A widespread celery recall hit Walmart stores across 29 states, prompting health warnings and raising concerns among consumers. Duda Farm Fresh Foods, Inc. issued an advisory about potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination in pre-packaged Marketside celery sticks, which Walmart distributes. The recall includes both 4-ounce and 16-ounce bundles.
Consumers who recently bought pre-cut celery sticks should act quickly. The recall includes thousands of units that could pose a serious health risk. Although no one has reported illness so far, the bacteria linked to this recall can cause harm. Therefore, this advisory matters.
What Sparked the Celery Recall?
On April 10, 2025, Duda Farm Fresh Foods released a public advisory. The company recalled 1,587 cases of Marketside celery sticks. Walmart sold these pre-cut vegetables in nearly 30 states.
Routine product testing revealed traces of Listeria monocytogenes. The tests found the bacteria on equipment used to process the celery. Even though the celery itself tested clean, the contamination risk remained high. As a result, the company quickly alerted retailers and the public.
Some of the affected states include Pennsylvania, Florida, Texas, Ohio, Georgia, and Michigan. The recall spans the country, and health officials urge caution. Therefore, customers who bought these items should check their refrigerators.
Which Products Are Affected?
The celery recall affects Marketside Celery Sticks sold in two packaging options. One is a 4-ounce snack-size pack. The other is a larger 16-ounce bundle.
Here are the key details:
- Product brand: Marketside (sold at Walmart)
- Package sizes: 4 oz. and 16 oz. celery sticks
- Best if used by: March 30, 2025, through April 4, 2025
- Lot codes: DFD220 B1 and similar
- Distributed in: 29 U.S. states
This recall affects thousands of units Walmart sold nationwide. Even as a precaution, it plays a vital role in public health.
To stay safe, inspect your packages closely. If the celery has the affected date range and lot codes, don’t eat it. Instead, throw it away or return it for a refund. Walmart is processing refunds and cooperating fully.
Understanding the Listeria Risk
Listeria monocytogenes is rare but dangerous. It survives cold temperatures, including inside refrigerators. That makes it hard to kill.
When someone eats contaminated food, they may develop listeriosis. This serious infection hits people with weakened immune systems the hardest. Specifically, pregnant individuals, infants, and older adults face the highest risk.
Common listeriosis symptoms include:
- Fever or chills
- Muscle aches or stiffness
- Upset stomach or diarrhea
- Headache or confusion
- Stiff neck and balance issues
Healthy individuals may only experience mild symptoms. However, in vulnerable people, the infection can turn deadly. For pregnant individuals, Listeria can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or early delivery. Additionally, the bacteria may spread to the nervous system.
Even a small contamination risk requires action. Although the tests didn’t detect Listeria in the celery, they found it in the facility. Consequently, that fact justifies the celery recall and shows why safety must come first.
What Should Consumers Do?
If you recently bought Marketside celery sticks from Walmart, check your package. Look for a “Best if used by” date between March 30 and April 4, 2025. If the lot code matches DFD220 B1 or similar, take action.
Follow these steps:
- Avoid eating the celery, even if it looks and smells fine.
- Return the celery to Walmart for a refund, or throw it away.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after touching the package.
- Clean and disinfect any surface that stored the celery.
Furthermore, monitor your health if you already ate the celery. If you feel sick, call your doctor. Although no one has reported illness yet, symptoms may take days or even weeks to appear. Taking action now protects your health and your family’s safety.
Duda Farm Fresh Foods Responds Swiftly
Duda Farm Fresh Foods moved fast after discovering the issue. The company paused operations at the affected facility. They launched an investigation to find out how the bacteria entered the environment.
They issued the celery recall to protect public health and rebuild consumer trust. Moreover, Duda is working closely with the FDA and local health agencies to resolve the matter.
In a public statement, Duda noted that no one has gotten sick. They reassured customers that they’re following strict sanitation procedures. Meanwhile, the recall will remain active while the investigation continues.
By acting quickly, Duda shows a strong commitment to food safety. Even when contamination is only a possibility, taking action makes a difference.
Final Thoughts
This celery recall reminds us how delicate our food supply can be. Pre-cut vegetables save time, but they also require strict handling. Sanitation matters at every stage—harvesting, processing, and transportation.
If you shop at Walmart or buy Marketside products often, check your celery today. Don’t assume food is safe just because it looks fine. In fact, contamination often goes undetected.
To stay informed, follow FDA recall updates. Watch product labels and pay attention to store alerts. If you’re unsure, play it safe and discard the item.
Food recalls protect lives, not just brands. Listeria poses a serious risk. When companies respond quickly, they help prevent harm.
To learn more, visit the FDA recall page or contact Walmart’s customer service.
