Texas Meat Packers caught operating without USDA inspection

USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) caught Texas Meat Packers in Fort Worth operating without inspection personnel being present last Saturday (March 24), causing a recall today (March 31)  of beef products.     FSIS discovered the operation on  Friday (March 30) through a review of Texas Meat Packers records.

Owned by PFP Enterprises LLC,  Texas Meat Packers has recalled approximately 7,146 pounds of raw beef products that were produced and packaged without the benefit of federal inspection,  according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service

The frozen and fresh beef items were produced on both March 23-24, 2018. The following products are subject to recall:

• 5-lb. vacuum-packed frozen packages of “BEEF SKIRT DICED FOR TACOS,” with a case code of 1470 in the upper left-hand corner of the label and a packaging date of 03/24/18.
• 5-lb. vacuum-packed frozen packages of “PRESEASONED BEEF FOR FAJITAS,” with a case code of 36989 in the upper left-hand corner of the label and a packaging date of 03/24/18 and a use-by date of 03/23/19.
• Varying weights of vacuum-packed packages of fresh “USDA CHOICE ANGUS BEEF, FAJITA SEASONED STEAK, BEEF FLANK STEAK FOR FAJITAS,” a packaging date of 03/23/18 and 03/24/18, a use or freeze-by date of 04/18/18, and an item code of 567248261 in the upper left-hand corner of the case label.
• Varying weights of vacuum-packed packages of fresh “USDA CHOICE ANGUS, FAJITA SEASONED STRIPS, BEEF FLANK STRIPS FOR FAJITAS,” a packaging date of 03/24/18, and a use or freeze-by date of 04/18/18, and an item code of 567248253 in the upper left-hand corner of the case label.

The recalled products bear the establishment number “EST. 34715” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped to institutional and retail locations in Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, and Wisconsin.

The recalled beef has not yet made anyone ill.   Anyone concerned about a reaction should contact a healthcare provider.

FSIS is concerned that some product may be frozen and in consumers’ freezers. 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.

FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. When available, the retail distribution list(s) will be posted on the FSIS website.

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Canada’s Salmonella investigation sparks chicken nugget recall

E. coli O157:H7 findings trigger multiple beef recalls in Canada

Two more ground beef recalls are in effect in Canada because of positive test results showing contamination with E. coli O157:H7. Multiple brands distributed by three companies are now implicated.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency posted the first notice on March 18. It was for ground beef from Good Butcher and packaged for for meal-kit provider GoodFood and distributed directly to consumers across the country.

At that time the CFIA reported no illnesses had been confirmed. However, the agency’s recall notice on the GoodFood products said “additional products could be recalled if the CFIA finds that they include the ground beef from Good Boucher.”

The agency is now reporting that it has found additional products containing the Good Boucher ground beef. Consumers are urged to check their refrigerators and freezers for any of the recalled products. Under no circumstances should the recalled products be consumed.

Consumers should look for the following label information to determine whether they have unused portions of the recalled beef in their homes:

• Viandes Lauzon Medium Ground Beef N/O, 2.50 kg. Product code 18-03-05; Distributed in Quebec
• Triple A Lean Ground Beef Triple A, 8 x 454g. Packed on 18-03-05; Distributed in Quebec

The following recalled ground beef products were distributed to restaurants, hotels and institutional customers in Ontario and/or Québec:

