Ice Cream Recall: What You Need to Know (Hershey’s, Friendly’s)

About the Author:

Hi everyone! I’m Sarah, a registered dietitian with a passion for food safety and public health information. Keeping families safe while enjoying delicious treats is my top priority, and today we’re diving into the recent ice cream recall to answer all your burning questions.

Ice Cream Recall: What Happened?

Love ice cream? You might have seen news about a recent recall involving popular brands like Hershey’s and Friendly’s. Don’t panic! This article will give you the scoop on what’s going on and how to stay safe.

The recall involves ice cream products manufactured by Totally Cool, Inc., due to the potential presence of Listeria monocytogenes bacteria. This can cause serious illness, especially for pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

Listeria Lowdown: Understanding the Risk

Listeria is a sneaky bacteria that can contaminate food and cause a foodborne illness called listeriosis. It can grow even in cold environments, making it a particular concern for refrigerated foods like ice cream.

Symptoms of listeriosis can include fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can lead to infection of the bloodstream and brain.

Who’s Most at Risk?

While anyone can contract listeriosis, certain groups are more vulnerable to serious complications:

• Pregnant women: Listeria can easily pass to the fetus and cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or serious illness in newborns.
• Newborns: Listeria can cause severe infections in babies shortly after birth.
• Elderly adults: Their immune systems weaken with age, making them more susceptible to listeriosis.
• People with weakened immune systems: This includes individuals with chronic illnesses or undergoing treatments that suppress the immune system.

Recalled Products: Know What to Check

If you fall into a high-risk category, it’s especially important to be aware of the recalled products.

Protecting Yourself: What You Can Do

Here are some key steps to take:

• Check your freezer: Look for the recalled brands and products listed in the table.
• Don’t eat recalled items: If you find any recalled ice cream, throw it away immediately. Don’t taste it!
• Clean and disinfect: Wash surfaces and containers that may have come into contact with the recalled ice cream.
• When in doubt, throw it out: If you’re unsure whether a product is part of the recall, err on the side of caution and discard it.

Beyond the Recall: Safe Ice Cream Habits

Here are some general ice cream safety tips to keep in mind:

• Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands before and after handling ice cream.
• Maintain proper storage temperature: Keep ice cream frozen at 0°F (-18°C) or below.
• Thaw safely: Thaw ice cream in the refrigerator, not at room temperature.
• Enjoy promptly: Don’t refreeze ice cream that has thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What if I ate a recalled product and feel fine? It can take weeks for symptoms of listeriosis to develop. If you’re concerned, consult your doctor.
• Is all ice cream unsafe? No, the recall only applies to specific products. Check the FDA website for the complete list.
• Where can I find more information? The FDA website has the latest updates on the recall: [https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts](https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts

Conclusion: Enjoy Ice Cream Safely!

The recent ice cream recall serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety. By staying informed, taking precautions, and following safe handling practices, you can continue to enjoy this delicious treat with confidence.

Here’s a quick recap:

• Check your freezer for recalled products.
• If you find recalled ice cream, throw it away.
• Practice good hygiene and proper storage when handling ice cream.
• Consult the FDA website for the latest information on the recall.

Remember, knowledge is power! By understanding the risks and taking preventive measures, you can safeguard yourself and your loved ones. Now, go forth and scoop responsibly!