What Was Recalled?

On July 2, 2025, Kraft Heinz voluntarily recalled approximately 367,981 pounds of Oscar Mayer Turkey Bacon Original because routine sampling detected the possibility of Listeria monocytogenes. The recall covers:

• 36-ounce packages (three 12-oz packs) — UPC 071871548748
• 48-ounce packages (four 12-oz packs) — UPC 071871548793

Look for lot codes RS19, RS40, or RS42 and “Use/Freeze by” dates from July 18 to September 4, 2025. If your product matches any of these identifiers, do not eat it. Toss it or return it for a refund. Source: Good Morning America

Why Listeria Deserves Respect (Not Panic)

Listeria monocytogenes is a hardy bacterium that survives—and even grows—at refrigerator temperatures, which is why deli meats and ready-to-eat proteins are frequent culprits. Each year in the U.S., about 1,600 people become ill and 260 die from listeriosis, according to the CDC. Source: WSAW. While those numbers are small compared to, say, salmonella, the consequences can be severe for:

• Pregnant people and their unborn or newborn babies
• Adults over 65
• Anyone with weakened immune function

Symptoms often begin with fever and muscle aches and can escalate to headache, stiff neck, confusion, or convulsions. Note that signs may appear up to 70 days after exposure, so a long symptom-free stretch doesn’t always mean you’re in the clear.

Holistic Safety Steps

1. Sanitize Your Space

After removing recalled items, wipe shelves and drawers with a solution of one tablespoon bleach per gallon of warm water, then rinse and dry. Yes, natural cleaners smell nicer, but bleach remains the gold-standard for killing Listeria on hard surfaces.

2. Re-Establish Cold Chain Confidence

Use a simple fridge thermometer—place it overnight on the middle shelf. Aim for ≤ 40 °F (4 °C). Freezer should be at 0 °F (-18 °C) or below. Listeria’s growth slows dramatically under 40 °F, yet consumer studies show many home fridges drift as high as 45 °F on warm afternoons.

3. Rotate Mindfully

Adopt the grocery-store motto “First In, First Out.” New deli meats go to the back; older packages move forward. Labeling leftovers with the date takes seconds and prevents mystery meals from lurking long enough for bacterial parties to begin.

4. Support Your Body’s Defenses

Nutrition can’t override pathogens, but a well-nourished immune system handles inadvertent exposures more effectively. Think vibrant produce (vitamin C), plain yogurt or kefir (probiotics), and omega-3-rich walnuts or flaxseed to tamp down chronic inflammation.

A Moment for Mental Wellness

Food recalls can stir anxiety—especially for pregnant readers or anyone living with chronic illness. Please remember:

• Recalls indicate the system worked; contamination was caught before widespread illness.
• Taking practical action (checking, cleaning, discarding) is empowering and grounding.
• Mind-body practices—five-minute breathing exercises, stretching while the bleach solution sits, or a quick gratitude note—help reset nervous-system balance.

If stress feels unmanageable, consider reaching out to a counselor or engaging in a supportive community circle. Physical safety and emotional safety are intertwined.

Healthy Swaps for Your Next Grocery Run

Until new, unaffected batches hit shelves, try rotating in:

• Tempeh bacon—fermented soy brings gut-friendly probiotics.
• Smoked salmon or trout—rich in DHA for brain health (verify the brand’s safety certifications).
• Crisped chickpea “crumbles”—seasoned with smoked paprika to mimic bacon flavor while adding fiber.

These swaps keep breakfast exciting and reduce dependency on ultra-processed meats long-term.

The Bigger Picture

Just seven months ago, federal officials announced updated protocols to curb repeated Listeria outbreaks linked to deli meats. Source: WSAW. Improvements include more frequent plant testing and faster public notifications. While no system is perfect, ongoing refinements underscore a shift toward transparency and consumer protection.

Rachel Bloom