Whole Foods gingerbread houses recalled

SALT LAKE CITY — Assembled gingerbread houses manufactured by Illinois-based Rolf's Patisserie, and sold locally by Whole Foods Market, are among desserts being recalled after possibly causing food poisoning.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced the recall on Friday, affecting locations in 23 states, including Utah. Whole Foods is offering a full refund on the product, which was packaged in clear plastic wrap and sold after Nov. 1.

All desserts made by Rolf's, which are sold through retail outlets, wholesalers and online, are being recalled after being connected to several outbreaks of staphylococcus aureus food poisoning. The bacteria produces toxins in foods and can cause nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps and diarrhea.

A total of 100 cases have been reported from four separate events in November and December, most of them in Illinois and Wisconsin.

The FDA recommends disposing of the desserts in a sealed container so people and animals cannot access or eat them. The company is working with retailers and restaurants to remove and discard the contaminated products from shelves.

— Wendy Leonard