We have all heard the famous saying: An apple a day keeps the doctor away. However, eating Granny Smith apples shipped from a particular plant in California might just give you a reason to visit a doctor or may even require a stay in the hospital. On 6 January 2015, an apple plant in California issued a voluntary recall of two apple cultivars shipped from their California packing facility, due to a possible contamination of Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria that causes a serious foodborne illness. The apple plant was previously linked to a deadly outbreak of listeria, caused by tainted pre-packed caramel-coated apples. 34 individuals were hospitalized and at least 3 people died due to listeria. Listeriosis is a serious foodborne illness caused by the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. Its symptoms include fever, muscle aches, headaches and vomiting. The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) has released a statement clarifying that none of the apples imported into Singapore are from the affected plant. Across the causeway however, Malaysia has banned any new imports and are making efforts to recall any affected apples already in the country. If you or any of your family members experience any of the above symptoms or may have consumed the affected apples, take them to the doctor immediately.
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