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Costco has issued a recall for a popular meal kit that has been sold at its warehouses across more than 20 states, due to concerns over potential salmonella contamination. This decision was prompted by the recall of an ingredient used in the meatloaf component of the Meatloaf with Mashed Yukon Potatoes and Glaze meal kits, as noted in a food safety notice on Costco’s website.
The specific products affected by this recall were available for purchase between March 2 and March 13. They were distributed in Costco locations throughout Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, and Wisconsin.
For a visual reference of the meal kit, Costco has provided a photo, underscoring the importance of identifying the correct product to ensure consumer safety. This proactive measure is part of Costco’s commitment to uphold food safety standards and protect its customers from potential health risks.
In related news, Costco is also facing legal challenges as a shopper has filed a lawsuit against the company, potentially evolving into a class action case involving tariffs. This adds another layer of complexity to the current issues facing the retail giant.
You should not eat the meatloaf and mashed potatoes, Costco says, but instead return the pre-made meal kit to your warehouse for a full refund.
What is salmonella?
While Costco noted no injuries or illnesses have been reported because of the recalled meatloaf, Salmonella infections can be “serious and sometimes fatal.”
It’s caused by the salmonella bacteria, which the CDC estimates cause 1.35 million infections, 26,500 hospitalizations, and 420 deaths in the U.S. yearly.
Salmonella infections are commonly associated with diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, according to the CDC. Symptoms can begin between six hours and six days after you’ve ingested the bacteria. Most people recover without treatment within four to seven days.
Illnesses may be more severe for young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Some may require medical treatment or hospitalization, the CDC explains. Infections can only be diagnosed with a laboratory test of a person’s stool, body tissue, or fluids.