A nationwide recall of multiple varieties of lunch meat has been issued after authorities discovered significant labeling and contamination concerns. The United States Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) announced that several types of bologna produced by Gaiser’s European Style Provisions Inc. were pulled from shelves because they contained undeclared meat or poultry source materials. This poses particular risks for individuals with allergies, sensitivities, or religious dietary restrictions, as the actual contents may not match the product labels.

In a separate and much larger recall, BrucePac, an Oklahoma-based manufacturer, has recalled nearly 10 million pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products over possible listeria contamination. The products, produced between June 19 and October 8, 2024, include pre-cooked chicken, beef, turkey, and pork items distributed to grocery stores, restaurants, and institutions nationwide. This recall is classified as “Class I” or “High Risk” by the USDA, although no illnesses have been reported so far.

The affected BrucePac products span a wide range of brands and meal types, including pre-made salads, burritos, frozen chicken meals, and deli meat-based dishes. Brands impacted include Fresh Express, Rao’s, Boston Market, Atkins, Dole, Trader Joe’s, Kroger, Home Chef, and many others, with items sold at major retailers such as Aldi, Amazon Fresh, Giant Eagle, H-E-B, Meijer, and Walmart. Consumers are urged to check establishment numbers “51205” or “P-51205” under the USDA mark of inspection to identify recalled products.

Health officials warn that listeria can cause serious illness, especially in pregnant individuals, seniors, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms may include fever, headache, stiff neck, confusion, and gastrointestinal distress. The FSIS recommends that anyone who purchased the recalled products should dispose of them immediately and contact a healthcare provider if they experience symptoms after consumption.