In a significant public health alert, millions of pounds of ready-to-eat chicken and turkey products have been recalled due to potential listeria contamination. The affected items, produced by pre-cooked meat supplier Bruce Pac, include nearly 10,000 pounds of pre-cooked meats that were distributed to major retailers across the nation.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service, the recall affects products manufactured between June 19 and October 8. Consumers may have purchased these potentially contaminated items from well-known supermarkets and grocery chains, including Aldi, Kroger, Trader Joe’s, Target, Giant Eagle, and HEB. The recalled products bear the establishment numbers “51205 or P-51205” on the USDA mark of inspection and were sold under various brand names, including Amazon Fresh, Atkins, Boston Market, Dole, Jenny Craig, Michelina’s, Rao’s, and Signature Select.

Listeria monocytogenes is a harmful bacterium that can cause serious infections, particularly in pregnant women, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can range from fever and muscle aches to more severe complications.

Consumers who have purchased these products are advised to check their refrigerators and freezers and discard any items that fall under the recall. Those with concerns or questions can contact the retailers where the products were purchased for further guidance.

As health officials continue to monitor the situation, they urge the public to stay informed about food safety and recalls. For more information about the specific products affected by this recall, please refer to the USDA website