The recent recall of Don Miguel frozen burritos due to potential Listeria contamination has understandably caused concern among consumers. This article aims to provide you with all the essential information regarding the recall, steps to take if you’ve purchased affected products, and, most importantly, delicious and safe burrito alternatives you can easily make at home. We’ll cover everything from identifying the recalled burritos to crafting your own freezer-friendly options. Food safety is paramount, and we want to ensure you can continue to enjoy burritos without worry.
**Understanding the Don Miguel Frozen Burrito Recall**
On [Insert Date of Recall], [Insert Company Name – Typically Ruiz Foods, Inc.] announced a voluntary recall of specific Don Miguel frozen burrito products due to the potential for Listeria monocytogenes contamination. Listeria is a bacteria that can cause serious infections, particularly in pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of Listeria infection (listeriosis) can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions, sometimes preceded by diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms. Invasive listeriosis can spread beyond the intestines and is especially dangerous.
**Identifying the Recalled Products**
It’s crucial to determine if you have any of the recalled Don Miguel frozen burritos in your freezer. Here’s how to check:
* **Product Name:** While this article title specifically mentions Don Miguel, it’s vital to check official recall notices for the exact product names and varieties included. Common examples may include, but are not limited to: Don Miguel Beef & Bean Burritos, Don Miguel Chicken & Cheese Burritos, Don Miguel Sausage, Egg & Cheese Burritos, and specific limited-time offers or regional varieties. *Always cross-reference with the official recall announcement.*
* **Establishment Number:** Look for the USDA establishment number printed inside the USDA mark of inspection. The specific establishment number associated with the recall will be listed in the official recall announcement. This is usually a four-digit number such as “EST. XXXX”.
* **Production Dates and Lot Codes:** Carefully examine the packaging for date codes or lot codes. These codes will help you pinpoint whether your burritos are part of the affected batch. The specific date and lot codes involved in the recall are listed in the official announcement by the USDA and/or the manufacturer.
* **UPC Codes:** The Universal Product Code (UPC) is another key identifier. Match the UPC code on your burrito packaging with the list of recalled UPCs provided in the official recall notice. These codes are often found on the back of the packaging near the barcode.
**Where to Find Official Recall Information**
* **USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) Website:** The FSIS website ([https://www.fsis.usda.gov](https://www.fsis.usda.gov)) is the primary source for official recall information. Search for “Don Miguel Burrito Recall” or “Listeria Recall” to find the latest updates and detailed lists of affected products.
* **Manufacturer’s Website:** Visit the Ruiz Foods website (or the website of the company that manufactured the Don Miguel burritos) for their official statement on the recall and specific instructions for consumers.
* **Retailer Websites:** Check the websites of major grocery stores and retailers where you purchased the burritos. They often post recall notices and information about returning affected products.
* **News Outlets:** Reputable news organizations and food safety websites will also report on the recall. Be sure to verify the information with official sources.
**What to Do If You Have Recalled Burritos**
1. **Do Not Consume:** The most important step is to *not eat* any of the recalled burritos. Even if they look and smell normal, they could be contaminated with Listeria.
2. **Dispose of the Burritos Properly:** The safest way to dispose of recalled burritos is to double-bag them in a sealed plastic bag and place them in the trash where animals and children cannot access them. Ensure the bag is tightly sealed to prevent any potential spread of contamination.
3. **Clean and Sanitize:** Thoroughly clean and sanitize any surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled burritos, including countertops, cutting boards, microwave ovens, and refrigerator shelves. Use a solution of one tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water to sanitize these surfaces. Allow the solution to sit on the surface for at least one minute before wiping it dry. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after handling the recalled burritos or cleaning contaminated surfaces.
4. **Contact Your Healthcare Provider:** If you have consumed a recalled burrito and are experiencing symptoms of listeriosis, such as fever, muscle aches, headache, or stiff neck, seek medical attention immediately. Inform your healthcare provider that you may have been exposed to Listeria.
5. **Contact the Manufacturer:** Consider contacting Ruiz Foods (or the manufacturer) to report that you have a recalled product. They may offer a refund or coupon as compensation.
**Delicious and Safe Burrito Alternatives: Homemade Freezer-Friendly Recipes**
While the recall may be a setback, it’s an excellent opportunity to explore the world of homemade burritos. Making your own burritos allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and safety. Plus, you can customize the fillings to your liking! Here are some delicious and freezer-friendly burrito recipes:
**1. Classic Beef and Bean Burritos**
*Ingredients:*
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 packet taco seasoning
* 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 cup cooked rice (optional)
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 12 large flour tortillas
* Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, guacamole
*Instructions:*
1. **Cook the Beef:** In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. **Season the Beef:** Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. **Combine the Fillings:** Add the black beans, pinto beans, and cooked rice (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for a few minutes to heat through.
4. **Assemble the Burritos:** Warm the tortillas slightly in a dry skillet or microwave to make them more pliable. Place about 1/2 cup of the beef and bean mixture in the center of each tortilla. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. **Fold the Burritos:** Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then fold up the bottom and roll tightly to create a burrito.
6. **Wrap for Freezing (if applicable):** Wrap each burrito individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or container. Label with the date and contents.
7. **Cook or Freeze:** At this point, you can either eat the burritos immediately or freeze them for later.
8. **Reheating:** To reheat frozen burritos, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Microwave the thawed burrito for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can bake the burritos in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
**2. Chicken and Cheese Burritos**
*Ingredients:*
* 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
* 1 onion, chopped
* 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
* 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
* 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 cup salsa
* 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
* 12 large flour tortillas
* Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, cilantro
*Instructions:*
1. **Sauté Vegetables:** In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. **Combine the Fillings:** Add the shredded chicken, corn, black beans, and salsa to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for a few minutes to heat through.
