Costco recalls popular deli item in 30 states over deadly salmonella risk
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You might want to check your fridge before digging into that Costco dinner kit.
Costco has recalled its popular meatloaf and mashed potatoes kit in nearly 20 states due to possible salmonella contamination.
The products at risk of contamination, labeled Meatloaf with Mashed Yukon Potatoes and Glaze, have sell-by dates between March 5 and March 16 and were available at 26 Costco locations.
According to the recall notice, the kits were sold between March 2 and March 13.
The recall was issued after one of Costco’s suppliers, Griffith Foods, flagged a potential contamination in an ingredient used in the meal.
The specific ingredient was not disclosed.
So far, no illnesses or injuries have been reported.
Customers who purchased the ready-meal are advised not to eat it and can return it to any Costco store for a full refund.
Costco has recalled its popular meatloaf and mashed potatoes kit in nearly 20 states due to possible salmonella contamination
The product, labeled Meatloaf with Mashed Yukon Potatoes and Glaze, has sell-by dates between March 5 and March 16 and was available at 26 Costco locations
Salmonella is a leading cause of foodborne illnesses in the US, resulting in over one million infections annually.
Of these cases, approximately 26,500 require hospitalization, and the bacteria are responsible for about 420 deaths each year.
Frozen food can become contaminated with Salmonella at several points in the production chain, and the freezing process itself does not kill the bacteria.
The most common origin is one of the raw ingredients itself, though if equipment, surfaces or wash water in a processing facility is contaminated, the bacteria can spread to other foods.
Salmonella bacteria invade and destroy the cells that line the intestines.
This makes it hard for the body to absorb water, which can result in stomach cramps.
The water leaves the body in the form of diarrhea.
In life-threatening yet rare cases, Salmonella can lead to infections in the brain, bones, joints, heart lining or urinary system
This could lead to severe complications like meningitis, osteomyelitis, endocarditis or even sepsis.
Severe complications are most dangerous for vulnerable people, including young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
In these cases, patients require intravenous antibiotics, fluids and close medical monitoring to fight the systemic infection and prevent life-threatening organ failure.
