Map of Recalled Salmonella Eggs
CNN was kind enough to do a nice map of where all the bad eggs went - all 22:
.png)
Snow White Food Products Inc. Recalls Alfalfa Sprouts
Reason: Due to the presence of salmonella.
Pack/Codes: The recalled alfalfa sprouts are packaged in 3.5 ounce plastic clamshell containers. They have a UPC code of 0-46421-11236-6.
Distribution: [NY]: The product from the Brooklyn-based company was distributed in New York state and potentially elsewhere in the New York City region. Officials are investigating how broadly the sprouts were distributed.
FDA Final Rule to Ensure Egg Safety, Reduce Salmonella Illnesses went into Effect July 9
In the middle of a Salmonella Enteritidis Outbreak that will be counted in the hundreds or more, it is good to remember that "the U.S. Food and Drug Administration says that as many as 79,000 illnesses and 30 deaths due to consumption of eggs contaminated with the bacterium Salmonella Enteritidis may be avoided each year with new food safety requirements for large-scale egg producers." Here are the rules that went into effect July 9, 2010:
The new food safety requirements will become effective on July 9, 2010, through a rule for egg producers having 50,000 or more laying hens – about 80 percent of production. Among other things, it requires them to adopt preventive measures and to use refrigeration during egg storage and transportation.
Large-scale egg producers that produce shell eggs for human consumption and that do not sell all of their eggs directly to consumers must comply with the refrigeration requirements under the rule; this includes producers whose eggs receive treatments such as pasteurization. Similarly, those who transport or hold shell eggs must also comply with the refrigeration requirements by the same effective date.
Egg-associated illness caused by Salmonella is a serious public health problem. Infected individuals may suffer mild to severe gastrointestinal illness, short-term or chronic arthritis, or even death. Implementing the preventive measures would reduce the number of Salmonella Enteritidis infections from eggs by nearly 60 percent.
Salmonella Enteritidis can be found inside eggs that appear normal. If the eggs are eaten raw or undercooked, the bacterium can cause illness. Eggs in the shell become contaminated on the farm, primarily because of infection in the laying hens.
“Preventing harm to consumers is our first priority,” said Margaret A. Hamburg, M.D., commissioner of food and drugs. “Today's action will help prevent thousands of serious illnesses from Salmonella in eggs.”
The rule requires egg producers with fewer than 50,000 but at least 3,000 laying hens whose shell eggs are not processed with a treatment, such as pasteurization, to comply with the regulation by July 9, 2012.
Producers who sell all their eggs directly to consumers or have less than 3,000 hens are not covered by the rule.
Under the rule, egg producers whose shell eggs are not processed with a treatment, such as pasteurization must:
• Buy chicks and young hens only from suppliers who monitor for Salmonella bacteria
• Establish rodent, pest control, and biosecurity measures to prevent spread of bacteria throughout the farm by people and equipment
• Conduct testing in the poultry house for Salmonella Enteritidis. If the tests find the bacterium, a representative sample of the eggs must be tested over an eight-week time period (four tests at two-week intervals); if any of the four egg tests is positive, the producer must further process the eggs to destroy the bacteria, or divert the eggs to a non-food use
• Clean and disinfect poultry houses that have tested positive for Salmonella Enteritidis
• Refrigerate eggs at 45 degrees F during storage and transportation no later than 36 hours after the eggs are laid (this requirement also applies to egg producers whose eggs receive a treatment, such as pasteurization).
To ensure compliance, egg producers must maintain a written Salmonella Enteritidis prevention plan and records documenting their compliance. Egg producers covered by this rule must also register with the FDA. The FDA will develop guidance and enforcement plans to help egg producers comply with the rule.
During the 1990s, the FDA and the U.S. Department of Agriculture implemented a series of post-egg production safety efforts such as refrigeration requirements designed to inhibit the growth of bacteria that may be in an egg. While these steps limited the growth of bacteria, they did not prevent the initial contamination from occurring.
The new rule is part of a coordinated strategy between the FDA and the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). The FDA and the FSIS will continue to work closely together to ensure that egg safety measures are consistent, coordinated, and complementary.
In addition to the new safety measures being taken by industry, consumers can reduce their risk of foodborne illness by following safe egg handling practices. The FDA reminds consumers to buy eggs that have been refrigerated, make sure eggs in the carton are clean and not cracked, and cook eggs and foods containing eggs thoroughly.
Salmonella spurs Egg Recall from Wright County Egg
.jpg)
Eggs produced by the farms of Wright County Egg of Galt, Iowa, have been recalled because of potential salmonella contamination. Eggs affected by the recall were distributed in Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa and other states. The eggs are packaged under these brand names in varying carton sizes: Lucerne, Albertson, Mountain Dairy, Ralph's, Boomsma's, Sunshine, Hillandale, Trafficanda, Farm Fresh, Shoreland, Lund, Dutch Farms and Kemps.
Wright County Egg of Galt, Iowa is voluntarily recalling specific Julian dates of shell eggs produced by their farms because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections, endocarditis or arthritis.
Eggs affected by this recall were distributed to food wholesalers, distribution centers and foodservice companies in California, Illinois, Missouri, Colorado, Nebraska, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa. These companies distribute nationwide.
Eggs are packaged under the following brand names: Lucerne, Albertson, Mountain Dairy, Ralph’s, Boomsma’s, Sunshine, Hillandale, Trafficanda, Farm Fresh, Shoreland, Lund, Dutch Farms and Kemps. Eggs are packed in varying sizes of cartons (6-egg cartons, dozen egg cartons, 18-egg cartons) with Julian dates ranging from 136 to 225 and plant numbers 1026, 1413 and 1946. Dates and codes can be found stamped on the end of the egg carton. The plant number begins with the letter P and then the number. The Julian date follows the plant number, for example: P-1946 223.
There have been confirmed Salmonella enteritidis illnesses relating to the shell eggs and traceback investigations are ongoing.
Pennsylvania Agriculture Department Warns Consumers to Discard Raw Milk from Jersey Hollow Farm in Berks County
The Department of Agriculture today advised consumers who purchased raw milk from Norman Z. and Edith B. Sauder, of Jersey Hollow Farm in Kutztown, Berks County, to discard the product immediately because of potential bacterial contamination.
Raw milk is milk that has not been pasteurized.
A Department of Agriculture lab found Salmonella in a milk sample taken from the dairy on July 19, 2010. The bacteria's presence violates the Milk Sanitation Law.
The Sauders have agreed with the department's request to stop selling raw milk for human consumption.
Symptoms of Salmonella include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, headache and abdominal cramps. The symptoms can appear anywhere between six hours and four days after infection.
The department is moving to suspend Jersey Hollow Farm's raw milk permit until additional milk samples are tested and found to be free of Salmonella and other pathogens. The farm also must pass a state inspection before raw milk sales can resume.
For more information about food safety, visit www.agriculture.state.pa.us
Miravalle Foods Inc. Recalls Chile California & Chile Nuevo Mexico Peppers Because of Possible Salmonella Health Risk
Miravalle Foods, Inc. S. El Monte, CA is recalling 37,318 lbs. of "Miravalle Chile California & Miravalle Chile Nuevo Mexico" Brand Peppers" distributed between March 15th and May 6th 2010 to some customers in CA, CO, UT, NC, NE, ID, OR and NV because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
The recalled Peppers distributed to a small group of customers through direct delivery, distributors and retail stores are in 3oz. (UPC Code: 7 12810-00301 & 7 12810-00304), 6 oz. (UPC Code: 7 12810-60001 & 7 1280-60004), 8oz. (UPC Code: 7 12810-00802 & 7 12810-00803) and 16 oz. (UPC Code: 7 12810-16005 & 7 12810-16007) clear plastic packages under the "Miravalle Chile California & Miravalle Chile Nuevo Mexico" Brand and in bulk 25lb. boxes.
Fresh Express Recalls Romaine-based Salads with Use-by Dates of May 13-16th Due to Possible Health Risk
May 24, 2010 – Salinas, California – Fresh Express, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Chiquita Brands International, is voluntarily recalling a specific selection of Fresh Express Romaine-based ready-to-eat salads with the expired Use-by Dates of May 13th through May 16th and an "S" in the Product Code because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. The recall extends only to products with these Use-by Dates and Product Codes and sold in the following states: Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Louisiana, Nebraska, Montana, Missouri, Iowa, Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Nevada, Arizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, Oregon, Washington, Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, Utah, Wyoming, North Dakota, and South Dakota. No other Fresh Express salads are included in the recall.
The recall notification is being issued out of an abundance of caution based on an isolated instance in which a single package of Fresh Express Hearts of Romaine Salad with a use by date of May 15 was confirmed positive for Salmonella in a random sample test conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Salmonella is an organism that may cause fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and possibly bloody diarrhea in healthy individuals. It can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Consumers with these symptoms should consult their health care provider.
Because it is still possible that products bearing the Use-by Dates of May 13th -16th and an "S" in the Product Code could be on store shelves, this recall extends to retailers as well as consumers. Fresh Express’ experience is that it is highly unlikely that any of the potentially affected salads are still on store shelves or for sale to consumers due to the expired Use-by Dates. Fresh Express believes that it is important to alert consumers who might still possess one of the potentially affected expired salads to immediately dispose of it.
Fresh Express is collaborating closely with FDA and immediately upon learning of the single confirmed positive test completed a companywide product traceability review.
Salads included in the recall notification include the specific selection of Fresh Express Romaine-based salads listed below with Use-by Dates of May 13th through May 16th and an "S" in the Produce Code. No other Fresh Express salads are included in the recall.
Instructions for Consumers:
Check your refrigerator for Fresh Express Romaine-based salads with use-by dates of May 13th through May 16th and an "S" in the Product Code. The Use-by Date is found in the upper right hand corner of the package with the Product Code located immediately underneath. For Fresh Express Gourmet Café Salads, the Use-by Date and Product Code are located on the bottom of the salad bowl.
Consumers who may have potentially affected product are asked to make a note of the Use-by Date and Product Code, immediately dispose of the product, and contact a Fresh Express consumer representative toll-free at (800) 242-5472, 24 hours per day, Monday - Friday, to obtain a full refund.
Instructions for Retailers:
All Product Codes indicated are well-beyond their Use-by Date, however, retailers are asked to reconfirm with their distribution centers and all individual stores to ensure that no product remains in their inventory or at store locations. A separate letter and instructions will be forwarded to all relevant Fresh Express customers. For additional details, retailers are asked to contact their Fresh Express customer service representative.
Complete Listing of Recalled Fresh Express Salad Products, Use-by Dates and Product Codes
FDA Adds 16 to Salmonella Seafood Import Alert
On May 13, 2010, U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) added 16 companies to Import Alert #16-81, “Detention Without Physical Examination of Seafood Products Due to the Presence of Salmonella”. (IA 16-81). FDA has enforcement jurisdiction and promulgates regulations related to all seafood products. This applies to both imported and domestic seafood. According to Benjamin L. England, of FDAImports.com, LLC, “…this Import Alert consolidates three prior FDA Alerts. This Alert covers food manufacturers from countries all over the globe. Because these shipments are detained without even being inspected, even clean shipments will end up detained. If a foreign company is unlucky enough to be on this Red List, significant and unnecessary added costs will be applied to each of their shipments. Successfully petitioning FDA to get off the Import Alert, though often time-consuming, is essential to making a profit and gaining market share in the U.S. seafood market.”
Hundreds of manufacturers have already been placed on Import Alert #16-81, charged with shipping seafood contaminated with Salmonella. In order for a product or manufacturer to be placed on IA 16-81 -- which automatically detains the product at the Customs Port of Entry without inspecting the product -- the foreign firm needs only to have shipped Salmonella contaminated seafood to the USA once. “Getting placed on this Alert can devastate a seafood processor,” stated Mr. England, “largely because it results in expensive delays, storage fees, shipping charges and private lab testing. Somebody has to pay for all of that and often the importer places that cost on the foreign processor.”
With the recent infusion of taxpayer funds this fiscal year (2010) and another proposed increase for the next, FDA has significantly added more inspection and testing resources to track down violations and enforce US requirements at the border. With added money also comes more political incentive for strong FDA enforcement.
If you are a manufacturer and have a product that has been placed on IA 16-81, currently have entries subject to detention for alleged Salmonella contamination, or are concerned about your firm’s FDA compliance, let FDAImports.com, LLC show you "the way through.” FDAImports.com, LLC is a consulting firm that can assist in avoiding being placed on the Red List of an Import Alert, as well as advise and correct violations in order to be removed from Import Alert #16-81 and get your products back on the market. Don’t let a Warning Letter or a Release with Comment progress into being Red Listed on Import Alert #16-81. FDAImports.com urges manufacturers or importers who are in one of the above mentioned situations, or who desire to avoid costly business problems, to contact them promptly for advice adapted to your specific situation.
Wo Chong Alfalfa and Clover Sprouts Salmonella Recall
The California Department of Public Health is urging consumers who purchased Wo Chong brand alfalfa and clover sprouts not to eat the products due to possible salmonella contamination. The products are distributed by Wo Chong Co. Inc., San Francisco.
Routine testing of the sprouts found positive results for salmonella, said Al Lundeen, the department’s deputy director of public affairs. No illnesses have been linked to the sprouts, he said.
.jpg)
The Wo Chong sprouts were marketed in 4-ounce clamshells and 1-pound bags. The suspect clamshells are identified with a green sticker containing the words “alfalfa spouts” or a red sticker identifying the contents as clover sprouts.
Also on the stickers are Wo Chong Co. Inc. and the Universal Product Codes. A square label with “clover sprouts” in red letters and a circular blue Wo Chong symbol can be found on the 1-pound bags. The Department of Public Health is contacting approximately 25 primary distributors to identify the retail consignees, Lundeen said.
Shoppers who purchased any of the products should immediately discard them or return them to the point of purchase for a refund, said Lundeen, who added that the health department was attempting to determine how much of the potentially contaminated sprouts had been distributed and to what locations.
Tom's Barbecue Potato Chips Recalled Due to Salmonella Risk
Tom's Barbecue Potato Chips made by Lance, Inc. in Charlotte NC. www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm206881.htm This is a voluntary recall and these chips were also sold nationwide.
They possibly contain the toxin Salmonella. There have been no reports of illnesses regarding these chips. These are for the 1 oz., 2.25 oz., and 8.5 oz. ounce sizes. Symptoms of Salmonella are high fever, severe headache, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Long term complications can include severe arthritis and can be fatal to small children, the elderly or those with compromised immune systems.
Salmonella-tainted Black Peppercorns Recalled
Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tommy Irvin is alerting consumers to the recall of some black peppercorns that may be contaminated with Salmonella.
.jpg)
Perfect Candy & Packaging Co., Reading, Pa., is recalling 2-ounce bags of Whole Black Peppercorns with an H.D.W. Foods Inc. label and UPC# 080869654293. The product is part of a larger recall of black pepper manufactured by the Mincing Overseas Spice Company and may be contaminated with Salmonella.
Salmonella can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.
For a complete list of recalls dealing with black pepper from the Mincing Overseas Spice Company, see the FDA website at: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
More products recalled due to potential salmonella risk
The following products are being recalled because they could be contaminated with salmonella, an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children and others with weakened immune systems:
Modern Products Inc. is recalling specific lots of various seasoning products with brands such as Spike, Vegit and Vege-Sal. No illnesses have been reported, according to the Mequon, Wis., company. The recalled products were distributed nationwide and sold in retail stores. For more information, consumers can call 262-242-2400.
Perfect Candy & Packaging Co. is recalling 2-ounce bags of whole black peppercorns with H.D.W. Foods Inc. labels. The pepper products were distributed nationwide. No illnesses have been reported, according to the Reading, Pa., company. For more information, consumers can call 610-373-3253.
Spice Industrial Inc. Recalls Lian How White Sesame Seeds Because of Possible Health Risk
SPICE INDUSTRIAL GROUP INC., of City of Industry, Ca is recalling LIAN HOW WHITE SESAME SEEDS supplied by Specialty Commodities Corp. distributed from November 6 to December 11, 2009, because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis. For more information on Salmonella please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website at http://www.cdc.gov.
Spice Industrial Group Inc. was notified of this contamination by our supplier, Specialty Commodities Corp. To date no illnesses have been reported to Spice Industrial Group Inc.
The affected Lian How White Sesame Seeds packaged in 5lb white plastic bags with Specialty Commodities Corp. labels were distributed to retail markets, restaurants and wholesalers in Southern California between November 6, 2009 and December 11, 2009.
FDA Update on the Investigation into the Salmonella Montevideo Outbreak - Daniele International, Mincing Overseas Spice and Wholesome Spice Implicated
As part of the Salmonella Montevideo investigation, the Food and Drug Administration has been actively investigating the supply chain of black and red pepper supplied to Daniele International Inc., Pascoag, R.I.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 245 people have been infected with a matching strain of Salmonella Montevideo in at least 44 states and the District of Columbia. Analysis of an epidemiologic study comparing foods eaten by individuals who were sickened identified salami/salame as a possible source of illness: http://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/montevideo/index.html.
Daniele International Inc. recalled a variety of ready-to-eat Italian-style meats after Salmonella was associated with its products. A complete listing of the recalled products, which are regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service, can be found at: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/Recall_006_2010_Products/index.asp.
As a result of the investigation, a number of spice products are now being recalled by Mincing Overseas Spice Company, Dayton, N.J.; and Wholesome Spice Company, Brooklyn, N.Y. Both supply pepper to Daniele International Inc. Based on recent test results, Mincing Overseas Spice Company and Wholesome Spice Company are conducting new recalls.
