On October 25th, Traverse City, Michigan’s North Bay Produce, Inc. issued a voluntary recall of 6 varieties of bagged and bulk apples because of a possible health risk. The apples (over 2,000 cases and 2 bulk bins) may have been exposed to bacteria called Listeria monocytogenes.

The apples were delivered between October 16th and 21st to stores in:

  • Michigan
  • Louisiana
  • Wisconsin
  • Florida
  • Texas
  • Illinois
  • Kentucky
  • North Carolina
  • Fresh Thyme Farmers Markets

The company sold the apples under Great Lakes and North Bay Produce Pure Michigan brands. They were packaged and sold in plastic bags, white paper tote bags, and on individual retailer display trays. The varieties include McIntosh, Honeycrisp, Jonathan, Fuji, Jonamac, and Red Delicious apples. At the time of the recall, North Bay Produce was not aware of any illnesses related to the recall, but the risk was serious enough to warrant immediate action.

What Is a Listeria Infection?

Exposure to Listeria monocytogenes may result in a listeria infection, or Listeriosis, which is often quite serious. Pregnant women, for example, may suffer miscarriages and stillbirths. Infections may even be fatal, especially for young children, the elderly, and those with weak immune systems. Experts estimate that the mortality rate among these groups is 20-30%.

For healthy individuals, possible short-term side effects of infection include:

  • High fever
  • Severe headaches
  • Stiffness or muscle aches
  • Nausea/vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Diarrhea
  • Convulsions

If you believe you may have purchased these apples, compare them to the product photos and descriptions in the company’s recall document. Seek medical attention immediately if you are experiencing any of the symptoms related to Listeriosis.

North Bay Produce has halted production and distribution at the facility where the organism was detected, and the facility in undergoing investigation in cooperation with the FDA..

Have You Suffered from a Listeria Infection? Call Our Firm for Legal Support.

North Bay Produce is one of numerous companies to initiate product recalls in October and November 2019 because of possible listeria contamination. On October 3rd, an Indiana company recalled hundreds of pounds of pork products, and on October 16th, the FDA recalled deli products sold at stores including Trader Joe’s and Target.

If the contamination resulted from the company’s failure to comply with state and federal food safety policies, we may be able to prove liability in court and secure compensation for your illness. The sooner you contact our firm, the sooner we can begin building your case.

Schedule your free consultation online or call (888) 204-8440 to speak to one of our lawyers today.