Urgent Recall Alert: Wilcox Ice Cream Takes a Scoop Hit!

Hey, ice cream lovers! We've got some serious scoop for you, and it's not the kind you want to indulge in. Wilcox Ice Cream is hitting the brakes on all its flavors, including yogurt and ice cream bars, and Leonardo's brand gelato. Why? Well, it turns out there's a not-so-sweet surprise in the mix - a potential run-in with listeria.

The Not-So-Cool Discovery

The New Hampshire Department of Health played detective and found that Wilcox's Super Premium Mint Chocolate Chip was harboring some unwelcome guests during a routine check in September. Yep, you guessed it - listeria.

"In the chill of our investigation, we found out that the ice cream mix we used might be playing host to listeria monocytogenes," announced Wilcox in a recall notice approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

The Listeria Lowdown

Now, I'm no doctor, but here's the scoop on listeria: it's a bacteria that can throw a party in your system, especially if you're on the younger or older side, or if your immune system is taking a nap. While the healthy folks might endure a brief stint of symptoms like a high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, and the whole shebang, pregnant women can face more serious risks, like miscarriages and stillbirths. Yikes!

No Casualties, but Hold the Cone!

Luckily, no one has fallen victim to the contaminated goodies yet, according to Wilcox. But hey, why tempt fate, right?

The Brooklyn Connection

Oh, and here's a double scoop of trouble - remember that listeria outbreak a while back linked to ice cream from The Ice Cream House in Brooklyn, New York? Yeah, turns out two folks landed in the hospital due to that fiasco. Double trouble, indeed!

Where's the Tainted Treat?

So, if you're wondering if your favorite pint is part of the potentially dicey dessert lineup, here's the lowdown. Wilcox's tainted treats made their way to retail stores and co-ops in four states: Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont.

What's in the Recall Basket?

Hold on to your cones, folks! It's not just one flavor taking the hit. Wilcox is waving goodbye to everything made in their facility with best by/sell by dates between September 14, 2024, and November 14, 2024. That includes some heavy hitters like:

• Wilcox SUPER premium Salted Caramel Brownie
• Wilcox SUPER PREMIUM Chocolate
• Wilcox SUPER PREMIUM Maple Cream
• ... and a bunch more. You get the drift.

Leonardo's Gelato Got the Memo Too

Don't think Leonardo's Gelato is getting off the hook. Their pints and 4-ounce cups with best by/sell by dates from August 28, 2024, through November 14, 2024, are also in the danger zone.

Don't Risk It!

Let's be clear - these frozen delights are off-limits. If you've got any of these questionable quarts or pints in your freezer, it's time for a chilly cleanup. No nibbling allowed!

What's the game plan if you find yourself in a bit of a tight spot?

If you're staring at your freezer, realizing you've got a stash of recalled treats, don't panic. Take a pic of the container, showcasing the best-by date on the top and sides, and shoot an email to the good folks at AR@wilcoxicecreamvt.com. Be sure to spill the beans on how many, where you bought them, and of course, your name, address, and phone number. If you need to vent, give Wilcox Ice Cream a call at (802) 375-1133, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern time.

Stay safe, scoop enthusiasts! Remember, there are plenty of ice cream options in the freezer aisle that won't come with a side of listeria.