pounds of broccoli salad kit products due to concerns over possible Listeria contamination, the company announced Friday.

The kits were shipped to delis in Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey and Vermont and include following products:

• 6.06-lb. boxes labeled "TAYLOR FARMS BROCCOLI CRUNCH WITH BACON AND DRESSING " with the case code 310151, produced on Oct. 21 and Oct. 22, 2013.

• 12.13-lb. boxes labeled "TAYLOR FARMS BROCCOLI CRUNCH WITH BACON AND DRESSING " with the case code 310153, produced Oct. 21 through Oct. 23, 2013.

According to Taylor Farms, case labels bear the establishment number "EST. 34522" inside the US Department of Agriculture mark of inspection; however, retail consumers and the general public do not typically see the boxes and labels since the product is usually unboxed by deli counters and restaurants and used to make salads for retail sale.

The company, the Food Safety and Inspection Service and the Food and Drug Administration have not received any reports of illnesses associated with the products, though anyone who is concerned is advised to contact a healthcare provider.

Listeriosis is a serious infection caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. It primarily affects those with a weakened immune system, including newborns and the elderly. In pregnant women, infection can lead to a miscarriage, stillbirth or premature delivery, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns.

The CDC recommends that anyone at risk for listeriosis avoid raw meat, fish and poultry, hot dogs, unpasteurized milk and milk products, pre-made salads, smoked and canned seafood. soft cheeses and meat spreads.

Symptoms include fever and muscle aches. In some people, they may also include confusion, loss of balance, a stiff neck and convulsions.