A significant food safety alert has been issued for Alabama residents that could impact your meals. BrucePac, a company known for its ready-to-eat meat and poultry products, recalls nearly 10 million pounds of various items due to potential contamination with harmful bacteria. This recall has raised concerns, as the bacteria in question can lead to serious health complications.

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The issue came to light after routine testing at BrucePac's plant in Durant, Oklahoma, detected **Listeria monocytogenes**. This bacteria is notorious for causing listeriosis, a rare yet serious infection primarily affecting vulnerable populations, including the elderly, pregnant women, newborns, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

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But what does this mean for consumers? The affected products, which range from chicken breasts and strips to beef patties, were produced between June 19 and October 8 of this year and may still be in restaurants, grocery stores, or even your own refrigerator. The USDA has indicated that these products carry establishment numbers 51205 or P-51205 and may have best-by dates extending to October 2025.

This recall has been classified as a Class I, the highest level issued by the USDA, indicating a reasonable probability of serious health consequences or even death from consuming the contaminated products. So far, there have been no reported illnesses linked to these items, but the potential risks are significant.

If you have any of the recalled products at home, the USDA advises disposing of them or returning them to the store. Symptoms of listeriosis can start with gastrointestinal distress, including diarrhea and vomiting, within 24 hours of consumption. More severe symptoms could manifest within two weeks, particularly for those at higher risk.

If you have questions or concerns about the recall, you can contact BrucePac at 503-874-3000, or reach out to the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-674-6854. Stay informed and prioritize your health—check your pantry and freezer today!

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