Fresh and Easy supermarkets recently recalled baby spinach products under the “f&e” brand because of possible risks to health. The recall announcement was made August 5.

The recall was made as a precautionary measure from the company, as it was found out in a routine sampling that an entire batch has possibly been contaminated by Listeria monocytogenes. This is because the representative sample tested positive for the bacteria. The affected baby spinach has an enjoy by date of August 1 and is sold under the “f&e” brand. Each pack has a net weight of 5 ounces or 142 grams and has barcode numbers of 20001162.

Listeria monocytogenes is a common bacteria food contaminant. This bacterium can cause fatal infections, especially to children or elderly people, in worst cases. When infected by Listeria monocytogenes, healthy individuals may suffer temporarily from high fever, stiffness, abdominal pain, severed headache, nausea and diarrhea. However, in individuals with weakened immunities, Listeriosis (infection caused by Listeria) can cause death. In pregnant women, Listeriosis can cause miscarriages or stillbirths.

For this recalled spinach, no incidence of food poisoning or other health incidences have been reported. The recalled product was distributed and sold in different Fresh and Easy neighborhood markets in the areas of California, Arizona and Nevada. Consumers who may still have this product are advised to return it to the store and they will be refunded the cost of the baby spinach. They may also call 1-800-648-8622 for their concerns or questions about the recall. The toll-free number is available 24 hours everyday.