FDA warns consumers against eating any raw dough or batter

At the 2010 International Association for Food Protection meeting in Anaheim, CA, speakers from such food giants as Nestlé and ConAgra went public with their concerns about the widespread practice of people eating not just raw cookie dough but even raw frozen pizza.

That discussion, which was prompted by a severe 2009 E. coli outbreak, included mention of the fact that some people — new immigrants and college students were named — were either unaware of cooking instructions or chose to ignore them.

Six years later, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has decided to do something about the problem by simply warning people not to eat raw dough or batter no matter whether it’s for bread, cookies, pizza, tortillas or anything else.

FDA this week warned the public that sampling raw dough or batter “could make you, and your kids, sick.”

This current warning was prompted by the recent General Mills recall of 10 million pounds of flour sold under three brand names: Gold Medal, Signature Kitchens, and Gold Medal Wondra. The recalled varieties include unbleached, all-purpose, and self-rising flours.

Flour has a long shelf life, and many people store bags of flour for a long time. If you have any of these recalled items in your home, FDA recommends that you throw them away.

Some of the recalled flours had been sold to restaurants that allow children to play with dough made from the raw flour while waiting for their meals. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is advising restaurants not to give customers raw dough.

The flour recall is associated with the ongoing investigation of an outbreak of infections that illustrates the dangers of eating raw dough. Dozens of people across the country have been sickened by a strain of bacteria called Shiga toxin-producing E. coli O121.

The investigation found that raw dough eaten or handled by some of the patients was made with General Mills flour produced in a facility in Kansas City, MO. Subsequent tests by FDA linked bacteria in a flour sample to bacteria from people who had become ill.

Flour, regardless of the brand, can contain bacteria that cause disease.

FDA states that people often understand the dangers of eating raw dough due to the presence of raw eggs and the associated risk with Salmonella. However, consumers should be aware that there are additional risks associated with the consumption of raw dough, such as particularly harmful strains of E. coli in a product such flour.

“Flour is derived from a grain that comes directly from the field and typically is not treated to kill bacteria,” notes Leslie Smoot, Ph.D., a senior advisor in FDA’s Office of Food Safety and a specialist in the microbiological safety of processed foods. So if an animal heeds the call of nature in the field, bacteria from that animal’s waste could contaminate the grain, which is then harvested and milled into flour.

Common “kill steps” applied during food preparation and/or processing (so-called because they kill bacteria that cause infections) include boiling, baking, roasting, microwaving, and frying. But with raw dough, no kill step has been used.

Homemade cookie dough ice cream isn’t a good idea either. If that’s your favorite flavor, FDA suggests buying commercially made products since manufacturers should be using ingredients that include treated flour and pasteurized eggs.

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Washington state dairy recalls raw goat milk after E. coli test

A dairy on Vashon Island, WA, is recalling raw goat milk after state officials detected toxin-producing E. coli in a sample. Burton Hill Farm & Dairy sold the raw goat milk that is now under recall between June 22 and 29. It is labeled with sell-by dates of June 29 and July 1, 2016.

“Burton Hill Farm & Dairy and the WSDA (Washington State Department of Agriculture) are continuing their investigation into the sources of the problem. Burton Hill Farm & Dairy is choosing not to sell or distribute raw goat milk until the source of the contamination is found,” according to the recall notice.

“The E. coli was found in a milk sample from a batch of goat milk that was not sold to the public. However, it is possible that other subsequent batches could contain the harmful bacteria. From those subsequent milkings, nine quarts of the raw goat milk were sold at the Phinney Farmers Market and one quart at the Vashon Farmers Market.”

As of the initiation of the recall on Wednesday, Burton Hill officials were not aware of any illnesses in connection with their recalled milk.

“Consumers who have purchased the recalled raw goat milk are urged not to drink the milk and to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. If you have any questions about the recall, please call the company at 206-940-6805,” the recall notice states.

Although it is legal to sell unpasteurized, raw milk at retail locations in Washington state, health officials warn there are serious potential health risks if that milk is contaminated with pathogenic bacteria. Consumers should read the warning label on retail raw milk containers in the state.

Anyone who has consumed any of the recalled unpasteurized raw milk and developed symptoms of E. coli infection is advised to seek medical attention.

Shiga toxin-producing E. coli infections may cause diarrhea, stomach cramps and bloody stool. Symptoms generally appear three to four days after exposure, but they can take as long as nine days to appear. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should contact a health care provider.

The infection sometimes causes hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious disease in which red blood cells are destroyed and the kidneys fail. Infants, children, pregnant women, the elderly and those with compromised immune systems are especially at risk.

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Consumers had key to unlock E. coli outbreak linked to flour

Maytag Dairy taking months to clean up Listeria problem

Iowa-based Maytag Dairy Farms remains closed and is not expected to resume operations until at least fall in the wake of six recalls earlier this year after Listeria monocytogenes was detected in its blue cheese.

The Newton, IA, company issued the initial three recalls Feb. 13, 18 and 26, followed by recalls from three retailers — Whole Foods Markets, Hy-Vee and Schnucks — in late February and early March.

Following Maytag’s second expanded recall Feb. 26 the company stopped production and shipping activities. The recalls cover cheese produced from Nov. 20, 2015, through early this year.

All of the recall notices on the Food and Drug Administration website indicated no illnesses had been confirmed in connection with the recalled cheese, as of the dates they were posted. The recalled blue cheese went to retailers and restaurants nationwide.

Officials with the family owned Maytag Dairy Farms have not responded to requests for comment. The company website carries a one-sentence status report at the bottom of its home page: “The Maytag Dairy Farm is closed while we continue work upgrading our facilities.”

The local newspaper, the Newton Daily News, reported a statement from Maytag officials earlier this week that shed little light on activities at the operation.

“An email statement from the Newton company, sent to the Newton Daily News late last week, did not give a timeline for when the dairy will begin production and resume sales. It will likely be the early fall before it can discuss the improvements it is making to ensure safety in its process, the company said,” the newspaper reported.

“The Maytag family will be happy to meet with you at some point in the future to discuss their vision for the future of Maytag Dairy Farms. But we ask that this meeting wait until we have completed the renovations taking place now. Perhaps we can arrange this meeting in the fall.”

In the initial Feb. 13 recall notice, Maytag officials said the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s Dairy Products Control Bureau discovered the possible contamination during routine testing.

Following Maytag’s second expanded recall Feb. 26 the company stopped production and shipping activities.

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U.S. importer expands recall of Swai fillets from Vietnam

A California company has added more than a ton of fish from Vietnam to its ongoing recall, bringing the amount of individually frozen Swai fillets now subject to recall to almost 28,000 pounds.

The Santa Anna, CA, company — U.S. Cato Holdings Inc. — distributed the newly recalled 2,235 pounds of imported fish to retailers in Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi. It is packed in 15-pound boxes of individually wrapped pieces of skinless, boneless Swai fillets carrying the Delta’s Best Basa brand.

The newly recalled fish was produced and packed on March 1, 9 and 16 in Vietnam by Golden Quality Seafood Corp., and marked with lot number 023015 or 023021, and best-by dates of 03-01-2018, 03-09-2018, and 03-16-2018.

“The problem was discovered when U.S. Cado Holdings Inc. notified (USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service) FSIS personnel of Swai products entering U.S. commerce without meeting FSIS regulatory requirements for imported Siluriformes,” according to the expanded recall notice.

“The products were imported from Vietnam and failed to comply with FSIS requirements concerning residue sampling and testing prior to entry into United States commerce.

“There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about a reaction should contact a healthcare provider.”

Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them, according to the expanded recall notice. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase. Consumers can contact Paul Nguyen, a manager at U.S. Cado Holdings Inc. at 714-973-2272.

