More than 360,000 pounds of Oscar Mayer turkey bacon have been recalled due to a possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).
According to Newsweek, the recall was issued by Kraft Heinz Foods Company on July 2 and includes products that were shipped to stores across the U.S., as well as the British Virgin Islands and Hong Kong. FSIS classified the recall as Class I, the most serious level, meaning there’s a reasonable chance the contaminated products could cause serious illness or even death.
What to Know About Listeria Infections (Source: Mayo Clinic)
Listeria infection, or listeriosis, is a serious illness caused by bacteria that can spread through contaminated food. While healthy people usually recover without severe problems, the infection can be dangerous—especially for pregnant women, newborns, adults over 65, and people with weakened immune systems.
How It Spreads
Listeria bacteria are most often found in certain high-risk foods, such as:
- Soft cheeses
- Deli meats
- Unpasteurized milk and dairy products
Unlike many bacteria, listeria can survive in cold environments, including refrigerators and freezers. That’s why it’s important for people at higher risk to avoid foods more likely to carry the bacteria.
Symptoms of Listeria Infection
Symptoms usually begin within 1–2 weeks after eating contaminated food but can take up to two months to appear.
Common symptoms include:
- Diarrhea or upset stomach
- Fever and chills
- Muscle aches and fatigue
- Headache or stiff neck
- Confusion or trouble staying alert
- Loss of balance or seizures
In severe cases, listeria can spread to the brain and spinal cord, causing a dangerous condition called bacterial meningitis.
When to Call a Doctor
If you’ve eaten a recalled food or one that may be contaminated and start feeling sick—especially with fever, diarrhea, or body aches—contact your healthcare provider.
Seek emergency care if you have:
- High fever
- Severe headache
- Stiff neck
- Confusion or sensitivity to light
The recall includes 367,812 pounds of fully cooked turkey bacon produced between April 24 and June 11. Here’s what’s affected:
- Oscar Mayer Turkey Bacon Original (12 oz):
- Use-by dates from July 18 to August 2, 2025
- UPC: 071871548601
- Lot code: RS40
- Oscar Mayer Turkey Bacon Original (36 oz – 3-pack of 12 oz):
- Use-by dates from July 23 to September 4, 2025
- UPC: 071871548748
- Lot codes: RS19, RS40, RS42
- Oscar Mayer Turkey Bacon Original (48 oz – 4-pack of 12 oz):
- Use-by dates from July 18 to September 4, 2025
- UPC: 071871548793
- Lot codes: RS19, RS40, RS42
The issue was discovered during routine company testing, which detected potential Listeria contamination. As of July 2, no illnesses or adverse reactions have been reported.
Consumers are urged to check their refrigerators and freezers and either throw out the affected products or return them to the store where they were purchased.
