US Recalls Imported Pork Over Listeria Contamination Fears

Prime Line Distributors, Inc. and Ferrarini USA, Inc. have issued a recall for approximately 1,513 pounds of imported ready-to-eat pork products over concerns of contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria that can cause severe illness.

The recall was initiated following routine import re-inspection testing that yielded positive results for the bacteria. Listeria monocytogenes can be found in various environments and can survive refrigeration.

Prime Line Distributors is recalling both vacuum-sealed guanciale pork jowl products from Italy. The affected products have lot number 263311US and a best-if-used-by date of May 16, 2027. Some of these products may also have an additional label stating 'dok guanciale'. These items were distributed to food service and retail locations in Florida.

Ferrarini USA is also recalling vacuum-sealed guanciale pork jowl products from Italy with the same lot number and best-by date. The company is recalling individually packaged Ferrarini guanciale dry-cured pork jowl as well. These products were sent to distributors and food service locations in California, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, and Texas.

All recalled products bear the establishment number IT 1937 L CE, either inside the Italian mark of inspection or printed on the case label. The products were produced in Italy on May 21, 2026, and imported into the U.S. throughout July.

Listeriosis, the infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes, can lead to fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, and convulsions. It can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women, potentially causing miscarriages and stillbirths. While many infected individuals recover, the infection can be fatal in some cases, with approximately 250 deaths annually in the U.S. Among the estimated 1,250 Americans infected each year, about 250 die from the infection.

To date, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the consumption of these recalled products. The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has urged retailers and distributors to halt sales and service of the affected products. Consumers are advised to discard the recalled items or return them to their place of purchase.