Listeria Bacteria Detected at Lapperts Ice Cream Plant

Order issued to withdraw and hold product; no illnesses reported

SACRAMENTO – The California Department of Food and Agriculture has issued an order to hold all ice cream products in storage and distribution that were produced by Lapperts Ice Cream at the company’s plant in Richmond. Inspectors have detected Listeria monocytogenes bacteria on equipment used at the facility.

Listeria monocytogenes may cause listeriosis among “at risk” people, including pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and sometimes nausea or diarrhea. If infection spreads to the nervous system, symptoms such as a headache and stiff neck can occur. Infected pregnant women may experience only a mild, flu-like illness; however, infections during pregnancy could lead to more serious problems for the fetus. If a related illness is suspected, consumers are encouraged to consult a physician immediately.

Consumers who have purchased Lapperts Ice Cream should discard it or return it to the store for a refund.  Pint containers are distributed to Whole Foods Stores in Sacramento, San Francisco, Berkeley, Walnut Creek, San Ramon, San Mateo, San Rafael, Redwood City and Palo Alto. Three-gallon tubs are produced for wholesale distribution.

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