Products Recalled by Mincing Overseas Spice Company
A. Black Pepper Lot 3258 in 50-pound, 25-pound, and 20-pound cartons with Mincing Overseas Spice Company’s name on the outside
B. Black Pepper Lot 3309 in 50-pound, 25-pound, and 20-pound cartons with Mincing Overseas
Products Recalled by Wholesome Spice Company
A. Ground Red Pepper sold to Daniele International Inc.
B. Whole Black Pepper sold to Daniele International Inc.
C. Crushed Red Pepper sold from April 6, 2009, to Jan. 20, 2010 in 25-pound boxes (Recalled on Feb. 25.)
Both Mincing Overseas Spice Company and Wholesome Spice Company sell products directly to commercial customers, who may have incorporated them into their own products. The FDA is working with the suppliers to identify the customers who received the recalled product and determine if further recalls are necessary. Consumers are encouraged to frequently check FDA’s website for the latest company recall information.
The FDA is working with CDC, USDA-FSIS, the state of Rhode Island and other states to determine the extent to which pepper played in the Salmonella Montevideo outbreak. The Agency has collected 153 composite pepper samples, which represent more than 3,600 subsamples, at various locations in the supply chain. Samples from four products collected at Daniele International Inc. tested positive for Salmonella. Samples of crushed red pepper have tested positive for the outbreak strain; the FDA is working to determine if the type of Salmonella found in the other products also matches the outbreak strain.
As part of FDA’s investigation, the Agency collected samples of pepper from other customers who received product from Mincing Overseas Spice Company and Wholesome Spice Company. Thus far, two of the samples collected have tested positive for types of Salmonella not associated with the current national Salmonella Montevideo outbreak. These findings prompted Heartland Foods Inc. to recall course ground pepper and Mincing Overseas Spice Company to recall black pepper lot 3309.
Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein Recalled by FDA Due to Salmonella Risk
A wide range of processed foods - including soups, snack foods, dips and dressings - are being recalled after salmonella was discovered in a flavor-enhancing ingredient.
.jpg)
Food and Drug Administration officials said Thursday that the ingredient, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, is used in thousands of food products, though it was unclear how many of them will be recalled. The FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said no illnesses or deaths have been reported.
The officials said the recall, which dates to products manufactured since Sept. 17, is expected to expand in the coming days and weeks. It only involves hydrolyzed vegetable protein manufactured by Las Vegas-based Basic Food Flavors Inc.
The agency said Thursday it collected and analyzed samples at the Las Vegas facility after one of the company's customers discovered the salmonella. The FDA then confirmed the presence of a strain of salmonella in the company's processing equipment.
Jeffrey Farrar, associate commissioner for food protection at the FDA, said Thursday that many of the products that contain the product are not dangerous because the risk of salmonella is eliminated after the food has been cooked. Many of the foods involved in the recall are ready-to-eat items that are not cooked by the consumer. "At this time we believe the risk to consumers is very low," Farrar said.
A list of more than 50 recalled foods on the FDA Web site include several dips manufactured by T. Marzetti, Sweet Maui Onion potato chips manufactured by Tim's Cascade Snacks, Tortilla Soup mix made by Homemade Gourmet and several prepackaged "Follow Your Heart" tofu meals manufactured by Earth Island. The FDA said the contamination was discovered by a new tracking system implemented to improve tracing of foodborne illnesses.
Are Spices the Culprit in Kroger's Salmonella Recall?
Kroger Co. is recalling two onion soup and dip mixes because of possible salmonella contamination. The grocer said an ingredient in its Kroger Onion Soup & Dip Mix and Kroger Beefy Onion Soup & Dip Mix may have been contaminated with the bacteria.
The mixes were sold in a number of states and are being recalled from its Kroger, Dillons, Fry's, King Soopers, City Market, Smith's, Food 4 Less, Jay C, Scott's, Owen's, Baker's, Gerbes, Hilander and Pay Less stores.
No illnesses have been reported in connection with the products. But eating food contaminated with salmonella can cause salmonellosis, a potentially life-threatening bacterial foodborne illness.
Wholesome Spice Recalls 25 Lb. Boxes Of Crushed Red Pepper Because Of Possible Health Risk
Wholesome Spice of Brooklyn, NY is recalling all lots of 25 lb boxes of Crushed Red Pepper sold between 4/6/09 and 1/20/10, because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
The 25 lb boxes of Crushed Red pepper were distributed in the Northeastern U.S.. The product was not sold on the retail level to consumers.
The Crushed Red Pepper product is packaged in a clear plastic bag which is placed inside of a cardboard box with an adhesive white label with a blue border and blue and black lettering. The brand name on the product labels is WHOLESOME SPICES. The product name is listed as CRUSHED RED PEPPER.
In the above news release, Wholesome Spice said, “It cannot be determined at this time if this product has been related to any illnesses to date.”
But Ernest M. Julian, Rhode Island’s chief of food protection, said it was “highly likely” that Wholesome’s crushed red pepper had led to illness.
The 238 people who had confirmed cases of salmonella in this outbreak included at least one who had eaten Daniele’s “Hot Salame Panino.” The person did not have any of the panino left at home, but salmonella was found in a sample of panino from the Daniele plant and also in samples of Wholesome crushed red pepper.
“Can you say it definitely made someone sick? Not really,” Julian said. “Is it highly likely that was the cause of the illness? Yes.”
Salmonella causes diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps 12 to 72 hours after infection, and the illness usually lasts four to seven days. Most people recover without treatment, but infants, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems sometimes develop severe illness. In this outbreak, at least 46 people were hospitalized, but no deaths have been reported.
Nature Variety Recalls Salmonella-tainted Dog and Cat Food
Nature's Variety is recalling one lot of Chicken Formula Raw Frozen Diet for dogs and cats because the products could be contaminated with salmonella. Contaminated pet food can infect animals as well as people who have not handled the products properly. The company received one customer complaint linked to a lot not affected by the recall. There have been no reported pet or human illnesses linked to the recalled lot, according to the Lincoln, Neb., company. The recall involves different forms, including chicken medallions, patties and chubs, with a "best if used by" date of Nov. 10, 2010.
Trader Joe's chocolate chip chewy coated granola bars recalled due to Salmonella concern
Trader Joe's is recalling select lot codes of 7.4-ounce boxes of a certain type of granola bar because they may be contaminated with salmonella. The Monrovia-based grocery chain warns that boxes of "Trader Joe's Chocolate Chip Chewy Coated Granola Bars" with use by dates of 16JUL10H2 and 17JUL10HI may be affected, Trader Joe's officials said in a written statement.
"As a precaution," the statement said, "all of the product has been removed from sale and has been destroyed. To date, we have received no reports of illness related to these Chocolate Chip Chewy Coated Granola Bars."
The recalled bars were manufactured by Bloomfield Bakery, a subsidiary of Ralcorp Holdings Inc.
Merrick Beef Filet Squares recalled due to Salmonella concerns
The Food and Drug administration has warned owners not buy Merrick Beef Filet Squares after tests turned up positive for salmonella, which can sicken both people and pets.
The agency, which took the unusual step of issuing a recall notice itself rather than relying on the company, said the potentially contaminated treats were sold nationwide by Merrick Pet Care, based in Amarillo, Texas. The suspect squares are marked “Best By 111911.”
No known illnesses have been reported.
The FDA said routine testing turned up salmonella in December. A follow-up inspection of the company’s plant found faulty packaging and manufacturing processes.
The FDA said consumers should wash their hands having contact with the treats and to throw them way in a covered trash bin.
Hines Nut Company Announces Recall of Pine Nuts Because of Possible Health Risk
Hines Nut Company has initiated a recall of 270 packages of Pine Nuts, packaged under the brand name Harris Teeter Farmers Market. The Pine Nuts were purchased from Red River Foods in Camarillo, CA, and have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
The recalled product was sold in 8 oz foam trays wrapped in cellophane and carry the UPC code 0 72036 88121 0. The Pine Nuts were distributed solely to Harris Teeter Markets in North Carolina. Consumers who purchased this product between December 30, 2009, and January 14, 2010 should contact Hines Nut Company for information on how to return the product for a refund.
There have been no complaints or any reported illnesses related to the products to date.
The problem was discovered through routine sampling by the supplier, Red River Foods.
FDA Salmonella Health Alert for Merrick Beef Filet Squares Dog Treats Packaged and Distributed by Merrick Pet Care
The U. S. Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers not to use Merrick Beef Filet Squares for dogs distributed by Merrick Pet Care with a package date of “Best By 111911” because the product may be contaminated with Salmonella.
The product was distributed nationwide through retail stores and Internet sales.
Although no illnesses associated with these products have been reported, the FDA is advising consumers in possession of these products not to handle or feed them to their pets.
In December 2009, the FDA conducted routine testing of Merrick Beef Filet Squares and detected a positive finding for Salmonella. A follow-up inspection found deficiencies in the packaging and manufacturing processes.
Salmonella can affect both humans and animals. People handling dry pet treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the treats or any surfaces exposed to these products. Consumers should dispose of these products in a safe manner by securing them in a covered trash receptacle.
Healthy people infected with Salmonella may experience some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Although rare, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis (inflammation of the lining of the heart), arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their health care provider immediately.
Pets with Salmonella infections may become lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Some pets may experience only a decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected, but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed any of the affected product or is experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
The affected Merrick Beef Filet Squares were packaged in a 10-ounce green, red and tan re-sealable plastic bag.
Willamette Filbert Growers Recalls Salmonella Hazelnuts
An Oregon company is recalling nearly 30,000 pounds of shelled hazelnuts over concerns that they may be contaminated with salmonella. The Willamette Filbert Growers or Meridian Organic shelled hazelnuts were processed from Oct. 12 through Nov. 25. The hazelnuts were distributed in Oregon and California.
No illness have been reported. But salmonella infection can cause fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and sometimes more severe illness.
Pet Carousel pulls salmonella pig ears and beef hoof products
Pet Carousel of Sanger, California announced the action after tests by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) revealed the products contained salmonella, a bacterium that can infect humans and animals and cause serious health problems.
The action also comes on the heels of a warning the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued in November about the products.
At that time, the FDA said routine testing of the products detected salmonella. The agency also said the products were made "under conditions that facilitate cross-contamination within batches or lots."
Agency officials said they had not received any reports of illnesses linked to the pet treats, but warned consumers not to handle them or give them to their animals.
The company recalled all pig ear treats -- packaged under the brand names Doggie Delight, Pork Tasteez and Pet Carousel -- with the following item numbers:
• 18100-P Bulk
• 18016-P 10-pk red mesh bag
• 18120-P 20-pk red mesh bag
The company also recalled all varieties of its beef hooves -- packaged under the brand names Choo Hooves, Dentley's, Doggie Delight, and Pet Carousel -- with the following item numbers:
• 1506-K 5 lb. bulk
• 1507-K 10 lb. bulk
• 1520-K 20 lb. bulk
• 12125-T 10-pk vinyl bag
• 12110-T 10-pk, vinyl bag
• 12111-T 10-pk, vinyl bag
• 12122-T 10 lb., bulk
• 1503-K 3-pk, vinyl bag
• 1510-K 10-pk ,vinyl bag
• 1405-S 5 lb., bulk
• 1408-S 10-pk, vinyl bag
• 1410-S 10 lb., bulk
• 1420-S 20 lb., bulk
• 90058-H Cheese/& Bacon Stuffed Hoof, bulk
• 90056-H Peanut Butter Stuffed Hoof, bulk
• 17005-R Rope toy with Hooves.
Pet Carousel said all sizes and lots of the pork ears purchased on or after August 16, 2009, and all beef hoof products in all varieties purchased on or after September 6, 2009, are included in the recall.
The company said it has notified its consignees and requested they return the recalled products and remove them from store shelves.
"Out of an abundance of caution and concern for public safety, Pet Carousel is issuing this press release to inform consumers of potential risks and to ensure that all affected product has either been returned or otherwise removed from use," the company said.
Salmonella can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever in humans, the FDA. In rare cases, it can cause more serious health problems, including arterial infections, inflammation of the lining of the heart, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms.
In pets, salmonella can cause lethargy, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting, the FDA said. Some pets may only experience a decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain.
The FDA also warned that pets can be carriers of salmonella and infect humans. Pet owners handling dry food or treats tainted with the bacterium can also become infected.
The FDA said consumers should thoroughly wash their hands after touching these potentially tainted treats, and also any surfaces exposed to the products.
Humans or pets who exhibit signs of illnesses after handling or eating these recalled products should seek medical attention, the FDA said.
Timco Worldwide Recalls Salmonella Watermelons
Timco Worldwide recalls cases of seedless watermelons because of potential salmonella contamination.
Timco has revealed that it is recalling 812 cases of large seedless watermelons, following the discovery of salmonella in the outside rind of a piece of fruit on 19 November.
The California, US-based group said that cases had been shipped to seven customers, including grocers, wholesalers and processors in California and Texas, with only one positive result discovered.
No illnesses had been reported, according to the group's director of sales and marketing Rex Lawrence, with the watermelons being pulled from distribution.
CFIA warn public not to consume NutriSystem's Peanut Butter Granola Bars
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is warning the public not to consume the NutriSystem brand Peanut Butter Granola Bars because the product may be contaminated with salmonella.
The affected product is sold in 40-gram packages bearing UPC 6 32674 37016 7 and lot code TC05219B.
This product is sold exclusively through the Canadian NutriSystem website , the toll-free phone number 1-877-368-8446, and the Shopping Channel.
Five Crowns Marketing Voluntarily Recalling Cantaloupes Packed under the Majesty Label Because of a Potential Health Risk Due to Possible Contamination of Salmonella
Five Crowns Marketing, Brawley, California is issuing this release today voluntarily recalling cantaloupes packed under the Majesty label because of a potential health risk due to possible contamination of Salmonella. No illnesses have been reported to date, and the company is working with FDA to inform consumers of this recall.
Salmonella is an organism, which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Consumers who may have eaten this product and are experiencing the above symptoms should consult their health care provider.
The recall comes after a Lab analysis conducted by a consignee on a lot of cantaloupes packed by Five Crowns Marketing on November 4, 2009, resulted in a confirmed positive for Salmonella. Therefore, out of an abundance of caution Five Crowns Marketing is issuing this warning and voluntary recall on all cantaloupes shipped from the same lot.
Five Crowns Marketing traced back the entire lot of cantaloupes and is advising all customers who received the recalled cantaloupes. Although based on harvest and shipping dates from November 4 through November 13, 2009 would indicate that the cantaloupes have now passed through the distribution chain with no reported illnesses. The cantaloupes in the identified lots were harvested and shipped to wholesalers, retailers, and food service operators in the states of Alabama, California, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee.
Cantaloupes were packed in various sizes with and without individual label stickers. All cartons carry the label "Majesty" and are further identified with lot numbers 198 2 or 198 3, packed dates Nov 4, Nov 6, and Nov 10. Also those cantaloupes that contain stickered labels are identified with the label "Majesty".
Five Crowns Marketing Voluntarily Recalling Pantaloupes Packed under the Majesty Label Because of a Potential Health Risk Due to Possible Contamination of Salmonella
Five Crowns Marketing, Brawley, California is issuing this release today voluntarily recalling cantaloupes packed under the Majesty label because of a potential health risk due to possible contamination of Salmonella. No illnesses have been reported to date, and the company is working with FDA to inform consumers of this recall.
Salmonella is an organism, which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Consumers who may have eaten this product and are experiencing the above symptoms should consult their health care provider.
The recall comes after a Lab analysis conducted by a consignee on a lot of cantaloupes packed by Five Crowns Marketing on November 4, 2009, resulted in a confirmed positive for Salmonella. Therefore, out of an abundance of caution Five Crowns Marketing is issuing this warning and voluntary recall on all cantaloupes shipped from the same lot.
Five Crowns Marketing traced back the entire lot of cantaloupes and is advising all customers who received the recalled cantaloupes. Although based on harvest and shipping dates from November 4 through November 13, 2009 would indicate that the cantaloupes have now passed through the distribution chain with no reported illnesses. The cantaloupes in the identified lots were harvested and shipped to wholesalers, retailers, and food service operators in the states of Alabama, California, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee.
Cantaloupes were packed in various sizes with and without individual label stickers. All cartons carry the label "Majesty" and are further identified with lot numbers 198 2 or 198 3, packed dates Nov 4, Nov 6, and Nov 10. Also those cantaloupes that contain stickered labels are identified with the label "Majesty".
The health of all consumers is of the utmost importance to Five Crowns Marketing. With that in mind, even though the cantaloupes have passed through the distribution chain, we have taken immediate action to ensure that all cantaloupes are accounted for and out of the supply chain. We are working with all of our customers to insure that the cantaloupes are no longer being distributed.
Dog treats tainted with Salmonella
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is issuing this health alert to warn consumers not to use Pig Ears and Beef Hooves pet treats manufactured by Pet Carousel because the products may be contaminated with Salmonella. The products were distributed nationwide in both bulk and retail packaging for sale in pet food and retail chain stores. Pet Carousel is based in Sanger, Calif.
The products were manufactured under conditions that facilitate cross-contamination within batches or lots. Although no illnesses associated with these products have been reported, the FDA is advising consumers in possession of these products to not handle or feed them to their pets.
The affected pig ear products were packaged under the brand names Doggie Delight and Pet Carousel.
The affected beef hooves were packaged under the brand names Choo Hooves, Dentley’s, Doggie Delight, and Pet Carousel. All sizes and all lots of these products made by Pet Carousel are included in this alert.
