FDA investigates listeria outbreak linked to soft-serve ice cream

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Image: FDA

The federal agency is investigating a listeria outbreak associated to ice cream products that were also distributed in Europe and South America.

Real Kosher Ice Cream of Brooklyn, NY has issued a voluntary recall for all flavors of its Soft Serve On The Go-branded ice cream and sorbet cups over possible listeria contamination.

The recalled products – which do not carry lot numbers and have only been identified through their barcodes – had been distributed across 20 US states and sold in canteens, grocery stores and convenience stores. The ice creams are packaged in an 8oz clear plastic cup with a clear plastic cover, a seal, and a spoon attached to the packaging.

All products produced up to August 4, 2023 are being recalled. These are listed below alongside their UPC numbers:

Illnesses

The recall is the result of an individual becoming ill and reporting to have eaten this product, the FDA stated. Two cases of illness have been reported so far, in the states of Pennsylvania and New York respectively, where both patients required hospitalization. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture had tested samples of product and one sample had returned positive for Listeria monocytogenes.

Real Kosher Ice Cream products are also distributed internationally, including in Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Belgium, and the UK. No overseas cases have been identified and linked with this investigation.

Soft Serve On The Go products are made at Real Kosher’s own production facility, which has ceased operation while the investigation continues. All future Soft Serve on the Go Cups will contain a clearly marked lot number, the company has announced in its recall notice.

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The states where recalled products had been distributed in are colored in blue on the map. Image: FDA

“Our highest priority is the safety and well-being of our customers, which is why we have made the decision to recall all Soft Serve on the Go Cups,” said the company. “Soft Serve on the Go Cups are manufactured at their own dedicated facility. No other products are affected by this recall.

“We apologize for any inconvenience this recall may cause and appreciate your understanding as we work diligently to ensure your safety. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our Soft Serve on the Go team at: 845-668-4346 or info@softserveonthego.com.

“Thank you for your trust in our company. We remain committed to delivering safe and high-quality products to you.”