HHS NEWS

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 
P98-32                             FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATON
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE              Print Media: 301-827-6242
October 23, 1998                   
                                   Consumer Media: 800-532-4440

HORMEL RECALLS FROZEN CHEESEBURGERS
BECAUSE OF POSSIBLE HEALTH RISK

Hormel Foods Corporation of Austin, Minnesota, is recalling its 4.8 ounce packages of Quick Meal frozen cheeseburger sandwiches because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

The recalled cheeseburger sandwiches were distributed in retail stores in Delaware, Maryland, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Virginia.

The product comes in a 4.8 ounce package marked with lot # 09248E.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.

The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing by an institution receiving the product revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in 4.8 ounce packages of cheeseburger sandwiches.

The production of the product has been suspended while FDA and the company continue to investigate the source of the problem.

Consumers who have purchased 4.8 ounce packages of Quick Meal cheeseburger sandwiches are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-800-523-4635.

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