Previously, U.S.Cado Holdings Inc. recalled 25,760 pounds of frozen Swai fillet products, also because of failure to comply with FSIS requirements for residue sampling and testing. That recall, posted June 20, covered skinless and boneless Sea Queen brand Swai Fillets produced and packed on March 30 in Vietnam by Golden Quality Seafood Corp. They were packed in 2-pound packages of individually wrapped pieces and shipped to Aldi distribution centers in Connecticut, Georgia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee.

The Sea Queen branded products were shipped to the Aldi distribution centers bear plant number FN1158, lot number SW1601-02-16090, and have a “best by” date of March 30, 2018. The problem was discovered when the customer and import establishment notified FSIS personnel of Swai products entering U.S. commerce without meeting FSIS regulatory requirements for imported Siluriformes.

Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase. Consumers can contact Paul Nguyen, a manager at U.S. Cado Holdings Inc. at 714-973-2272.

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CRF frozen veg plant looks to reopen; Listeria cause unknown

Federal officials haven’t updated their reports on the Listeria outbreak related to the CRF Frozen Foods Inc. production plant in Pasco, WA, or revealed the root cause of contamination in the facility, but newspapers in the area are reporting the operation may soon reopen.

The reports are good news for more than 300 employees, some of whom have been laid off since late April when the plant ceased operations after CRF recalled hundreds of products under dozens of brands. Lab analysis of samples of the company’s frozen corn and peas showed they were contaminated with the same strain of Listeria monocytogenes that had infected people in at least three states.

“Gene Grabowski, a consultant acting as spokesman for CRF during the crisis, said the company will turn its attention from trying to find the source of the deadly listeria pathogen to securing federal approval to restart production,” the Kennewick, WA, Tri-City Herald newspaper reported Sunday.

CRF, which is affiliated with R.D. Offutt Co. of Fargo, ND, hired Grabovski in recent weeks to help with public relations. He is known most recently for assisting Bluebell Creameries with its recall and public image after its ice cream was linked to a deadly listeria outbreak.

Before the CRF plant reopens, it must gain approval from government authorities.

The root cause of the Listeria monocytogenes remains a mystery, with neither the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention nor the Food and Drug Administration having posted any new information on the outbreak to investigation for weeks.

In the CDC’s last update, posted May 3, eight people in three states had been confirmed with listeriosis infections. The first victim became ill in September 2013 and the most recent victims’ illnesses began in January and March this year. All eight victims required hospitalization and two died, but state health authorities did not consider the cause of their deaths to be listeriosis.

The most recent update from the Food and Drug Administration on its investigation was posted May 19. In that report FDA officials said environmental samples collected in another Pasco, WA, food processing plant matched some of the listeriosis victims.

Those samples from Oregon Potato Co. led that company to recall onion products from its wholesale customers and resulted in at least one so-called downstream, or secondary, recall by one of those customers — the Pictsweet Co. — of consumer products.

“FDA is working to identify other parts of the relevant supply chain that may have product relating to this outbreak. However, FDA is prohibited by law from releasing publicly certain information about supply chains, which may constitute confidential commercial information,” according to the agency’s May 19 update.

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Possible peanut residue in flour spurs recall of GFS cheesecakes

The Father’s Table is recalling 2,100 cases of cheesecakes sold by Gordon Food Service through retail and food service outlets under the GFS label because Grain Craft flour used in the products may contain undeclared peanut residue.

There are 11 different cheesecake products in six different flavors included in recall by The Father’s Table.

“While those who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to peanuts run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products, the FDA has advised that ‘the amount of peanut exposure from use of the flours and affected products is low and not expected to cause adverse health effects in the vast majority of peanut allergic consumers,’ ” according to the company’s recall notice on the Food and Drug Administration website.

“The FDA has also stated that individuals who do not have peanut allergies do not need to avoid these products. … The Father’s Table has received no reports of illnesses to date, from any of its products.”

GFA label cheesecakes join multiple products from several companies — including Hostess, Kellogg, Frito-Lay, Mars, Chick-fil-a, Cinnabon and Safeway — that are under recall because of the Grain Craft flour recall.

The cheesecake recall covers the following products, with the package lot codes corresponding to the second set of seven digits after the “/” laser coded on the rear side panel of the product boxes:

Product UPC	Product Description	Package Lot Code
0-93901-75662-6	68 oz Creamy Indulgence NY Style Cheesecake for GFS®, 12 cut w/papers	1011641
0-93901-75662-6	68 oz Creamy Indulgence NY Style Cheesecake for GFS®, 12 cut w/papers	1061642
0-93901-75662-6	68 oz Creamy Indulgence NY Style Cheesecake for GFS®, 12 cut w/papers	1121641
0-93901-75662-6	68 oz Creamy Indulgence NY Style Cheesecake for GFS®, 12 cut w/papers	1231642
0-93901-59122-7	68 oz Triple White Chocolate Cheesecake for GFS®, 14 cut w/papers	1101642
0-93901-59122-7	68 oz Triple White Chocolate Cheesecake for GFS®, 14 cut w/papers	1211642
0-93901-75667-1	68 oz Fruit Swirl Variety Cheesecake for GFS®, 12 cut	1121642
0-93901-59121-0	68 oz Raspberry Lemonade Cheesecake for GFS®, 14 cut w/papers	1141641
0-93901-59121-0	68 oz Raspberry Lemonade Cheesecake for GFS®, 14 cut w/papers	1221642
0-93901-51633-6	68 oz Sea Salt Caramel Cheesecake for GFS®, 14 cut w/papers	1221642
0-93901-75664-0	54 oz Brownie Cheesecake for GFS®, 12 cut w/papers	1231642

Consumers who have purchased the product from a Gordon Food Service Store are urged to dispose of the product, and return the packaging to the store as proof of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Robert White, Technical Director at (847) 687-6491. Available Monday – Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Eastern Time.

For information on other recalls related to the Grain Craft flour recall, click on the following company names:

• Cinnabon Stix
• Safeway 8″ Single Layer Red Velvet Cake
• ACME 12” Decorated Chocolate Chip Cookie
• Jewel 12” Decorated Chocolate Chip Cookie
• Chick-fil-A Chocolate Chunk Cookies
• Hostess Snack Cake and Donut Products
• Frito-Lay Products
• Kellogg Company Snack Products 
• Mars Varieties of COMBOS
• Armour Snackmakers Keebler Animal Crackers
• Gardner Pie Company Cheesecakes and Key Lime Pies
• Tippin’s Gourmet Pies Key Lime Pies

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Listeria concerns prompt recall of Nature Valley granola bars

General Mills Inc. has initiated a nationwide recall of four flavors of Nature Valley brand protein and nut bars because of possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes of sunflower kernels provided by SunOpta Inc.

“The four flavors of Nature Valley bars that are part of the recall were distributed to retail establishments throughout the United States. Consumers are asked to check their pantries and dispose of the products affected by this recall, regardless of when they were purchased or what date is on the package, according to the General Mills recall notice on the Food and Drug Administration website.

“Consumers who have had to discard products covered by this recall may contact General Mills Consumer Relations at 866-896-4365 for a replacement.”

The company reported it has not received “any direct consumer reports of confirmed illnesses related to this supplier issue.”

This voluntary recall includes the following products currently in stores or consumers’ pantries:

• Nature Valley Protein Chewy Bar Honey, Peanut & Almond with Pumpkin Seeds, packaged in five-count boxes with the UPC number 000-16000-47196;
• Nature Valley Protein Chewy Bar-Peanut, Almond & Dark Chocolate packaged in five-count boxes with the UPC number 000-16000-45724;
• Nature Valley Simple Nut Bar Roasted Peanut & Honey packaged in four-count boxes with the UPC number 000-16000-46475;
• Nature Valley Simple Nut Bar Roasted Peanut & Honey packaged in 16-count boxes with the UPC number 000-16000-41308;
• Nature Valley Simple Nut Bar Almond, Cashew & Sea Salt packaged in four-count boxes with the UPC number 000-16000-46474; and
• Nature Valley Simple Nut Bar Almond, Cashew & Sea Salt packaged in 25-count boxes with the UPC number 000-16000-41301.

