Yushang Products
Yushang brand products have been recalled due to suspected Listeria contamination, and all products have been removed from major Asian supermarkets.
The CDC's announcement has drawn significant media attention, with many outlets spreading misinformation.
On November 20, a meeting was held between the CDC, USDA FSIS, and Yushang Foods, where it was noted that the investigation covers cases from 2021 to 2024 involving a total of 11 Chinese individuals with an average age of 69. Among them, 9 were hospitalized and tested positive for Listeria infection. The report indicates that these 9 patients had visited Asian supermarkets or shopped online but did not specify that they purchased or consumed Yushang products. The report also mentions the death of one infant in 2021, with Listeria detected in the infant's stool, but no evidence links the case to Yushang products.
Yushang Foods is a USDA-regulated meat processing company with 15 years of operation. USDA conducts monthly sampling inspections, and no positive Listeria contamination was ever detected in Yushang products until a specific batch tested positive on October 21, 2024. Following protocol, Yushang immediately halted production, cooperated with the USDA to recall the product, conducted sanitation investigations, and performed deep cleaning. Yushang has also worked with third-party food safety and HACCP experts to revise procedures and enhance hygiene processes. The facility underwent comprehensive foam disinfection. Yushang is now evaluating its processing methods, transitioning from open to closed processing systems, similar to pasteurization, to eliminate the risk of Listeria contamination.
While Yushang Foods actively works to improve and rectify the situation, it has faced false information from news outlets and online media, causing damage to the brand. Additionally, Yushang has received various discriminatory and abusive emails recently. If Yushang products have caused any health issues, the company sincerely apologizes. For any inquiries, please email: [email protected].
Listeria is not a virus but a common bacterium found in raw meat and soil. It can be killed at temperatures as high as 165°F (73.89°C). It is recommended that individuals with weak immune systems, pregnant women, and the elderly heat or microwave meat products before consumption to minimize the risk of Listeria. Generally, healthy individuals with normal immune systems are less likely to be affected by Listeria.