Earlier this month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warned consumers to avoid some caramel apples after at least 30 people in 10 states have been infected with Listeriosis due to Listeria monocytogenes. This week a third candy maker is recalling caramel apples, the government said, out of concern that its apples may be tainted with Listeria as well.

The Food and Drug Administration announced today that St. Louis-based Merb’s Candies is recalling caramel apples because the company bought the fruit from a supplier that could be a source for the recent outbreak that has killed five people and sickened at least 30 others.

Merb’s Candies brand Bionic Apples and Double Dipped Apples are both being recalled, after having been sold in the St. Louis area at local supermarkets, as well as through mail orders around the country. Caramel apples available from Sept. 8, 2014 through Nov. 25 are part of the recall.

While the apples are no longer available for purchase, the FDA recommends that if you have any of the affected caramel apples you dispose of the product in a secure container to avoid potential contamination to animals.

Consumers who have any product may return it to the store where purchased or dispose of it per the advice of the CDC — in that secure container.

Consumers with questions may contact the firm at customercare.merbscandies@gmail.com or during normal business hours Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST at (314) 832-7206.

Previously, California Snack Foods and Missouri-based Happy Apple recalled caramel apples.

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