Charlotte company recalls pimento spread after tests by NCDA&CS show presence of Listeria monocytogenes

RALEIGH, NC (February 2, 2017)…B&H Foods of Charlotte is voluntarily recalling Ruth’s Original pimento spread distributed at retail supermarkets in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Virginia and Tennessee.

The company launched the recall after a routine sample collected at a retail location by the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes, which may cause life-threatening illness. No illnesses have been reported to date.

“This recall is a direct result of our routine surveillance and testing of ready-to-eat products,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “These products are tested at our Food and Drug Protection Lab for common pathogens such as Listeria, Salmonella and E coli.”

The following products and production codes are included in this recall:
7-ounce Ruth’s Original Pimento Spread, LOT 016, Sell by 4 30 17

Listeria monocytogenes can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy people may suffer short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths in pregnant women.

Consumers who have purchased the above recalled item are urged not eat it and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 800-532-0409 Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.