The Eggo Waffle Shortage Caused In Part By Listeria Contamination

The long-term nationwide shortage of Eggo waffles that was announced last week could have been in part due to Listeria contamination. Originally, it was announced that the shortage was caused by flooding at one of Kellog's major baking plants in Atlanta. But, now there are speculations that the plant might have been shut down for a much more serious reason -- Listeria contamination. No contaminated products made it to the market. It is estimated factory lines were shut down for seven weeks for cleaning that had to be done due to contamination and flooding. The shortage of Eggo waffles is expected to continue until the summer of next year.

What is Listeria?

Listeria is a subtype of bacteria, the most prominent of which is L. monocytogenes, responsible for causing listeriosis. The symptoms of listeriosis include fever and muscle aches accompanied by nausea and diarrhea.