Costco Smoked Salmon Recall: Listeria Contamination Prompts Nationwide Alert
Understanding the severity, scope, and consumer implications of the Costco smoked salmon Class I recall due to confirmed Listeria contamination.
Costco Smoked Salmon Recall: Everything Shoppers Need to Know
In October 2024, a major food safety incident prompted Acme Smoked Fish Corporation, under FDA direction, to recall 111 cases of Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon from Costco stores in Florida after discovering contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. As the recall was later classified as Class I—the most severe recall category—awareness surrounding this event among consumers and health authorities spiked considerably.
The details, consequences, and precautions related to the recall are outlined below, with guidance for consumers and families who may still be affected.
Understanding the FDA’s Class I Recall
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) places recalls into different risk categories. A Class I recall is the highest risk level, defined as a significant probability that the use of the product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death. This designation brought extra urgency to the Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon recall announced in October 2024, given the confirmed presence of a dangerous pathogen and its potential impact on vulnerable populations.
- Class I recalls indicate serious risks to health and possible fatality.
- Class II recalls present moderate health risks, and Class III are for less severe product issues.
Timeline and Scope of the Recall
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| October 9 – 13, 2024 | Distribution of Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon in Florida Costco stores |
| October 21, 2024 | Lab testing confirms the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in affected lots |
| October 25, 2024 | Acme Smoked Fish Corporation announces voluntary recall with FDA oversight |
| Late October 2024 | FDA elevates recall to Class I status, triggering national media coverage |
Product Information: Which Items Were Recalled?
Only specific lots of Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon were affected. No other Acme Smoked Fish products were part of this recall.
- Product Name: Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon
- Packaging: Twin 12-ounce packages, vacuum-packed in black-bordered plastic with salmon illustration
- UPC: 0 96619 25697 6
- Lot Number: 8512801270
- Best By Date: 11/13/2024
- Distribution: Costco stores in Florida via the Southeast Distribution Center, West Palm Beach
Customers who purchased this item between October 9–13, 2024 should verify package details, including the lot number and UPC, especially if the product was frozen for future use.
Health Risks: Listeria Infection and Its Impact
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium with significant health consequences, particularly to high-risk individuals. The pathogen survives and multiplies in refrigerated conditions, making contaminated smoked salmon especially hazardous. Infection leads to listeriosis, which can cause both mild and severe symptoms, and may prove fatal in certain populations.
- Younger children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems are most vulnerable.
- Healthy adults may experience short-term symptoms but can still transmit the infection to more susceptible individuals.
- Listeriosis in pregnant women can result in miscarriage, stillbirth, or serious neonatal illness.
Symptoms of Listeriosis to Watch For
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides clear guidance on signs of listeria infection. If you have consumed recalled food and experience these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately:
- Fever, chills, and flu-like symptoms
- Severe headache, stiff neck, or confusion
- Vomiting and diarrhea (intestinal listeriosis)
- Nausea and abdominal pain
Prompt medical attention is essential for pregnant women, older adults (65+), and anyone with a weakened immune system who has consumed possibly contaminated salmon.
Official Instructions for Consumers
If you have purchased Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon with the listed UPC and lot numbers:
- Do NOT consume the product. Even if frozen, contamination risk remains very high.
- Return the product to Costco for a full refund. Alternatively, discard the product safely.
- If needed, contact recall coordinators at Acme Smoked Fish Corporation:
- Mary Lee Kluger: mkluger@acmesmokedfish.com
- Matt Ranieri: mranieri@acmesmokedfish.com
- Phone: 718-383-8585 (Monday–Friday, 8am–5pm EST)
Costco has actively supported the recall. No related illnesses have been reported as of this update. However, vigilance remains critical, especially for consumers who may still have the salmon in their freezer.
Why Listeria Recalls Are Increasing
Recent years have seen a notable rise in FDA food recalls due to listeria contamination, reflecting improvements in testing and reporting as well as broader distribution networks for ready-to-eat foods. Listeria’s unique dangers stem from its ability to thrive in cold, moist environments like those used for smoked fish, deli meats, and soft cheeses.
- Ready-to-eat seafood is especially at risk for listeria contamination.
- Proper refrigeration alone does not prevent listeria growth; contamination occurs pre-sale.
