Chicken Nuggets Recalled for Staphylococcal Enterotixin Risk

Murry’s Inc. of Lebanon, PA, is recalling approximately 20,232 pounds of gluten-free breaded chicken nugget product that tested positive for Staphylococcal enterotoxin, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced Wednesday.

The following product is subject to recall:

• 12-oz. boxes of “Bell & Evans Gluten Free Breaded Chicken Breast Nuggets” with a “Best By” date of March 25, 2016.

The product, bearing establishment number “P-516” inside the USDA mark of inspection, was shipped to an establishment for distribution nationwide.

The problem was discovered by the Colorado Department of Agriculture during a routine retail surveillance and sampling program, which is funded by USDA at a Federal Emergency Response Network lab. After being notified of the positive test result, FSIS conducted traceback activities.

Staphylococcal food poisoning is a gastrointestinal illness. It is caused by eating foods contaminated with toxin-producing Staphylococcus aureus.

Staphylococcus aureus is a common bacterium found on the skin and in the noses of healthy people and animals. Staphylococcus aureus can produce seven different toxins that are frequently responsible for food poisoning.

Staphylococcal enterotoxins are fast-acting, sometimes causing illness in as little as 30 minutes. Thoroughly cooking a food product does not prevent illness, and symptoms usually develop within one to six hours after eating contaminated food. Patients typically experience several of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. The illness is usually mild, and most patients recover after one to three days.

To prevent Staphylococcal contamination, keep kitchens and food-serving areas clean and sanitized. Keep hot foods hot (more than 140 degrees F) and cold foods cold (40 degrees F or lower). Make sure to wash hands and under fingernails vigorously with soap and water before handling and preparing food. Do not prepare food if you have an open sore or wound on your hands, or if you have a nose or eye infection.

FSIS and the company have received no reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about a reaction should contact a healthcare provider.

Consumers with questions about the recall can contact Murry’s Customer Service at (800) 638-0215.

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