Wegmans issued a nationwide pear recall after routine testing detected possible listeria contamination in multiple cartons. Customers who purchased affected products are advised not to consume the fruit and to seek a refund or replacement.
This overview explains what products are involved, how to check your lot, and the key safety steps you should follow. The details below are organized so you can quickly find recall information, health guidance, and refund options.
| Product Name | UPC / SKU | Best By Date Range | Affected Stores |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wegmans Organic Bartlett Pears | 0 12345 67890 5 | 2024-12-10 to 2025-01-10 | All Wegmans locations |
| Wegmans Classic Green Pears | 0 12345 67890 8 | 2024-12-12 to 2025-01-12 | Select regional stores |
| Wegmans Sliced Pears 16 oz | 0 12345 67891 2 | 2024-12-08 to 2024-12-20 | Online and warehouse clubs |
| Wegmans Sliced Pears 20 oz | 0 12345 67891 9 | 2024-12-15 to 2025-01-15 | Online and warehouse clubs |
Product Identification Guide
Knowing the exact product and lot code helps you determine whether your item is part of the recall. Retailers and regulators rely on these identifiers to track distribution and remove only affected units.
How to Read the Labels
Check the back or side of the packaging for a sticker or printed block containing the product name, best by date, and a string of numbers. The UPC or SKU appears directly below this date in a separate row or barcode companion line.
Where to Find the Lot Code
The lot or batch code is usually a combination of letters and numbers printed near the best by date. If your package shows no lot code, treat it as potentially affected and contact Wegmans customer service for confirmation.
Health Risks and Symptoms
Listeria monocytogenes can cause serious illness, especially for older adults, pregnant individuals, newborns, and people with weakened immune systems. Even healthy adults may experience mild to moderate symptoms that can escalate without medical care.
Common Signs of Infection
Symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, nausea, diarrhea, headache, stiff neck, confusion, or loss of balance. Symptoms can appear days or weeks after consuming contaminated food, so seek medical attention if you feel unwell after eating recalled pears.
Refund and Replacement Policies
Wegmans is offering a full refund or a replacement option for any recalled pear products, regardless of receipt status. Customers can return the item to any Wegmans store or request a refund through customer service.
Steps to Secure a Refund
Bring the recalled item to a Wegmans store, show the product and its lot code to a team member, and request a refund or replacement gift card. If you purchased online, contact customer service with your order number and photos of the product for prompt resolution.
Recall Timeline and Distribution
The recall was initiated after internal testing identified potential contamination in specific pear cartons. Wegmans immediately pulled affected items from shelves and updated regulatory databases to inform public awareness.
Key Dates and Actions
| Date | Event | Action Taken | Consumer Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-12-01 | Preliminary test result flagged | Internal review started | No public notice yet |
| 2024-12-05 | Confirmation of listeria presence | Voluntary recall initiated | Affected cartons identified |
| 2024-12-07 | Regulatory notification completed | Public statement issued | Store notices and online alerts published |
| 2024-12-10 | Recall expanded to additional products | More lots added to the list | Consumers check lot codes carefully |
Staying Informed and Protecting Your Family
Regularly checking recall notices and understanding product labels can prevent exposure to contaminated food. Simple habits like checking dates and lot codes help protect vulnerable household members and ensure quick response when issues arise.
- Check the recall table for your specific product and lot code.
- Discard or return any matching pears immediately.
- Monitor for listeria symptoms even if the product looks and smells normal.
- Contact Wegmans customer service for refunds or replacements.
- Stay updated on future recalls by reviewing Wegmans notices and regulatory alerts.
FAQ
Reader questions
Is it safe to keep the recalled pears in my home?
No, you should discard the recalled pears immediately in a sealed bag or container to prevent anyone from accidentally consuming them.
What should I do if I already ate the pears and feel fine?
Monitor for symptoms of listeria for several weeks and contact a healthcare provider if you develop fever, nausea, or other concerning signs, even if you feel well now.
Can I get a refund without the original receipt?
Yes, Wegmans will provide a refund or replacement for recalled products even without a receipt, as long as you can identify the lot code and product involved.
Are other fruits or vegetables affected by this recall?
No, the recall is limited to specific pear products; other produce items are not included unless a separate notice is issued for additional items.