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Teddy Grahams sold in foodservice channels recalled for potential peanut residue

Mondelēz Global LLC of East Hanover, NJ, has announced a nationwide voluntary recall in the United States of Nabisco brand Honey Maid Teddy Grahams Cinnamon Cubs Graham Snacks sold only in foodservice channels (not in supermarkets).

This recall is being conducted following notification of a wheat flour recall by Grain Craft, a third-party flour supplier to one of Mondelēz’s external manufacturers, because of the potential presence of undeclared low levels of peanut residue in the flour.

While consumers with severe peanut allergies should avoid the recalled product, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has stated that the amount of peanut exposure from the flour is low and not expected to cause adverse health effects in the vast majority of peanut allergic consumers.

According to the company, it has received no reports of related illness to date and is taking this action as a precaution.

The following foodservice product is being recalled:

Description	Retail UPC	Best When Used By Dates
Honey Maid Teddy Grahams Cinnamon Cubs Graham Snacks, 0.5 oz	0 19320 01676 9	11 Oct 16 – 12 Oct 16 (top of package)

This recall is limited exclusively to the Honey Maid Teddy Grahams Cinnamon Cubs Graham Snacks manufactured and sold in the U.S. through foodservice channels. No other Honey Maid, Teddy Grahams or any other Mondelēz International product is included in this recall, and the recall does not involve any product purchased in retail channels (supermarkets, etc.).

Affected consumers who have this product should not eat it and should discard any recalled products they may have. Consumers can contact the company at 1-877-807-5633, 24 hours a day, to get more information about the recall, and consumer relations specialists are available Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET.

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Raw cat food recalled in U.S., Canada for Listeria, Salmonella

Three flavors of Rad Cat Raw Diet pet foods are being recalled from 48 U.S. states and Western Canada because they might be contaminated with Salmonella and/or Listeria monocytogenes, posing a health hazard to humans and pets.

Lab tests confirmed Salmonella and/or Listeria monocytogenes in samples of the cat food from Radagast Pet Food Inc. of Portland, OR, according to the company’s recall notice on the Food and Drug Administration website.

“The FDA third party contracted lab found two lots of (Rad Cat Raw Diet) Grass-Fed Beef tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes, one lot of Free-range Chicken tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes, and one lot of Free-range Turkey tested positive for Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes,” according to the notice posted Thursday night.

The infection-causing bacteria can affect animals eating the products and pose a risk to people who handle the products, especially if they don’t thoroughly wash their hands and any surfaces or utensils that come into contact with the pet food.

A variety of sizes and package styles of the Rad Cat Raw Diet pet foods are covered by the recall, including free 1-ounce sample cups as well as  8-, 16- and 24-ounce tubs.

The recall covers four lot codes: 62384, 62361, 62416 and 62372. Specific best-by dates in 2017 for the recalled lots and various product sizes are available in the recall notice. Consumers can find the date codes on the lids of the cat food tubs and on the bottom of the sample cups.

Radagast Pet Food Inc. distributed the implicated cat food in Western Canada and all U.S. states except Hawaii and Mississippi.

Radagast company officials are urging consumers to dispose of the recalled cat food “in a secure garbage receptacle” and thoroughly wash any pet bowls, utensils or surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled cat food.

“For refund claims, fill out all sections of our Consumer Claims Form which can be found on our website www.RadFood.com and return this form only to the retailer where you purchased the product for a refund. Consumers may call Radagast Pet Food Inc. for assistance in filling out the Claim Form,” according to the recall notice.

Anyone who has handled the recalled pet food and develops symptoms of Salmonella or Listeria monocytogenes infections should seek medical attention. Salmonella symptoms usually develop within two to eight days, but Listeria monocytogenes can take up to 70 days before causing symptoms.

Listeria can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

Salmonella symptoms in humans include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation and urinary tract symptoms.

Pets with Salmonella or Listeria monocytogenes infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Some pets may have only 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 recalled products and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

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Companies provide additional details on recalls of frozen peas

Two corporations have updated and added to public information about frozen vegetables that have been recalled in the U.S. and Canada because of possible Listeria contamination.

The J.R. Simplot Co. shared supply chain information regarding its recall of frozen peas and National Frozen Foods Corp. updated label traceability information on its recall notices for frozen peas in the U.S. and Canada.

“Our recall is connected to the National Frozen Foods (NFF) recall and not the CRF (CRF Frozen Foods LLC) recall,” Simplot’s Manager of Government and Public Affairs Ken Dey told Food Safety News on Thursday. “And as of now there haven’t been any illnesses or complaints related to the NFF recall.”

Simplot’s links in the food supply chain led to Michigan-based Dutch Treat Foods recalling consumer containers of its Sweet Pea Pasta Salad from retailers and bulk shipments of it from two major foodservice supplier companies, Lipari Foods LLC of Warren, MI, and Sysco of Grand Rapids.

Neither Simplot nor Dutch Treat Foods indicated in their recall notices whether the implicated peas had been supplied by NFF or CRF — a distinction normally unimportant to the general public but one that currently has significance.

The CRF recall referenced by Dey has been linked to an ongoing, multi-state outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes. The CRF recall has rippled through the supply chain, with more than 500 products now implicated. CRF ceased operations at its Pasco, WA, production plant in late April because of the outbreak.

Public health officials found the link between the outbreak and CRF by coincidence when Ohio officials conducting a random sampling of frozen vegetables at retail stores detected the outbreak strain in products from CRF’s Pasco, WA, facility.

NFF updates traceability details
Clarifying recall details for consumers in the U.S. and corporate customers in Canada, National Frozen Foods updated label traceability information this week related to its frozen peas.

In the U.S., the company provided the Food and Drug Administration with the UPC number for First Street brand green peas, making it easier for consumers to check their homes for the potentially contaminated products.

The updated information on the First Street frozen peas involves the 40-ounce packages with best-by dates of June 2, 2017, and Nov. 11, 2017. Consumers should check packages for the UPC number 41512 08201 to determine if they have recalled products in their homes.

In Canada, NFF updated information posted with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) regarding a notification to corporate trading partners about its frozen pea recall.

NFF supplied the S.H. Blackwell Co. Inc. and that company in turn distributed the peas to hotels, restaurants and institutional foodservice operations in British Columbia.

The recalled peas were distributed in 12-kg containers marked with one of the following product codes:

• 6B26C1N 69241 SHBEX-00004
• 6B26D1N 69241 SHBEX-00004
• 6B26E1N 69241 SHBEX-00004

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Bolthouse Farms also recalls protein drinks in Canada

In addition to recalling 3.8 million bottles of protein drinks in the U.S. because of consumer complaints of spoilage and illnesses, Bolthouse Farms Inc. is recalling an undisclosed number of three flavors of the drinks from retailers across Canada.

These three flavors of Bolthouse Farms brand protein drinks are being recalled from retailers across Canada following consumer complaints in the U.S. about spoilage and illnesses.

No illnesses related to the products had been reported in Canada as of the posting of the recall notice Wednesday on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) website.

“Bolthouse Farms is recalling Bolthouse Farms brand protein beverages from the marketplace due to possible spoilage that may cause the beverages to appear lumpy, taste unpleasant and have an off odor,” according to the recall notice posted by CFIA.

“Consumers should not consume the recalled products described below. Check to see if you have recalled product in your home. Recalled products should be thrown out or returned to the store where they were purchased.”

