# Cantaloupe Sold in Michigan Recalled Due to Listeria Concerns ## Recalled Cantaloupe Sold at Several Michigan Retailers ### Consumers Urged to Discard or Return Cantaloupe Consumers in Michigan are being urged to discard or return cantaloupe purchased from several retailers due to potential health risks. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) issued a recall for cantaloupe sold at Walmart, Kroger, and Meijer stores in the state. The recall was initiated after samples of the cantaloupe tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria that can cause serious illness. Symptoms of Listeria infection include fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, Listeria infection can lead to hospitalization or even death. The recalled cantaloupe was sold in various sizes and packaging, including: - Whole cantaloupes - Cut cantaloupe - Cantaloupe chunks - Cantaloupe cups Consumers who have purchased cantaloupe from any of the affected retailers are advised to discard the product immediately. Do not consume the cantaloupe, even if it appears to be fresh and healthy. Customers who have purchased the recalled cantaloupe can return it to the store for a full refund. They can also contact the retailer's customer service department for more information. The MDARD is working with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate the source of the contamination. The agency is also urging consumers to practice safe food handling practices to reduce the risk of Listeria infection. Here are some tips for safe food handling: - Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food. - Clean and sanitize all surfaces that come into contact with food. - Store food at proper temperatures. - Cook food to the proper internal temperature. - Avoid cross-contamination of food. Consumers with questions about the recall can contact the MDARD at (517) 284-5600. Source: https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/news-releases/2023/september/mdard-warns-consumers-of-listeria-monocytogenes-in-cantaloupe
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