Full Breakdown
Nationwide Recall of Peaches Due to Listeria Contamination
11/3/2025, 2:10:44 AM
Overview of the Recall
Moonlight Companies has initiated a nationwide recall of yellow and white peaches due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause severe illness. The recall affects peaches grown in California that were sold between September 16 and October 29, 2025, at major retailers including Kroger, Trader Joe’s, Sprouts, and Food Lion. The recall was prompted after Listeria was detected in the packing facility environment, although no illnesses linked to the peaches have been reported to date.
Affected Products and Distribution
The recalled peaches were sold both individually and in multi-packs. Specific products include:
- Moonlight Yellow Peaches: Individual pieces with PLU stickers 4401 or 4044; multi-packs with UPC codes 8 10248 03165 6 and 8 98429 00209 1.
- Moonlight White Peaches: Individual pieces with the same PLU stickers; multi-packs with UPC codes 8 10248 03163 2 and 8 98429 00209 1.
- Moonlight White Peaches ("Peppermint Peach"): Multi-packs with UPC codes 8 98429 00266 4, 8 10248 03163 2, 8 10248 03087 1, and 8 10248 03186 1.
Retailers involved in the recall include Kroger and Trader Joe’s, with Trader Joe’s specifically recalling peaches sold in 21 states, including Arizona, California, and New York. Kroger's recall extends to its various owned chains, such as Ralphs and Dillons.
Health Risks Associated with Listeria
Listeria monocytogenes can lead to serious health issues, particularly for vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of listeriosis may include fever, headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can result in miscarriages and stillbirths.
Official Statements & Responses
Moonlight Companies announced the recall on October 29, emphasizing the voluntary nature of the action. Consumers who purchased the affected peaches are advised to discard them or return them to the store for a refund. The FDA has urged consumers to check their fruit for specific PLU stickers and lot numbers to identify the recalled products.
Criticism & Opposition
While no illnesses have been reported, some consumer advocates have raised concerns about the frequency of food recalls and the potential risks associated with contaminated produce. They argue that more stringent safety measures should be implemented in packing facilities to prevent such incidents.
Verbatim Quotes
- “If you purchased Moonlight Yellow Peaches from Trader Joe’s in the states and during the date range listed above, please discard them or return them to your local Trader Joe’s for a refund,” — Trader Joe’s Statement
- “Consumers with questions can contact 855-215-5017, Monday – Friday from 8 am – 5 pm Eastern Time.” — Moonlight Companies
What's Next
Consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant and monitor for updates from the FDA regarding the recall. Further investigations into the packing facility's safety protocols may follow to prevent future contamination incidents.