In Canada, only three flavors of the Bolthouse Farms drinks are being recalled. Consumers can identify the recalled Bolthouse Farms beverages with the following label information:

• Chocolate Protein Plus Protein Shake, 450 ml, Best Before dates from 2016/JL/10 to 2016/OC/12 and UPC number 0 71464 30650 2;
• Chocolate Protein Plus Protein Shake, 946 ml, Best Before dates from 2016/JL/10 to 2016/OC/12 and UPC number 0 71464 30651 9;
• Vanilla Bean Protein Plus Protein Shake, 946 ml, Best Before dates from 2016/JL/10 to 2016/OC/12 and UPC number 0 71464 01640 1;
• Mocha Cappuccino Perfectly Protein Coffee Beverage, 450 ml, Best Before 2016/AU/02 and UPC number 0 71464 30050 0; and
• Mocha Cappuccino Perfectly Protein Coffee Beverage, 946 ml, Best Before 2016/SE/02 and UPC number 0 71464 30051 7.

Canadian officials are conducting a food safety investigation, which may lead to the recall of other products, according to the recall notice. The CFIA is verifying that industry is removing the recalled products from the marketplace.

The U.S. recall details
Based in Bakersfield, CA, Bolthouse Farms — widely known for its “Baby Carrots” — posted a recall alert Wednesday on its company website and with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warning consumers to not drink five flavors of “Protein PLUS” shakes as well as “Mocha Cappuccino Perfectly Protein” beverages distributed in the U.S.

All of the Protein PLUS flavors in the top photo, as well as the chocolate Protein PLUS and Mocha Cappuccino Perfectly Protein shown in the bottom photo, are subject to the recall by Bolthouse Farms Inc. in the United States.

“The recall affects 3.8 million bottles that have been distributed nationally in the United States,” according to the recall notice on the FDA website.

“These products should not be consumed. The issue was identified after the company received consumer complaints, including reports of illness. The cause of this issue is currently under investigation.”

Bolthouse Farms is advising U.S. consumers to return the recalled beverages to the stores where they bought them for a full refund. For more information consumers call 866-535-3774.

Founded in 1915 and headquartered in California’s San Joaquin Valley, the company was acquired by Campbell Soup Co. in 2012.

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Atlantic Spice recalls sunflower seed snacks for Listeria risk

Atlantic Spice Company Inc. of North Truro, MA, is recalling its 16-ounce packages of Sunflower Seeds Roasted Salted, Tropical Mix and Cranberry Health Mix snacks because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

The company stated that no illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.

The potential for contamination was noted in relationship to the SunOpta sunflower seed recall. Atlantic Spice noted that the sale of the recalled lot numbers has been suspended.

The recalled snacks were distributed locally in the company’s retail store and nationally through mail orders.

The product comes in a 16-ounce clear plastic package marked with lot numbers (listed below) on the bottom right and with the numbers 15 and 11 at the top right.

Product #746 Sunflower Seeds Roasted Salted Lot #1772
Product #929 Tropical Mix Lot #1771
Product #1947 Cranberry Health Mix Lot #1751

Consumers who have purchased these snacks are urged to dispose of them. Consumers with questions may contact the company at (508) 487-6100, ext. 108, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET.

Listeria is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

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Bolthouse Farms recalls millions of drinks because of illnesses

Reports of illness from consumers have prompted Bolthouse Farms Inc. to recall 3.8 million bottles of protein shakes and cappuccino beverages across the country.

The Bakersfield, CA, company widely known for its “Baby Carrots” posted a recall alert today on its company website and with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warning consumers to not drink the implicated Bolthouse Farms branded “Protein PLUS” shakes and “Mocha Cappuccino Perfectly Protein” beverages.

“Bolthouse Farms is voluntarily recalling a selection of protein drinks due to possible spoilage that may cause the beverages to appear lumpy, taste unpleasant and have an off odor,” according to the notices.

“The recall affects 3.8 million bottles that have been distributed nationally in the United States.

“These products should not be consumed. The issue was identified after the company received consumer complaints, including reports of illness. The cause of this issue is currently under investigation.”

The recalled beverages can be identified by best-by dates printed on the bottle caps and labels at the neck of individual bottles and UPC numbers printed near the bar codes on the labels.

The recall includes Protein PLUS shakes with ‘best by’ dates between 6/20/16 to 9/18/16 and the following label codes:

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION	UPC CODE
Protein PLUS Chocolate 325ml/11 oz	0-71464-01868-9
Protein PLUS Chocolate 450ml/15.2 oz	0-71464-30650-2
Protein PLUS Chocolate 946ml/32oz	0-71464-30651-9
Protein PLUS Vanilla Bean 325ml / 11 oz	0-71464-01867-2
Protein PLUS Vanilla Bean 15.2 oz	0-71464-01639-5
Protein PLUS Vanilla Bean 32 oz	0-71464-01640-1
Protein PLUS Coffee 325ml / 11 oz	0-71464-01869-6
Protein PLUS Coffee 450ml/15.2 oz	0-71464-01627-2
Protein PLUS Coffee 946ml/32oz	0-71464-01628-9
Protein PLUS Coconut 450ml/15.2 oz	0-71464-01892-4
Protein PLUS Strawberry 450ml/15.2 oz	0-71464-01890-0
Protein PLUS Strawberry 946ml/32oz	0-71464-01891-7
Protein PLUS Banana Honey Almond Butter 325ml/11 oz	0-71464-01918-1
Protein PLUS Banana Honey Almond Butter 450ml/15.2 oz	0-71464-01893-1

 

The recall also affects the following Mocha Cappuccino products:

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION	DATE CODE	UPC CODE
Mocha Cappuccino Perfectly Protein 450ml/15.2oz	Best by: 9/2/16	0-71464-30051-7
Mocha Cappuccino Perfectly Protein 946ml/32ozz	Best by: 8/2/16 and 8/3/16	0-71464-30050-0

 

Bolthouse Farms is advising consumers to return the recalled beverages to the stores where they bought them for a full refund. For more information consumers call 866-535-3774.

Founded in 1915 and headquartered in California’s San Joaquin Valley, the company was acquired by Campbell Soup Co. in 2012.

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Cheesecakes, oyster crackers recalled for possible peanut residue

Two additional recalls have been announced due to the possible presence of undeclared peanut residue in the Grain Craft flour used to make the recalled products.

Kellogg Company of Battle Creek, MI, and Snyder’s-Lance Inc. of Charlotte, NC, are recalling respectively, graham cracker crumbs used to make certain SpartanNash brand cheesecakes and Lance brand oyster crackers.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is investigating all these flour-related recalls.

Kellogg announced Tuesday that it was recalling certain graham cracker crumbs containing Grain Craft flour. The graham cracker crumbs were used in certain lots of cheesecakes produced by SpartanNash’s central kitchen facility in Grand Rapids, MI.

The recalled cheesecakes had a sell-by date of June 6-21, 2016, and are no longer in the stores, the company stated. Consumers with severe peanut allergies should avoid these recalled products, which include:

ITEM: Spartan Fresh Selections Cherry Cheesecake
SIZE: 5 ounces
LOT NUMBER: 6/6/2016 – 6/21/2016 (sell by date)
UPC: 11213-03462
SPARTAN CODE: #595

ITEM: Spartan Fresh Selections Strawberry Cheesecake
SIZE: 5 ounces
LOT NUMBER: 6/6/2016 – 6/21/2016 (sell by date)
UPC: 11213-03463
SPARTAN CODE: #596

ITEM: Spartan Fresh Selections Blueberry Cheesecake
SIZE: 5 ounces
LOT NUMBER: 6/6/2016 – 6/21/2016 (sell by date)
UPC: 11213-03464
SPARTAN CODE: #597

SpartanNash sent a notice to its “yes” Rewards Card holders who may have purchased a recalled item and is offering a full refund to consumers who return the product to the store where the item was purchased.

Lance brand oyster crackers

Snyder’s-Lance Inc. is issuing a recall for certain code dates of their Lance brand Oyster Crackers. The company stated that its Oyster Crackers subject to the recall may have been produced using the recalled Grain Craft flour and, as a result, may contain low levels of undeclared peanut residue. No other Lance crackers are affected by this recall.

This recalled product is sold through food service channels and is distributed nationwide to restaurants and other institutions.

