The recall of Costco’s Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon has been upgraded to the highest risk level by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). This recall, initially issued in October, is now classified as Class I, indicating a high likelihood of serious adverse health consequences or even death from exposure to the product.
Brooklyn-based Acme Smoked Fish Corporation, the manufacturer of the smoked salmon for Costco, initially recalled 111 cases of the product after laboratory testing confirmed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes, a harmful bacteria. The affected product was sold in twin 12-ounce packages with the UPC number 0 96619 25697 6, lot number 8512801270, and a best-by-date of 11/13/2024. While the best-by-date has passed and the product is no longer available in stores, consumers may still have the recalled salmon in their freezers.
The smoked salmon was distributed between October 9, 2024, and October 13, 2024, to the Southeast Costco Distribution Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, and Costco Warehouse stores in Florida. It was sold at select Costco locations in the southeastern United States.
Consumers who have purchased the recalled product are advised to return it to Costco for a full refund. Listeria monocytogenes is a serious concern as it can cause a potentially deadly infection called listeriosis. Last year, the bacteria led to multiple food recalls, including millions of pounds of deli meats and meat products.
Listeria monocytogenes is a form of listeria that can infect about 1,600 people annually, leading to 260 deaths from listeriosis. Symptoms of listeriosis can range from intestinal illness with diarrhea and vomiting to more severe invasive illness with symptoms like fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, and even neurological issues. Pregnant individuals are at a higher risk, as the infection can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or serious infections in newborns.
Foods most likely to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes include raw or unpasteurized dairy products, ice cream, raw or processed fruits and vegetables, poultry, sausages, hot dogs, deli meats, and raw or smoked fish and seafood. While no illnesses have been reported in connection with the Costco smoked salmon recall, consumers are urged to take precautions and return any recalled products for a refund to avoid potential health risks.
