Suhki’s Gourmet Indian Foods of California is recalling about 264 pounds of chicken tikka masala products because they may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes bacteria. No illnesses have been reported so far in connection with this problem.
This product was produced on November 7, 2017. It is 11 ounce frozen microwaveable sealed containers of “Sukhi’s Chicken Tikka Masala with Naan Bread and Basmati Rice.” The product has a use by date of 11/07/2018 and the lot number 83790. The product has the establishment number “P-44187” on the side of the cartons. They were shipped to a distributor in California.
Officials discovered this problem on November 13, 2017 when the USDA’s Alameda district office received notification that the firm had shipped adulterated product into commerce and the Listeria recall was issued. A sample of the product collected by FSIS personnel was collected on November 7, 2017, and was confirmed positive for Listeria monocytogenes on November 13, 2017.
Officials are concerned that this product may be frozen and in consumers’ freezers. Freezing does not kill this bacteria. If you purchased this product, do not eat it, even if you are thoroughly reheating it because cross-contamination can occur. Throw it away in a sealed or double bagged package, put into a secure garbage can, or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Then clean out your refrigerator and/or freezer with a mild bleach solution. Listeria bacteria can be difficult to eradicate once it has been introduced into an environment. Wash your hands well with soap and water after handling this package.
If you ate this product, watch yourself for the symptoms of listeriosis for the next 70 days. Symptoms can be as mild as the flu, or they can include severe headache, stiff neck, muscle aches, a high fever, and diarrhea. If you do get sick, especially if you are pregnant, elderly, or have a chronic illness, see your doctor.