Only the following “Use By” case code dates for Lance Oyster Crackers are affected by this action:

“23 JUL 16”, “30 JUL 16” and “13 AUG 16”

This product should not be made available to consumers. Food service companies and other customers may receive additional information by calling the Snyder’s-Lance Customer Management Dept. at (704) 557-8691 or (704) 557-8472 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET on weekdays.

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Americans’ diets improve, but ethnic and income gaps widen

According to the Los Angeles Times, more American adults are eating better, but a new analysis over 12 years (2000–2012) shows that the trend of improved nutrition is largely limited to middle- and upper-income Caucasian Americans.

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FAO urges more efforts to address rural hunger and poverty

Sustainable rural development is key to addressing hunger, poverty, and the other root causes of migration, a growing phenomenon which is undermining many countries’ ability to achieve their development goals, according to FAO Director-General José Graziano da Silva, who spoke at the European Development Days 2016 in Brussels, June 15–16.

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Kellogg establishes $100 million VC fund

Kellogg has announced it is establishing eighteen94 capital (1894) to make minority investments in companies pursuing next-generation innovation, bolstering access to cutting-edge ideas and trends.

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Less than a month until IFT16 in Chicago

In just a few weeks, thousands of professionals from around the world will gather in Chicago for IFT16. If you haven’t already done so, now’s the time to register to make sure you can join your colleagues in experiencing the newest innovations in food science and technology.

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Tippin’s Key lime pie recalled for potential peanut residue

Tippin’s Gourmet Pies LLC of Kansas City, KS, has voluntarily recalled select 8-inch Key Lime Pies because they may contain flour containing undeclared peanut residue, which is one of the most common food allergies.

Tippin’s stated that the firm initiated the recall after becoming aware that its supplier, Kellogg Company, was conducting a recall of graham cracker crumbs because they may contain undeclared peanut residue. These graham cracker crumbs were used to make the crust for the Key Lime Pies identified below.

While consumers with severe peanut allergies should avoid the recalled product, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has stated that the amount of peanut exposure from the flour is low and not expected to cause adverse health effects in the vast majority of peanut-allergic consumers.

This recall applies only to the product listed below and does not affect any other Tippin’s brand products.

Brand/Product Name	Size	UPC	Lot Number
Tippin’s Key Lime Pie	8 inch	680816050057	04-21-16 04-25-16 04-26-16 04-27-16 05-03-16 05-04-16 05-05-16 05-11-16 05-17-16

This product was sold to distributers throughout Kansas, Missouri, Texas, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Arizona, and Illinois. Tippin’s Gourmet Pies stated that it will work with customers to ensure that the recalled products are no longer available for sale or distribution.

In the event that consumers believe they have purchased the listed product and have an allergy concern, they should return the product to the store they purchased it from for a full refund, or discard the product.

For questions or concerns regarding information about this recall, consumers may go here or leave a message on the 24-hour toll-free hotline at 1-800-435-3382. Calls received Monday through Friday will be followed up the next business day, the company noted.

More information about recent recalls involving peanut residue in flour can be found on FDA’s website here.

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Sardine products recalled because of botulism concerns

A New Jersey company is recalling AI Rasheed Sardine products from retailers in seven states because they could be contaminated with bacteria that can cause botulism poisoning.

Greenland Trading Corp. of Paterson, NJ, shipped the sardine products to retailers in California, Florida, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Tennessee.

The recalled sardine products are in vacuum packages with the expiration date of March 2017.

“Consumers are warned not to use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled. The potential for contamination was noted after New York State Department of Agriculture sampling and analysis,” according to the recall notice on the Food and Drug Administration website.

“Consumers who have purchased AI Rasheed Sardine are advised not to eat them, but should return them to the place of purchase. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 973-225-0322.”

Botulism is a potentially fatal form of food poisoning, can cause the following symptoms: general weakness, dizziness, double­ vision and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distention and constipation may also be common symptoms. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.

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Whole Foods macadamia nuts recalled after Salmonella test

Marin Foods Specialties Inc. is recalling packaged raw macadamia nuts sold in Whole Foods Market stores because of possible Salmonella contamination.

Routine testing by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration detected Salmonella in the raw macadamia nuts, which are labeled as “Whole Foods Market Raw Macadamia Nuts,” according to the recall notice.

Based in Byron, CA, Marin Foods distributed the raw macadamia nuts to Whole Foods Market stores in California, Nevada, Oregon and Washington. The recalled macadamia nuts are packaged in clear plastic tubs. Label information on the recalled nuts include “best by” dates of Aug. 21 through Nov. 6 and the UPC number 99948200132.

“Customers who have purchased this product at Whole Foods Market stores in the affected states should discard it and may bring in their receipt for a full refund,” according to the recall notice. “Consumers with questions may contact Marin Foods Specialties Inc. at 925-634-6126.”

Salmonella is a microscopic organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea that 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 infected aneurysms, endocarditis and arthritis.

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Frozen veg recall ripples through supply chain to J.R. Simplot, Dutch Treat Foods

Dutch Treat Foods Inc. issued a recall Tuesday for more than 3,000 pounds of Sweet Pea Pasta Salad because of potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, saying its supplier recalled one of the salad ingredients.

The supplier, J.R. Simplot Co. notified its customers June 14 it was recalling bulk-shipped frozen peas and mixed vegetables after its own supplier — whom Simplot did not name — notified it of a recall because of Listeria monocytogenes.

The so-called downstream recalls come in the wake of two massive frozen vegetable recalls initiated April 23 and June 17, by CRF Frozen Foods LLC of Pasco, WA, and National Frozen Foods Corp. of Seattle, respectively.

Federal officials have linked a listeriosis outbreak to the CRF frozen vegetables, but no illnesses have been confirmed in relation to the National Frozen Foods Corp. vegetables. Neither the Dutch Treat Foods nor J.R. Simplot recall mentioned CRF or National.

Dutch Treat Foods Sweet Pea Pasta Salad recall
Based in Zeeland, MI, Dutch Treat Foods sold its pasta salad in bulk to two Michigan distributors that further distributed the salad. Those distributors, Lipari Foods LLC of Warren, MI, and Sysco of Grand Rapids, supply a wide variety of foodservice operations.

The Dutch Treat branded pea pasta salad also was sold in retail stores in Michigan and directly from the Dutch Treat facility in 10-pound cases, 2-pound containers and 14-ounce containers.

Consumers can identify the recalled pea pasta salad by “use by” dates of June 9 through July 1.

“The potential contamination did not originate at the Dutch Treat Foods facility,” according to the company’s recall notice on the Food and Drug Administration’s website. “The distributor and retail stores have been contacted and instructed to remove any product from their shelves and to dispose of any remaining product in their inventory.

“Consumers who have purchased the product should not consume the product but should throw it away or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.  Consumers with questions may call the company collect at 616-772-5921.”

J.R. Simplot Co. recall
Dated June 14, the recall notice from Idaho-based J.R. Simplot Co. is posted on the company’s website, but not the FDA’s site. Simplot supplies a wide variety of customers, including other food producing companies with a range of products, including individually quick frozen (IQF) vegetables.

The Simplot recall includes four products with the following labeling information:

• Simplot Classic Veg – Peas 1/20# Item No. 10071179189251;
• Simplot Classic Veg – Peas 12/2.5# (30lb) Item No. 10071179189497;
• Simplot Classic Veg – Blend 5 way 12/2.5# (30lb) Item No. 10071179188117; and
• Polar Blend 5 way 1/20# – Item No. 10072807002690.

Additional identifying information for the recalled Simplot products is included in the recall notice. The Simplot recall warns its customers that “taking prompt action in this matter is important.”

“Accordingly, we instruct affected customers to cease selling or stocking the products matching the specific lot/day codes referenced. Affected customers are also asked to locate and take control of any of this identified product that may be in the distribution system,” according to the Simplot recall notice.

