Margherita Pepperoni Recalled Due to Risk of Bacterial Contamination

Bacillus cereus can cause vomiting and diarrhea, but illnesses are usually relatively mild and resolve quickly, says James E. Rogers, PhD, director of food safety research and testing at Consumer Reports. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are an estimated 63,000 illnesses annually caused by Bacillus cereus, and nearly all stem from eating contaminated food. Only a handful of people each year become so sick that they must be hospitalized. People with a weakened immune system are at greatest risk for more serious illness, the CDC says.

If you have the recalled product in your cupboard or fridge, throw it out, Rogers says. Or you can return it to the store where it was purchased for a refund, Monroe says. 

Contact Smithfield Packaged Meats customer service with questions at (844) 342-2596.