Costco Recalls Kirkland Signature Butter: 80,000 Pounds Due to Potential Listeria Contamination
Costco Wholesale Corporation has issued a voluntary recall of its Kirkland Signature Salted Butter, affecting approximately 80,000 pounds of product. The recall stems from a potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause serious illness, particularly in vulnerable populations.
What You Need to Know About the Recall
- Affected Product: Kirkland Signature Salted Butter, 1 pound (454g) packages
- UPC Code: 00011111363901
- Sell By Dates: 08/09/2024 through 08/16/2024
- Distribution: The affected butter was sold at Costco locations nationwide.
Why the Recall?
Costco initiated the recall after routine testing revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in a sample of the Kirkland Signature Salted Butter. This bacterium can cause a serious infection called listeriosis, which can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
What to Do If You Have Affected Butter
Consumers who have purchased the affected Kirkland Signature Salted Butter are urged to immediately discard the product and not consume it. Do not return the product to the store. Instead, contact Costco Customer Service at 1-800-774-2678 for a full refund.
Symptoms of Listeriosis
Symptoms of listeriosis can include:
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Stiff neck
- Confusion
- Loss of balance
- Convulsions
If you experience any of these symptoms after consuming the recalled butter, seek immediate medical attention.
Listeria: A Public Health Concern
Listeria monocytogenes is a common bacterium found in the environment. It can contaminate food during processing, storage, or preparation. While most healthy individuals experience mild symptoms, those with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of developing serious complications, including meningitis, sepsis, and miscarriage in pregnant women.
Costco's Commitment to Safety
Costco is committed to ensuring the safety and quality of its products. This recall demonstrates their proactive approach to addressing potential food safety concerns. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about food recalls and take necessary precautions to protect their health.
For further information on this recall, please visit the Costco website or contact Costco Customer Service.