Giant Eagle is recalling bulk sunflower seeds because of possible Listeria contamination, Giant Eagle announced Wednesday.
The affected seeds were available loose, in bulk bins and in pre-packaged containers.
Food contaminated with the Listeria bacteria can cause sickness requiring hospitalization, and for certain vulnerable people the illness can be fatal, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
The FDA also warns that those most at risk include pregnant women, older adults and people with compromised immune systems and certain chronic medical conditions (such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, and transplant patients). It says Listeria can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, and serious illness in pregnant women, or death in newborn babies.
Giant Eagle says to date there are no reported illnesses with this recall. It said Sun Opta informed the supermarket of the voluntary recall.
The affected bulk bins and pre-packaged containers are dated between February 15 and May 3, according to the supermarket. It reported sell dates for pre-packaged containers are August 1 through August 19. And the seeds have a PLU of 65167.
Four northeast Ohio Giant Eagle and Market District stores are involved in the recall.
Giant Eagle stated the affected product was sold in the bulk food sections of:
Rocky River Giant Eagle, and
Solon, Portage Crossing and Strongsville Market District locations
Giant Eagle says people who have purchased the affected product should dispose of it or they can return it to their Market District store for a refund. The supermarket invites customers with questions to Giant Eagle Customer Care at 1-800-553-2324 Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. EST.
