Trader Joe's Recalls Southwest Salad And Other Products For Listeria Risk

Trader Joe's has just issued a recall for their Southwest Salad as well as several other items due to possible listeria contamination. All the items being recalled contain cotija cheese produced by Rizo-López Foods, Inc., according to a press release from the grocery chain. Other products impacted by this recall include Trader Joe's Cilantro Salad Dressing and Elote Salad Kit, Trader Joe's Southwest Salad, and Trader Joe's Chicken Enchilada Verde. None of the illnesses reported have been linked to these Trader Joe's products thus far, however.

This recall impacts products sold at Trader Joe's nationwide, and also several brands produced by Rizo-López Foods, Inc. The company initiated the recall due to the risk of listeria, a bacteria that causes foodborne illness. Listeria is often found in dairy products, particularly in soft cheeses, such as cotija cheese. The CDC has issued a food safety alert for the ongoing outbreak, which has thus far resulted in 26 illnesses and two deaths. The full list of products being recalled in the current outbreak can be found by visiting the CDC website.

Listeriosis, the illness caused by listeria bacteria, is an increasingly common cause of food poisoning and is particularly dangerous for those over the age of 65, newborns, pregnant individuals, and those with compromised immune systems. Symptoms of listeriosis vary by individual, however, it is usually not life-threatening for those with no underlying risk. The bacteria is one of the most virulent of the various bacteria that cause food poisoning because it can even grow in refrigerated environments.

To avoid any risk, be sure to check your fridge for the following products, which were produced by Rizo-López Foods on February 5th, 2024: Trader Joe's Trader Joe's Chicken Enchiladas Verde (SKU 58292), Trader Joe's Cilantro Salad Dressing (SKU 36420), Trader Joe's Elote Chopped Salad Kit (SKU 74768), and Trader Joe's Southwest Salad (SKU 56077). If you have any of the listed items in your fridge, you should throw the items out or return them to your local Trader Joe's for a refund. You may also contact Trader Joe's customer service by calling (626) 599-3817 Monday through Friday, 6:00 am to 5:00 pm Pacific time.