The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a nationwide recall of 68 ice cream products from 13 brands, following the discovery of potential contamination with listeria monocytogenes. The products, manufactured by Totally Cool Inc., based in Owings Mills, Maryland, have been pulled from shelves and distribution networks as a precautionary measure.
The recall, which includes popular brands such as Friendly's, Hershey's Ice Cream, and Jeni's ice cream sandwiches, was initiated after FDA sampling detected the presence of the harmful bacterium. The affected products were distributed nationwide through retail stores and direct delivery services. As of the announcement, no illnesses related to the contamination have been reported.
Consumers in possession of the recalled products are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Totally Cool Inc. has halted production and distribution of the impacted items while the FDA continues its investigation. For inquiries, consumers can contact Totally Cool at 410-363-7801 or via email at regulatory@totallycoolicecream.com, available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause listeriosis, a serious infection particularly dangerous for young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of listeriosis can range from mild flu-like symptoms, such as fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, to more severe manifestations like headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. In severe cases, listeriosis can lead to death. Pregnant women are especially at risk, as listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths.
The FDA's recall affects a broad range of ice cream products, including pints, ice cream cakes, and ice cream sandwiches. The 13 brands involved in the recall are:
- Friendly's
- Abilyn's Frozen Bakery
- Hershey's Ice Cream
- Yelloh!
- Jeni's (ice cream sandwiches)
- Cumberland Farms
- The Frozen Farmer
- Marco
- ChipWich
- AMAFruits
- Taharka
- Dolcezza Gelato
- LaSalle
The FDA has made available a comprehensive list detailing the date and plant information for all the impacted products. This measure aims to ensure that consumers can identify and return the affected items efficiently.
Listeria contamination is a serious concern in food safety. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately 1,600 people in the United States contract listeriosis annually, with about 260 fatalities. Even among healthy individuals, listeria infection can result in significant illness, underscoring the importance of this recall.
The FDA is actively investigating the source of the contamination and is implementing preventive actions to mitigate further risks. The agency's swift response highlights its commitment to protecting public health and ensuring the safety of the food supply.
Totally Cool Inc. has expressed its commitment to consumer safety and is cooperating fully with the FDA's investigation. The company has reassured the public that no other products outside the recall are affected and that they are taking all necessary steps to prevent future incidents.
Consumers are advised to stay informed about food recalls and to follow guidance from health authorities to protect themselves and their families. The FDA continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
