Peaches sold nationwide recalled over listeria concerns

Moonlight Companies has voluntarily recalled thousands of pounds of fresh peaches sold nationwide after listeria was found in the packing facility, the company announced. 

The recall affects both yellow and white peaches grown in California and sold under the Moonlight and Kroger brand names at retail stores across the country between Sept. 16 and Oct. 29. The peaches were sold both individually with PLU stickers and in multi-packs. The multi-packs came in various sizes and packaging, including cardboard crates, plastic bags and plastic clamshells. 

Consumers should check their refrigerators for the affected fruit and discard it immediately or return it to the store for a refund.

The recall does not include peaches labeled as organic or grown in Washington state.

You can view the full list of UPC numbers and lot codes affected here.

Listeria monocytogenes can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in young children, elderly people, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems, according to the Food and Drug Administration.

Healthy individuals may experience short-term symptoms including high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Pregnant women face additional risks: listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths.

No illnesses have been reported in connection with the recalled peaches as of Wednesday, when the FDA published the recall notice.

Anyone who purchased the recalled peaches should not eat them. The fruit should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase for a full refund.