USDA Issues Class I Recall for 1,513 Pounds of Italian Pork Guanciale Over Listeria Risk

Key points

• The recall involves dry-cured pork jowl (guanciale) produced in Italy and imported by Prime Line Distributors and Ferrarini USA.
• The affected products were shipped to food service and retail locations in eight states, including Florida, New York, and Texas.
• The contamination was identified during a routine import reinspection where a sample tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes.
• The recall is classified as Class I, the highest warning level, indicating a high or medium risk of illness.
• No confirmed cases of illness have been reported, but the bacteria poses serious risks to vulnerable populations.

Background

This recall follows a series of recent meat safety issues involving imported products. In August 2026, the USDA recalled 30,000 pounds of Argentine beef that entered the US without inspection. In July 2026, a Class I recall was issued for over 12,000 pounds of Canadian bacon due to a border inspection lapse. These incidents highlight ongoing challenges in ensuring the safety of imported meat products.

How outlets are covering it

All three sources (UPI, New York Post, and Scripps News) agree on the core facts: the Class I recall status, the approximate weight of 1,513 pounds, the involvement of Prime Line Distributors and Ferrarini USA, and the Listeria contamination. The New York Post emphasizes the 'highest warning' level and the specific states affected, while Scripps News provides a concise summary of the product details. UPI offers the most detailed breakdown of the specific product labels and lot numbers. There are no significant disagreements between the outlets, though the New York Post places more emphasis on the geographic spread to New York and New Jersey.

Why it matters

Listeria monocytogenes is a serious pathogen that can cause life-threatening infections, particularly in older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. A Class I recall indicates a high risk of health hazards, prompting consumers to immediately discard or return the affected products to prevent potential outbreaks.

What to watch

Consumers are advised to check their refrigerators and freezers for the specific lot numbers (263311US) and best-if-used-by dates (05.16.27) listed in the recall notice. The FSIS has urged companies not to serve or sell the products. No further action is required from the public beyond discarding the items, as no illnesses have been reported.