Wawona Packing Company recalls stone fruit over listeria concerns

Monday, July 21, 2014
Wawona Packing Company recalls stone fruit over listeria concerns
Hundreds of stores around the country are pulling some Valley-grown fruits off their shelves because of listeria concerns.

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Hundreds of stores around the country are pulling some Valley-grown fruits off their shelves after a voluntary recall issued by Wawona Packing Company over listeria concerns.

The company has announced the recalled fruits are certain peaches, nectarines, plums and pluots.

"I usually buy them all the time and it does make me think about buying it if there's something wrong with it," said Esperanza Alfaro.

"I definitely avoid purchasing them if there's a question," said Penelope Johnstone.

The Centers for Disease Control describes listeria as a serious infection which can be deadly. It often impacts pregnant women, newborns, older adults and anyone with weakened immune systems.

A spokesperson for Wawona says the packing facility in Cutler found a positive test result for the disease at the plant and immediately shut down production in that area. "To date there are no illnesses associated with this recall and Wawona Packing is taking it very seriously and they are committed as they always have been to safety," said Amy Philpott.

National stores including Trader Joe's and Sam's Club are affected. Costco has pulled the fruit from more than 450 stores around the country.

Store managers are asking buyers to look for the number CA-6910 on recalled fruit. They are now trying to get a hold of everyone who bought the produce. "We have called anybody who purchased the item and asked them if they had any left to please return it for a full refund. We will be following that up with letters," said Craig Wilson.

Click here for the complete list of recalled fruits.