Lyons Magnus Recalls Products due to Microbial Contamination

Lyons Magnus LLC, a part of the food service industry, recently recalled several products due to potential microbial contamination. In the company statement, Cronobacter sakazakii and Clostridium botulinum were identified as potential contaminants.

This recall follows a recent baby formula recall due to the same bacteria.

According to the CDC, Cronobacter sakazakii is a naturally occurring bacteria that can live in several types of dry foods. On average, the CDC sees between 2 and 4 reported cases each year.

The symptoms and risk of infection vary by age group, with infants typically at higher risk.

“Cronobacter bacteria can cause severe bloodstream infections (sepsis) or meningitis (an inflammation of the membranes that protect the brain and spine),” states the CDC.

Children under one year old can develop symptoms such as fever, altered feeding habits, excessive crying, limited energy, and seizures. Children who develop meningitis due to Cronobacter sakazakii also experience brain and spine swelling. Up to 40% of infants who develop meningitis from this bacterium will die.

Across all ages, this bacterium can affect skin abrasions, surgical sites, the urinary tract, and more.

“While infection related to Cronobacter sakazakii is rare, the common symptoms of illness could include fever, vomiting, and urinary tract infection. However, vulnerable and immunocompromised populations may be more susceptible to infection,” stated the company in their release.

Based on data from the CDC, infants who are premature, immunocompromised, or less than two months old have some of the most significant risks of infection with this bacterium. Additionally, children under two months old have the highest risk of developing meningitis.

Furthermore, older adults and immunocompromised people of all ages are at an increased risk of infection.

Patients infected by Cronobacter sakazakii are typically prescribed antibiotics to eradicate the infection.

This recall by Lyons Magnus is thought to be due to issues meeting commercial sterility specifications. While this bacterium is most commonly found in dried food products, the recall applies to beverages and nutritional drinks by the brand as well. The company’s announcement provides names, lot numbers, and pictures of the recalled products, including Oatly, Premier Protein, and Aloha.

Products in this recall are widely used, posing a threat to a large portion of the population. The public is urged to look through this list and dispose of any product they have that is affected. Consumers should monitor further recalls to minimize the risk of infection. 

Editors Note: This article has been edited to reflect an update by the FDA.