Empire Fruit Inc. of Othello, WA, is recalling “SCORE Montmorency Tart Cherry Juice” because of a potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination.

The recalled product was distributed to customers in Auburn and Basin City, WA.

The recall was initiated after a routine inspection conducted by the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) revealed that two batches of SCORE Montmorency Tart Cherry Juice were not adequately pasteurized.

There is concern that consumers may have the juice in their homes because of its long shelf life. The recalled product was sold in 16-ounce plastic bottles with the best-by dates of 2/15/2022 and 2/16/2022.

As of the posting of this recall, there are no known illnesses associated with the recalled product. 

Consumers who have purchased the recalled SCORE Montmorency Tart Cherry Juice are urged not to drink the product and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.

about Listeria infections
Food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes may not look or smell spoiled but can still cause serious and sometimes life-threatening infections. Anyone who has consumed any recalled product and developed symptoms of Listeria infection should seek medical treatment and tell their doctors about the possible Listeria exposure.

Also, anyone who has eaten any of the recalled product should monitor themselves for symptoms during the coming weeks because it can take up to 70 days after exposure to Listeria for symptoms of listeriosis to develop.

Symptoms of Listeria infection can include vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headache, and neck stiffness. Specific laboratory tests are required to diagnose Listeria infections, which can mimic other illnesses.

Pregnant women, the elderly, young children, and people such as cancer patients who have weakened immune systems are particularly at risk of serious illnesses, life-threatening infections, and other complications. Although infected pregnant women may experience only mild, flu-like symptoms, their infections can lead to premature delivery, infection of the newborn, or even stillbirth.