More apples recalled due to Listeria concerns

Bidart Brothers has issued a recall for Granny Smith and Gala apples due to test results confirming two strains of Listeria found at the apple processing facility. Those same strains are associated with Listeria infections linked to commercially produced, prepackaged caramel apples.

Tainted caramel apples have led to 7 reported deaths nationally, including as suspected death of Betty Frey of Santa Cruz. A total of 32 cases of listeria from tainted apples have been reported according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Consumers should not eat the Granny Smith and Gala apples being recalled.

These apples may be sold under the brand names “Big B” and “Granny’s Best,” though they could also be sold under other brand names or with no brand at all.

Consumers who are buying or have recently bought Granny Smith or Gala apples should ask their retailers if the apples were supplied by Bidart Bros.

Other varieties of apples and apples from other growers are not affected by the recall.

Consumers should also avoid eating commercially produced, prepackaged whole caramel apples including those various brands and types containing nuts, sprinkles, chocolate & other toppings that were manufactured using Bidart Brothers apples.

The company is contacting all of their retailers with specific instructions as to how to return the affected apples.

The company last shipped Granny Smith apples to customers on December 2, 2014.

Consumption of food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes can cause listeriosis, an uncommon but potentially fatal disease. Listeriosis can cause high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, and nausea. Listeriosis can also cause miscarriages and stillbirths. The very young, the pregnant, the elderly, and persons with compromised immune systems are the most susceptible to infection. People experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.