Ice cream products recalled after routine FDA inspection

SAN FRANCISCO:  Products from a large ice-cream distributor have been recalled by the Food and Drug Agency (FDA), due to possible health risks to consumers.

The company, Helados La Tapatia, based in Fresno, voluntarily recalled all ice cream products, popsicles, fruit bars/cups and bolis due to a possible health risk from Listeria monocytogenes.

FDA INSPECTION PROGRAM
Although no illnesses have been reported to date, the possible health risk was identified following a routine inspection by the FDA, which revealed the presence of the bacteria on certain food processing equipment.

DISTRIBUTION
The company distributes the products in retail stores across Arizona, California, Nevada, Washington, Guam and in Canada. The products are sold under the brand names of Helados La Tapatia and Icesations.

PRODUCTION HALTED
Production of the items has been halted as the FDA and Helados La Tapatia investigate the issue. The company has been coordinating closely with regulatory officials since the recall on Thursday.

SYMPTOMS
Listeria monocytogenes is 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.

CONSUMER WORRIES
Consumers who have purchased any of the products are asked to return them to the store of purchase where they can get an exchange for a full refund.

Customers can also contact the company Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at (559) 441-1105 or (855) 893-1171.

Worried consumers can also contact the company at helatapatia@sbcglobal.net.

Label examples of recalled products can be viewed on the FDA website via this link

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