Listeria outbreak sickens at least 10 across US
At least 10 people in the U.S. have been sickened in a listeria outbreak linked to ready-to-eat food products, with a producer voluntarily recalling several products.
Scripps News
Costco shoppers may want to check their purchases for recalls.
The popular retailer has flagged nearly a dozen recalled items in recent months, from various manufacturers.
The products range from power banks to window air conditioners, some of which consumers are advised to stop using immediately.
Several items were sold through Costco Next, a program that lets shoppers purchase items directly from brands at Costco prices. Others were sold through Costco.
Here’s what customers should know about recalls and returns at Coscto.
What products have been recalled recently?
Anker Power Bank (10K, 22.5W) — Model A1257 (Costco Next): The recall notice indicates a “potential issue involving lithium-ion battery cells from a single vendor” with minimal likelihood to malfunction. It doesn’t go into detail, but Anker’s website says consumers should “Stop using the device immediately.”
Anker Powercore 10000 Power Bank Model A1263 (Costco Next): The recall notice says the power bank may overheat, posing a potential fire risk. Anker’s website says consumers should “Immediately stop using the product.”
Danby 8k U-Shaped Window Air Conditioner: The recall notice says units may not drain water quickly enough, which can lead to mold, and advises consumers to “Stop using it immediately.” The Consumer Product Safety Commission notes these air conditioners were across various retailers under different brands: Midea, Comfort Aire, Danby, Frigidaire, Insignia, Keystone, LBG Products, Mr. Cool, Perfect Aire and Sea Breeze.
Midea U-Shape Window AC’s (Item #’s 1572673, 1657921, 1677429, 1768985, 2677450, and 2677429): The recall notice says pooled water in the unit may lead to mold, which can trigger respiratory issues or other infections.
Michelin Agilis CrossClimate C-Metric Tires Size 185/60R15C: The recall notice says the tires fail to meet a federal safety standard for tire endurance, and “chunks of tread rubber may detach from the shoulder block.”
Bridgestone Blizzak 6 Tires Size 235/40R19: The recall notice says these tires are missing a Department of Transportation certification seal, and while they comply with performance requirements, DOT has found that tires without the seal may be used inappropriately, potentially increasing the risk of a crash.
BowFlex Adjustable Dumbbells: The recall notice cites reports of weight plates dislodging from the handle during use, posing risk of impact. Consumers are advised to “immediately stop using” these.
Topo Chico Mineral Water Glass 18pk – Select Lot Code – Select Locations in Texas and Louisiana: The recall notice says the water may be contaminated with pseudomonas, which occur naturally in water sources like mineral water and may pose minor health consequences in people with weakened immune systems.
Fresh and Ready Foods Prepared Sandwiches and Salads (Multiple Items) AZ, CA, NV and WA Business Center Locations Only: The recall notice says select items with a use by date of May 11 may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes and should not be consumed. The organism can cause serious and potentially fatal infections in young children, “frail or elderly people” and others with weaker immune systems. It may also lead to miscarriages and stillbirths.
Igloo 90 Qt Flip & Tow Rolling Cooler: The recall notice says there’s a risk of the tow handle pinching consumers’ fingertips against the cooler, leading to “fingertip amputation and crushing hazards.” Consumers are urged to “please immediately stop using the cooler.”
Ninja Foodi Pressure Cooker + Air Fryer: The recall notice cites reports of pressure cooker lids being able to be opened while pressurized, leading to severe burns. Consumers are advised not to use the pressure-cooking function until they get a replacement lid.
Where can I find a list of recalls?
To find Costco’s latest recalls, visit the Product Recalls section of its website. Past recalls are also archived online.
Consumers can check for other recalls across retailers and manufacturers on the websites of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, U.S. Food & Drug Administration, U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. All of those sites have searchable databases. CPSC, FDA and USDA also list recalls in reverse chronological order.
USA TODAY also maintains a database of recalled items.
How long do I have to return at Costco?
Costco accepts most returns without time limits, though there are some exceptions.
- Electronics have a 90-day return window.
- Cigarettes and alcohol may not be returned where it’s against the law.
- Airline and live performance event items, ticket items, precious metals, Shop Cards and gift cards are not returnable.
- Diamonds larger than 1.00 carats must have all original paperwork for returns and are subject to authentication.
- Tires, batteries and other products with limited use life expectancy may have product-specific limited warranties.
- Custom products made to order from Special Order Kiosk and Custom Installed Programs may not be returned or refunded, “except for warranty repair/replacement due to failure to meet specifications.”
Recalls are separate from standard returns. Consumers should check recall notices for next steps on specific items.
