Tainted Deli Meat Recalled

08.26.10 Contaminated luncheon meat can cause miscarriage, experts say. Plus, bottle warmers also pulled from store shelves.

Deli meats distributed to Walmart stores nationwide and sold in sandwiches have been recalled because of possible listeria contamination, CNN reports. This bacteria causes listeriosis, which can lead to miscarriages and sometimes fatal infections in those with weakened immune systems, such as infants, according to CNN.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the voluntary recall of Tyson Foods'  Zemco Industries deli meats under the label brand Marketside. The targeted meats include ham and roast beef (for a complete list, visit the USDA website here); the packages are stamped with vendor number 398412808, and were made between June 18 and July 2 with "use by" dates between Aug. 20 and Sept. 10.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pregnant women are 20 times more likely to become infected with listeria than nonpregnant adults. It is most dangerous and common during the third trimester, when a mom-to-be's immune system is most suppressed.

The lowdown on deli meat from our experts: If you can, try to avoid eating it. Deli meats and hot dogs can transmit listeria, which causes listeriosis (symptoms include headache, muscle aches, fever, nausea, vomiting, stiff neck and convulsions).

If you MUST have hot dogs or deli meats, make sure they have been reheated to steaming (about 140° F to 160° F) to kill the bacteria. While eating out, moms-to-be should order non-deli meat sandwiches, such as meatballs, steak or roasted chicken.

There's a long list of food don'ts when you're expecting. But if you miss sushi or really crave a rare steak, try one of our easy swap recipes to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal that mimics the real deal.

• In separate recall news: Williams-Sonoma and the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the voluntary recall of the Beaba Express steam baby bottle warmer due to burn risks. The company has received reports from Beaba users of overheated bottles, including one case of an adult's finger being burned. Customers should immediately stop using the warmers and contact Williams-Sonoma for a refund, or call 877-548-0850.

Maria Vega is Fit Pregnancy magazine's copy editor.