Recall of caramel apples expands; CDC issues warning

Another voluntary recall of caramel apple products has been announced due to an outbreak of listeria. The Centers for Disease Control estimates that, as of Dec. 31, 2014, the outbreak is responsible for 32 cases in 11 states resulting in six deaths and 31 hospitalizations.

Happy Apples has expanded its voluntary recall of caramel apples to include Kroger Brand apples it produces. The recalled product has a best use by date between Sept. 15 and Nov. 18, 2014. Kroger brand caramel apples produced by Happy Apple Company are sold in single packs and three packs and each package will have a best use by date on the front of the label. They were distributed to the following states: Arizona, Alaska, Kansas, Idaho, Louisiana, Montana, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.

This is the second recall issued by Happy Apples. Other companies issuing recalls include California Snack Foods and Merb’s Candies. According to CDC, the firms issued the recalls after receiving notice from Bidart Brothers, a Bakersfield, California apple supplier, that there may be a connection between its apples and the outbreak.

CDC is recommending that U.S. consumers do not eat any commercially produced, prepackaged caramel apples, including plain caramel apples as well as those containing nuts, sprinkles, chocolate or other toppings, until more specific guidance is provided.

CDC added that at this time, no illnesses related to this outbreak have been linked to apples that were not caramel-coated and not pre-packaged or to caramel candy.