Nationwide mushroom recall prompts federal health alert as deadly bacterial contamination threatens vulnerable Americans, with no illnesses yet reported.
Key Takeaways
- Hofood99 Inc. has recalled all Enoki Mushrooms sold in 200-gram green plastic packages with UPC code 6 976532 310051 due to potential Listeria contamination
- Michigan Department of Agriculture testing discovered the dangerous bacteria, prompting immediate action on June 11, 2025
- No illnesses have been reported yet, though Listeria symptoms can take up to 70 days to develop after exposure
- Pregnant women, elderly individuals, young children, and the immunocompromised face the highest risk, with possible complications including miscarriage and stillbirth
- Consumers should either dispose of affected products or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund
Contamination Discovery and Recall Details
Hofood99 Inc. has endorsed a national recall of their Enoki Mushrooms after testing revealed potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a dangerous foodborne pathogen. The affected products were sold nationwide in 200-gram green plastic packages with the UPC code 6 976532 310051. This rapid response follows routine testing that uncovered the potential health threat, though no illnesses have yet been linked to consumption of these mushrooms. The discovery highlights the effectiveness of America’s food safety monitoring systems under President Trump’s administration.
“The contamination was discovered after samples were collected from a store in Michigan and subsequent analysis by Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD) Laboratory Division revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes,” stated FDA.
The recall announcement came on June 11, 2025, with immediate instructions for consumers who may have purchased the potentially contaminated mushrooms. Anyone in possession of these products is advised not to consume them under any circumstances, regardless of appearance or smell, as Listeria contamination cannot be detected through casual inspection. Consumers can either dispose of the mushrooms properly or return them to their place of purchase for a complete refund.
Health Risks and Vulnerable Populations
Listeria monocytogenes poses a significant health risk, particularly to certain vulnerable demographics. Pregnant women, elderly individuals, young children, and those with weakened immune systems face the highest danger from exposure. The bacteria can cause listeriosis, a potentially life-threatening infection with symptoms including fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. For pregnant women, the consequences can be even more severe, potentially resulting in miscarriage, stillbirth, or life-threatening infection of the newborn.
What makes Listeria particularly concerning is its lengthy incubation period. Unlike many foodborne illnesses that manifest within hours or days, Listeria symptoms can take up to 70 days to develop after exposure. This extended timeline makes tracing the source of infection challenging for health officials and increases the importance of swift recall actions when contamination is discovered. Additionally, diagnosing Listeria infections requires specific laboratory tests, further complicating the identification and treatment process.
FDA Oversight and Recall Process
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) maintains vigilant oversight of food safety concerns, working closely with manufacturers and state health departments to identify and address potential hazards. While many food recalls are initiated voluntarily by manufacturers, the FDA plays a crucial role in evaluating the health risks and ensuring proper public notification. In this case, the rapid response demonstrates the effective coordination between state testing laboratories, federal regulators, and the private sector.
“Most recalls in the U.S. are carried out voluntarily by the product manufacturer and when a company issues a public warning, typically via news release, to inform the public of a voluntary product recall, the FDA shares that release on our website as a public service,” stated FDA.
For consumers with questions or concerns regarding this recall, Hofood99 Inc. has established a dedicated contact line at 917-756-9833. The company is cooperating fully with regulatory authorities to resolve the situation and prevent any potential illnesses. This proactive approach to addressing food safety concerns highlights responsible corporate behavior and the effectiveness of America’s food safety systems, which continue to protect citizens through rigorous testing and rapid response protocols.
“The FDA’s role during a voluntary, firm-initiated, recall is to review the recall strategy, evaluate the health hazard presented by the product, monitor the recall, and as appropriate alert the public and other companies in the supply chain about the recall,” stated FDA.
