The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is collaborating with public health officials … to investigate an outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections (listeriosis) linked to commercially produced, prepackaged caramel apples. As of January 10, 2015, a total of 32 people infected with the outbreak strains of Listeria monocytogenes had been reported from 11 states. Thirty-one ill people have been hospitalized, and seven deaths have been reported. Listeriosis contributed to at least three of these deaths. To date, 25 (89%) of the 28 ill people interviewed reported eating commercially produced, prepackaged caramel apples before becoming ill.

Today, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the results of findings from additional tests performed on samples collected from Bidart Bros. apple processing plant. Test results confirm two strains of Listeria monocytogenes were found at the apple processing facility and are believed to be the same strains associated with the [caramel apples] outbreak. Those same strains were also found in Bidart Bros. apples collected from a retailer by the FDA. Bidart Bros. has instituted a voluntary recall of all Granny Smith and Gala apples still available in the marketplace.

Click here to read the US FDA media release and here for the latest CDC update.