Aldi Pizza Salmonella Alert: Check Full List of Items in Warning Circular
At least 34 people across 13 states have been sickened with salmonella poisoning. Health officials have traced the outbreak to contact with backyard poultry. Backyard poultry includes birds like chickens, ducks, geese, guinea fowl and turkeys. The warning comes as Aldi recalls certain pizza products linked to the contamination.
Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause serious illness. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps. Most people recover without treatment. But young children, older adults and people with weak immune systems can become very sick. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating the outbreak.
What Is the Aldi Pizza Salmonella Alert?
Aldi issued a warning circular for specific pizza items. The company says these products may be contaminated with salmonella. The affected pizzas were sold in multiple states. Customers should check their freezers for the recalled items. If you have any, do not eat them. Return them to the store for a full refund.
The recall includes frozen pizzas with certain production codes. Aldi has posted a full list of affected items on its website. The list includes brand names, sizes and best-by dates. Consumers should compare their products carefully. The warning circular is available at Aldi stores and online.
Why Is Backyard Poultry Linked to This Outbreak?
Health officials say the salmonella outbreak is connected to backyard poultry. Many people keep chickens, ducks or other birds at home. These birds can carry salmonella even if they look healthy. People can get sick by touching the birds or their environment. This includes coops, feed and water containers.
The CDC advises washing hands thoroughly after handling poultry. Do not let birds inside the house. Keep them away from areas where food is prepared. Children under five years old should not touch backyard poultry. They are more likely to get severe infections.
How Many People Are Sick?
At least 34 people in 13 states have reported salmonella infections. The CDC says the true number may be higher. Many people recover without seeing a doctor. States with confirmed cases include California, Texas, New York and Ohio. No deaths have been reported so far. But several people have been hospitalized.
The outbreak started in early spring. Cases continue to be reported. Health officials are working to identify the exact source. They are interviewing sick people to find common exposures. The investigation is ongoing.
What Should Consumers Do?
If you bought a recalled Aldi pizza, check the package details. Look for the product name, size and best-by date. Compare them to the list in the warning circular. If your pizza matches, do not eat it. Return it to Aldi for a refund. You can also throw it away in a sealed bag.
For backyard poultry owners, follow safety steps. Wash hands with soap and water after touching birds. Do not kiss or snuggle the birds. Keep them outside the home. Clean coops and equipment regularly. If you feel sick, contact your doctor. Tell them about your contact with poultry.
Examples of Recalled Products
The recall covers several Aldi pizza brands. One example is the Mama Cozzi’s Take & Bake pizza. Another is the Specially Selected pizza. The full list includes thin crust and rising crust varieties. Each product has a specific UPC code and best-by date. Aldi has removed these items from store shelves.
Consumers can find the complete list on the FDA recall website. The list is also posted at Aldi customer service desks. If you have questions, call Aldi’s toll-free number. The company is cooperating with health officials.
Background on Salmonella Outbreaks
Salmonella outbreaks are common in the United States. The CDC estimates 1.35 million infections each year. Many are linked to food or animal contact. Backyard poultry outbreaks have increased in recent years. More people are raising chickens and ducks at home. This raises the risk of salmonella spread.
Health officials urge everyone to stay informed. Check recall alerts regularly. Follow safe food handling practices. Cook poultry and eggs to the right temperature. Keep raw meat separate from other foods. These steps can prevent illness.
Stay safe and check your freezer today. The Aldi pizza salmonella alert is a serious warning. Take action to protect your family.
