Fresh Express has issued a nationwide recall for select salad mixes due to potential contamination with Cyclospora. This voluntary recall affects multiple SKUs distributed through grocery chains and online retailers.
Consumers are advised to stop use, check lot codes, and return or discard affected products to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. The following sections detail the recall scope, response steps, and what to do if you have purchased these items.
| Recall Number | Product Name | UPC / SKU | Affected Lot Codes | Best If Used By |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FX-2024-07A | Fresh Express Marketside Garden Spinach | 0 21142 00176 8 | 23289A, 23301B | 2024-07-24 |
| FX-2024-07B | Fresh Express Power Greens | 0 21142 00177 5 | 23302C, 23310D | 2024-07-25 |
| FX-2024-07C | Fresh Express Crisp Garden Mix | 0 21142 00175 1 | 23290E, 23303F | 2024-07-26 |
| FX-2024-07D | Fresh Express Mediterranean Veggies | 0 21142 00178 2 | 23304G, 23311H | 2024-07-27 |
How The Recall Was Announced
The recall was announced through the FDA and USDA joint notification, press releases from Fresh Express, and shelf tags in retail locations. State health departments issued warnings to healthcare providers about Cyclospora cases linked to the affected products.
Distribution centers were instructed to remove items immediately, and customers were directed to contact stores or the company for refund options without needing to return the items in most cases.
Product Identification And Codes
Check Package Labels Carefully
Consumers should examine the product name, best by date, lot code, and UPC on the back or bottom of the package. Even if the package appears undamaged, contamination can occur without visible signs.
Use retailer or manufacturer recall lookup tools online by entering the lot code or UPC to confirm whether your specific unit is included in the recall.
Health Risks And Symptoms
Cyclospora Infection Concerns
Cyclospora can cause prolonged diarrhea, severe fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, bloating, and nausea. Symptoms may appear up to two weeks after consuming contaminated produce.
Individuals with weakened immune systems, pregnant people, older adults, and young children are at higher risk for more serious illness and should seek medical care promptly.
What To Do If You Purchased These Items
Immediate Steps For Consumers
Do not consume the product, retain the packaging and lot information, and wash all surfaces that may have contacted the item using hot soapy water followed by a sanitizing solution.
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience gastrointestinal or flu-like symptoms, and reach out to Fresh Express for refund instructions or disposal guidance.
Preventing Future Food Safety Issues
Staying informed about recalls, practicing proper produce handling, and checking lot codes before purchase can reduce risk. Subscribing to FDA alerts for categories like fresh salad mixes helps consumers act quickly when hazards are identified.
- Check lot codes and use-by dates before buying or consuming ready-to-eat salads
- Sign up for FDA and retailer recall alerts specific to leafy greens and fresh produce
- Discard recalled products or return them to the retailer for a refund
- Wash hands, surfaces, and reusable bags after handling any recalled items
- Seek medical attention early if you develop gastrointestinal symptoms after eating fresh produce
FAQ
Reader questions
Which specific salad mixes are included in the Fresh Express recall?
Recalled items include Marketside Garden Spinach, Power Greens, Crisp Garden Mix, and Mediterranean Veggies, with specific lot codes listed in the recall notice and on the FDA recall dashboard.
What should I do if I already ate the recalled product?
Stop consuming the product, save the packaging, monitor for Cyclospora symptoms such as diarrhea and fatigue, and contact your healthcare provider if symptoms develop.
Can I get a refund for the recalled item?
Yes, Fresh Express is offering refunds for affected products. You can submit a claim online through their recall portal or present the product at participating retailers for an immediate refund.
Is it safe to eat these salads if they look and smell normal?
Cyclospora contamination is not detectable by sight, smell, or taste, so even products that appear normal can be unsafe. Do not taste or use any recalled lot codes, even if they seem unopened or refrigerated.