CT Health Dept Warns About Listeria Outbreak In Soft Serve Ice Cream

CONNECTICUT — The Connecticut Department of Public Health is advising consumers not to eat any flavor of "Soft Serve On The Go" ice cream cups produced by Real Kosher Ice Cream of Brooklyn, NY. This is due to a national outbreak of Listeriosis that has been linked to the ice cream cups.

No illnesses related to this outbreak have been identified in Connecticut. Two illnesses, both requiring hospitalization, have been reported in New York and Pennsylvania. No deaths have been reported.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in collaboration with state and local partners, are investigating an outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections potentially linked to the ice cream. The manufacturer has voluntarily recalled and stopped production of all flavors of "Soft Serve On The Go" 8-oz cups, sold at convenience stores, canteens and similar outlets, and packaged in an 8-ounce, cone-shaped clear plastic cup with a spoon attached to the cover.

DPH Commissioner Dr. Manisha Juthani said, "Listeria monocytogenes is an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Those exposed to Listeria can have symptoms occur within a few hours or as long as two to three days after eating foods that are contaminated. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women. Listeriosis can be treated with antibiotics, so anyone who suspects they may have the illness should contact their health care provider."

Consumers should discontinue consumption of the product immediately. Anyone with any uneaten servings should dispose of it or return to the store where they bought it for a full refund. Grocery and convenience stores that carry the brand are asked to remove the ice cream and contact the manufacturer by calling 845-668-4346 or email info@softserveonthego.com. Monday thru Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.