The product was distributed nationwide and possibly through Internet sales. Consumption of food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes can cause listeriosis, an uncommon but potentially fatal disease. Healthy people rarely contract listeriosis.
Listeriosis can cause high fever, severe headaches, neck stiffness, and nausea.
FSIS was notified of a positive Listeria monocytogenes test result by the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, which was investigating several reports of illnesses. At this point, no illnesses have been definitively linked to this product. Anyone concerned about an illness should contact a physician immediately. Media with questions about the Maryland illnesses can call J. Roche, acting state epidemiologist, Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, tel.