Nut Butter Plant Has Salmonella Newport and Java Problem
The 36-year-old East Wind Community Inc., a commune in the Missouri Ozarks, has a Salmonella problem inside its nut butter manufacturing facility.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said its inspectors collected samples from inside the East Wind nut butter plant and its laboratory analysis discovered the presence of Salmonella.
East Wind manufactures Almond Butter, Peanut Butter, Organic Peanut Butter, Roasted Peanuts, Cashew Butter, Tahini and Organic Tahini. Tahini is seed butter made from sesame seeds. The commune has been making Nut Butters since the 1980s.
In Warning Letter sent to East Wind on Oct. 5, 2009, FDA said its considers products manufactured at the nut butter plant to be adulterated because they were "prepared, packed or held under insanitary conditions whereby [they] may have become contaminated with filth, or whereby [they] may have been rendered injurious to health."
FDA said samples were positive for Salmonella in seven different locations near both production lines. Serotypes S. Java was found in one sample, and S. Newport in the six others. FDA said five of the six S. Newport strains had identical Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis (PFGE) patterns.
"This is significant because these five samples were located in five different locations in both production rooms indicating that S. Newport may have been transported throughout your production areas and established niche areas of colonize," FDA's Kansas City District Director John W. Thorsky said in the letter to the commune.
One of the six S. Newport serotypes was found near where caps are applied to seal open containers of the ready-to-eat product. "This close proximity increases the potential of contamination of the product with Salmonella," Thorsky added.
The FDA warning urges East Wind to take "prompt and aggressive actions to eliminate the Salmonella contamination addressed in this letter."
"Bacteria may enter and/or be transported through a food plant by a variety of routes that include, but are not limited to: roof leaks; the shoes of employees, contractors, and visitors; the wheels of fork lifts, pallet movers, and moveable equipment; soiled pallets; soiled raw material packaging; on raw ingredients, particularly peanuts, tree nuts, and cocoa beans; and rodent vectors," FDA advises.
"Once established on production area floors, the organism can contaminate food and food-contact surfaces either through human or mechanical means."
East Wind's Internet sales site makes no mention of the Salmonella problem at its plant, which is located on County Road 547 near Tecumseh, MO. The site does say its products were not involved with the Salmonella outbreak involving products made by Peanut Corporation of America, which resulted in 700 illnesses and nine deaths nationwide in late 2008 and early 2009.
Mother Jones Magazine carried a story on East Wind in 1984 by Kathy Bennett, a commune member.
"We've chosen," Bennett wrote, "to base our society on cooperation ... as an alternative to the material wastefulness, competitiveness, and isolation of the "outside" world. Thus, we hold our land, labor, and businesses in common.
"All income generated by our activities belongs to the community, and we decide as a group what projects we'll undertake, what goods we'll purchase, and how we'll divide them. Since we share the use of our vehicles and laundry and kitchen facilities, we need fewer of them to provide "enough."
The commune owns about 1,045 acres in the Missouri Ozarks near the Arkansas border.
With the exception of some daily chore assignments, commune members set their own work routines.
Salmonella-tainted Cantaloupe Recalled
Raley's grocers is recalling 1,120 cartons of Del Monte cantaloupe sold in Northern California and Nevada after routine testing detected salmonella in some of the produce, according to the California Department of Public Health.
The cantaloupe was sold throughout the San Francisco Bay Area at Raley's and its subsidiaries, Nob Hill Foods and Food Source.
The cantaloupes were purchased between Oct. 5 and Friday, and consumers can exchange the recalled fruit for a full refund.
Salmonella is a bacterium that causes one of the most common enteric (intestinal) infections in the United States – Salmonellosis. In some states (e.g. Georgia, Maryland), salmonellosis is the most commonly reported cause of enteric disease, and overall it is the second most common bacterial foodborne illness reported (usually slightly less frequent than Campylobacter infection).
The reported incidence of Salmonella illnesses is about 14 cases per each 100,000 persons (MMWR Weekly, 2006), amounting to approximately 30,000 confirmed cases of salmonellosis yearly in the U.S. (CDC, 2005, October 13). In 2005, just over 36,000 cases were reported from public health laboratories across the nation, representing a 12 percent decrease compared with the previous decade, but a 1.5 percent increase over 2004 (CDC, 2007).
California Warns Consumers Not to Eat "Queen Victoria" and "Tubby" Bunched Spinach
The California Department of Public Health warned consumers not to eat “Queen Victoria” and “Tubby” bunched spinach because they may be contaminated with salmonella, which can cause serious illness.
The 12-count and 24-count spinach bunches were bound with a twist tie which says“PLU 4090 UPC 33383-65200.” The twist tie associated with the “Queen Victoria” label has the Queen Victoria logo on it. The twist tie for the Tubby label has a generic spinach band on it.
Of the 1,715 cartons of recalled bunched spinach, a total of 1,515 cartons were packed under the “Queen Victoria” label and distributed to California, Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, and to British Columbia, Ontario, and Manitoba in Canada. The remaining 200 cartons were packed under the “Tubby” label and distributed in California and New York. The recalled spinach was harvested September 1 through September 3, and distributed to retail, food service and wholesale buyers. The recalled bunched spinach was packed in 12-count and 24-count spinach bunches in cardboard boxes with “Spinach” printed on the side panel, in wire bound crates or reusable plastic containers.
Muranaka Farm Knows Where Parsley Was & Where It's Going--Now Wants It Back
Salmonella-related recalls lately have been all over the spice rack. This time, parsley is on the recall list, but no illnesses have yet been associated with it.
Moorpark, CA's Muranake Farms Inc. is recalling 1,005 cases of 60-count bunched parsley because it may be contaminated with Salmonella.
Muranaka Farm's has a trace recall program that allows the company to immediately determine which customers purchased all 1,005 cases. Muranaka's food safety protocols also ensure the company was able to determine the amount of cases harvested, the crew harvesting the product, and the field on which the parsley was grown and harvested.
Product was distributed in the following 10 states: Arizona (30 cases), California (574 cases), Colorado (35 cases), Florida (60 Cases), Iowa (3 cases), Illinois (1 case), Missouri (7 cases), Tennessee (5 cases), Texas (278 cases) and Wisconsin (12 cases). These cases were distributed within both retail and foodservice outlets.
The product was shipped in a brown wax carton under the Muranaka Label with a parsley silhouette on the side. The bunches were banded using a red rubber band. The lot code 0023909 is on a sticker on the outside of the carton.
The recall was as the result of a voluntary sampling program conducted in cooperation with the FDA which revealed that the finished products contained the bacteria. Muranaka Farm, Inc. continues to work in cooperation with the FDA on this matter.
Consumers with questions may contact Muranaka Farm, Inc. at 805-529-0201 8AM-PM PST with any questions. We also urge consumers to visit their retailer to determine if the product they have purchased is from Muranaka Farm and is associated with Lot Code 0023909.
"The health of all consumers is of the utmost importance to every employee of our company. With that in mind, even though this product is over two weeks old and most likely past the useable shelf life, we have taken immediate actions to ensure that all product is accounted for and out of the supply chain. We are working with all of our customers to insure this product is no longer being distributed." said Greg Emi, President, Muranaka Farm, Inc.
Because of Muranaka Farm's trace recall program the company was able to immediately determine which customers purchased the product in question. Muranaka's food safety protocols also ensure the company was able to determine the amount of cases harvested, the crew harvesting the product, and the field on which the parsley was grown and harvested.
Michigan Candy Maker Recalls Chocolate-Covered Peanuts
Kilwin's Quality Confections, Inc. of Petoskey, MI, on Sept. 10 recalled all of our seven ounce packages of chocolate-covered peanuts, and bulk chocolate-covered peanuts, sold in our retail stores prior to April 1, 2009.
These package may be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.
Sometimes, an infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
The recalled chocolate-covered peanuts were sold in Kilwin's retail stores located in Michigan, Florida, Illinois, Wisconsin, Colorado, Rhode Island, Georgia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina.
The product comes in a seven ounce, gold foiled plastic package with a clear center section, and is labeled "Milk Chocolate Peanuts" and "Fresh dry roasted peanuts covered in creamy milk chocolate", Kilwin's Quality Confections, Petosky, MI 49770.
The barcode on the package is 001615. Additionally, the product was sold in bulk bins, by weight, at Kilwin's retail stores.
No illnesses are yet associated with the recall.
The potential for contamination was noted after our peanuts supplier voluntarily recalled their product because these peanuts originally came from the Peanut Corporation of America's now closed facility in Plainview, TX.
Kilwin's products purchased at our stores on or after April 1, 2009 are not subject to this recall.
Red Pepper Spice Recalled By Texas Coffee Co. For Salmonella Contamination
Red pepper spice sold by retailers in southeastern Texas and southwestern Louisiana is being recalled due to possible Salmonella contamination.
A Beaumont, TX -based coffee and spice packager issued the red pepper recall.
The Texas Coffee Co. said 3- and 8-ounce packages of Texjoy red pepper are being recalled because of potential contamination by salmonella bacteria.
No illnesses have yet been associated with this recalled.
Salmonella infection can cause flulike symptoms in otherwise-healthy people and death in young children, frail or elderly people and those with compromised immune systems.
The clear plastic packages bear lot numbers A29A07A2012, A28A07A2012 and A30A07A2012.
A Texas Coffee statement issued Monday says it received word of the potential contamination from its supplier.
The company says consumers can return pepper covered by the recall to their retailer for a refund. Questions can be directed to 1-800-259-3400.
Third Party Testing Fails In Latest Slow-Moving Cantaloupe Recall
Melon Acres has recalled cantaloupes distributed through Farm-Wey Produce of Lakeland, FL due to possible salmonella contamination.
The cantaloupes were shipped August 13th and 14th and were identified as 41 MG 10, Bin Numbers 4753-4980. These bins were distributed to Aldi's in Greenwood, Indiana and Meijer in Lansing, Michigan, Newport, Michigan, and Tipp City, Ohio.
The recall was issued following a testing on Tuesday, August 11, 2009 by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that revealed one out of twenty cantaloupes tested positive for Salmonella. The FDA reported the positive test to Melon Acres on Friday, August 21, 2009.
Why it has taken another eight days to recall the melons was a question not answered by the company press release issued on the FDA's website.
Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
As of this date, there have been no reports of illness. Further, the FDA and Melon Acres identified the field in which the contaminated sample was grown. No further shipments will be made from the source field. Melon Acres is currently working with the FDA to identify the source of contamination.
On August 7th, Primus Labs, a third party food safety auditing firm specializing in produce, inspected Melon Acres' fields and facilities regarding its food safety practices. Melon Acres received grades of excellent/good respectively, in this audit.
Safeway Joins In Beef Packers Inc.'s Salmonella Recall In Nine Western States
In cooperation with Beef Packers, Inc.’s (Cargill's) recall of 825,769 pounds of ground beef linked to an outbreak of salmonellosis, Pleseanton, CA-based Safeway Inc. is recalling fresh ground beef products sold between June 6 through July 14, 2009, at stores in Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, South Dakota and Wyoming.
While the recalled product is no longer in stores, Safeway is asking its customers to check all ground beef in their freezers.
Fresh ground beef products sold at both the full-service counter and in the self-service area on the dates listed above, should be discarded or returned for a full refund. These products include fresh ground beef, fresh ground beef patties and fresh meat loaf.
Multi-State Salmonella Newport Outbreak Leads To Huge Ground Beef Recall; Consumers At Risk In Four Western States
The multi-state Salmonella Newport outbreak centered on Colorado has taken new twist with a huge beef recall out of California being announced today by the U. S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety & Inspection Service.
Target of the recall is an estimated 825,769 pounds of ground beef products manufactured by Fresno, CA-based Beef Packers Inc. From there, the ground beef was sold to grocery stores in Arizona, California, Colorado, and Utah; which then repacked it for sale to consumers.
No list of retailers selling the dangerously contaminated ground beef in the four states has yet been issued by FSIS, which it is suppose to do under its own policy.
In a prepared statement, FSIS said: "As a result of an ongoing investigation into an outbreak of Salmonella Newport associated with ground beef products, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) notified FSIS of the situation. Epidemiological and traceback investigations conducted by FSIS and CDPHE determined that there is an association between the fresh ground beef products and illnesses reported in Colorado. The illnesses were also linked through the epidemiological investigation by their uncommon pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) pattern found in PulseNet, a national network of public health and food regulatory agency laboratories coordinated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention."
We previously reported that the strain of Salmonella Newport under investigation in Colorado is resistant to many normal antibiotics.
Treatment failure in infected individuals and increase risk of hospitalization is possible.
One "Lot" Of Cilantro Recalled By Frontera Produce; Keeps Retailer List Secret
Frontera Produce, of Texas, is recalling a lot of cilantro that may be contaminated with Salmonella, according to The Packer. Frontera is not, however, releasing to the public the names of the retailers that received the recalled lot. According to the story: Frontera identified the lot as 118122, and said it was distributed to two retail chains that have stores in Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado, Louisiana and New Mexico. Frontera did not identify the retailers. Frontera said it has advised both supermarket chains of the situation and provided each with case tag identification. Consumers are advised to destroy the cilantro which could have been purchased between July 20-27. The cilantro bunches have a white twist tie with pink lettering spelling the word ‘Cilantro’ and the Universal Product Code number 033383801049. If Frontera is honestly trying to have consumers heed the recall, they need to provide the names of the retailers. And FDA should be requiring the information to be public as well. Frontera was previously named as a defendant in litigation following last summers SalmonellaSaint Paul outbreak. In that case, the plaintiffs' left-over jalapeno peppers, purchased at Wal-Mart, tested positive for Salmonella Saint Paul. Wal-Mart disclosed that the peppers in question were distributed by Frontera.
King Soopers Recall First Time Ground Beef Recalled For Salmonella; And Strain Is A Dangerous One.
The 466,236 pound recall of ground beef by the Denver-based King Soopers grocery chain is going now in the history books as historic for two reasons:
1. For the first time in history, the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has recalled ground beef that is tainted with salmonella.
2. The strain of salmonella involved is resistant both to many antibiotics and to normal cooking temperatures. The ground beef from King Soopers sickened 14 people in Colorado with a half dozen slow to recover.
The King Soopers ground beef products were produced May 23-June 13 and bear"'EST. 6250" within the USDA Mark of Inspection, printed on the front of the packages.
At the time of the recall, the ground beef was no longer being sold, but customers were urged to check their freezers for stored product.
Salmonella can result in abdominal cramps, diarrhea and fever. Most people recover without treatment, but some require hospitalization. In rare cases, the organism can get into the blood and produce more severe illnesses.
14 Sick In Colorado As Denver-Based King Soopers Grocery Chain Recalls Nearly Half Million Pounds Of Ground Beef For Salmonella Contamination
From the Food Safety & Inspection Service (FSIS) of the United States Department of Agriculture:
WASHINGTON, July 22, 2009 - King Soopers, Inc., a Denver, Colo., establishment, is recalling approximately 466,236 pounds of ground beef products that may be linked to an outbreak of salmonellosis, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The products subject to recall include:
- 1-pound chubs of (93/7) ground beef. Each package bears the identifying case code "69558."
- 1 - 1.25-lb. tray packs of (96/4) ground beef. Each package bears the identifying case code "67164."
- 1 - 1.25-lb. tray packs of (96/4) ground beef. Each package bears the identifying case code "67664."
- 1 - 1.25-lb. tray packs of (93/7) ground beef. Each package bears the identifying case code "67663."
- 1 - 1.25-lb. tray packs of (93/7) ground beef. Each package bears the identifying case code "67163."
- 2.5 - 3-lb. tray packs of (93/7) ground beef. Each package bears the identifying case code "67654."
- 6-pack trays of (93/7) ground beef patties. Each package bears the identifying case code "67106."
- 4-pack trays of (93/7) ground beef patties. Each package bears the identifying case code "67115."
The ground beef chub products bear a use-by/sell-by date between "05/31/09" and "06/21/09;" the tray packs of ground beef bear a use-by/sell-by date between "06.02.09" and "06.23.09;" and the ground beef patty products bear a use-by/sell-by date between "06.01.09" and "06.22.09."
The ground beef products were produced on various dates ranging from May 23, 2009 through June 13, 2009 and bear the establishment number "EST. 6250" within the USDA Mark of Inspection, which is printed on the front of the packages. The ground beef products were distributed to retail establishments in Colo., Kan., Mo., Neb., N.M., Utah and Wyo.
FSIS has no reason to believe that these products are still available for sale in commerce. However, consumers that may have purchased these fresh ground beef products between May 23 and June 23, 2009, and have stored them in the freezer should look for and discard or destroy these products.
As a result of an ongoing investigation into an outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium DT104 associated with ground beef products, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) notified FSIS of the problem.
Epidemiological investigations and a case control study conducted by CDPHE and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) determined that there is an association between the fresh ground beef products and 14 illnesses reported in Colorado. The illnesses were linked through the epidemiological investigation by their less common pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) pattern found in PulseNet, a national network of public health and food regulatory agency laboratories coordinated by the CDC.
FSIS would like to remind consumers of the importance of following food safety guidelines when handling and preparing raw meat. Ground beef should be cooked to a safe minimum internal temperature of 160° Fahrenheit.
This particular strain of Salmonella, Salmonella Typhimurium DT104, is resistant to many commonly prescribed drugs, which can increase the risk of hospitalization or possible treatment failure in infected individuals.
Consumers with questions regarding the recall should contact the company Hotline at 1-800-632-6900; media inquiries should be directed to Meghan Glynn, Media Relations Coordinator, at (513) 762-1304.