3. **Assemble the Burritos:** Warm the tortillas slightly. Place about 1/2 cup of the chicken mixture in the center of each tortilla. Top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
4. **Fold the Burritos:** Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then fold up the bottom and roll tightly to create a burrito.
5. **Wrap for Freezing (if applicable):** Wrap each burrito individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or container. Label with the date and contents.
6. **Cook or Freeze:** At this point, you can either eat the burritos immediately or freeze them for later.
7. **Reheating:** To reheat frozen burritos, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Microwave the thawed burrito for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can bake the burritos in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
**3. Vegetarian Black Bean and Sweet Potato Burritos**
*Ingredients:*
* 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
* 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or vegan cheese alternative
* 12 large flour tortillas
* Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, sour cream (or vegan alternative)
*Instructions:*
1. **Roast Sweet Potatoes:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
2. **Sauté Vegetables:** While the sweet potatoes are roasting, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a large skillet over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. **Combine the Fillings:** Add the roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for a few minutes to heat through.
4. **Add Quinoa/Rice:** Stir in the cooked quinoa or rice.
5. **Assemble the Burritos:** Warm the tortillas slightly. Place about 1/2 cup of the sweet potato mixture in the center of each tortilla. Top with shredded cheese.
6. **Fold the Burritos:** Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then fold up the bottom and roll tightly to create a burrito.
7. **Wrap for Freezing (if applicable):** Wrap each burrito individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or container. Label with the date and contents.
8. **Cook or Freeze:** At this point, you can either eat the burritos immediately or freeze them for later.
9. **Reheating:** To reheat frozen burritos, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Microwave the thawed burrito for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can bake the burritos in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
**Tips for Making Freezer-Friendly Burritos**
* **Cool Fillings Completely:** Before assembling your burritos, make sure the fillings are completely cooled. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the burritos, which can lead to freezer burn and a soggy texture.
* **Use Quality Tortillas:** Choose high-quality flour tortillas that are less likely to tear when folded. Look for tortillas that are specifically labeled as “burrito-size” or “extra-large.”
* **Warm Tortillas:** Warming the tortillas slightly before assembling the burritos makes them more pliable and easier to fold without cracking. You can warm them in a dry skillet, microwave, or oven.
* **Don’t Overfill:** Avoid overfilling the burritos, as this can make them difficult to fold and seal properly. Aim for about 1/2 cup of filling per burrito.
* **Wrap Tightly:** Wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. You can also wrap them in aluminum foil for added protection. For extra security, place the wrapped burritos in a freezer bag or container.
* **Label and Date:** Label each freezer bag or container with the date and contents. This will help you keep track of your burritos and ensure that you use them within a reasonable timeframe (ideally within 2-3 months).
* **Thaw Properly:** Thaw frozen burritos in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This will help prevent them from becoming soggy.
* **Reheat Thoroughly:** Reheat burritos thoroughly to ensure that the fillings are heated all the way through. Use a microwave, oven, or skillet to reheat the burritos until they are piping hot.
**Food Safety Considerations**
* **Wash Hands Frequently:** Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food, especially raw meat, poultry, and vegetables.
* **Use Separate Cutting Boards:** Use separate cutting boards for raw meat, poultry, and vegetables to prevent cross-contamination.
* **Cook Foods to Proper Temperatures:** Cook meats and poultry to the recommended internal temperatures to kill harmful bacteria. Use a food thermometer to ensure accuracy.
* **Refrigerate Promptly:** Refrigerate perishable foods promptly to prevent bacterial growth. Don’t leave food at room temperature for more than two hours.
* **Clean and Sanitize Surfaces:** Clean and sanitize countertops, cutting boards, and utensils after each use.
**Other Delicious & Safe Frozen Meal Options**
While homemade burritos are fantastic, consider these other options if you are short on time, or prefer a variety:
* **Amy’s Kitchen Frozen Meals:** Amy’s offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan frozen meals, including burritos, enchiladas, and bowls. They are known for using organic and high-quality ingredients.
* **Evol Frozen Meals:** Evol offers a range of globally inspired frozen meals, including bowls, entrees, and wraps. They use sustainably sourced ingredients and focus on flavor and nutrition.
* **Trader Joe’s Frozen Meals:** Trader Joe’s has a wide selection of frozen meals, including many vegetarian and vegan options. They are known for their unique and affordable products.
* **Homemade Frozen Soups:** Soups freeze incredibly well. Make a big batch of chicken noodle, vegetable, or lentil soup and freeze in individual portions for easy lunches or dinners.
* **Freezer-Friendly Casseroles:** Casseroles like lasagna, shepherd’s pie, or chicken pot pie are also great candidates for freezing. Assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly, and freeze it before baking.
**Conclusion**
The Don Miguel frozen burrito recall serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety. By staying informed about recalls, taking appropriate precautions, and embracing homemade alternatives, you can continue to enjoy delicious and safe meals. Making your own burritos is a fun and rewarding experience that allows you to customize the fillings to your liking and ensure the quality of your ingredients. So, ditch the recalled burritos and get creative in the kitchen! You’ll be surprised at how easy and delicious it is to make your own freezer-friendly burritos and other meals.
**Disclaimer:** This article provides general information and should not be considered a substitute for professional advice. Always refer to official recall notices and consult with healthcare professionals if you have concerns about food safety or health issues. Also check updated recall notices for the affected UPC codes, establishment numbers and product names to ensure you are taking the correct actions.