Costco Issues Recall for Kirkland Signature Butter: What You Need to Know
Costco Wholesale Corporation has issued a voluntary recall for certain Kirkland Signature Salted Butter products due to potential contamination with **Listeria monocytogenes **. While the recall is limited to specific batches, it's essential for consumers to check their butter supply and take appropriate action if necessary.
What is Listeria monocytogenes?
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause listeriosis, a serious infection that primarily affects pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of listeriosis can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. In severe cases, listeriosis can lead to sepsis, meningitis, miscarriage, and even death.
Which Kirkland Signature Salted Butter products are affected?
The recall affects specific batches of Kirkland Signature Salted Butter, identified by their "Best By" date:
- Best By Dates: 09/07/2024, 09/08/2024, 09/09/2024, 09/10/2024, 09/11/2024, 09/12/2024, 09/13/2024, 09/14/2024, 09/15/2024, 09/16/2024, 09/17/2024
The affected butter was distributed to Costco warehouses in the United States.
What should you do if you have affected butter?
If you have purchased Kirkland Signature Salted Butter with one of the listed "Best By" dates, do not consume it. Instead:
- Discard the butter immediately.
- Contact your local Costco store for a refund or exchange.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling the recalled product.
What steps can you take to prevent listeriosis?
- Avoid consuming recalled products.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling raw meat, poultry, seafood, or produce.
- Thoroughly cook food to safe temperatures.
- Clean and sanitize surfaces and equipment that come into contact with raw food.
- Refrigerate perishable food promptly at 40°F or below.
- Avoid consuming unpasteurized dairy products.
Where can I find more information?
For more information about the recall, please visit the Costco website or contact Costco Customer Service. You can also find further guidance and information about food safety from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Staying informed and taking necessary precautions can help protect you and your family from foodborne illnesses like listeriosis.