“In addition, if these (products) were further distributed, those customers are to be notified at once of this product recall and provided instructions to hold/destroy product with associated documentation.”

The long shelf life of frozen vegetables has public health officials concerned that consumers, food producers, distributors and retailers may still have the recalled food on hand. Also of concern is the fact that it can take up to 70 days for listeriosis symptoms to develop after exposure to the pathogen.

Anyone who has consumed the recalled frozen vegetables or products containing them, such as the Dutch Treat pea pasta salad, and developed listeriosis symptoms should seek medical attention.

Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headaches, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria monocytogenes infection can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. It can also cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

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Canadian government proposes to authorize irradiation of ground beef

Health Canada has announced the launch of a consultation on a proposal that would allow irradiation of fresh and frozen ground beef to enhance food safety.

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Cargill awards $13 million in grants

Through a broad set of programs focused on the intersection of food security, sustainability, and nutrition, Cargill is awarding more than $13 million in grants that will improve the lives of more than 1 million people in 15 countries around the world.

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DuPont names winners in 2016 Packaging Innovation Awards

DuPont has announced that Graham Packaging has received the highest accolade—the Diamond Award—in its 2016 Packaging Innovation Awards, for its Thermaset Blow Molded PET Container for hot-fill, pasteurized food.

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Philadelphia passes soda tax

According to Reuters, the Philadelphia city council voted 13–4 to approve a 1.5 cent-per-ounce tax on sugary and diet drinks.

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Intestinal viruses may trigger celiac in those with genetic predisposition

Research conducted at the University of Chicago shows that the onset of the autoimmune condition celiac disease may not attributed to genetic factors alone—certain viral infections may also be involved.

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Kashi acquires Pure Organic

Kashi has acquired Pure Organic, a maker of organic nutrition bars and fruit snacks.

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Fresh Express cites human error in third salad recall this year

For the third time this year, Chiquita Brands International’s salad division Fresh Express is recalling salad kits because of undeclared allergen issues, this time openly blaming human error.

Recalled Fresh Express salad kit. The best-by date is June 26, so consumers are urged to check their home refrigerators for the salads.

This time the Orlando-based Fresh Express is recalling almost 2,500 cases of Caesar Salad Kits that may contain the wrong condiment packets, which contain the known allergen walnuts that is not reflected on the salad labels.

Retailers in 19 states, Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico “possibly” received the recalled salads, according to a notice on the Food and Drug Administration website.

It is the second time this year that the wrong condiment packets have been inserted into Fresh Express salads. The first instance resulted in a Feb. 6 recall of bagged, chopped romaine because a production line error resulted in condiment packets for other products being included in the romaine bags.

In May, Fresh Express had to recall its Farmers Market Chopped Asian Salad Kit because the wrong labels were applied on the salads during production, resulting in undeclared allergens of soy, almonds, wheat.

The current recall involved 7.6-ounce Fresh Express Caesar Salad Kits with the product code G163B13A, a use-by date of June 26, and a UPC number of 0 71279 30100 6.

“Fresh Express representatives are already working with retailers to ensure any incorrectly packed salad kits are rapidly removed from store shelves and inventories,” according to the recall notice.

“Fresh Express is coordinating closely with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to effectively manage this isolated incident caused by human error.”

Consumers in possession of the recalled product should discard it. A refund is available where purchased or by contacting the Fresh Express Consumer Response Center toll-free at 800-242-5472 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. EDT.

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Repeated Listeria positives spur recall of food sent to schools

Weeks after most school districts dismissed students for summer break, 45 varieties of pre-prepared sandwiches are being recalled from 38 districts because of possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination.

Let’s Do Lunch Inc., doing business as Integrated Food Service, put a positive spin on the recall, saying “due to school summer breaks, any foods remaining in frozen storage can swiftly be returned to the company.”

However, the company did not indicate when the 45 products — including breakfast sandwiches and wraps, burgers, chicken patties, hot dogs and deli-style sandwiches — were distributed or whether any of them had been served to students.

The 38 school districts that received the recalled foods include public schools in Albuquerque, Houston, Indianapolis, Portland and Sacramento. No retail products are included in the recall.

No illnesses had been reported as of the recall posting, but it can take up to 70 days for symptoms of Listeria monocytogenes infections to develop.

The potentially contaminated food was produced at a facility where the U.S. Food and Drug Administration found Listeria monocytogenes “on multiple food contact surfaces where the products were produced on several different occasions” during routine FDA environmental sampling, according to the recall notice.

School foodservice distributors in 29 states received the products from Integrated Food Service (IFS). A list of the specific recalled products is available on the IFS website, as well as a partial list of school districts that received the products. The list will be updated daily as additional information becomes available, according to the recall notice.

“IFS will work closely with schools and school foodservice distributors until the company can assure that no recalled product remains in their locations. Any school district that believes it may have product still in frozen storage that is affected by this recall should contact the IFS recall coordinator at 800-560-9999 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Pacific time, Monday through Friday, or at recall@integratedfoodservice.com for return or disposal instructions.”

Anyone who ate any of the recalled products and develops symptoms of listeriosis infection should seek medical attention.

Listeria monocytogenes is a microscopic organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although, healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms, such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Listeria monocytogenes infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

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Importer recalls fish from Vietnam that went to Aldi stores

Almost 26,000 pounds of Sea Queen brand Swai fillets from Vietnam are being recalled because they were distributed in the U.S. without having met federal inspection requirements for residues.

Importer U.S. Cado Holdings Inc. of Santa Anna, CA, is cooperating with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) on the recall, which was announced Monday.

These are the packages and labels of recalled Sea Queen brand imported swai fish fillets. (Photo courtesy of FSIS)

This is a health hazard situation where there is a reasonable probability that the use of the product will cause serious, adverse health consequences or death, according to the recall notice.

“The problem was discovered when the customer and import establishment notified FSIS personnel of Swai products entering U.S. commerce without meeting FSIS regulatory requirements for imported Siluriformes,” according to the recall notice.

“The products were imported from Vietnam and failed to comply with FSIS requirements concerning residue sampling and testing prior to entry into United States commerce. There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about a reaction should contact a healthcare provider.”

The recall notice does not include complete distribution details, but does state the recalled fish was sent to Aldi distribution centers in Connecticut, Georgia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Tennessee. It was not disclosed what stores those centers serve. Dates of distribution also were not provided.

Consumers can identify the recalled skinless and boneless Sea Queen brand “Swai Fillet” products, which were produced and packed on March 30 in Vietnam by Golden Quality Seafood Corp., by the following packaging information:

• Two-pound packages containing individually wrapped pieces of fish;
• Plant number FN1158;
• Lot number SW1601-02-16090; and
• Best-by date of March 30, 2018.

“Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase,” according to the recall. “Consumers and Media with questions about the recall can contact Paul Nguyen, U.S. Cado Holdings Inc. manager, at 714-973-2272.”

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Bread mix recalled on fear of E. coli in one of its ingredients

Although the company did not specify the ingredient or name the supplier, Molly & Drew has recalled some of its beer bread mix sold nationwide at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store locations because of possible E. coli contamination.

The Sac City, IA, bread company posted the recall on its blog June 17, warning consumers to not use its American Original Beer Bread mix because it might contain E. coli O121.

E. coli O121 is the pathogen responsible for an ongoing outbreak linked to General Mills flour that has sickened at least 38 people in 20 states since late December 2015. Federal officials have confirmed the outbreak strain of E. coli O121 in a bag of General Mills flour from an outbreak victim’s home.

“Molly & Drew is initiating this recall because we were notified by one of our suppliers that they were conducting a recall of an ingredient used in our mix for the potential presence of E. coli O121,” according to the recall notice, which is also posted on the Food and Drug Administration website.

“It is important to note that to date no Molly & Drew product has been linked to any illness or been shown to have any presence of E. coli. …If you have the affected retail product, do not use it and throw it in the garbage.”

