By
The Associated Press
WENATCHEE, Wash. - Fresh Products Northwest is recalling its "Crunch Pak" Fresh Sliced Apple packages in 17 states because of possible bacterial contamination.
Recent samples show some packages may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, the company said on Saturday.
The organism can cause serious or fatal infections in children, and the sick and elderly. It also can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women. Others may get fevers, headaches, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea.
The problem was discovered during routine analysis, and no illnesses have been reported, Fresh Products said.
The product was distributed to wholesalers and retailers in Arizona, California, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Utah, Washington and Wisconsin.
All "Crunch Pak" varieties are included in the recall. Recalled products will have a "best if used by" date of March 21 through April 11 printed on the bag or carton label, the company said.
The company said it is working with the Food and Drug Administration.
Fresh Products Northwest is a joint venture of the Medford, Ore.-based Naumes Inc. and Dovex Fruit Co. of Wenatchee.