Consumption of food contaminated with Salmonella can cause salmonellosis, one of the most common bacterial foodborne illnesses. Salmonella infections can be life-threatening, especially to those with weak immune systems, such as infants, the elderly, and persons with HIV infection or undergoing chemotherapy. The most common manifestations of salmonellosis are diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within eight to 72 hours. Additional symptoms may be chills, headache, nausea and vomiting that can last up to seven days.
Consumers with food safety questions can "Ask Karen," the FSIS virtual representative available 24 hours a day at AskKaren.gov. The toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) is available in English and Spanish and can be reached from l0 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day.
Another Fresh Produce Recall; This Time It's Romaine Lettuce Due To Salmonella
.png)
From a Company Press Release:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 21, 2009
Tanimura & Antle, Inc. of Salinas, Calif. is voluntarily recalling one lot of romaine lettuce because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. No illnesses have been reported to date, and the company is working with FDA to inform consumers of this recall.
Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis. The recall comes after a random test conducted by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture tested positive.
Within hours of being notified yesterday, Tanimura & Antle, Inc. traced back the entire lot of romaine and advised all customers who received the recalled product of the test result. Tanimura & Antle, Inc. has instructed these customers to destroy the product. Although the recalled product is past its shelf life, the company is issuing this voluntary recall out of an abundance of caution to ensure that any product purchased by consumers will also be destroyed. Consumers who have purchased the recalled romaine as described above should not consume it, and should destroy the product.
The cartons of bulk or wrapped romaine being recalled are marked with the lot code 531380 and were harvested June 25 - July 2. This recall includes only this single lot of romaine; no other products are involved.
The recalled romaine was sold to retail, wholesale and food service outlets in Canada, Puerto Rico and the following 29 states: Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Texas, Massachusetts, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, North Carolina, Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Nevada, Ohio, Oregon, Utah, Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
FDA Testing Finds Salmonella Contamination In Fresh Cilantro From Texas Company
The McAllen, TX-based Sweet Superior Fruit Company Saturday recalled 104 cases of fresh cilantro because testing by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) was positive for salmonella.
No illnesses have yet been associated with this recall.
The tainted cilantro was sold from July 13 to 16 at the Sweet Superior outlet in McAllen. It was likely sold again at the retail level in the McAllen area or was used to manufacture other food products.
The produce company asks that its customers return the product or throw it away.
Milk Coop's Ingredient Recall Is Growing Rapidly--202 Products To Date
After the Plainview Milk Products Cooperative, located in Plainview, MN, discovered salmonella contamination on its equipment, it asked on June 29th that the ingredients its sold over the past two years to others-- instant nonfat dried milk, whey protein, fruit stabilizers and gums (thickening agents)--be recalled.
The third ingredient recall of 2009 is now growing rapidly. The Milk Coop did not sell anything to the general public. "The company sells these products to other industry customers, including distributors and manufacturers, who may have incorporated them into their own products, says the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA), which is maintaining a database of all products being recalled by customers of the Milk Coop.
That database is showing 202 products recalled as of today. The FDA database is the best place to go for specific product information, including code and lot numbers that you will be to make sure you do not have any potentially contaminated product in your pantry.
Here's a quick run-down on all the Milk Coop related recalls that have come in during the first nine days of July.
- Landover, MD-based Giant Foods recalled Giant Nonfat Dried Milk in 9.6-ounce size.
- The Stop & Shop Supermarket Company recalled its Non Fat Dried Milk products in 16 and 32-ounce sizes.
- Robert St.John recalled its Rich, Rich Hot Chocolate Mix in 13-ounce plastic bags packaged inside metal tin cans.
- Meijer Brand Instant Nonfat Dry Milk sold in Meijer Stores in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky was recalled.
- McClancy Seasoning recalled Alba Instant Non-Fat Dry Milk (25.6 oz), Alba Instant Non-Fat Dry Milk (9.6 oz), Alba Creamy Milk Chocolate Snack Shake Mix (6 oz), Alba Double Fudge Royale Snack Shake Mix (6 oz), Alba Smooth Vanilla Bean Snack Shake Mix (6 oz) and Alba Strawberry Banana Snack Shake Mix (6 oz).
- Precision Foods Inc., of St. Louis, Missouri, recalled certain Madagascar Vanilla cocoa. It is labeled as Land O Lakes International Drinking Cocoa “Madagascar Vanilla”.
- NOW Foods recalled a dozen of its NOW Foods products containing whey protein concentrate.
- CPI Foods, Inc Dallas, TX recalled approximately 15,000 packets of non-fat dry milk
- Max Muscle Sports Nutrition recalled Max Muscle products containing whey protein concentrate due to potential Salmonella contamination.
- Malt-O-Meal Company recalled “Maple & Brown Sugar Instant Oatmeal” and “Maple & Brown Sugar Instant Oatmeal” packets sold in “Variety” cartons.
- Trans-Packers Services Corp. of Brooklyn, NY, is recalled approximately 6,300 packets of Dairy Shake blends
- Traditions Meal Solutions recalled approximately 104,500 packets of 25-gram non-fat dry milk packets.
- Vital Pharmaceuticals Inc. of Davie, Fl recalled 17 lots of the powdered dietary supplement, Stealth Chocolate and Stealth Vanilla,
- C. F. Sauer Company, of Richmond, VA recalled brown gravy, brown gravy with mushrooms, brown gravy with onions, turkey gravy, pork gravy, country sausage gravy, country style gravy, Alfredo sauce mix, Cajun gumbo mix, and Hollandaise sauce mix produced under the Sauer’s, Gold Medal, and Piggly Wiggly labels because they contain instant non-fat dry that was milk manufactured by the Plainview Milk Products Cooperative.
- Westport, CT-baded Lewis Laboratories International, Ltd. is recalled Weigh Down Chocolate Flavor Nutrition Drink Mix
Meanwhile, back in Plainview, MN, the Milk Coop says: it "is presently in the process of disassembling all equipment in question for cleaning and is taking other precautionary measures such as the use of anti-microbial surface coatings in order to ensure environmental safety."
Salmonella Contamination Causes Wegmans To Pull Anaheim Peppers
Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. the 73-store supermarket chain with stores in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia, and Maryland, is recalling all Anaheim peppers its sold since June 11, 2009.
On July 2nd, Wegmans removed fresh Anaheim peppers from its produce departments due to the possibility of salmonella contamination. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently investigating the situation.
Anyone who purchased Anaheim peppers at Wegmans is asked just to throw them away. Refunds are available by contacting a Wegmans customer service desk.
Wegmans is a family owned company founded in 1916. For more information, please call Wegmans Consumer Affairs at 1-800-934-6267, x-4760, Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm.
Dunkin' Donuts Stops Pouring Beverages With Coop's Milk Products
When it learned that one of its suppliers had equipment contaminated with salmonella, Dunkin' Donuts removed hot chocolate and its Dunkaccino beverages from its menu.
Behind that action was the decision by Minnesota's Plainview Milk Products Cooperative to recall all the instant nonfat dried milk, whey protein, fruit stabilizers and gums or thickening agents that it has manufactured over the past two years because of possible Salmonella contamination.
“Product safety is our first priority and none of the Plainview products that were tested by government agencies and our independent labs found any signs of product contamination," Dallas Moe, coop general manager says. " After the product cleared quality testing and left our facility it was blended with other ingredients and that’s when contamination was found, but in situations like this it’s in the public’s best interest to be overly cautious.”
Further, according to the coop:
Plainview sells its products to other customers who may then incorporate them into their own products. Testing by the USDA of a product produced by one of Plainview’s customers found Salmonella. The product that was produced, a dairy shake powder, contained Plainview product that had been dry blended with a number of other ingredients not manufactured by Plainview.
As part of an investigation by the FDA prior to the recall, environmental and product testing was conducted at the Plainview facility. Product testing found no contamination. Environmental testing (swab samples from walls, ceilings, floors, and equipment) found some positive test results for Salmonella. Plainview is presently in the process of disassembling all equipment in question for cleaning and is taking other precautionary measures such as the use of anti-microbial surface coatings in order to ensure environmental safety.
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration issued this press release on the coop's recall.
Orca Repacked And Sold Setton Pistachios As California Prime Products & Orange County Orchards
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned consumers not to eat two brands of pistachios repacked by Orca Distribution West Inc. of Anaheim, California. The brands are:
The pistachios may be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. The products affected by the current warning are associated with an earlier recall by Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella Inc. The distributor, Orca, received and repacked some pistachios recalled by Setton Pistachio. The two brands of pistachios, California Prime Produce and Orange County Orchards, were distributed to retail locations in airports and hotels nationwide. Both brands were packaged in clear 6-ounce flexible plastic Ziploc bags, UPC Number: 8 10826 01116 2, with Sell By Dates of 7/30/09 and 8/30/09. FDA visited Orca as part of its follow-up checks on Setton Pistachio’s recall. The agency found that products that were part of the recall had been repacked and distributed by Orca under the California Prime Produce and Orange County Orchards brands.
Tested Positive For Salmonella Last September, Union International Just Gets Around To Recalling White Peppers With Red Labels
Somebody must have hit the "re-send" button overnight at the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) as we received a number of recall notices from earlier May that we've already written about.
One that is somewhat new, however, is from last Friday when Union International Food Company recalled Lian How Brand White Peppers with red labels because of possible Salmonella contamination.
The City of Industry, CA-based company said the Lian How Brand White Peppers were packaged in 5 pound containers with red labels for distribution to Southern California restaurants and wholesalers between Sept. 2008 and March 2009. So, the possibility of any of these White Peppers still being around is probably pretty small.
Why it has taken so long to identify this problem is not clear. Union says the recall was the result of a testing done on a shipment of peppers that was purchased around September of 2008 which revealed that the finished products contained the salmonella bacteria.
Why it took until May 29, 2009 to issue a recall on products that tested positive for salmonella in September 2008 is question we do not know the answer to. Union claims it is cooperating fully with FDA; and no illnesses are yet associated with this recall.
Consumers who have purchased the affected white peppers with red label product are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at (626) 854-8880
Here's what the FDA has on it.
Setton Pistachio Claims It "Never Knowingly" Shipped Tainted Product
After the recall since March of a couple million pounds of pistachios in over 660 separate products, Setton Pistachio sent its Chief Operating Officer (COO) out to deny the California company continued to ship its seeds after discovering they were contaminated with salmonella.
In doing so, Setton’s COO Mia Cohen took exception to the Food & Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) investigative report, known as a 483 for its form number.
“We adamantly disagree with portions of the 483 and we have responded accordingly…Our company never knowingly shipped pistachios potentially contaminated with Salmonella. All pistachios, which tested positive, were either reconditioned or held in quarantine and never hit the marketplace, ” Ms. Cohen told the industry site foodnavigator-usa.com.
Since FDA took pre-emptive action with Setton , there are no known illnesses associated with the massive recall. This dispute about the facts will remain between FDA and Setton. With peanuts, salmonella contamination made over 700 people sick and was responsible for nine deaths. As part of the discovery process involving victims of the Peanut Corporation of America, third party experts extensively inspected those facilities in Texas and Georgia last month.
FDA was very critical of Setton’s action to “recondition” pistachios that tested positive for salmonella. In at least one instance, the company re-roasted pistachios that tested positive for Salmonella and then blended them together with other nuts for sale.
Setton says re-conditioning is an accepted way of killing salmonella. However, there is potential for cross contamination.
Much of Setton’s defense of its action rests on its hiring of the American Council for Food Safety and Quality (known as DFA in California ) once it had positive salmonella test results.
“They conducted hundreds of tests from October to February and could find no evidence of Salmonella in our facility,” Cohen said. “There was never a suggestion from DFA not to ship.”
It should be noted that Peanut Corporation of America also had a third-party auditor that did not question its practices.
Our report on the 483 report can be found here.
Food & Drug Administration (FDA) Makes Its 483 Inspection Report of Setton Pistachio Public
In a 483 Inspection Report released today, FDA inspectors identified multiple food-safety shortcomings at the Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella California that was linked to a Salmonella outbreak earlier this year:
1. The company detected the bacteria in roasted pistachios in October but did not change its processing procedures until March
2. In one instance, the company re-roasted pistachios that had tested positive for Salmonella and blended them together with other nuts for sale.
3. Inspectors identified a "failure to manufacture, package and store foods under conditions and controls necessary to minimize the potential for growth of microorganisms and contamination."
4. Specific physical problems ranged from a rusty hole in the roof above one pistachio roaster to "thick layers of dust and debris" in a packaging room.
5. Procedural shortcomings included failure to monitor roasting temperatures and allowing raw and roasted pistachios to potentially come into contact.
6. Between October 2008 and March 2009, the report noted that "there were at least eight reported Salmonella-positive test results" coming out of the Terra Bella plant. When the firm learned of the private laboratory test results, inspectors said, there were no "procedures in place" to respond appropriately.
7. Prior to January, inspectors added, the Terra Bella plant did not monitor roasting temperatures, roasting times or the depth of pistachios placed on the roasting conveyor belts.
8. Inspectors checked records for 14 lots of roasted pistachios. In a potentially dangerous step, 10 of these lots had raw pistachios packed on the same packaging equipment prior to the roasted pistachios being run.
Does this not sound just a bit like the 483 Inspection report at the Peanut Corporation of America? Setton is just lucky they did not sicken and kill people or they may too be facing bankruptcy and jail time. When are companies going to get a clue?
WAL*MART Cantaloupes In Carolinas And South Hill, Virginia Recalled After Testing Positive For Salmonella
How big is "a lot?" Raleigh, NC-based L&M Companies, Inc. has recalled "one lot of whole cantaloupes because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
One lot must be a lot because there were enough cantaloupes to fulfill the needs of Walmart Supercenter Stores in North Carolina and South Carolina, and in the Walmart Supercenter Store located at 315 Furr Street in South Hill, Virginia. The cants were sold between the 10th and 15th of this month.
No illnesses have yet been associated with the recall.
"Consumers who have purchased whole cantaloupes from these Walmart stores during this time period should not consume them, and should destroy the product," L&M said in its recall statement.
The recall comes after a cantaloupe at a small farm from which L&M Companies sources product tested positive for Salmonella. L&M has ceased shipments from this farm, and the grower continues to investigate the cause of the problem.
L&M's statement can be found on the FDA's website here.
Peanuts & Pistachios Will Mark The History Of Change At Food & Drug Administration
Few would have predicted that when history is written on the first term of the Obama Administration that peanuts and pistachios would play such prominent roles. Those unlikely products, however, will be used by historians to demonstrate the bad old ways versus the new U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA).
Maybe because the new President himself came from the streets of Chicago, he went to the front lines of the country's public health challenge to select Dr. Margaret Hamburg as FDA Commissioner and Dr. Joshua Sharfstein, as her deputy. Dr. Hamburg, an expert in biological defense and disease control, was during the 1990s the youngest person in history to serve as New York City's health commissioner. Dr. Sharfstein, a pediatrician, came to FDA directly from heading up the Baltimore Health Department.
It is really hard to overstate how unusual it is to have two top FDA officials from the gritty streets of big cities. Almost all previous FDA Commissioners come from academic and research backgrounds. You can go through each biography of past FDA Commissioners here.
Few had any in-the-streets experience. LBJ's last commissioner, Dr. James Goddard, came out of the Public Health Service at a time when federal doctors wore uniforms and saw patients. And Nixon's appointee, Dr. Herbert Lay, Jr., was known for his service as an epidemiologist for our troops in Korea and Vietnam.
But that's about it. FDA Commissioners have not been folks who got their hands dirty, knocking down the TB rate in the Big Apple as Dr. Hamburg did or taking on the dangers of over-the-counter cold and cough medicines for children under age 2 as Dr. Sharfstein did. The typical FDA honcho creates process, not results.
So when Sharfstein took over FDA, while waiting for Hamburg to clear the Senate, it really should have come as no surprise that he opted to recall Salmonella-contaminated pistachios before anyone got sick.
The FDA has completed its inspection of Salmonella contamination in pistachios and pistachio products at Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, Inc., Terra Bella, Calif., and presented a 483 Inspection Report to the firm.
Continue Reading...
De Jong Bros. Farms Recalls Spinach That May Be Contaminated With Salmonella
And in news from Illinois Agriculture this morning we learn of a spinach recall due to possible Salmonella contamination.
De
The recalled spinach was distributed in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota and Missouri through grocery stores and restaurant wholesalers and carried lot codes K54 or K54A. Consumers who have purchased these lot codes K54 or K54A De Jong Bros. Quality Fresh curly spinach are urged to dispose of it or return it to the place of purchase.
No illnesses have yet been reported in connection with this recall. For more, check this out.
FDA Alerts Sprout Growers and Retailers About Specific Lots of Alfalfa Seed Potentially Contaminated with Salmonella
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) may be getting to the bottom of the problem of contaminated sprouts. And, the very bottom appears to be the seeds. FDA issued this statement late yesterday:
Preliminary epidemiology regarding the ongoing outbreak of illness from Salmonella Saintpaul in people who had eaten alfalfa sprouts was shared with the supplier of the seeds associated with illness. Based on this information the seed supplier made the decision to voluntarily withdraw from the market all of the alfalfa seeds bearing six digit lot numbers that start with “032.”
All seeds involved in this market withdrawal came from Italy. The seeds are in 50-pound white bags that are either paper or woven from a synthetic material, and the lot numbers in question begin with “032,” followed by a hyphen and three more digits. The bags carry a computer-generated white or yellow label, on which is printed “Distributed by Caudill Seed Company., 1402 W. Main St., Louisville KY 40203” and the lot number.