- Outbreak tracking has improved due to federal and state monitoring programs.
- Consumers should routinely check recall lists before purchasing high-risk foods.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is it safe to eat Kirkland smoked salmon purchased before or after the recall dates?
If the smoked salmon does not match the recalled UPC, lot number, or the best by date, it is not part of the recall and is safe to consume. Always verify packaging details first.
Q: Can freezing the salmon eliminate Listeria risk?
No. Listeria monocytogenes survives freezing. Contaminated product must be returned or discarded regardless of storage method.
Q: What if I have already eaten the recalled product?
Monitor for symptoms of listeriosis for up to 70 days. Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms develop and inform them of possible listeria exposure, especially if you are pregnant, elderly, or immunocompromised.
Q: Has anyone become ill from this recall?
As of October 30, 2025, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon recall.
Q: Can I get a refund for the recalled salmon?
Yes. Acme Smoked Fish Corporation and Costco urge customers to return recalled salmon for a full refund or discard it to ensure safety.
Q: Whom can I contact for more information?
- Acme Smoked Fish Corporation recall line: 718-383-8585
- Recall coordinators by email: mkluger@acmesmokedfish.com or mranieri@acmesmokedfish.com
- FDA recall database for the latest updates.
What Consumers Should Do Next
- Check your refrigerator and freezer for Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon purchased between October 9 and 13, 2024 from Costco stores in Florida.
- Carefully inspect packaging for the listed UPC (0 96619 25697 6) and Lot No. (8512801270) with best by date 11/13/2024.
- If the product matches, do not consume it under any circumstances.
- Return the product to the nearest Costco for a refund, or safely discard it.
- If you develop illness or symptoms after consuming the product, report this to your healthcare provider and the FDA.
Recent Costco Recalls: A Pattern of Safety
The smoked salmon incident is part of a wider pattern. In August 2024, Costco recalled other items, including Kodiak Power Waffles Buttermilk & Vanilla and Rock River Cattle Co. Smokey Hibachi Skirt Steaks, indicating their commitment to proactive containment of foodborne risks. Consumers are encouraged to routinely check the Costco Product Recalls page and FDA announcements for all recent and archived recalls.
- Food recalls are often voluntary and signal a company’s intent to protect public health.
- Don’t hesitate to contact customer service departments about any food item in question.
How to Reduce Foodborne Illness Risk at Home
Although recalls are an essential last safeguard against foodborne illness, consumers can take routine steps to reduce risk:
- Always inspect packaging and check best by dates when purchasing ready-to-eat foods.
- Review product recall announcements regularly.
- Follow food safety best practices: refrigerate perishable items promptly, maintain fridge temperature below 40°F (4°C), and avoid cross-contamination.
- Stay informed about location-specific recalls that may affect your region.
Resources for Staying Informed
- FDA Safety Alerts: Comprehensive database of recalls and safety alerts.
- CDC Food Safety: Information, guidance, and symptom checklists for foodborne illness.
- Costco Recalls Page: Consolidated report of product recalls at all locations.
- Local health department websites for timely regional alert notifications.
FAQs: The Costco Smoked Salmon Recall
Q: Is all Kirkland smoked salmon recalled?
No. Only twin 12-ounce packages with UPC 0 96619 25697 6, Lot No. 8512801270, and best by date 11/13/2024 are affected.
Q: Where were the recalled products distributed?
Products were sold at Costco warehouses and the Southeast Distribution Center in Florida.
Q: How can consumers get updates about the recall?
Check the FDA, Costco’s recalls page, and media reports on food safety developments.
Q: What is listeriosis?
Listeriosis is an infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes, which may cause mild symptoms in healthy people but can be life-threatening for high-risk groups such as pregnant women, seniors, and immunocompromised individuals.
Conclusion: Food Safety Requires Vigilance
The elevation of the Costco smoked salmon recall to FDA Class I risk underscores the importance of vigilance and rapid response when foodborne contamination is discovered. Consumers who may have purchased the affected product are urged to act swiftly—not just for their own health but for those around them. Ongoing monitoring of recalls and proactive engagement with food safety alerts protect households from dangerous pathogens and ensure the highest standards of health and wellbeing.
Stay informed—and stay safe!
