More Listeria Recalls: First Blue Bell, Now Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams


In the wake of the Blue Bell listeria recalls, one more company has found the listeria bacterium within the contents of its scrumptious creamy goodness. Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams has become the latest company to issue recalls due to listeria.

According to CNN, the Nebraska Department of Agriculture tested a random sample of the products, which was found to contain listeria. An investigation by the Food and Drug Administration is under way, says Jeff Ventura, FDA spokesman.

“At this time, the FDA does not believe that the finding of listeria in one sample of Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams is related to the outbreak and recall associated with Blue Bell Ice Cream. We are continuing to investigate both situations and will provide updated information to consumers as we learn more.”

In an attempt to circumvent further listeria related illnesses, Jeni’s has chosen to issue more recalls than is typical for this type of situation. Owner Jeni Britton Bauer not only placed recalls on all ice cream treats and sorbets, but also closed every shop until the investigation is complete and the products are proven to be listeria free.

“A randomly selected pint of ours tested positive for the presence of Listeria monocytogenes. Out of an abundance of caution, we made the swift decision to cease all ice-cream production and sales until we can get to the very root of the problem.”

Based in Ohio, Jeni’s has stores in Chicago, Charleston, Los Angeles, Nashville, Cleveland, and Atlanta. The company is also found in grocery stores around the country. The contaminated sample was found in Lincoln, Nebraska, at a Whole Foods store, says Fox News.

Jeni’s CEO, John Lowe, confirmed the company’s resolve to cease production until the source of listeria has been located and removed.

“We will be working with our suppliers to determine if the bacteria was introduced by one of the ingredients we use. We will not reopen the kitchen until we can ensure the safety of our customers.”

While it is unusual to find listeria in ice cream because listeria cannot grow in frozen temperatures, it seems even more remote that it should be found in a company that uses more healthy ingredients. Jeni’s uses milk from grass fed cows, certified fair trade ingredients, and locally grown produce.

Even still, the fact that more listeria recalls have been issued from two separate companies likely means the listeria is being introduced into the frozen treats from one of the additives, such as nuts or candy.

As summer approaches and ice cream sales rise, hopefully more companies will respond to the listeria recalls with increased sampling to protect the public from listeria related illness.

How do you feel about the listeria recalls? Will you delete ice cream from your diet altogether?

[Image via Trip Advisor]

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