Hostess issues nationwide recall for burger, hotdog buns over salmonella and listeria risks

Hostess Brands has issued a recall for some of its hamburger and hotdog buns due to concerns over possible salmonella and listeria contamination.

The voluntary recall by the company, which was announced through a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory on Monday, affects two items: Hostess Soft White Hamburger Buns and Hostess Soft White Hot Dog Buns. 

The “Best By” dates for each of those products run from Aug. 13 through end of September or early October. 

Salmonella infections occur when people drink water or eat food that is contaminated with the bacteria, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Contamination can also occur when people come into contact with feces or animals. 

Listeria infections occur from consuming food contaminated with the Listeria monocytogenes bacteria, according to the CDC.

The advisory notes that, for both infections, healthier individuals may experience milder or short-term symptoms like nausea, abdominal pain or diarrhea. However, individuals with weaker immune systems, younger children and older adults can have more adverse reactions or serious infections. 

Hostess said that they have not received any reports of illness regarding the possible contamination and said the recall was issued “out of an abundance of caution after becoming aware of this issue from its co-manufacturer, Best Harvest Bakeries, through Best Harvest Bakeries’ environmental monitoring program,” according to the FDA advisory.

The advisory notes that the items were sold in convenience stores, distributors and other stores.

Customers are advised to throw away the potentially contaminated product or get a full refund from the store where it was bought.