Costco recently issued a romaine lettuce recall after routine testing detected potential contamination, prompting swift action for affected members. This notice aims to protect customers by removing potentially unsafe produce from store shelves and online orders.
Understanding the scope of the recall and the steps you should take if you purchased this product is essential for reducing health risks. The details below explain what happened, which products are involved, and how to respond.
| Recall Identifier | Product Description | Distribution States | Reported Issue | Customer Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-135 | Pre-packaged Romaine Lettuce Hearts (12 oz) | CA, OR, WA, NV, AZ, TX, FL | Possible Escherichia coli O157:H7 contamination | Do not consume; return to store for refund |
| 2024-128 | Organic Romaine Salad Mix (10 oz) | CO, KS, MO, IL, MI, OH | Listeria monocytogenes environmental detection | Discard immediately or contact Costco for refund |
| 2024-099 | Romaine Hearts Bulk Bags (16 oz) | NY, NJ, PA, DE, MD | Salmonella Agona strain suspicion | Return to point of purchase for full refund |
| 2024-071 | Romaine Heart Skewer Kits (8 count) | AZ, NV, CA, HI, UT | Cross-contamination with allergen not declared on label | Check packaging; discard if allergen risk applies |
How Costco Announced The Recall
Costco uses multiple channels to communicate recalls, including in-store signage, email alerts to members, and updates on its website. These efforts ensure that customers who purchased the affected romaine lettuce hear about the risk quickly and can act without delay.
Identifying Affected Products
During a romaine lettuce recall, checking labels and packaging details is critical. Specific product codes, lot numbers, and best-by dates are published to help members distinguish recalled items from safe, in-market produce.
Where To Look For Recall Details
Key identifiers include the product name, weight, UPC barcode, and a recall code printed near the price check section. Members are encouraged to compare these details against official recall lists posted on Costco.com and partner health agency sites.
Food Safety Risks And Symptoms
Consuming contaminated romaine lettuce can lead to serious illness, especially for children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Recognizing early symptoms helps people seek medical care promptly and avoid complications.
Common Indicators Of Foodborne Illness
Signs linked to E. coli, Salmonella, or Listeria include stomach cramps, diarrhea (sometimes bloody), fever, nausea, and vomiting. Symptoms can appear hours to days after ingestion, and medical advice should be sought if they persist or worsen.
Preventing Future Issues With Lettuce Purchases
Staying informed about recalls and practicing careful handling can reduce risk. Simple habits like checking lot codes, storing lettuce at the right temperature, and washing produce help protect your household.
- Check the Costco website or app for the latest recall notices before shopping for lettuce.
- Compare lot numbers and expiration dates on packages against official recall lists.
- Store romaine lettuce in a clean, sealed container in the coldest part of your refrigerator.
- Wash hands and sanitize cutting boards before preparing any leafy greens.
FAQ
Reader questions
Is the recalled romaine lettuce still in Costco stores or online orders?
No, recalled items have been removed from shelves and suspended from online ordering systems. If you find a matching product, do not purchase it and notify a manager immediately.
What should I do if I already prepared and ate the affected romaine lettuce?
Monitor for symptoms of foodborne illness, save any packaging, and contact your healthcare provider if you experience severe or persistent symptoms. You can also return the product to Costco for a refund.
Can I get a refund if I bought the recalled lettuce from Costco.com?
Yes, Costco honors refunds for recalled products. You can return the item to any physical location or follow the instructions in your online account to request a refund for the affected order.
Does this recall affect all types of romaine lettuce sold by Costco?
No, only specific recalled items listed by code and date are affected. Regular romaine hearts and whole heads not included in the recall remain safe to buy and consume when handled properly.