Trader Joe’s has recalled several types of fruit produced by the Wawona Packing Company. Wawona recently found traces of Listeria in its production equipment and has asked several stores to remove their products from the shelves.

The recall applies to “certain lots of whole peaches (white and yellow), nectarines (white and yellow), plums and pluots packed between June 1, 2014 through July 12, 2014,” according to a recall bulletin from the Food and Drug Administration.

The FDA said that each fruit should have a sticker that shows the brand name. Any fruit with stickers that read “Sweet2Eat” should not be sold or consumed.

Listeria can cause serious illness and even death in young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems.

In 2011 a Listeria outbreak caused over 100 people to become ill and caused the deaths of 30. The outbreak spread to 28 states and was traced back to contaminated cantaloupes.

Fruit recall causes chaos for Costco, Trader Joe’s, Wal-Mart, Kroger – Washington Times: http://t.co/Qmg5LznRis pic.twitter.com/eVMlPFmCuO

— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) July 23, 2014

So far there have been no reports of Listeria or any other illness related to the fruit, but the company wanted to make sure nobody became ill and decided to recall the products.

“We are aware of no illnesses related to the consumption of these products” company President Brent Smittcamp said in a news release.

“By taking the precautionary step of recalling product, we will minimize even the slightest risk to public health, and that is our priority.”

Spread the word: Fruit recall affects Costco, Trader Joe's, Walmart http://t.co/arZ5WijBLM pic.twitter.com/98rYxUrvqH

— FOX 12 Oregon KPTV (@fox12oregon) July 22, 2014

Other stores including Wal-Mart and Kroger have also been affected by the recall.

The FDA and Wawona say that anyone who has purchased these fruits should throw them away immediately.

The FDA also suggests contacting the Wawona company if you are concerned about the recall.

“Consumers with questions may contact Wawona Packing at 1-888-232-9912, M-F, 8am-5pm ET, or visit www.wawonapacking.com,” they said.

How do you think stores and food companies can prevent listeria contaminations and future recalls?

Image via Wikimedia Commons