You know the saying "an apple a day keeps the doctor away"?  Well, that might have to be rewritten to say "a Granny Smith or Gala apple a day will send you to the doctor right away."

After the presence of Listeria on Granny Smith and Gala apples, a nationwide recall has been ordered.

Consumers that may have purchased Granny Smith, Gala apples or even caramel apples are encouraged to call their grocery store to find out if the apples have been supplied from Bidart Bros. or an unknown source.  Because of the possible presence of Listeria, consumers are being urged to throw the apples away.

An apple processing plant detected traces of Listeria on the apples that may have been distributed the end of December, however there are concerns of possible contamination in the apples that may have been frozen or processed which would mean a longer shelf-life.

Listeria causes Listeriosis, a bacteria infection that attacks the central nervous system.  It can be especially serious for pregnant women and people with impaired immune systems and potentially could be fatal.  Symptoms include fever, severe headache, nausea and a stiff neck and may occur as many as two months after eating contaminated food.

More From KXRB