Calls to Molly & Drew offices late this afternoon went to voicemail and were not immediately returned. General Mills Inc. and FDA officials similarly were not available to immediately respond to requests for comment.

The beer bread mix recall is limited to three lots that were distributed only to Cracker Barrel Old Country Store locations. No other retailers and no online customers received the recalled lots.

Consumers can identify the recalled Molly & Drew American Original Beer Bread mix by its 19.75-ounce red bag and the following label information:

• UPC number 855290003008;
• Item number BB100;
• Best by date of January 2018; and
• Lot any one of these three lot numbers — L1215A, L1215B or L1215C.

General Mills announced its recall of 10 million pounds of flour sent to grocery retailers and restaurants on May 31, about a month after officials with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found a link between E. coli patients and raw dough containing flour.

Status of bulk flour recall unknown
Initially, neither General Mills nor FDA officials revealed that flour from the recalled production run at a plant in Kansas City, MO, has also been distributed to General Mills corporate trading partners — including food producers — in bulk quantities until Food Safety News specifically asked about such distribution.

FDA and General Mills officials said in early June that the general public did not need to be notified about the bulk flour shipments because the product was not available for sale to consumers in that format and was not identifiable to consumers.

The government and General Mills declined to reveal what food producers received bulk shipments of the recalled flour, saying the information was proprietary corporate material. An FDA spokeswoman as well as a General Mills spokesman said the agency and company were working together to make sure the flour was recovered.

At that time, General Mills’ spokesman said the company did not believe any of the recall flour had been used to produce any baking mixes. The General Mills recall notice on the FDA website lists the three brands of flour and identifying label information that consumers can use to determine if they have the product in their homes.

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DDW announces winners in Natural Coloring Competition for Students

DDW has announced that this year’s first place winners of the Natural Coloring Competition for Students are Poonam Bajaj (team captain), Maria Dian Pratiwi Masli, Deepali Jain, and Matthew Luke Tanoeihusada from Washington State University.

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Whole Foods receives FDA warning letter after inspections

According to Time magazine, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning letter to Whole Foods due to a series of “serious violations” it found while inspecting a food preparation facility in Massachusetts, including conditions that support the growth of the bacteria that causes Listeria.

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Tainted Sunflower Seeds tied to Earnest Eats Recall

Earnest Eats is voluntarily recalling Earnest Eats Dark Chocolate Almond Bars 6.2 oz. cartons only with the specific lot codes indicated below because they contain sunflower seeds that have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

This recall was initiated when our sunflower seed supplier, SunOpta, notified us of the recall due to the possibility that some sunflower kernels may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

We would like to reassure all of our customers that we have not received any reports of consumers being affected by illness to date. The following recalled product was distributed nationwide online and to retail stores between March 1 and June 17, 2016, with best before dates indicated below. No other Earnest Eats products are affected:

Earnest Eats 6.2 oz. Dark Chocolate Almond Chewy Granola Bars – 5 ct carton Product UPC Codes are:

• 891048001636 (individual bars sold only in 5-ct carton)
• 891048001667 (5-ct carton)
• 891048001674 (12-ct master corrugated case)
• Best Before Dates 29APR17

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Globespun Gourmet Wraps Recalled

Essential Foods Inc. of Seattle, Washington is voluntarily recalling four flavors of Globespun Gourmet 8oz wraps because an ingredient (peas) has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

The recalled Globespun Gourmet wraps were distributed in Washington and Oregon to grocery outlets and corporate cafeterias.

The products come in 8oz, plastic wrapped, ready to eat form. The affected products are the following flavors:

• Globespun Gourmet Thai UPC#3232800405
• Globespun Gourmet Coconut Curry UPC#3232800210
• Globespun Gourmet Tandoori- flavors of India UPC#3232800211
• Globespun Gourmet Dolma La- Tibetan potato UPC#3232800503

The products have a date stamp of 06 17, 06 20 and 06 24 on the bottom of the wrap.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.

The potential for contamination is connected to a recall of frozen peas which had the potential of testing positive for Listeria monocytogens. Peas are used in the above recipes and are therefore affiliated with the recall.

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Zupan’s Markets Recalls Macaroni Salad

Zupan’s Markets is initiating a voluntary recall of its Macaroni Salad with Cheddar Cheese because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

There have been no reported illnesses attributed to the recalled items to date.

Zupan’s Markets is issuing this voluntary recall after being notified by their supplier, National Frozen Foods, that the frozen green peas used in the product are being recalled because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

The recalled Macaroni Cheddar Cheese Salad is packaged in a plastic bag, 5 lb. net weight. The label listed item #23070 and the UPC 8 87241 80712 0.

The recalled product was distributed to four Zupan’s Markets locations in Portland and Lake Oswego, Oregon between 04/09/16 and 06/14/16.

The product was sold both in Zupan’s Markets service deli salad case, sized to order, and available in prepacked round plastic containers (8, 12 & 16 oz.) in its Grab & Go area. Scale label on bottom of the product container reads Macaroni Salad with Cheddar Cheese with code 394.

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Listeria Prompts Whole Foods Pasta Recall

Green Cuisine is initiating a voluntary recall of “Pesto Pasta Salad with Arugula” because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

Green Cuisine is issuing this voluntary recall after being notified by their supplier, National Frozen Foods, that the frozen green peas used in the product are being recalled because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

The recalled products was sold in Southern California, Nevada and Arizona Whole Foods Market locations between 06/15/16 and 06/16/16.

There have been no reported illnesses attributed to the recalled items to date.

The recalled product was sold in 7.4 oz clear plastic containers with the name “Whole Foods Pesto Pasta Salad w/Arugula,” UPC code 857898004333 and “best by” date of 6/20/16.

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Possible breach of food defense leads to recall of chicken products

Minnesota’s GNP Company, based in Cold Spring, late Saturday recalled approximately 55,608 pounds of chicken products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).

The company discovered sand and black soil was turning up in some of the products, and reported it to FSIS.  No one has reported any adverse reactions to the contaminated products.  GNP Company and local law enforcement are investigating how the sand and soil got into the chicken products.

The recalled  products were produced on various dates from June 6 to June 9, 2016.  The products subject to recall include:

• 40-lb. cases containing “Gold’n Plump CHICKEN WINGETTES & DRUMMETTES 32900” with a use-by date of 6/18/2016 and 6/20/16.
• 40-lb. cases containing “Gold’n Plump Chicken Tenders 34400” with a use-by date of 6/16/2016, 6/18/2016, and 6/19/2016
• 40-lb. cases containing “Gold’n Plump BONELESS SKINLESS CHICKEN BREAST PORTIONS 24700” with a use-by date of 6/29/2016.
• 40-lb. cases containing “Gold’n Plump CHICKEN LEG QUARTERS 20500” with a use-by date of 6/20/2016, 6/21/2016,and 6/22/2016.
• 40-lb. cases containing “Gold’n Plump CHICKEN DRUMSTICKS 30800” with a use-by date of 6/20/2016.
• 40-lb. cases containing “Gold’n Plump BONELESS SKINLESS CHICKEN BREAST PIECES 36400” with a use-by date of 6/22/16.
• 40-lb. cases containing “Gold’n Plump CHICKEN THIGHS WITHOUT BACKS 37800” with a use-by date of 6/20/2016, 6/24/2016, and 6/26/2016.
• 40-lb. cases containing “Gold’n Plump CHICKEN DRUMSTICKS 20800” with a use-by date of 6/18/2016 and 6/23/2016.
• 40-lb. cases containing “Gold’n Plump UNDER GRADE CHICKEN WING SEGMENTS 22900” with a use-by date of 6/17/2016, 6/19/2016, 6/20/2016, and 6/21/2016.
• 40-lb. cases containing “Gold’n Plump CHICKEN WINGS 31100” with a use-by date of 6/17/2016, 6/20/2016, and 6/21/2016.
• 40-lb. cases containing “Gold’n Plump CHICKEN LIVERS 31300” with a use-by date of 6/18/2016.
• 40-lb. cases containing “Just BARE BONELESS SKINLESS WHOLE CHICKEN LEG 37200” with a use-by date of 6/22/2016, 6/23/2016, 6/24/2016, and 6/25/2016.
• 40-lb. cases containing “Gold’n Plump CHICKEN WHOLE LEGS 20700” with a use-by date of 6/20/16.
• 40-lb. cases containing “Gold’n Plump CHICKEN GIZZARDS 31200” with a use-by date of 6/20/16 and 6/23/2016.
• 40-lb. cases containing “Gold’n Plump Chicken Wingette and Drummettes 33000” with a use-by date of 6/22/2016 and 6/24/2016.
• 40-lb. cases containing “Gold’n Plump Chicken Tenders 34900” with a use-by date of 6/23/2016 and 6/25/2016.
• 24-lb. cases containing “Just BARE WHOLE CHICKEN 59405” with a use-by date of 6/26/2016.
• 40-lb. cases containing “Just BARE CLIPPED CHICKEN BREAST TENDERS 53200” with a use-by date of 6/18/2016 and 6/20/2016.

