Over 1,500 Lbs. of Pork Guanciale Recalled at USDA’s Highest Warning Level Due to Potential Listeria Contamination

**Recall of Pork Guanciale Products Due to Listeria Concerns**

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a warning following the recall of over 1,500 pounds of imported pork guanciale, a dry-cured pork jowl product, due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. This recall, announced on September 6, involves two companies: Prime Line Distributors, Inc. based in Florida and Ferrarini USA, Inc. from New Jersey.

The FSIS classified the recall as Class I, the most serious category, indicating a significant health hazard. This classification suggests that there is a reasonable likelihood that consuming the affected products could result in severe health consequences or even death. Consumers are advised against using these products and to either return them to the point of purchase or dispose of them immediately.

Prime Line Distributors has recalled a variety of cardboard cases containing its Guanciale Pork Jowl from Italy, with the best before date listed as May 16, 2027, and the lot number 263311US. The company has also identified additional products under a “Dok Guanciale” label that share the same lot number and expiration date. The recalled items were distributed primarily across Florida to both retail and food service businesses.

Ferrarini USA has similarly recalled affected products, including several cases containing two individually packed Guanciale Pork Jowl items, as well as other vacuum-packed varieties. These products, marked with the same lot number and best-before date, were distributed across various states, including California, Idaho, Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, and Texas.

Both companies have been instructed to inform their customers about the recall and ensure that the potentially contaminated products are no longer accessible. The FSIS has also stated that they will monitor compliance and publish an updated list of retailers that stocked the affected products.

The contamination issue was discovered during routine testing of imported products, where a sample tested positive for Listeria. The affected items were produced in Italy on May 21, 2026, and imported into the U.S. in July of the same year. Despite the recall, the FSIS has indicated that there have been no confirmed reports of illnesses linked to these products to date.

Listeria monocytogenes poses serious health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations, including those with weakened immune systems, elderly individuals, pregnant women, and newborns. The illness, known as listeriosis, can lead to severe symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal distress, potentially resulting in miscarriages, stillbirths, or life-threatening infections in newborns.

Members of high-risk groups who experience flu-like symptoms within two months of consuming these products are urged to seek medical attention promptly.

In light of this situation, consumers are encouraged to stay informed and cautious regarding food safety practices. While the incidence of listeriosis is relatively low, it can be severe for those affected, underscoring the need for vigilance when handling and consuming ready-to-eat meats.

Prime Line Distributors and Ferrarini USA have been contacted for further comment on the recall and the measures they are implementing to prevent such incidents in the future. As the situation develops, the FSIS remains committed to ensuring the safety of the food supply and protecting public health.