The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a serious listeria risk warning regarding a recall of Dolcezza ice cream products due to potential contamination. This recall, which affects 13 specific Dolcezza items, was prompted by tests conducted by the FDA that detected Listeria monocytogenes, a dangerous bacteria that can cause severe health issues.
Details of the Recall
The recall involves 13 Dolcezza ice cream products, each sold in 16 fl oz pints. The affected flavors are:
- Mascarpone & Berries
- Roasted Strawberry
- Vanilla Bean
- Peanut Butter Mash
- Peanut Butter Cup
- Dulce de Leche & Cookies
- Stracciatella
- Peanut Stracciatella
- Swiss Chocolate
- Coffee & Cookies
- Hot Cocoa
- Sugar Cookie Dough
- Dark Chocolate
- Dark Chocolate Fudge
These products were distributed across the United States and were available in retail stores and online. Consumers who have purchased these ice creams are advised to check their products and return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Health Risks and Recall Background
Listeria monocytogenes is a type of bacteria that can lead to serious and sometimes fatal infections, especially in young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.
The FDA’s recall notice highlights the risk of infection associated with these products and emphasizes the importance of taking immediate action to avoid potential health issues.
The listeria risk contamination issue was discovered following routine FDA tests, leading Totally Cool, Inc., the Maryland-based company responsible for these products, to issue the recall.
Despite the gravity of the situation, the FDA has reported that no illnesses have been linked to this specific recall so far.
Impact on Other Brands and Products
The recall is part of a larger issue affecting over 60 ice cream products produced by Totally Cool, Inc. This broader recall includes several well-known brands, such as Hershey’s, Friendly’s, and Chipwich, which were also found to be at high listeria risk contamination.
The company has ceased the production and distribution of these affected products and is cooperating fully with the FDA’s investigation.
The affected brands include:
- Friendly’s
- Abilyn’s Frozen Bakery
- Hershey’s Ice Cream
- Yelloh!
- Jeni’s (ice cream sandwiches)
- Cumberland Farms
- The Frozen Farmer
- Marco
- ChipWich
- AMAFruits
- Taharka
- Dolcezza Gelato
- LaSalle
Consumers are advised to consult the full list of recalled products provided by the FDA to determine if they are in possession of any affected items. The FDA’s website offers a detailed PDF with all relevant product information.
Company’s Response and Next Steps
Totally Cool, Inc. has responded to the situation by halting the production and distribution of the affected products. The company is actively investigating the source of the contamination and taking preventive measures to ensure such issues do not recur in the future.
The FDA has emphasized that no other products from Totally Cool, Inc. are currently affected by this recall.
For any questions or concerns related to the recall, consumers can contact Totally Cool, Inc. at 410-363-7801 or via email at regulatory@totallycoolicecream.com. The company’s customer service team is available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday.
Consumer Safety Measures
Consumers who have purchased the affected Dolcezza ice cream products are encouraged to return them to their place of purchase for a full refund. It is crucial to act promptly to avoid any potential health hazard associated with listeria risk contamination.
For those who need more information or assistance, the FDA’s website provides resources and updates on the recall.
In summary, this recall serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety and the need for vigilance when it comes to product recalls. By staying informed and following the recommended steps, consumers can help protect themselves and their families from potential health hazards.
