Roast beef products distributed in Chicago recalled due to a Listeria risk

Addison, Ill. company, Perfect Pasta Inc., has recalled more than 300 pounds of  ready-to-eat roast beef products that were distributed in the Chicago area due to the potential of Listeria monocytogenes contamination, according to a  U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) press release Feb. 14.

 The affected product is 5-lb. packages of “GINA FULLY COOKED ROAST BEEF WITH SEASONED JUICE” with a lot code number of “040615RB” and a pack date of “02-06-13.”

The products subject to recall bear the establishment number “EST. 19829” inside the USDA mark of inspection.
Listeriosis, a serious infection usually caused by eating food contaminated with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes, is an important public health problem. The disease primarily affects older adults, pregnant women, newborns, and adults with weakened immune systems. However, rarely, persons without these risk factors can also be affected.
Food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes may not look or smell spoiled. Listeriosis can cause high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness and nausea. Pregnant women, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk. Infected pregnant women may experience only a mild, flu-like illness, however, infections during pregnancy can lead to premature delivery, infection of the newborn, or even stillbirth.
Consumers and members of the media with questions regarding the recall should contact the company’s Quality Assurance Manager, Connie DeMarco, at (630) 543-8300.