State alerts consumers about Shirk's sausage

DUNDEE--New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball alerted consumers Friday, June 12, that Shirk Meats of 4342 John Green Road, Dundee, is recalling their "Smoked Andouille Sausage" due to listeria monocytogenes contamination. No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.
Listeria monocytogenes is an organism commonly found in nature which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems. It may also cause serious complications for pregnant women, such as stillbirth. Listeria monocytogenes may cause serious flu-like symptoms in otherwise healthy individuals.
The recalled in-store packed "Smoked Andouille Sausage" comes in clear plastic packaging with a date of June 5, 2015, on it. Package sizes varied from nine to 12 ounces. The "Smoked Andouille Sausage" was sold only from the retail location at 4342 John Green Road.
The recall was initiated after routine sampling by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets' food inspectors and subsequent analysis of the product by New York State Food Laboratory personnel found listeria monocytogenes present in the product.
Consumers who have purchased the "Smoked Andouille Sausage" should not consume it, but should discard the product or return it to Shirks Meats. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 607-243-5581.