FDA has no evidence that alfalfa seeds from other lots, or sprouts grown from them, are affected by this market withdrawal. Retailers, restaurateurs, and personnel at other food-service facilities should ask their suppliers to verify that the alfalfa sprouts or seeds being provided do not come from an affected lot before buying or serving them. Suppliers who can verify that their products were not sourced from the affected lots may wish to notify their customers; likewise, retailers, restaurateurs, and food-service facilities who have verified the sources of their alfalfa products may wish to notify their customers.
Seeds from the affected lots, lot numbers beginning with 032, and sprouts grown from them, should be safely discarded, as should other products that contain the sprouts, such as sprout blends. Growers who have used seeds from the potentially contaminated lots should clean all equipment and other surfaces that came into contact with them. They should also safely discard any water that came into contact with the sprouts, and disinfect receptacles or equipment that came into contact with the water.
Spice Recall Expanded; All Listed Here May Be Contaminated With Salmonella
FDA announced that Union International Food Co. is expanding a spice recall to include all Lian How brand and Uncle Chen brand sauces, oil and oil blends in various size packages because the products may be contaminated with salmonella, an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, especially in young children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems. The company had previously recalled Lian How brand and Uncle Chen brand dry spices.
The Uncle Chen and Lian How brand products were distributed to retailers, wholesalers, distributors, restaurant suppliers and restaurants. Details: By phone at 510-471-6799; on the Web at http://www.ufunionfood.com. The recall includes the following Lian How brand items:.jpg)
California state health department officials say the salmonella outbreak has sickened 33 people throughout northern and central California, and nine others in Nevada, Oregon and Washington. No deaths have been reported. Officials say most of the people sickened appeared to have been exposed to salmonella while eating at Asian restaurants that used the company's spices.The company said salmonella was isolated from an open container of Lian How white pepper.
Bangladeshi Freshwater Fish Recalled Because Of Salmonella Contamination
Asia Cash & Carry Inc. in Maspeth, New York, is recalling 34 cases of CROWN FARMS brand “KESKI” Frozen Fish (Bangladeshi Freshwater Fish) in 300gm packages with production code JULY 2008 because the product has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
CROWN FARMS brand “KESKI” (Bangladeshi Freshwater Fish) Fish was distributed to retail stores in NY, NJ, and MA.
The KESKI Frozen Fish was imported from Bangladesh, and distributed in cases containing vacuum-packed 300-gram packages with a production date of JULY 2008, expiration date JUNE 2010, and UPC code 5060065431145. There are 32 Blocks -300 gram packages per case.
No illnesses associated with the recall have yet been reported.
Salmonella is an organism, which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonellaoften experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
For more from FDA, check this out.
Feds Find Salmonella At Setton's Plant; Company Expands Pistachio Recall
There are a couple of developments today in the pistachio front. First the feds have found traces of salmonella in the Terra Bella, California processing facility. That was probably why Setton Pistachio earlier today expanded its recall of pistachios to include all roasted shell pistachios and in-shell pistachios "due to possible salmonella contamination."
Withdrawal from its 2008 crop also includes raw shell pistachios that are not subsequently roasted before sale, according to the second-largest pistachio processor in the United States.
Setton Pistachio issued a nationwide recall of pistachios on March 30, a week Kraft Foods Inc told U.S. health regulators that its Back To Nature trail mix was contaminated with salmonella and identified Setton as the source.
As part of its update today, FDA said:
Initially, the firm’s recall was limited to certain lots of roasted pistachios. Information from the joint FDA and California Department of Public Health inspection indicates the presence of Salmonella in critical areas of the facility and the potential for cross-contamination between raw and roasted products. After this information was shared with Setton, the firm decided to expand its recall.
Meanwhile, the FDA's list of pistachio products that have been caught up in the recall has gone over 144 separate items and that count does not include what's been added over the past weekend. Just not eating pistachios until FDA gives the all clear sign is the wise thing to do. If you just cannot wait, at least check the list here to be sure you are avoiding the risky items.
Pistachios Sold At Both Wholesale And Retail Levels Recalled; Nationwide Alert Issued By FDA
Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, Inc. has been forced into a nationwide recall of specific lots of bulk roasted shelled pistachios and 2,000 lbs., 1,700 lbs., 1,800 lbs. and 1,000 lbs. tote bags of roasted inshell pistachios sold to wholesale customers due to potential contamination with the Salmonella organism.
This is the recall that has led to the news reports warning against eating any pistachios.
Certain bulk roasted inshell and roasted shelled pistachios shipped on or after September 1, 2008 are involved in the recall. The bulk product was distributed throughout the United States. The Company learned that a small amount of roasted shelled pistachios processed by Setton Pistachio and received by a commercial customer in late 2008 recently tested positive for Salmonella.
The Company is asking those firms who received bulk product and have further processed, repackaged, or distributed the affected products to recall those products and contact FDA.
Retail products in the recall include: Setton Farms brand roasted salted shelled pistachios in 9 oz. film bags, UPC Code: 034325020252 with a "Best Before" date between 01/06/10 and 01/19/10. This product was distributed in the following states: SC, GA, FL, NC, VA, TN, KY. Consumers should not consume this product and should return what they may have to the place of purchase for a full refund. Setton has established a toll free number, (888) 228-3717, for consumers to call for further information.
Here's the press release from Setton Farms that was released by FDA.
Meanwhile, keep reading for what FDA had to say about the larger alert.
Continue Reading...Something Other Than Peanuts Being Recalled By Georgia Nut Company--Its Pistachios!
The FDA announced today that the Georgia Nut Company is recalling certain bulk wholesale and retail products containing shelled pistachio nuts that have the potential to be contaminated with the Salmonella organism. The Company said it identified the potential as a result of a rigorous sampling and testing regimen it conducted with respect to shelled pistachios provided by a third-party supplier.
Salmonella can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis.
The voluntary recall includes the following products:
* Bulk Deluxe Mixed Nuts with shelled pistachios purchased at the Not Just Nuts store in Wauwatosa, WI from Dec. 5, 2008 through March 24, 2009;
* Bulk or custom packaged Deluxe Mixed Nuts with shelled pistachios purchased at Georgia Nut retail stores in Skokie and Glenview, IL, Georgia Nut’s Chocolate House location in Greenfield, WI, and through the Company’s website from Dec 11, 2008 through March 23, 2009;
* Bulk or custom packaged Dry Roasted Shelled Pistachios purchased at Georgia Nut retail stores in Skokie and Glenview, IL, Georgia Nut’s Chocolate House location in Greenfield, WI, and through the Company’s website from Dec 3, 2008 through March 23, 2009;
* Mixed Nuts Deluxe Roasted and Salted Bulk with shelled pistachios purchased from clear plastic bulk bins in the produce department at Dominick’s Finer Foods stores in the greater Chicagoland area from Dec. 10, 2008 through March 25, 2009.
SunSprout-Caused Salmonella Outbreak In Midwest Is All Too Common
.jpg)
The outbreak that's sickened people in four Midwest states has been tied to SunSprout Enterprises' sprouts that were distributed to grocery stores and restaurants. The Omaha company "voluntarily" recalled its products.
Nebraska health officials say 84 cases of Salmonella saintpaul have been confirmed near Omaha, Lincoln and Kearney.
Iowa officials confirmed 27 cases. South Dakota and Kansas officials have both confirmed five cases in their states.
Sprouts have been implicated in an increasing number of foodborne illness outbreaks in recent years, and although procedures have been developed to significantly reduce bacterial contamination, not all sprout growers have adopted techniques to decrease the risk of contaminated produce. In 1999, the FDA announced new guidelines for the growing of sprouts, including using calcium hypochlorite treatment on seeds. This treatment exposes seeds to high levels of chlorine, killing bacteria, but leaving seeds unharmed. Since its introduction, manufacturers who consistently use this seed disinfectant treatment have not been implicated in foodborne illness outbreaks.
.png)
Fish Recalled For Salmonella Contamination: No Peanuts Involved!
Crown Farms has recalled its "Gulsha" brand of frozen fish because of possible bacterial contamination.
The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) said Asia Cash & Carry Inc. of Maspeth, N.Y., recalled the Bangladeshi freshwater fish because of the potential of salmonella contamination.
The fish, with a production code of "AUG 2008," were distributed to retail stores in New York, New Jersey, Illinois, Michigan and Virginia. The recalled fish, imported from Bangladesh, were sold in cases containing vacuum-packed 500-gram packages with an expiration date of "JULY 2010" and UPC 5 060065 430704.
Consumers can return the fish for a refund or contact the company at 718-894-2505.
Texas Recalls Everything Peanut Corporation of America Ever Made In Plainview
The Texas Department of State Health Services today ordered Peanut Corporation of America to recall all products ever shipped from its Plainview plant.
The order was issued after dead rodents, rodent excrement and bird feathers were discovered yesterday in a crawl space above a production area during an in-depth DSHS inspection.
The inspection also found that the plant’s air handling system was not completely sealed and was pulling debris from the infested crawl space into production areas of the plant resulting in the adulteration of exposed food products.
DSHS also ordered the plant, which began operations in March 2005, to stop producing and distributing food products. Though plant officials voluntarily stopped operations Monday night, the DSHS order prohibits the plant from reopening without DSHS approval.
State law allows DSHS to issue such orders when conditions exist that pose “... an immediate and serious threat to human life or health.”
Peanut Corporation of America Announces Voluntary Nationwide Recall of Salmonella Peanut Butter
As of a few moments ago, 15 more cases of salmonella poisoning in the now nationwide outbreak have been reported, bringing the total to 425 in 43 state with 3 deaths. Nearly 18% of the victims have been hospitalized. Praise to Peanut Corporation Corporation for the Recall.
_pdf (1 page)(1).jpg)
From a Press Release
Peanut Corporation of America (PCA), a peanut processing company and maker of peanut butter for bulk distribution to institutions, food service industries, and private label food companies, today announced a voluntary recall of peanut butter produced in its Blakely, Georgia processing facility because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. All product affected was produced on or after July 1, 2008, specific to the lot numbers and descriptions listed below.
The peanut butter being recalled is sold by PCA in bulk packaging to distributors for institutional and food service industry use. It is also sold under the brand name Parnell's Pride to those same industries. Additionally, it is sold by the King Nut Company under the label King Nut. PCA customers who received the recalled product are being notified by telephone and in writing. None of the peanut butter being recalled is sold directly to consumers through retail stores.
"We deeply regret that this has happened," said Stewart Parnell, owner and president of PCA. "Out of an abundance of caution, we are voluntarily withdrawing this product and contacting our customers. We are taking these actions with the safety of our consumers as our first priority."
PCA initiated this recall after an open container of King Nut brand peanut butter in a long-term care facility in Minnesota was found to contain a strain of salmonella. King Nut brand peanut butter is produced by PCA. The voluntary recall of 21 lots of its peanut butter, in containers ranging from five to 50 pounds, is being taken immediately.
Lot Numbers Affected:
8193, 8194, 8197, 8233, 8234, 8235, 8241, 8255, 8256, 8275, 8276, 8282, 8283, 8284, 8296, 8316, 8330, 8331, 8336, 8345, 8354
Stock Numbers Descriptions and Pack Size Affected:
551000 Creamy Stabilized Peanut Butter 6 ct / 5 lb
551006 Crunchy Stabilized Peanut Butter 6 ct / 5 lb
551020 Creamy Stabilized Peanut Butter 35 lb
551022 Natural Course Peanut Paste 35 lb
551025 Old Fashioned Creamy Peanut Butter with 1% Salt 35 lb
551035 Crunchy Natural Peanut Butter 35 lb
551040 Creamy Natural Peanut Butter 35 lb
551050 Creamy Stabilized Peanut Butter 50 lb
551050-D Dark Creamy Stabilized Peanut Butter 50 lb
551051 Creamy Stabilized Peanut Butter with Monodiglyceride 50 lb
551053 Crunchy Stabilized Peanut Butter 50 lb
551072 Peanut Butter Variegate 45 lb
State of Wisconsin Orders Recall Of Sprouts From Sunrise Farms Due To Salmonella Contamination
Wisconsin's Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection is not waiting for someone to get sick with salmonella after finding sprouts contaminated with the bacteria.
Instead, Wisconsin is recalling packaged sprouts from Sunrise Farms Inc. of Neenah. The grower was ordered to tell its customers to remove the alfalfa sprouts, Spicy Sprouts, Crunchy Sprouts and Onion Sprouts from store shelves. They are sold in 4-ounce packages throughout Wisconsin and Minnesota.
Sunrise has sanitized its facility and is working with the state to determine how the contamination happened. No illnesses have yet been associated with the recall.
Wisconsin's press release can be found here.
Salmonella Contaminated Hershey Candy Found Back On Store Shelves
A couple of years ago, Hershey Canada Inc. recalled some of its candy due to possible salmonella contamination. Now some of that same candy is showing up on store shelves in the Toronto area.
That prompted this action over the weekend: The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Hershey Canada warned the public that certain Hershey chocolate products previously recalled on November 12, 2006, have been found for sale in a small number of independent retail outlets in the Etobicoke, North York, Niagara Falls, and Oshawa areas in Ontario.
No candy in Halloween packaging is involved. And, while nobody is known to have gotten sick from the recalled candy, health officials say the salmonella contamination remains a serious threat.
The CFIA believes that some Hershey products recalled in 2006 re-entered the marketplace through improper channels and reached a number of local, independent distributors, who are supplying small variety stores in the Greater Toronto Area.
Consumers are advised to check the codes on all Hershey products in their possession and before purchasing to ensure they do not bear codes that begin with numbers ranging from 6417 to 6455 inclusively. No other product is affected.
The CFIA advises all retailers and wholesalers to check their Hershey chocolate products and remove any product with affected codes from distribution immediately.
For more, go here.
Might Basil Be The Break In The Salmonella Saintpaul Outbreak?
We learned Friday that the Salmonella Saintpaul outbreak was still making people sick as July began.
With 1,090 confirmed cases making this the largest fresh produce outbreak in a couple of decades, we are looking at the details and whether something might turn out to be the break needed to discover the source of the outbreak.
Inside the details is not only the fact that people were still getting sick as recently as July 1st, but in the 30 days prior to that--long after warnings about the "killer tomatoes" had dominated the news, 330 people were made sick by something they ate.
How about a break? How about Thai Basil, grown in Mexico and imported by Lucky Green Trading, Inc. based in Garden Grove, CA?
Its Thai Basil is being recalled after random testing by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration that revealed that "the finished products" contained Salmonella.
The company has suspended distribution and importation of the product as FDA and the company continues their investigation.
Please note: The word "Saintpaul" has not yet been connected to the Basil recall.
With 1,090 confirmed cases making this the largest fresh produce outbreak in a couple of decades, we are looking at the details and whether something might turn out to be the break needed to discover the source of the outbreak.
Inside the details is not only the fact that people were still getting sick as recently as July 1st, but in the 30 days prior to that--long after warnings about the "killer tomatoes" had dominated the news, 330 people were made sick by something they ate.
How about a break? How about Thai Basil, grown in Mexico and imported by Lucky Green Trading, Inc. based in Garden Grove, CA? Its Thai Basil is being recalled after random testing by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration that revealed that "the finished products" contained Salmonella.
The company has suspended distribution and importation of the product as FDA and the company continues their investigation.
The Thai Basil was distributed through retail stores and direct delivery to customers in Southern California, Arizona , and Nevada on June 30, 2008.
The product was shipped in 14 LB cardboard cartons with 12 individual packages weighting approx.1.2 LB each in clear, unmarked, plastic bags.
The exterior cartons were labeled "16 DE SEPTIEMBRE S/N SANTA ROSA TAPACHULA NAYARIT, C.P. 63731" "Thai Basil" and also had an attached sticker with Airway Bill #027 1947 0861.
Go here for the the company's press release distributed by FDA.Please note: The word "Saintpaul" has not yet been connected to the Basil recall.
Crackling Pork Recalled Due To Salmonella Contamination
When we first heard there was something going on with fully cooked crackling pork, we thought that it must have something to do with the Farm Bill. But, no, it seems it's about a small recall of 1,100 pounds of crackling pork.
The U.S. Food Safety and Inspection Service said the pork was produced on 5/12/08 by
Miami-based Sofia Chicharones Inc. and it may be contaminated with Salmonella.
It's packaged in one and five pound bags as "Fully Cooked Pork Cracklings with Attached Skin."
Each package has an "EST 21055" marking and a packed date of 051208-1.
The fully cooked pork crackling was sold in the company's Miami store on the same date it was made.
FSIS officials say anyone who bought the Salmonella-tainted pork should get rid of it.
More Recalls Of Honduran Melons By US Importers
Recalls of Honduran cantaloupes continued today (3/26/08), and the latest company caught with salmonella-tainted cantaloupes usually imports fruits from Costa Rica.
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration put out two company press releases announcing voluntarily recalls of Central America-grown cantaloupes. First Central American Produce, Inc. of Pompano Beach, FL said it was recalling cantaloupes grown, packed, and shipped by "an independent third party grower." That grower was Agropecuaria Montelibano in San Lorenzo Valle, Honduras.
The Tropifresh, Inc. of Los Angles said it was recalling Agrolibano Produce brand because "they appear to be contaminated with Salmonella..." Whole cantaloupe sold by Tropifresh carry a "Mike's Melons" label and were distributed in Southern California, Pennsylvania and Canada. On its website, Tropifresh advertises itself as an importer of fruit from Costa Rica.
