Urgent Health Alert: FSIS Warns About Potential Risks in Ready-to-Eat Ham Salad – What You Need to Know!

On July 27, 2025, the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) in the U.S. issued a public health alert about certain ham salad products. These items contain FDA-regulated breadcrumbs that have been recalled due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes (Lm). Listeria can lead to serious health issues, especially for vulnerable groups like the elderly, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.

The affected products include:

• 12-ounce tubs of “RESER’S FINE FOODS Ham Salad” with sell-by dates of September 1, 2025.
• 5-pound tubs of “Molly’s Kitchen Ham Salad” with sell-by dates of August 31, 2025.

This concern arose when Reser’s Fine Foods identified that their breadcrumbs had been recalled due to possible contamination. Thankfully, there have been no reported illnesses connected to these products, but the FSIS advises anyone worried about potential symptoms to contact a healthcare provider.

Symptoms of listeriosis can mimic flu-like reactions, including fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal issues. If left untreated, it can become serious, particularly for high-risk individuals. Antibiotics can help manage the infection, so seeking medical advice is crucial if symptoms appear after consuming these products.

For those who may have purchased these ham salads, it’s important not to eat them. Dispose of the products or return them to the store. The FSIS emphasizes that consumers should check their refrigerators and freezers for these items.

To stay informed on food safety topics like this, you can visit the USDA’s resources. They provide valuable information and support for anyone with food-related queries.

This alert comes amid ongoing concerns about food safety in the U.S. According to the CDC, listeriosis leads to about 1,600 illnesses and 260 deaths annually, emphasizing the importance of vigilance concerning food contamination. Public awareness is key to preventing outbreaks, and keeping an eye on recalls can help protect your health.

For more detailed guidance on food safety or to report any issues, you can call the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-MPHotline or email them at MPHotline@usda.gov.

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