Packer recalls stone fruit from Trader Joe's, Costco, others

A Central Valley company has recalled certain lots of peaches, nectarines, plums and pluots sold at Trader Joe's, Costco and other retailers after the stone fruits tested positive for a potentially dangerous food-borne pathogen.

Wawona Packing Co. of Cutler (Tulare County) recalled the fruits packed between June 1 and July 12 because of the possibility they may be contaminated with listeria, an organism that's particularly dangerous to young children and frail and elderly people.

Officials from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said Monday that no illnesses had been linked to the recall. Retailers were asked to remove the products from their shelves on Saturday.

Symptoms of listeria include high fever, severe headaches, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. The disease is also associated with miscarriage among pregnant women.

The pathogen was discovered during internal company testing at the plant. The company said it shut down the affected packing lines and sanitized the facility. Subsequent testing showed no signs of the bacterium.

The recalled products were shipped to various large retailers including Trader Joe's, Sam's Club and Costco. Because Wawona does not know which stores received the fruits, the company issued a nationwide recall.

"By taking the precautionary step of recalling product, we will minimize even the slightest risk to public health, and that is our priority," said Brent Smittcamp, Wawona's president, in a statement.

Consumers with questions may call (888) 232-9912. For more information, including recalled lot numbers and packaging photos, go to www.wawonapacking.com.