Dole Salad Kits Recalled Over Listeria Concerns: Urgent Warning for Consumers

Dole Salad Kits Recall listeria risk salad kits Rizo-Lopez foods cheese recall and listeria cross-contamination

By E.Baloyo , Parent Herald Feb 14, 02:10 am

Photo: (Photo : Justin Sullivan / Getty Images)

Dole Salad Kits are being urgently recalled due to heightened concerns over potential listeria contamination, leading to a nationwide warning for consumers.

This alarming recall is not an isolated incident but is intricately linked to a broader issue involving Rizo-Lopez Foods cheese, amplifying fears of listeria cross-contamination and necessitating immediate action to protect public health.

Dole Salad Kits Recall Over Listeria Cross-Contamination

For consumer safety, Dole Fresh Vegetables, Inc. has initiated a precautionary recall of certain Dole-branded and private label salad kits.

A total of eight Dole salad kit products have been identified as part of the recall, a measure that extends to popular choices like the Dole Chopped Kit Avocado Ranch and the Premium Kit Southwest Salad.

This recall comes in response to the possibility of cross-contamination with cheeses previously flagged for listeria concerns.

Consumers are strongly urged to scrutinize the "Best if Used By" dates falling between Feb. 3 and 21, detailed on the company's website.

This recall is a strategic response to mitigate listeria risk stemming from the shared production line with cheese products from Rizo-Lopez Foods, a supplier that recently issued a recall for potential listeria contamination.

The recall announcement by Dole follows a prior action taken by Rizo-Lopez Foods. This supplier voluntarily recalled all cheeses and dairy products produced at its Modesto facility, citing concerns over the potential presence of listeria monocytogenes.

The cross-contamination risk emerges from the shared production line, prompting Dole to act swiftly to protect consumers from potential health hazards associated with listeria.

The recall, therefore, addresses not only the immediate listeria risk but also underscores the importance of transparency and accountability within the food supply chain.

Urgent Consumer Warning and Industry Response

Consumers who possess the recalled salad kits are strongly advised to dispose of them promptly.

Dole has also alerted retailers to conduct thorough checks on their shelves and warehouses to ensure that no recalled products remain available for purchase.

The company is actively collaborating with regulatory officials to navigate this situation effectively.

While there have been no reported illnesses associated with their products at this time, Dole Fresh Vegetables, Inc. is taking proactive steps to prevent potential health concerns linked to listeria cross-contamination.

The urgency of the consumer warning serves as a stark reminder of the seriousness of listeria, a bacterium that can cause severe illness, particularly in vulnerable populations.

Pregnant individuals, those aged 65 or older, and individuals with weakened immune systems are considered at higher risk.

For additional information or assistance regarding the Dole Salad Kits Recall, consumers and retailers alike can reach out to the Dole Consumer Response Center at 800-356-3111, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Pacific Time.

This recall incident echoes a similar occurrence in 2021 when Dole recalled all Dole-branded and private label packaged salads processed at its facilities due to listeria concerns.

The company remains committed to ensuring the safety of its products and will continue to work diligently to address any potential issues promptly.

As consumers increasingly prioritize their well-being, staying informed about recalls and taking appropriate action is crucial.

The recall of Dole Salad Kits serves as a timely reminder of the importance of proactive measures in ensuring food safety, ultimately safeguarding the health and well-being of consumers nationwide.