This time, however, it may have got caught buying from one of the "big boats" that pickup fruits in the Gulf of Fonseca for the trip north. (The Gulf serves El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua)
Tropifresh bought the bad melons from the same supplier did Central American Produce, Inc.
That would be Agropecuaria Montelibano in San Lorenzo Valle, Honduras.
Recall of Honduran Melons Turning Into International Incident
Honduras is not happy with Uncle Sam. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) is telling people to toss cantaloupes from Agropecuaria Montelibano in Honduras.
At least 50 people in 16 states have become sick with salmonella from eating the Honduran cantaloupes. The FDA warning, however, has itself turned into an international incident.
Honduran President Manuel Zelaya calls the FDA action "unjust" and "extreme and imprudent."
President Zelaya says the Honduran melons were not contaminated on the inside, but on the peel. That would indicate they came into contact with salmonella bacteria during shipment.
Symptoms of foodborne salmonella infection include nausea, vomiting, fever, diarrhea and abdominal cramps.
The FDA says no deaths have been linked to the salmonella outbreak, although 14 people have been hospitalized.
Growing cantaloupes for export, mostly to the United States, is a $100 million industry in Honduras. It employs 5,000. President Zelaya, pictured here, is certain to keep up the pressure on the U.S.
Salmonella-tainted Sprouts Pulled From Market
Kowalke Family Sprouts Inc., which distributes through Farmer's Markets, Whole Foods and Gelson's Supermarkets, is recalling all its alfalfa sprout products because the seeds used to grow them were found to be contaminated with Salmonella.
No illnesses have yet been associated with the Kowalke sprouts. The California Department of Public Health announced the recall, which was said to be voluntarily made by Kowalke.
The CDPH said:
All alfalfa, onion/alfalfa mix, cauliflower/alfalfa mix and dinner salad mix products are affected by the recall. Alfalfa products are in 4-ounce, 8-ounce, 1-pound and 5-pound packages. The dinner salad is in an 8-ounce package. The cauliflower/alfalfa combo and onion/alfalfa mix are in 4-ounce packages. The products in question have sell-by dates from March 4 through March 26. The codes are located on the front label of the packages.
Go here for CDPH news.
P.S. We are all but certain there are none of those rizty markets in Alamosa, CO.
Aunt Jemima Recalls Big Boxes Due to Salmonella
Some two and five pound boxes of Aunt Jemima Pancake & Waffle Mix are being recalled by the Quaker Oats Co. Aunt Jemima Pancake & Waffle Mix: Original, Original Complete and Buttermilk Complete may have potential salmonella contamination.
No illnesses have been reported, and Quaker says 98 percent of the products being recalled are within its own distribution chain and will likely be found and returned. So, let's help them find the other 2 percent.
The products, sold in 2 pound and 5 pound boxes with Best Before dates of FEB 08 09 H through FEB 16 09 H stamped on the top, contain the following UPC codes:
30000 43272: Aunt Jemima Buttermilk Complete, 5 lb.
30000 05040: Aunt Jemima Original, 2 lb.
30000 05070: Aunt Jemima Original Complete, 2 lb.
30000 05300: Aunt Jemima Buttermilk Complete, 2 lb.
Salmonella is a food borne illness that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.
Finally, is anyone but us surprised that Aunt Jemima remains as a brand name?
The FDA-issued copy of the company's press release can be found here.
California Recalls Sprouts Carrying Salmonella Bacteria
When San Francisco area Vegans opened their newspapers this morning (3/3), they could not have liked reading that the California Department of Public Health was warning consumers not to eat certain brands of alfalfa sprouts because they may be contaminated with Salmonella.
According to the San Francisco Chronicle, several illnesses have been reported across the state, including one in Contra Costa County and two in San Francisco. Two manufacturers voluntarily recalled their products from grocery stories and wholesale distributors, officials said.
Products recalled are:
- Salad Cosmo Alfalfa Sprouts, sold by Salad Cosmo USA Corp. in 2.5-ounce containers with white and green labels, and in clear 1-pound bags with blue labeling. Product codes on these containers are 0219, 0220, 0221, 0222, 0223, 0224, 0226, 0227, 0228, 0229, 0302 and 0303.
- Always Fresh and Alfa One Alfalfa Sprouts, produced by J.H. Caldwell and Sons, Inc. in 4-ounce and 5-ounce containers. Product codes on these containers are 202182, 202192, 202212, 202222, 202232, 202252, 202262 and 202272.
The public was advised that Salmonella can cause diarrhea, fever and vomiting. The public health department said those who believe they are ill should refrigerate the remains of the sprouts and contact Environmental Health Services at (831) 454 2022.
Kraft Foods has issued a recall in the U.S. for Baker's Premium White Chocolate Baking Squares (6 oz.) with a UPC Code 004300025220
This product may be contaminated with Salmonella, (a bacterium that causes foodborne illness).
Symptoms of foodborne illness caused by Salmonella include fever, diarrhea and abdominal cramps. In persons with poor underlying health or weakened immune systems, Salmonella can invade the bloodstream and cause life-threatening infections.
The product was distributed nationwide. Consumers should not consume the recalled product and should discard any product they may have.
The potential for contamination was noted after testing by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration that detected the presence of Salmonella in some packages of Baker’s Premium White Chocolate Baking Squares (6 oz.). The company is aggressively investigating the source of the problem. This recall is only for Baker’s Premium White Chocolate Baking Squares (6 oz.). No other varieties of Baker’s White Chocolate or any other Baker’s products sold in the United States are impacted by this recall.
Attorney speaks out about recall of Salmonella-contaminated spinach
Food safety attorney Bill Marler spoke out from across the globe today after hearing that bagged spinach has once again been recalled for contamination with a potentially deadly foodborne pathogen. Nearly a year after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed 205 illnesses and three deaths associated with consumption of E. coli O157:H7-contaminated Dole-brand bagged spinach, Metz Fresh of King City, California, recalled 8,118 cases of spinach for potential Salmonella contamination.
“Since last year’s outbreak, the leafy greens industry has taken several positive steps toward reducing the risk of contaminated product reaching our food supply, but this latest recall proves that a voluntary compliance program is not sufficient to protect the public,” Marler said.
On July 23, members of the California Leafy Greens Handler Marketing Agreement (LGMA) began using a service mark certifying membership in the LGMA program. LGMA Chairman Joe Pezzini commented on the new service mark and Marketing Agreement: “Beginning July 23rd, we will begin to certify to our customers that California lettuce, spinach and other leafy greens have been grown to the highest food safety standards available.”
“Although Metz Fresh was reportedly using a test-and-hold system to prevent contaminated spinach from reaching the food supply, it is apparent that the system was not effective, given that approximately 800 cases of contaminated spinach made their way into the supply chain,” Marler continued. “We’re seeing today that regulation is needed to protect the leafy green industry from itself.”
Marler, who is internationally known as a food safety advocate, is in Melbourne, Australia, where he is delivering a keynote address at the Dairy Industry Association of Australia’ s Dairy Science World Series conference. In September he will travel to Beijing, China, for the China International Food Safety and Quality Conference and Exposition, and will deliver a keynote address entitled, “The Legal Costs of Foodborne Illness”.
Oregon company recalls two products over salmonella concern
A Springfield company today voluntarily recalled two products because of concern that they might be contaminated with disease-causing salmonella bacteria.
Toby's Family Foods recalled:
- Eight-ounce plastic containers of Toby's Lite Sour Creme with expiration dates of June 17 and earlier.
- 12-ounce glass jars of Toby's Toasted Sesame Dressing with sell dates of July 5 and earlier.
So far no illnesses have been reported to the company.
The products are distributed primarily in Oregon, but also in Washington and California, through natural food and specialty stores.
Toby's Family Foods recalled:
- Eight-ounce plastic containers of Toby's Lite Sour Creme with expiration dates of June 17 and earlier.
- 12-ounce glass jars of Toby's Toasted Sesame Dressing with sell dates of July 5 and earlier.
So far no illnesses have been reported to the company.
The products are distributed primarily in Oregon, but also in Washington and California, through natural food and specialty stores.
Salmonella Contamination Cause Of Sprout Recall
A Dixon company is recalling alfalfa sprouts because the product could be contaminated with salmonella. The company called Salad Cosmo U.S.A. Corp. says the sprouts are packaged in plastic containers with white and green labels and in 1-pound bags with blue labels. They were shipped to grocery stores in California, Washington, Oregon and Nevada. No illnesses have been reported. The contamination was discovered during routine testing.
Four-Cheese Risotto Is Recalled
The Associated Press reports that Archer Farms is recalling Four Cheese Risotto for possible salmonella contamination.
Archer Farms four-cheese risotto, sold by Target stores, because it could be contaminated with salmonella. Customers should return the item to the nearest Target store for a full refund. No illnesses have been reported. Details: by phone at 800-440-0680; by Web at http://www.fda.gov.
Extension Connection: Peanut butter study reveals surprises
By Guest Columnist to the Shelby County Reporter - Angela Treadaway
Further investigation, though, revealed some bigger and unsettling surprises. For starters, the recent salmonella outbreak is not the first one associated with peanut butter. Yes, it is believed to be the first outbreak recorded in the United States, but a similar incident involving peanut butter occurred in Australia in 1996, affecting roughly 50 people.
If that wasn’t surprising enough, West also learned that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Bad Bug Book, considered by many food safety specialists as the definitive source of information about foodborne pathogens, lists peanut butter as an “associated” source of salmonella contamination, not a principal source, such as raw meats, poultry and eggs, but one in which bacteria conceivably could turn up.
In fact, there have been several recent and large outbreaks of salmonella associated with high-fat, reduced water foods such as peanut butter. Based on the findings of one study, published in the Journal of Food Protection in November 2006, researchers speculated that the unique makeup of peanut butter fat mixed with minimal amounts of water can provide adequate conditions for three different salmonella to survive, even despite the intense blasts of heat associated with pasteurization.
What this means is that peanut butter and similar types of food conceivably can provide microclimates that enable tiny amounts of bacteria to survive, West says.
Alabama Cooperative Extension System Food Safety experts Patti West and Jean Weese initially were shocked when they learned about the outbreak of salmonella in peanut butter. Peanut butter just didn’t strike these two as an ideal environment for the bug. Why? Because “bacteria just do not do well in the high-fat, low-moisture foods,” according to West.
Further investigation, though, revealed some bigger and unsettling surprises. For starters, the recent salmonella outbreak is not the first one associated with peanut butter. Yes, it is believed to be the first outbreak recorded in the United States, but a similar incident involving peanut butter occurred in Australia in 1996, affecting roughly 50 people.
If that wasn’t surprising enough, West also learned that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Bad Bug Book, considered by many food safety specialists as the definitive source of information about foodborne pathogens, lists peanut butter as an “associated” source of salmonella contamination, not a principal source, such as raw meats, poultry and eggs, but one in which bacteria conceivably could turn up.
In fact, there have been several recent and large outbreaks of salmonella associated with high-fat, reduced water foods such as peanut butter. Based on the findings of one study, published in the Journal of Food Protection in November 2006, researchers speculated that the unique makeup of peanut butter fat mixed with minimal amounts of water can provide adequate conditions for three different salmonella to survive, even despite the intense blasts of heat associated with pasteurization.
What this means is that peanut butter and similar types of food conceivably can provide microclimates that enable tiny amounts of bacteria to survive, West says.
ConAgra Peanut Recall Extended a Year by FDA to 2004
According to Steven Bodzin of www.bloomberg.com reporting on the FDA, the Peanut Butter recall has once again been expanded.
March 10 (Bloomberg) -- ConAgra Foods Inc.'s recall of its Peter Pan butter and other peanut items will apply to products made by the third-largest U.S. food company since October 2004, a year earlier than the date in a prior recall notice.
``Consumers who purchased any of the products since October 2004 should discard them,'' the Food & Drug Administration said in an e-mailed statement. ``FDA's advice to consumers continues to be not to eat any Peter Pan peanut butter or any Great Value peanut butter beginning with the 2111 product code.''
``We recalled all peanut butter products out there, including those back to October 2004,'' she said in a telephone interview. ``This is to our perspective an ongoing effort to recall all the product from the marketplace.''
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention said in a statement March 7 that 425 people in 44 states were infected with the strain of salmonella also found in the peanut products and 71 people had been hospitalized. Two-thirds of the cases began after Dec. 1, 2006, it said.
We at Marler Clark have been involved in quite a few Salmonella cases over the years:
Ongoing Salmonella Outbreak Investigations:
Peanut Butter Salmonella Outbreak
Wal-Mart Salmonella Outbreak
Sushi King Salmonella Outbreak
Marler Clark has brought Salmonella claims against:
Black Forrest Bakery
Brook-Lea Country Club
C.L. Swanson
Cafe Santa Fe
Chili's
ConAgra
Corky & Lenny's
Golden Corral
Harmony Farms
KFC
Linh's Bakery
Malt-O-Meal
Old South Restaurant
Orchid Island
Paramount Farms
Quality Inn
San Antonio Taco
Seasons at the Pond
Sheetz
Sun Orchard
Sunset House
Sushi King
Susie Cantaloupe
Viva Cantaloupe
Wal-Mart
Western Sizzlin'
Wyndham Anatole Hotel
Pa. health dept. warns of salmonella contamination in raw milk
The Associated Press in Harrisburg reports that the state health department warned consumers Friday not to drink raw milk from a dairy farm after two people who drank it were sickened by salmonella.
There was evidence of salmonella in a milk sample obtained from the people who drank it, and samples from Stump Acres Dairy in New Salem tested positive for salmonella, said Dr. Calvin B. Johnson. Raw milk sales have been suspended at the dairy, he said.
The consumers who fell ill are recovering, Health Department spokesman Richard McGarvey said. They fell ill last month. Glendora Marie Stump, the dairy’s owner, disputed the state’s findings, saying samples sent to a private laboratory found no evidence of salmonella.
“Every time they try to shut me down, it just turns the public more curious about raw milk,” Stump said.
Raw milk has not been pasteurized to kill bacteria. Proponents say it contains more vitamins than pasteurized milk and can be consumed by people who are lactose intolerant, although no health or nutritional benefits have been scientifically proven, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. State law requires raw milk to be sold on the premises of the dairies that produce it.
S. Korea recalls U.S. peanut butter linked to salmonella
Yonhap News reports that a South Korean food watchdog said Monday it is recalling imported American peanut butter after it was linked to an outbreak of salmonella food poisoning in the U.S.
Salmonella Recall - Cantaloupes
A wholesale produce importer on Friday recalled several thousand cartons of cantaloupes after some tested positive for salmonella.
Castle Produce said the recall covered roughly 2,560 cartons of cantaloupes delivered on or after Feb. 16 to wholesalers in Los Angeles and San Francisco for distribution in the western states. The cantaloupes originated in Costa Rica.
It wasn't clear if the cantaloupes had reached stores.
The recall is the second involving the fruit this month. The Dole Fresh Fruit Co. has recalled about 6,100 cartons of cantaloupes distributed to wholesalers in the eastern United States and Quebec between Feb. 5 and Feb. 8. The cantaloupes also were imported from Costa Rica and tested positive for salmonella.
The source of the salmonella was a plastic basket used to hold the cantaloupes after they are harvested and washed, said Steven Reynolds, the company's chief financial officer. There have been no reports of illness due to the contaminated cantaloupes, Reynolds said.
The cantaloupes were distributed for sale in bulk in cardboard cartons, with nine, 12 or 15 melons to a carton.
Salmonella, which commonly originates from the feces of birds and animals, can cause diarrhea, fever, dehydration, abdominal pain and vomiting.
FDA Warns Consumers Not to Eat Certain Jars of Peter Pan Peanut Butter and Great Value Peanut Butter
The FDA is warning consumers not to eat certain jars of Peter Pan Peanut Butter and Great Value Peanut Butter, because the product may be contaminated with Salmonella.
The affected jars of Peter Pan and Great Value peanut butter have a product code located on the lid of the jar that begins with the number "2111." Both the Peter Pan and Great Value brands are manufactured in a single facility in Georgia by ConAgra. Great Value peanut butter made by other manufacturers is not affected.
ConAgra is also destroying all affected products in their possession. The company will cease production until the exact cause of contamination can be identified and eliminated. ConAgra will advise consumers to destroy any Peter Pan and Great Value brand peanut butter beginning with product code 2111 in their possession. To assist in this endeavor, FDA has sent investigators to ConAgra's processing plant in Sylvester, Georgia where the products are made to review records, collect product samples and conduct tests for Salmonella Tennessee.
If consumers have any of this Peter Pan or Great Value brand peanut butter in their home that has been purchased since May 2006, they should discard it.
Continue Reading...Salmonella detected: Cantaloupes recalled
Vandervoet & Associates, Inc. of Rio Rico, Arizona, has announced a voluntary recall of its cantaloupes with an HDC label . The melons have the potential to be contaminated with salmonella, a substance which may render them injurious to health.
Samples taken on November 9, 2006 and laboratory tests made by the FDA demonstrated that a portion of the cantaloupes contained salmonella.
No illnesses have been reported to date.
Approximately 7,400 cartons of cantaloupes were sold and distributed in the United States and Canada between November 9, 2006 and November 15, 2006. The cantaloupes were packed in cardboard cartons with contents of 9 to 23 melons per carton.
Rio Vista, Ltd. Recalls Cantaloupes Nationwide Because of Possible Health Risk
Rio Vista, Ltd., of Rio Rico, Arizona, is voluntarily recalling its Llano and Nature's Partner brand cantaloupes, because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
No illnesses have been reported to date.
