Henry’s Farm Inc. recalls soybean sprouts due to possible health risk

Henry’s Farm Inc. of Woodford, Va. is recalling all packages of soybean sprouts because they may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections to individuals with weakened immune systems. 

Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

The following products are being recalled by the firm:

1.    1-lb bags of soybean sprouts in clear plastic bags labeled “Natto Soybean Sprouts” “Keep Refrigerated” with a UPC Code of 1303020000 produced on or after March 1, 2016.

2.  10-lb bags of soybean sprouts in black plastic bags labeled “Soy Bean Sprouts”  “Keep Refrigerated” produced on or after March 1, 2016.

These items were distributed to retail stores in Virginia and Maryland.

The contamination was discovered through surveillance and monitoring coordinated by the Virginia Rapid Response Team (RRT), Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) Food Safety Program and subsequent analysis by the Virginia Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services (DCLS) that revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in the products.

No illness has been reported to date.

People who purchased soybean sprouts distributed by Henry’s Farm should return the product to the place of sale for a full refund.

Consumers with questions may contact the company directly at 301.802.2996 or the VDACS Food Safety Program, at 804.786.3520.