Popular Spinach Brand Recalls Packages in 7 States Due to Listeria Concerns

Spinach is rich in vitamins and nutrients we need, making it a popular choice among people looking to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Though packaged store-bought spinach is usually people's go-to way of getting the vegetable, it can occasionally be subject to recalls due to dangerous bacteria. 

Fresh Express is getting ahead of any potential health issues by recalling its packaged spinach just in time for the holidays. The company has issued a voluntary recall of 8 oz. packages of Fresh Express Spinach with a use-by date of Dec. 15, as well as 9-oz. packages of Publix Spinach with a use-by date of Dec. 14. According to the FDA, the recall is being done due to the risk of listeria.

The potentially dangerous spinach was sold in seven states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The recall started after routine testing by the Florida Department of Agriculture found listeria in a package of spinach. Fresh Express sprang into action and told retailers to remove the recalled items from shelves. It was done largely out of an abundance of caution, as no illnesses connected to the spinach have been reported to date.

"Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women," the FDA warned in its advisory. 

Leafy greens like spinach and lettuce are often susceptible to outbreaks of listeria and other diseases like E. coli and salmonella. When recalls like this happen, it's best to stay away and ensure you wash and thoroughly cook your veggies.