Approximately, 62,640 cartons of cantaloupes were distributed in the U.S. and a small quantity went to Canada from October 31 to November 6, 2006. The cantaloupes were distributed for sale in bulk in cardboard cartons containing from 6 to 15 cantaloupes to a carton.
Recall roundup
Item: 5-ounce containers of alfalfa sprouts.
Place of purchase: Food stores nationwide.
Company: Fullei Fresh
Problem: Sprouts could become contaminated with salmonella.
Remedy: Return sprouts to place of purchase for full refund.
Contact: Call 1-877-438-5534.
Item: Baby spinach and spring mix
Place of purchase: Food distributors nationwide.
Company: Classic Salads.
Problem: Products may contain harmful bacteria.
Remedy: Return item to place of purchase for full refund.
Contact: Call 831-809-9571.
Recall Of Fullei Fresh Alfalfa Sprouts With Salmonella Danger
The FDA and Fullei Fresh of Miami, Florida, are recalling 5-ounce containers of alfalfa sprouts after evidence that they may be contaminated with Salmonella.
While no incidents have been reported so far, the FDA says the recalled alfalfa sprouts were distributed statewide in food service establishments.
Fullei Fresh Recalls Alfalfa Because of Possible Health Risk
Miami, Florida-based Fullei Fresh is recalling its 5-ounce containers of alfalfa sprouts because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
The recalled alfalfa sprouts were distributed statewide in food service establishments. The product comes in a 5-ounce, clear plastic cup container. This product was grown and packaged by Fullei Fresh, and distributed by produce companies.
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem. Distribution of this product has been suspended while the company continues its investigation as to the source of this finding.
Classic Salads Recalls Spring Mix And Baby Spinach With Salmonella Warning
The FDA and Classic Salads are voluntarily recalling 4lb., 2lb. and 10 oz. Baby Spinach and 4lb., 3lb., 1.5lb., Spring Mix, "because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
The food involved is specifically:
- Classic Salad's Baby Spinach
- Classic Salad’s Spring Mix
- Master cartons of "Classic Salads"
- Master cartons of "Classic Choice"
- Master cartons of "Classic Greens"
- Master cartons of "Sir Lancelot"
- Master cartons of "Taste of the Valley"
- Master cartons of "US Fresh"
- Master cartons of "Valley Gold”
Classic Salads Recalled For Salmonella Risk
Between 30,000 and 35,000 bags of baby spinach and spring mix, manufactured by Classic Salads, are being recalled because of possible salmonella contamination, according to the FDA.
The recall includes 4-pound, 2-pound and 10-ounce bags of baby spinach as well as 3-pound, 1.5-pound, 1-pound and 7-ounce bags of spring mix.
The affected spinach and spring mix bags were processed on July 24 and distributed in the United States, Canada and Japan.
No illnesses have been reported.
Classic Salads recalls products
Salinas-area Classic Salads has voluntarily recalled up to 30,000 packages of baby spinach and spring mix products in the past week after lab tests showed they might be contaminated with salmonella.
No illnesses related to consumption of the produce -- grown in the Salinas Valley and sold almost entirely to food service customers like restaurants and hotels -- have been reported.
Company officials recalled the product, distributed nationwide and in Canada, hours after the sampling of a finished product on July 27 tested positive for salmonella, said Classic Salads sales manager Lex Camany.
The decision will cost the processor-shipper more than $500,000. Officials could have waited until Monday to get confirmation that the test was accurate and then recall the produce, but they decided not to take any chances, said Camany.
The big question that remains unanswered is where the salmonella bacteria came from. Camany said the company is in contact with research scientists and consultants and is "expeditiously researching how this could have happened."
Classic Salads, LLC. Conducts Nationwide Recalls of Baby Spinach and Spring (Mesclun) Mix Because of Possible Health Risk
Classic Salads of Salinas, CA is voluntarily recalling 4lb., 2lb. and 10 oz. Baby Spinach and 4lb., 3lb., 1.5lb., Spring Mix, because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
Baby Spinach/Spring Mix was distributed nationwide, as well as Canada and Japan, to foodservice, institutions and distributors.
No illnesses have been reported to date.
Here is another recall from earlier in 2006 of Chicken Entrees
Milford, Indiana-based Serenade Foods Division is voluntarily recalling approximately 75,800 pounds of frozen stuffed chicken entrees that may be unhealthful and therefore unfit for food.
The recalled products include:
- 6-ounce individually wrapped "MAPLE LEAF FARMS, CHICKEN BREAST with Rib Meat, SHRIMP & CRAB, Specially Cut and Shaped, Breaded Boneless Breast of Chicken with Rib Meat, Stuffed with a Shrimp & Crab Stuffing."
- 4.5-pound cases of "MAPLE LEAF FARMS, CHICKEN BREAST with Rib Meat, STUFFED WITH SHRIMP & CRAB STUFFING, BREADED BONELESS BREAST OF CHICKEN WITH RIB MEAT, SPECIALLY CUT AND SHAPED, STUFFED WITH SHRIMP AND CRAB STUFFING."
- 6-ounce individually wrapped "MAPLE LEAF FARMS, CHICKEN BREAST with Rib Meat, BROCCOLI & CHEESE, Specially Cut & Shaped, Breaded Boneless Breast of Chicken with Rib Meat, Stuffed with Broccoli, Swiss & American Cheeses, Not Pre-Cooked."
- 6-ounce individually wrapped "KIRKWOOD, Chicken Breast with Rib Meat, BROCCOLI & CHEESE, Breaded Boneless Breast of Chicken with Rib Meat, Specially Cut and Shaped, Filled with Broccoli and Cheese, Pre-Browned, Not Pre-Cooked."
The raw chicken entrees, because of their frozen state, labeling, and cooked appearance, may have caused consumers to believe these raw products are pre-cooked and therefore consumers may not be cooking these products to a safe temperature. Because of these characteristics, consumers may not be following cooking instructions.
FSIS reminds consumers to ensure that raw meat and poultry products are fully cooked before they are consumed. Using a food thermometer is the only sure way of knowing if your food has reached a high enough temperature to destroy foodborne bacteria such as
.
Cooking products from the frozen state increases the likelihood of undercooking meat and poultry products unless the minimum internal temperature is properly monitored. When appropriate, frozen products should be thoroughly and safely thawed prior to cooking.
This is not the first time there has been salmonella in frozen chicken entrees
Health officials have warned consumers to make sure they fully cook frozen meat and poultry products, in the wake of several Salmonella infections linked to frozen chicken entrees sold in Minnesota and Michigan. The entrees implicated in Minnesota were sold at Cub Foods stores under the Cub name.
Four cases of salmonellosis have been linked with frozen, prebrowned stuffed chicken entrees in Minnesota, the Minnesota Department of Health reported in a news release yesterday.
"While these products are breaded and prebrowned, and so may appear to be precooked, they are in fact still raw and need to be prepared accordingly," Minnesota State Epidemiologist Dr. Harrry Hull said in the news release. An FSIS statement said consumers heated the products in microwave ovens and might not have realized they contained raw chicken. Such products should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cub voluntarily pulled the implicated product lots from store shelves, the MDH said. Cub officials told MDH they would redesign the labels before putting the products back on shelves.
Cadbury salmonella bug may have affected up to 30 brands
The salmonella food poisoning bug found in Cadbury chocolate may have contaminated up to 30 different brands, food safety officials have warned.
Safety tests are now being carried out on a wide range of bars after it emerged that the contamination, which was caused by a leaking pipe discovered earlier this year at a Cadbury plant, may have been far greater than first realised. More than one million Cadbury chocolate bars were withdrawn from sale 10 days ago after the firm admitted that chocolate "crumb" was contaminated with traces of salmonella montevideo, a rare strain of the bug, six months ago.
Health officials in Birmingham are now testing another 30 brands and the Food Standards Agency has warned that other types of Cadbury chocolate could be withdrawn.
Albertson's supplier issues warning over carrots
Albertson's Inc. has announced that one of its suppliers had issued a precautionary warning over one-pound bags of peeled baby carrots after a bag in Canada tested positive for salmonella.
Although none of the potentially affected bags remain in its stores, the grocery chain said it was urging customers to discard the product or return any such bags to the store for a refund "out of an abundance of caution."
The warning issued by Grimmway Farms affects bags with a "Best If Used By" date of June 17.
Albertson's said there have been no positive tests of any illness or consumer complaints associated with the products.
Cadbury recalls over 1 mln chocolate bars
Cadbury Schweppes has recalled over 1 million chocolate bars in the UK and Irish markets in a precautionary move, because they could contain minute traces of salmonella.
The company said it had identified the source of the problem and rectified it and was taking steps to ensure these products are no longer available for sale.
The precautionary recall involves seven products:
- 250 gram bars of Dairy Milk Turkish,
- 250 gram bars of Dairy Milk Caramel;
- 250 gram bars of Dairy Milk Mint;
- Dairy Milk 8 chunk;
- 1 kilogram bars of Dairy Milk:
- Diary Milk Button Easter Eggs;
- Cadbury Freddo 10p.
"We've taken this precautionary step because our consumers are our highest priority. We apologise for any inconvenience caused," UK Managing Director Simon Baldry said.
The company said the decision to recall the chocolate bars had been made in consultation with the Food Standards Agency.
Tibaldi pork recalled
Ten cases of salmonella food poisoning have been linked to cured pork in Australia. The Department of Human Services has issued a recall of the pork after 10 people suffered salmonella food poising between April 20 and May 23.
Tibaldi Smallgoods has agreed to voluntarily recall the capocollo.
The Coburg-based smallgoods manufacturer has been linked to salmonella outbreaks in 1981, which affected more than 380 people, and in 1995.
Imported tea tests positive for salmonella
Some samples of a Jamaican specialty tea sold in Georgia have tested positive for salmonella, a sometimes fatal infection, according to the state's agriculture commissioner.
Lab technicians at the Georgia Department of Agriculture confirmed Friday that packages of Caribbean Dreams Cerasee Tea tested positive for salmonella.
The tea was imported from Kingston, Jamaica. It was sold at Ocho Rios, a store in Tucker, and possibly other locations.
Misperception prompts U.S. meat recall
Serenade Foods has recalled approximately 75,600 pounds of frozen stuffed raw chicken entrees. Because of the product's frozen state, the product label, and cooked appearance of the product, consumers may incorrectly assume that these products are cooked, according to USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service. FSIS said the stuffed entrees may have been contaminated with Salmonella enteritidis, a bacteria that causes human illness.
The recalled products must be cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 165 degrees F. However, FSIS is concerned that consumers may not cook these products to a safe temperature.
"It is important for consumers to properly cook all meat and poultry products that are not fully pre-cooked during the manufacturing process," FSIS said. "Because the recalled products are stuffed with additional ingredients, they likely take longer to cook than chicken breasts that do not contain fillings to reach a safe minimum internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Failure to properly cook the recalled products to a minimum internal temperature of 165 degrees F has led to a number of cases of salmonellosis in Minnesota.”
The problem was discovered by a Minnesota Department of Health and Minnesota Department of Agriculture investigation into reported food-borne illnesses related to these products. The Minnesota Department of Health contacted FSIS after receiving positive S. enteritidis test results of the products. The frozen stuffed chicken entrees were distributed to retail establishments nationwide.
Maker recalls chicken entrees
Serenade Foods of Milford Illinois is recalling about 75,800 pounds of frozen stuffed chicken entrees sold under the Maple Leaf Farms name. The products were contaminated with a type of Salmonella often associated with chicken.
According to the USDA, the raw chicken entrees, which appear cooked, may have caused some consumers to believe the products were precooked.
Salmonellosis, sprouts - Australia (Western Australia): recall
Small children are among more than 100 West Australians who have fallen ill with Salmonella poisoning after eating sprouts sold in supermarkets.
Contaminated alfalfa sprouts, mung beans, bean shoots and other sprout products by Parilla Fresh have been sold in Action, Coles and Woolworths supermarkets since Nov 2005, resulting in 110 reported cases of food poisoning.
A Health Department investigation led to the sprout products being pulled from supermarket shelves on Fri, 17 Feb 2006. The department believes animal waste is a likely reason for Salmonella in the sprouts, which were germinated in South Australia.
US Trading Co. recalls JHC brand cooked seasoned anchovy because it may contain salmonella
US Trading CO. of Hayward, California is recalling the following product because they may be contaminated with Salmonella:
- "JHC Brand cooked seasoned anchovy (spicy)", Net Wt.: 7oz packed in clear plastic container
- "JHC Brand cooked seasoned anchovy w/sesame", Net Wt.: 7oz, packed in clear plastic container
- "JHC Brand cooked seasoned anchovy Net Wt.: 2oz, packed in clear plastic bag.
Cooked Seasoning Anchovy was distributed in retail stores throughout the state of California, Alaska, Arizona, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio, Oregon, and Wisconsin.
There have been two reported illnesses in Canada associated with the consumption of this product.
Food watchdog issues new sprout warning: Recall over salmonella
Supermarket managers have been doing a lot of reassuring lately, since a major Toronto bean sprout producer has twice, in one month, been forced to recall salmonella-infested batches of sprouts. The first advisory came in November and was lifted on Dec. 14; the second was issued by the federal government on Christmas Eve.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency issued an alert telling consumers not to purchase sprouts produced by Toronto Sun Wah Trading, also known as Hollend Enterprises. The Sun Wah mung sprouts have been sold to grocery stores and restaurants throughout Ontario and may have also been distributed in Quebec's Abitibi-Temiscamingue region.
Because the sprouts are usually not sold with any product labels, consumers will have to contact stores where they were purchased to inquire about the producer.
Cooking mung spouts -- often done in Chinese cooking -- significantly reduces the likelihood of a bacterial infection.
Recall: Ocean Pearl Clam Meat
Yu I Hsiang U.S.A. Corp. dba Fortuna Seafoods of Rosemead, California has recalled approximately 782 cases of Ocean Pearl brand Wild Caught Clam Meat that are fully cooked but quick frozen.
Each case contains 24 1-pound packages to a case.
The company’s clam meat has shown to be contaminated with Salmonella.
The clam meat was produced by Fujian Provincial Meihua Aquatic Processing Factory in Changle, China.
Food recall over salmonella scare
Supermarket Waitrose has recalled seven of its chicken products because of a salmonella scare. It has listed seven chicken products which should be returned to stores.
The supermarket said it was taking the "precautionary measure" after routine tests had shown the possible presence of the bacteria in one product. The supermarket stressed the "unconfirmed presence" had been found in one 200g pack of Waitrose Roast Chicken Sweet Chilli Mini Fillets.
RECALLED PRODUCTS:
- Waitrose Roast Chicken Sweet Chilli Mini Fillets 200g
- Waitrose Cooked Chicken Skinless Breast Fillets 190g
- Waitrose Perfectly Balanced Two Roast Chicken Smokey Maple Breast Fillets 190g
- Waitrose Chargrill Chicken Pieces 140g
- Waitrose Chinese Style Chicken Pieces 140g
- Waitrose Chicken Tikka Pieces 140g
- Moy Park Roast Chicken Tikka Breast Fillets with Chutney 250g
Fortuna Sea issues recall on West Bay frozen cooked clam meat
The company behind the West Bay brand of seafood has issued a voluntary recall, saying some of its frozen cooked clam meat cartons might be contaminated with salmonella.
Fortuna Sea Products Inc. said it is recalling the West Bay-labeled frozen cooked clam meat master cartons stamped with Lot No. C7397.
The product is sold to distributors as a master carton with 24 one-pound packets, which may be resold at retail to customers as individual one-pound packets. The company's frozen cooked clam meat is also sold to restaurants.
No one had reported ill effects from the West Bay product.
Salmonella alert triggers California basil recall
The FDA has advised processors and repackers that Majestic International Spice Corporation has been forced to recall its dried "Extra Fancy Basil" spice in 12.5 kilogram bags after traces of Salmonella were found.
The agency also said that it was concerned that the firm had not adequately alerted its suppliers to the problem. The only identification on the 12.5 kilogram paper bags is a white paper label stating "EXTRA FANCY BASIL 12.5 KGS."
The California-based company has now ceased the distribution of the product in question, and processors or repackers who received this product should discontinue using it and contact their local FDA office.
Ice cream recall serves up cold reminder: Not all foods are ready-to-eat. Follow the directions
A recent recall of a Cold Stone Creamery's cake batter ice cream should serve as a reminder that ingredients that require cooking carry the risk of foodborne pathogens if left raw. During an investigation, the FDA confirmed that the sweet cream base of the ice cream was pasteurized, but the dry cake mix that was added to the base was labeled a baking mix by the manufacturer.
"The dry cake mix was labeled to indicate that it should be baked before using," said Elizabeth Andress, an extension food safety expert for the UGA College of Family and Consumer Sciences.
Massachusetts, Virginia, Washington, Oregon, Minnesota, Ohio, Michigan and California all had confirmed cases of Salmonella typhimurium illnesses from the ice cream. A case in Illinois was confirmed but is counted in Virginia, since that's where the person ate the ice cream.
"Remember that temptation to lick the cookie or cake batter beaters?" Andress asked. "Raw, unpasteurized eggs are another source of Salmonella bacteria. Unless you use pasteurized eggs, resist that temptation. Wait until the cookies or cakes have been baked to indulge, or you risk getting sick."
Schnucks issues orange juice recall advisory
Orchid Island Juice Company of Fort Pier, Fla. has voluntarily recalled a variety of brands of unpasteurized, fresh-squeezed orange juice with an expiration date from prior to July 25, 2005. This includes the Schnucks Premium Brand of orange juice sold at the Bettendorf store.
