2025 Week 6 Recall Reasons

Last Week’s Recalls: A Bacterial Pattern Emerges

All Class 1 food recalls had one thing in common—bacterial contamination.

– 2/8/25 – Alfalfa Sprouts – Listeria monocytogenes

Routine testing in Minnesota found Listeria in expired 5oz alfalfa sprouts, despite independent lab results showing negative for the pathogen before release.

– 2/6/25 – Tahini Sesame Paste – Salmonella

Ohio Department of Agriculture testing detected Salmonella in sesame paste, prompting an immediate recall and production halt as investigations continue.

Both cases underscore the critical role of routine testing and monitoring in identifying contamination before widespread illness occurs.

However, these recalls also highlight the challenges of pathogen control in high-risk products like sprouts and tahini.

Key Takeaway: Manufacturers must go beyond standard testing, stronger preventive controls, supplier verification, and environmental monitoring are essential to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination.