Frozen waffle recall, listeria concerns in Canada and US

A US-based food manufacturer that supplies frozen waffles to major grocery chains across North America has initiated a voluntary recall over concerns that its products may be pathogenic.

TreeHouse Foods, headquartered in Illinois, announced a large-scale recall of its waffles on October 18, citing possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The problem was discovered during routine testing at the production facility.

The waffles are delivered to stores across Canada and the United States under various brand names, including Great Value, No Name, Western Family and Compliments, with each store having unique packaging.

The company says the bacteria could cause serious, potentially fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems. The infection can also lead to miscarriages and stillbirths.

Infected people in good health may experience less serious, short-term symptoms, including high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea.

According to TreeHouse Foods, as of October 18, there have been no reports of illnesses associated with the recalled frozen waffles.

A complete list of recalled products, including lot codes, UPC and best before dates, is available from TreeHouse Foods.

The recalled products should be discarded or returned to the point of purchase for a refund. If you have any questions about the recall, please contact TreeHouse Foods at 1-800-596-2903 (Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. CST).