The company says this product could be potentially contaminated with salmonella typhimurium.
Limited Recall of Fresh-Cut Cantaloupe Issued
OBIM, a Ready Pac affiliated producer of fresh cut fruit, is announcing a one-time recall of various fresh cut cantaloupe items due to a small potential risk of salmonella contamination.
OBIM was informed that one of its cantaloupe suppliers, Martori Farms of Scottsdale, Arizona indicated that a sample of raw cantaloupes tested positive for salmonella on the cantaloupe skin.
These items are sold to retail stores under both the OBIM and Ready Pac brand names and are packaged in sealed, clear plastic containers ranging in size from 6 to 80 oz. They are distributed in the states of Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Alabama, Kentucky, Missouri, Tennessee, and Texas.
Company reissues orange juice recall
Orchid Island Juice Co. has expanded the list of brands involved in its recall last week of unpasteurized orange juice that has been linked to more than a dozen illnesses from possible salmonella contamination.
Fifteen cases of illness have been linked to the juice products in Michigan, Ohio and Massachusetts. At least 16 other states have reported illnesses involving the same strain of salmonella. Those cases are being investigated for possible connections to the juice products.
The recalled unpasteurized orange juice, with date codes of July 25 or earlier, was sold under the following labels:
- Natalie's Orchid Island Juice Company
- Ultimate Juice
- Albritton Fruit
- Finagle A Bagel
- Gourmet Garage
- Kings Market
- Nino Salvaggio
- Schnucks
- Wegmans
- Balducci's
- Zabars
The recall also includes the following brands of unpasteurized frozen orange juice:
- Just Pik't and Natalie's Orchid Island Juice Co
- Floridella
- Herders and St. Marc
- Sundecker
Orange juice, cantaloupes recalled
Unpasteurized orange juice products from Orchid Island Juice Co. of Fort Pierce, Fla., have, according to this story, been recalled because they may be contaminated with salmonella. The juice is packaged and distributed under a variety of brand names, including Nino Salvaggio's, Westborn Market and Natalie's Orchid Island Juice. The products do not bear a warning label that the juice is unpasteurized.
A total of 685 cases of cantaloupes from Eagle Produce of Scottsdale, Ariz., have also been recalled because they may be contaminated with salmonella. The cantaloupes may have been distributed to retail stores in 26 states from June 27-29. Product labeling on the cardboard box front panel reads in part: "Product of U.S.A. Cantaloupes, Martori Farms, Scottsdale, Arizona 85260-2426."
FDA Issues Nationwide Health Alert on Orchid Island Unpasteurized Orange Juice Products
The FDA is issuing a nationwide warning to consumers against drinking unpasteurized orange juice products distributed under a variety of brand names by Orchid Island Juice Company of Fort Pierce, Florida, because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella Typhimurium and have been associated with an outbreak of human disease caused by this organism.
To date there have been reports of 15 cases of a matching strain of illness directly linked to a history of consumption of Orchid Island Juice from mid-May to June in Michigan, Ohio and Massachusetts. In addition, at least 16 other states have reported cases of Salmonella Typhimurium infection that match this specific strain. Further investigations are underway to determine if these infections are also related to these products or not.
The unpasteurized product comes in a variety of containers distributed to retail stores and restaurants under various brand names. The products are identified on the labels as freshly squeezed or fresh orange juice. The following labels are involved: Nino Salvaggio's, Westborn Market, and Natalie's Orchid Island Juice. Orchid Island Juice bottles products under other brand names that have not yet been provided to FDA by the company. These products do not bear a warning label that the juice is unpastuerized. Such warning labels do appear on many unpasteurized juice products, so consumers should not assume these products are safe to consume simply because they do not bear the "unpasteurized" warning label.
Dr. Robert Brackett, Director of the FDA's Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition said, "It is important to note, however, that the vast majority of orange juice sold in stores is pasteurized and safe to drink."
Cantaloupe items recalled; possible salmonella contamination cited
The Irwindale, California company O-B-I-M, a producer of fresh-cut fruit, says it's issued a recall of various fresh-cut cantaloupe items because of a risk of salmonella contamination.
The company says it was informed that one of its cantaloupe suppliers, Martori Farms of Scottsdale, indicated that a sample of raw cantaloupes tested positive for salmonella on the cantaloupe skin.
The California company that sells packaged fruit in sealed, clear-plastic containers ranging in size from six ounces to five pounds are under way to stop distribution of the product to retail stores in the southwest, the south and the midwest under both the O-B-I-M and Ready Pac brand names.
State recalls cheese after contamination found
The state has recalled a brand of shredded cheese sold in Mexican stores after finding a sample containing salmonella.
The contaminated 1-pound package of Queso El Nica cheese was found in a store in Wake County, said Joe Reardon, food administrator for the department. The department has asked Distribuidora La Victoria Inc. of Charlotte to stop processing and distributing the cheese.
The cheese was shipped from Florida, but it remained unclear Friday where the product was made, Reardon said.
No complaints or illnesses have been reported. The department has advised the stores throughout the state that sell the cheese to post signs advising consumers not to eat it and to discard it or return it to the store where they bought it.
Dog, Cat Treats Recalled After Humans Infected
Six types of dog and cat treats marketed by TW Enterprises of Ferndale, Wash., were recalled Wednesday after reports of infections in humans of an illness called "Salmonella Thompson."
The items were distributed in the United States and Canada under the TW Enterprises and the Aron Pet Food names. TW Enterprises says five cases of infection developed among people who handled the pet treats -- three in Canada and two in the United States.
The products include “Salmon Snackers,” “Shrimp Snackers,” and “Healthy K9 Beef Jerky.”
The company said consumers should not feed the treats to their pets but should instead dispose of them.
Tomatoes Recalled
Red Pear Tomatoes distributed to wholesalers that are restaurant suppliers by California Specialty Produce Inc. may have been contaminated with salmonella, which can be fatal in young children and ill or older people.
The half-inch long, pear-shaped tomatoes were distributed to restaurant suppliers in Los Angeles and Denver and to New York suppliers in the Bronx and Yonkers, reports Consumer News and the Salt Lake Tribune.
California Specialty Produce, Inc. Recalls Product Because of Possible Health Risk
California Specialty Produce, Inc. of Vista, California is recalling Red Pear Tomatoes, because they have the potential of being contaminated with salmonella.
Red Pear Tomatoes were shipped to wholesalers who are restaurant suppliers in New York, California, and Colorado, in the cities of: Bronx, Yonkers, Los Angeles and Denver.
Red Pear Tomatoes are small pear-shaped tomatoes and were distributed in white cardboard California Specialty Produce boxes with green print. Inside they were packaged in 12 clear plastic clamshell containers without labels.
No illnesses have been reported to date.
American Natural Herbs & spices inc., Recalls "aSPICES Brand BASIL GROUND"
American Natural Herbs & Spices Inc., of Union City, California, is voluntarily recalling "aSPICES Brand BASIL GROUND." because it may be contaminated with salmonella.
This product comes in a 1-ounce clear plastic bag with English wording and aSPICES logo.
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this product.
aSPICES Brand products are sold in supermarkets throughout California.
Possible salmonella contamination: Illinois company recalls Ghandour Halva
Ziyad Brothers Importing of Cicero, Illinois, is voluntarily recalling all lots and flavors of both regular and sugar free Ghandour Halva due to possible salmonella contamination.
The products were recalled after testing by the Food and Drug Administration found three different types of the halva contaminated with salmonella. The products are sold in 16 and 32 ounce plastic containers and are distributed nationwide. Salmonella can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with salmonella often experience symptoms similar to a bad case of the flu.
Halva is a Middle Eastern confection usually made from ground sesame seed and honey, sometimes with the addition of chopped dried fruit and pistachio nuts.
Recall: Roxy Brand White Sesame Seeds
Roxy Trading Inc., of Azusa, California, is recalling their Roxy Brand White Sesame Seeds because it may be contaminated with salmonella. This product comes in a 4 oz clear plastic bag with Chinese wording and Roxy logo. The package is red, gold and white and approximately 7"x5" in size.
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this product.
The recalled Roxy Brand product was sold in supermarkets throughout California.
The company is asking supermarkets to discontinue distribution of this product and to promptly return the product and stock on hand to the company.
Nut mix recalled over possible contamination
John B. Sanfilippo & Son Inc. of Elk Grove Village, Illinois has announced a voluntary recall Tuesday of products containing raw whole and diced almonds because of possible salmonella contamination.
The company is recalling its California Mix products under the Evon's brand in 11-ounce packages and in 1-pound, 5-ounce unbranded packages showing a "Distributed by John B. Sanfilippo & Son, Inc." sticker on the back.
The company said the recalled nuts were distributed in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Minnesota and Michigan.
Consumer alert: Local company recalls almonds
John B. Sanfilippo & Son Inc. of Elk Grove Village, Illinois has announced a voluntary recall Tuesday of products containing raw whole and diced almonds because of possible salmonella contamination.
The company is recalling its California Mix products under the Evon's brand in 11-ounce packages and in 1-pound, 5-ounce unbranded packages showing a "Distributed by John B. Sanfilippo & Son, Inc." sticker on the back.
The company said the recalled nuts were distributed in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Minnesota and Michigan.
Helena sprout grower orders recall
Down To Earth Sprouts have recalled packages of alfalfa sprouts and mixed sprouts, saying the products could potentially be contaminated with salmonella, reports the Associated Press.
Owner and operator Lauree Kramer said she was among sprout growers who had purchased seed from the same supplier. That seed is believed to have led to recalls of alfalfa sprouts in at least five states so far.
Kramer said in her written statement that her company had "ceased operations and distribution" while the federal Food and Drug Administration continues an investigation into the source of the contamination.
The alfalfa sprouts and mixed spicy sprouts were sold in 4-ounce and 1 lb. bags in retail stores and restaurants in Montana under the Down To Earth label.
Bucks County Distributors Recalls California Dyno-Trail Mix
Bucks County Distributors is conducting a voluntary recall on its distribution of California Dyno Trail Mix that contains raw whole almonds due to the possibility of contamination with salmonella enteritidis. The recalled trail mix are packed in 4 ounce clear plastic containers, 1 gallon Ziploc bags, and 12 pound clear plastic counter dispenser.
This recall is in follow-up to a voluntary recall announced in mid-May by Paramount Farms of California of whole and diced raw almonds based on over 20 possible cases of illnesses associated with almonds.
Bucks County Distributors distributes the product to Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.
Eillien's Candies joins almond recall
Eillien's Candies has joined a voluntary recall of almonds sold in three Midwest states including Wisconsin because of possible contamination with salmonella.
The recall pertains to packages of Eillien's Chopped Almonds which were sold in Michigan, Wisconsin and Illinois.
The recall is a follow-up to a voluntary recall announced by Paramount Farms of California, which is recalling 13 million pounds of whole and diced almonds that may be infected with salmonella.
More than two dozen cases of salmonella associated with the almonds have been reported in 10 states.
Almond recall expands in Michigan
Fort Fudge Shop Inc. has joined at least 13 other Michigan companies in a voluntary recall because of possible salmonella contamination in almonds, according to the Detroit Free Press.
The recall covers 6-ounce packages of vanilla nut fudge sold under the Fort Fudge Shop Inc. label between August 2003 and June 2. The fudge should be returned to the store where it was bought for a full refund, company spokeswoman Traci Barrette said.
The almonds were purchased from Paramount Farms of California, which is recalling 13 million pounds of almonds after more than two dozen cases of salmonella were reported in 10 states, including Michigan.
The vanilla nut fudge is the only one of Fort Fudge's 22 flavors that contains almonds, Barrette said.
Apple Valley Natural Foods said it was also voluntarily recalling its raw whole almonds packaged as Almonds-Whole Raw Natural and distributed in Michigan and Illinois. The one-pound packages were sold under the Apple Valley Vegetarian Foods Emporium label.
Sprouts recalled for Salmonella
Sprouters Northwest Inc. of Kent is recalling 2-, 3- and 5-lb. institutional trays of raw alfalfa sprouts sent to various food institutions because they may be linked to a recent increase in salmonellosis in Oregon and Washington, reports the Associated Press.
Twelve cases of Salmonella Bovismorbificans, possibly linked to the consumption of raw alfalfa sprouts, have been reported, the FDA said. FDA officials said they are working with state officials and the company to determine the cause of the problem and steps to combat it.
Penzeys recalls type of half-sharp paprika
Oak Park Penzeys Spices have pulled Hungarian Half-Sharp Paprika from shelves of their 17 retail stores last week fearing possible salmonella contamination. The recall began Thursday after routine testing by the state of Florida revealed the presence of salmonella in some 2.5-ounce jars of the paprika.
The paprika is sold in 2.5-ounce glass jars, 1.3-ounce plastic jars and 4-, 8- and 16-ounce bags.
John Tillison, operations manager at Penzeys Spices based in Brookfield, Wisconsin, hopes to have paprika back in the stores and for mail order by the end of this week. "What we have here is fine. It's been tested," Tillison said, referring to bulk paprika the company had on hand in Wisconsin.
Possible salmonella contamination prompts company to recall almonds
Royal Candy & Nut Co. if Chicago is recalling about 5,000 packages of almonds because of possible salmonella contamination.
The recall of the packages of raw whole almonds and a California mix containing almonds is part of a nationwide recall that came after federal regulators received reports of several people becoming ill, most likely from raw almonds supplied by Paramount Farms in California.
The recalled almonds are packaged in 1-ounce packages and California mix in 2.1-ounce packages under the Royal Candy & Nut Co. label.
There have been no reports of illnesses.
Recall takes bite out of almond industry
Federal regulators have received reports of 25 people falling ill and recalled 13 million pounds of raw almonds supplied by Paramount Farms in California.
The size of the recall announced this past week is likely to grow as federal investigators continue to identify distributors and repackagers of almonds that originated from Paramount, which grows its almonds in the heart of California's Central Valley.
The recall covers millions of packages sold under a variety of brand names across the country as well as almonds shipped to eight countries. The FDA has received reports of salmonella enteritidis, a type of food poisoning, in at least six states so far.
No fatalities have been reported.
The industry has spent about $4 million to improve manufacturing and agricultural practices and has been examining technologies, including pasteurizing the almonds with low heat or gas, to prevent salmonella contamination.
Heat, which can come from any kind of cooking, roasting or commercial processing of almonds, is usually sufficient to kill bacteria, experts said. Blue Diamond, a cooperative that represents about two-thirds of California's almond growers, began pasteurizing their almonds three years ago after the last outbreak.
Paramount Farms has not pasteurized raw almonds in the past, but two weeks ago it began to use a gas method of pasteurization for all of its raw almonds.
California accounts for 100 percent of U.S. almond production and expects production to grow by at least 50 percent over the next five years. California also produces about 80 percent of the world's almonds.
Scientifically, it is possible to treat the almonds, then return them to the marketplace. That was done after the 2001 outbreak, although in that case, most of the almonds had been shipped in bulk and had not yet made it to smaller packages.
It is not known yet if the recalled almonds will be treated and returned to store shelves.
Bakery, Nut Distributor Announces Recall
Awrey Bakeries Inc. announced a recall of its Tropical Chocolate Cake, which contains diced almonds from a California-based almond grower, due to possible salmonella contamination.
Awrey Bakeries bought the almonds from Paramount Farms Inc. of California. The FDA has expanded a recall of Paramount's raw almonds to 13 million pounds because of the possibility of salmonella.
All the cakes were sold exclusively at the Michigan outlet store in Livonia between Nov. 11 and May 25. The cakes can be returned to the store for a full refund.
Salmonella fear leads to recall of paprika
Penzeys Spices is recalling its packages of Hungarian Half-Sharp Paprika, sold in Texas and elsewhere, because of the possibility of salmonella contamination.
The Brookfield, Wis., company said the recall involves 1,724 pounds of the spice sold since last August in a variety of sizes, according to the Associated Press.
The company distributes spices through mail order and Penzeys Spices stores in Texas, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.
The company said no reports of illness have been received but the recall was initiated after routine testing by the state of Florida revealed the presence of salmonella in some 2.5-ounce jars of the paprika.
Production of the product has been suspended.
Salmonella Risk Prompts Pork Rind Recall
Evans Food Products of Chicago, Illinois is recalling nearly 25,000 pounds of pork rinds because the pork rinds may be contaminated with salmonella.
The affected brand names are Old Dutch, Bac'n Puffs Brand; Original Oriental Delight; Better Made; Higglets; Simms; Hot & Spicy Flavored Pork Rinds; Salt & Vinegar as well as Barbecue Flavored Pork Rinds.
No illnesses have been reported.
What is a Recall?
The USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service performs random testing at meat production plants around the US in an effort to prevent foodborne illness outbreaks. When potentially contaminated meat is identified, FSIS requests the recall of the product from all channels of distribution.
A recall occurs when a firm voluntarily removes product (i.e. contaminated meat) from channels of distribution.
While recalls are an important step in removing a product from consumer channels, they are not wholly effective. There is often a time gap between the time a shipment of contaminated food reaches consumers and when the recall is issued, and some recalls are not put into effect until after outbreaks of foodborne illness have been identified by health departments and the CDC.
A national network of public health laboratories that performs DNA fingerprinting on foodborne bacteria, PulseNet, was developed by CDC to serve as an early warning system for detecting outbreaks of foodborne illness before they become widespread. PulseNet identifies and labels each fingerprint pattern and permits rapid comparison of patterns from human illnesses through an electronic database at the CDC.
By identifying the fingerprint of one strain of Salmonella that can be linked to one product and many people, that product can be recalled, and the hope is that large outbreaks can be prevented.