The products subject to recall bear establishment number “P-322” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped for food service and retail distribution nationwide.

 

Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

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Listeria spurs new recalls for frozen peas in multiple products

At least four food companies are recalling fresh and frozen foods because they contain frozen peas from Seattle’s National Frozen Foods Corp. that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

In addition to the company recalls, KGET-TV Channel 17 in Bakersfield, CA, is reporting the California Kern County Aging and Adult Services office is warning operators of senior nutrition centers and recipients of Meals-on-Wheels services about recalled frozen peas from an unnamed supplier that could be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

The frozen pea recalls — posted yesterday and today — appear to be unrelated to the massive recall by CRF Frozen Foods LLC in Pasco, WA, which has recalled hundreds of products in connection with a Listeria monocytogenes outbreak. That recall has caused a rash of secondary recalls by companies that use CRF products in their own products.

As of tonight, no illnesses had been confirmed in relation to the recalled products that contain frozen peas from National Frozen Foods Corp.

National Frozen Foods had not posted any recall information on its website as of 9 p.m. EDT on June 17. The Food and Drug Administration also did not yet have a recall notice from National Frozen Foods because the agency does not post such notices until recalling firms first publish notices elsewhere, according to an FDA spokeswomen.

 Pinnacle Foods Inc. of Parsippany, NJ, published a recall notice this afternoon on a public relations news site for nationally distributed C&W brand frozen peas. The FDA had not yet picked up that notice tonight. Details from the Pinnacle Foods recall include:

• C&W Early Harvest Petite Peas and C&W Petite Peas — both distributed nationwide to retailers and sold nationwide online. Retailers that carry C&W brand froze vegetables include Walmart and Hy-Vee.
• 
  C&W Early Harvest Petite Peas are sold in 16-ounce bags. The recalled bags have a UPC number of 0-70332-00159-4. Best-by dates for the  recalled Early Harvest Petite Peas were not included in the recall notice.
• C&W Petite Peas are also sold in 16-ounce bags. They have the UPC number 0-70332-00158-7 and have best-by dates of: Mar-07-18; Mar-23-18; Mar-17-18; Mar-28-18; Mar-28-18; Mar-29-18; and Mar-29-18.

Recall notices involving the frozen peas from National Frozen Foods posted on the FDA’s recall website as of this evening were:

Zupan’s Macaroni Salad With Cheddar Cheese, produced by Duck Delivery Produce Inc. of Sumner, WA — distributed to four Zupan’s Markets in Portland and Lake Oswego, OR, between April 9 and June 14.

• Zupan’s Macaroni Cheddar Cheese Salad is a fresh, refrigerated product, was sent to retailers packaged in 5-pound plastic bags with the label listed item #23070 and the UPC number 8 87241 80712 0.
  The product was sold both in Zupan’s Markets service deli salad case, sized to order, and in prepacked round plastic containers in 8- 12- and 16-ounce sizes in retailers Grab & Go areas. Scale label on bottom of the prepacked containers say: Macaroni Salad with Cheddar Cheese and have the code 394.

Frozen peas in meal kits from HelloFresh of New York City — delivered to consumers in Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas and Wisconsin.

Specific meal kits that included the recalled frozen peas are:

• Summer Vegetable Salad with Seared Chicken, Garlic Croutons, and Mustard-Chive Vinaigrette delivered June 11-15;
• Lemony Pan-Seared Chicken with Pesto Potato Salad and Peas delivered March 12-18;
• Seared Steak with Spring Veggie Succotash and Mint-Chive Pesto delivered March 19-25; and
• Nir’s Lamb-Stuffed Zucchini with Spiced Lentil Stew delivered March 19-25.

Globespun Gourmet wraps from Essential Foods Inc. of Seattle — distributed in Washington and Oregon to grocery outlets and corporate cafeterias. “The production of the product has been suspended while FDA and our supplier work to resolve the source of the issue,” according to the recall notice.

The recalled 8-ounce wraps are plastic wrapped and ready to eat with date stamps of 06 17, 06 20 and 06 24 on the bottom of each wrap. Specific varieties of wraps subject to the recall are:

• Globespun Gourmet Thai UPC#3232800405;
• Globespun Gourmet Coconut Curry UPC#3232800210;
• Globespun Gourmet Tandoori-flavors of India UPC#3232800211; and
• Globespun Gourmet Dolma La- Tibetan potato UPC#3232800503.

Public health officials advise anyone who has eaten any of the recalled products — or eaten meals at Kern County California Senior Nutrition Centers of from the county’s Meals-on-Wheels program that included peas — and developed symptoms of Listeria infection to immediately seek medical attention.

Food contaminated with Listeria does not look or smell bad. It can take up to 70 days for symptoms of listeriosis infection to develop, but people usually become ill within a few days after being exposed to the bacteria.

Listeria monocytogenes is a microscopic pathogen that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.

Although healthy individuals may suffer only short term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

If you believe you have or had any of the recalled products in your home, public health officials recommend the following steps to avoid cross contamination:

• Throw the recalled products away in a closed plastic bag placed in a sealed trash can. This will prevent people and animals from eating it.
• Wash the refrigerator or freezer area and any other areas where the recalled products were stored with hot water and soap.
• Wash your hands with warm water and soap after cleaning up.

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Crescent Specialty recalls pistachios because of Salmonella

At the request of the federal government, Crescent Speciality Foods Inc. is recalling raw pistachios because of possible contamination with Salmonella.

Possible Salmonella contamination spurred Crescent Specialty Foods to recall these 6-ouncs packages of pistachios. Click on the image to see the recall notice on the FDA’s website.

The Everett, WA, company distributed the to retail stores and online stores in Oregon and Washington state from Oct. 21, 2015 through May 2 this year. No illnesses had been confirmed in relation to the recalled nuts as of the posting of the recall notice.

The recalled product, packaged in 6-ounce plastic bags, can be identified by the UPC number 8 95296 00103 5 on the label. The label has a photograph of mixed fruits and nuts, but the recalled packages contain only pistachio nuts.

“The recall was as a result of a routine, random sampling program conducted by an FDA third-party contracted lab which revealed the recalled product tested positive for Salmonella. The root cause is unknown to date,” according to the recall notice on the Food and Drug Administration’s website.

“This recall is being made at the request of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Consumers should not consume the product. The consumer should return the product to place of purchase for a refund. Customers with questions may contact the stores where they purchased the product. For further inquiries email (the company) at: info@csf1.com.”

Anyone who has eaten the recalled pistachios and developed symptoms of Salmonella infection should seek medical attention and be tested.

Salmonella is a microscopic organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems, according to the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea that 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 including infected aneurysms, endocarditis and arthritis.

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