California officials found Listeria monocytogenes in a package of enoki mushrooms from Korea, prompting a recall by Rainfield Marketing Group Inc. of Vernon, CA. 

The company shipped the mushrooms to distributors or wholesalers who distributed the product to retailers nationwide, according to a recall notice from the firm that was posted by the Food and Drug Administration.

The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing by California Department of Public Health revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in a 150-gram package of the mushrooms.

The distribution of the product has been suspended, according to the Rainfield recall notice.

All cases of the 150-gram packages of the company’s enoki mushrooms from Korea are subject to the recall. The plastic packages do not have any best-by or use-by dates. The company did not report what brand the mushrooms are packaged under.

To determine whether they have the recalled mushrooms in their homes, consumers should look for the following labeling on the clear and orange packages: “Enoki Mushroom” in English and labeled “Product of Korea” along with “Must be cooked enough for a minimum of 3-10 minutes at 70°C, DO NOT ConSUME RAW.” On the back left of packaging, there is UPC code 085412004020 and below Distributed by Rainfield Marketing Group, on the right a list of Nutrition Facts.

Rainfield reports no illnesses have been confirmed in relation to the recalled mushrooms.

Consumers who have purchased 150-gram packages of the implicated mushrooms are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 323-825-2825.

about Listeria infections
Food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes may not look or smell spoiled but can still cause serious and sometimes life-threatening infections. Anyone who has eaten any recalled mushrooms and developed symptoms of Listeria infection should seek medical treatment and tell their doctors about the possible Listeria exposure.

Also, anyone who has eaten any of the recalled mushrooms should monitor themselves for symptoms during the coming weeks because it can take up to 70 days after exposure to Listeria for symptoms of listeriosis to develop.

Symptoms of Listeria infection can include vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headache, and neck stiffness. Specific laboratory tests are required to diagnose Listeria infections, which can mimic other illnesses.

Pregnant women, the elderly, young children, and people such as cancer patients who have weakened immune systems are particularly at risk of serious illnesses, life-threatening infections, and other complications. Although infected pregnant women may experience only mild, flu-like symptoms, their infections can lead to premature delivery, infection of the newborn, or even stillbirth.