Cheese Recall as Dire Salmonella Warning Issued

Schnucks has issued a voluntary cheese spread recall amid concerns of possible salmonella contamination on Saturday.

In a company announcement on its website, Schnucks says the recall involves three cheese spreads: Schnucks Whip Cream Spread, Schnucks Strawberry Spread, and Schnucks Cream Cheese Spread may be contaminated with salmonella.

Consuming food contaminated with salmonella can lead to salmonellosis, one of the most prevalent bacterial foodborne infections. Symptoms typically include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever emerging within six hours to six days following the consumption of the tainted food, according to the U.S. Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).

While the majority of individuals recover from salmonella illness after several days without the need for treatment, those at higher risk of experiencing severe illness include older adults, infants, and individuals with weakened immune systems. If individuals are concerned about potential illness, the FSIS advises them to reach out to their healthcare provider.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), salmonella is one of the most common foodborne illnesses, causing about 1.35 million infections and 26,500 hospitalizations each year in the U.S.. The infection can be extremely serious and is responsible for around 420 deaths each year in the country.

According to the company, the affected products applies to Schnucks Whip Cream Spread and can be identified by the UPC number found under the barcode on the back of the product 4131858005 with the best by date of 8/8/2024; Schnucks Strawberry Spread with the UPC number 4131858007 and a best by date of 9/8/2024; and Schnucks Cream Cheese Spread with the UPC number 4131858023 and a best by date of 10/8/2024.

While it’s unclear if any reports of illness related to the recalled cheese spreads have been made, Schnucks advises consumers to return the affected products to the nearest Schnucks store for a full refund or exchange. In addition, consumers with questions may contact the Schnucks Customer Care team at 314-994-4400 or 1-800-264-4400.

Newsweek has reached out to Schnucks via email for comment.

The cheese spread recall is only the latest of food products to be recalled in connection to illnesses such as salmonella.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already announced more than 25 food-related recalls just last month.

In late April, a salmonella outbreak led Trader Joe’s to recall packets of herbs sold across the country, with one person reportedly hospitalized after an infection.

Following an investigation with the CDC in coordination with the FDA, it found organic basil, sourced from Florida company Infinite Herbs, were linked to a salmonella outbreak.

The affected product has since been taken off the shelves in Trader Joe stores in 29 states.