Summer is the perfect time to indulge in frozen treats, but be careful of what you’re consuming. The Centers for Disease Control has issued a food safety alert regarding an outbreak of Listeria infections linked to “Soft Serve On The Go” ice cream cups. Two people in New York and Pennsylvania have been infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria, and were hospitalized. However, the true number of sick people in this outbreak is likely higher than the number reported, and the outbreak may not be limited to the states with known illnesses.
Listeria is a type of bacteria that can cause serious illnesses in people who consume contaminated foods. Symptoms can include fever and muscle aches, and in some cases, nausea and diarrhea. It’s a particularly dangerous bacterium for pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems, as it can lead to meningitis or blood poisoning. This is why the outbreak of Listeria infections linked to “Soft Serve On The Go” ice cream cups is a serious concern.
According to the CDC, Listeria was found in a “Soft Serve On The Go” ice cream cup collected from a sick person’s freezer, and laboratory scientists are working to determine if it is the outbreak strain of Listeria. Real Kosher Ice Cream has recalled all flavors of “Soft Serve On The Go” ice cream cups that were distributed to retailers between June 17 and August 7, 2023. If you have these ice cream cups in your house, dispose of them immediately and do not consume them.
The CDC is particularly concerned because the recalled ice cream was served in at least one long-term care facility. Many residents in these facilities are over 65 years old or may have weakened immune systems, making them more likely to get sick from Listeria. It’s crucial that those who work in these facilities and are responsible for food preparation are aware of this recall and take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of the residents.
It’s also important to note that the true number of Listeria infections may be much higher than the number reported. This is because not everyone who is infected with Listeria will display symptoms, and some may recover without medical care. The incubation period for Listeria is anywhere between three to four weeks, so it may take some time for recent illnesses to be reported as part of this outbreak.
Health officials are urging everyone to avoid eating “Soft Serve On The Go” ice cream cups. If you happen to have these cups in your freezer, it’s important to throw them away or return them to the store for a refund. And if you’ve already consumed the ice cream, be sure to watch out for symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, tiredness, confusion, and seizures. Pregnant women, in particular, should be extra cautious and seek medical attention right away if any of these signs appear.
If you have any questions, contact the company at 845-668-4346 or info@softserveonthego.com (Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm EST).
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