Dozens of ready-to-eat deli-style salads and cream cheese products sold across New York City have been recalled over possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination, according to an announcement posted by the Food and Drug Administration on September 6. Made Fresh Salads Inc., based in Bay Shore, Long Island, distributed the affected items directly to retailers and distributors in Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and elsewhere in New York City.
Impacted Products and Brands
Twenty-five tofu-spread and cream cheese varieties marketed via the Northside and Made Fresh Salads brands are subject to the recall. According to federal regulators, the affected dairy items include bagel-shop favorites such as scallion, lox, vegetable, garlic and herb, strawberry, and whipped cream cheese, alongside bacon scallion, jalapeño cheddar, and chocolate chip options.
More than 40 prepared foods are also involved in the recall. Among the items included are potato croquettes, macaroni salad, coleslaw, egg salad, crab cakes, shrimp salad, tuna salad, sesame noodles, tortellini pesto, quinoa salad, puddings, and potato salad.
Distribution and Packaging Details
The manufacturer originally distributed these items in five- and 30-pound white plastic tubs or half-size aluminum pans. However, the FDA warns that individual stores may have repackaged the foods into their own deli containers. Consequently, shoppers might not see a Made Fresh Salads or Northside label on the container.
The affected salads carry expiration dates ranging from September 3 through September 18. Codes on repackaged items will vary depending on the specific retailer.
Did You Know? Production and distribution were immediately halted after Made Fresh Salads and the FDA discovered Listeria monocytogenes in specific areas of the manufacturing plant through environmental testing.
Health Risks and Consumer Guidance
While no illnesses connected to the products have been reported, Listeria can cause serious or fatal infections in young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. The infection can also cause miscarriages and stillbirths during pregnancy. Healthy people who consume contaminated products may experience symptoms like fever, headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
Anyone who purchased a potentially affected product can return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Customers unsure if their local deli schmear came from the recalled supply can ask the retailer or contact Made Fresh Salads directly at 718-765-0082, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which company manufactured the recalled products?
Made Fresh Salads Inc., located in Bay Shore, Long Island, manufactured the recalled items.
What brands do the affected cream cheeses fall under?
The recalled cream cheese and tofu spreads are sold under the Made Fresh Salads and Northside brands.
What should I do if I bought an affected product?
You can return the item to the place of purchase for a full refund, or contact Made Fresh Salads at 718-765-0082 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Will you check your local deli counter labels before purchasing prepared salads or cream cheese this week?
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