• Dubé Loiselle Maison Ground Beef Lean, 2 x 2.5 kg. Production date 07-03-18; Distributed in Quebec
• Dubé Loiselle Maison Ground Beef Medium Lean, 2 x 2.5 kg. Production date 07-03-18; Distributed in Quebec
• Viandes Lauzon Extra Lean Ground Beef Home Style, 2 x 2.5 kg. Product code 37825; Lot #18-03-05; Best before 19-03-2018; Distributed in Ontario and Quebec
• Viandes Lauzon Lean Ground Beef, 5 x 1 kg. Product code 35096; Lot #18-03-05; Best before 05-3-2019; Distributed in Ontario and Quebec
• Viandes Lauzon Lean Ground Beef, 2 x 2.5 kg. Product code 33360; Lot #18-03-07; Best before 07-03-2019; Distributed in Ontario and Quebec
• Viandes Lauzon Lean Ground Beef Home Style, 2 x 2.5 kg. Product code 37824; Lot #18-03-05; Best before 19-03-2018; Distributed in Ontario and Quebec
• Viandes Lauzon Lean Ground Beef, 2 x 2.5 kg. Product code 33355; Lot #18-03-07; Best before 21-03-2018; Distributed in Ontario and Quebec
• Viandes Lauzon Extra Lean Ground Beef, 2 x 2.5 kg. Product code 33345; Lot #18-03-05; Best before 19-03-2018; Distributed in Ontario and Quebec
• Viandes Lauzon Medium Ground Beef, 2 x 2.5 kg. Product code 39139; Lot #18-03-05; Distributed in Quebec
• Viandes Lauzon Medium Ground Beef, 2 x 2.5 kg. Product code 33318; Lot #18-03-07; Best before 21-03-2018; Distributed in Ontario and Quebec
• Viandes Lauzon Medium Ground Beef, 2 x 2.5 kg. Product code 33318; Lot #18-03-05; Best before 19-03-2018; Distributed in Ontario and Quebec
• Viandes Lauzon Lean Ground Beef, 2 x 2.5 kg. Product code 33355; Lot #18-03-05; Best before 19-03-2018; Distributed in Ontario and Quebec
• Viandes Lauzon Medium Ground Beef, 2 x 2.5 kg. Product code 39187; Lot #18-03-07; Distributed in Ontario and Quebec

The following beef trimmings were recalled from one or more warehouses in Québec

• Les Viandes Forget Beef Trimmings 85%, 27.22 kg; Packed on 18FEB21
• Les Viandes Forget Beef Trimmings NC 65%, 27.22 kg; Packed on 18FEB21

CFIA warns that food contaminated with E. coli O157:H7 may not look or smell spoiled but can still cause illness. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, mild to severe abdominal cramps and watery to bloody diarrhea.

Young children and some elderly victims are at risk of developing hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a severe and sometimes fatal complication of an E. coli O157:H7 infection. HUS strikes approximately 5 percent to 10 percent of STEC-infected children under the age of 10 years, affecting the kidneys, digestive system and other organs. HUS is fatal in 3 percent to 5 percent of cases, while other HUS victims may suffer long-term consequences of their illness, including hypertension or impaired kidney function.

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Dried coconut identified in outbreak; CDC says don’t eat it

The CDC his urging the public to avoid eating certain brands of dried coconut because they are linked to a multi-state outbreak of Salmonella poisoning that has been ongoing since September 2017.

This outbreak is unrelated to the Salmonella outbreak linked to frozen shredded coconut announced in January

“CDC recommends people not eat recalled International Harvest Inc. brand Go Smile! Raw Coconut, Go Smiles Dried Coconut Raw or recalled Natural Grocers Coconut Smiles Organic,” according to an outbreak notice posted today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Retailers and restaurants should not sell or serve recalled dried coconut products, the CDC said.

“Even if some of the recalled dried coconut was eaten or served and no one got sick, throw it away or return it to the place of purchase,” the CDC notice said, adding that sanitizing procedures should be implemented.

“Put it in a sealed bag in the trash so that children, pets, and other animals can’t eat it. Wash and sanitize drawers or shelves in refrigerators and freezers where recalled coconut was stored.

“If you aren’t sure if your dried coconut was recalled, do not eat it and throw it away.”

Thirteen people from eight states are confirmed to be infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Typhimurium that has been found in the implicated brands of dried coconut. Three of the victims have required hospitalization because of severe symptoms. No deaths had been confirmed as of today.

Of the victims for whom complete information is available, 88 percent reported eating dried coconut purchased at grocery stores before they became sick. Of the seven people who reported eating dried coconut before becoming ill, four said they purchased the product at different Natural Grocers store locations.

However, illnesses that occurred after Jan. 25 might not yet be reported to the CDC because of the time it takes between when a person becomes sick and when the illness is reported to local, state and ultimately federal public health officials. Please see the CDC’s “Timeline for Reporting Cases of Salmonella Infection” for more details.

Illnesses started on dates ranging from Sept. 22, 2017, to Feb. 26, 2018. Ill people range in age from 1 to 73 years, with a median age of 40. Sixty-seven percent are female.

FDA’s role in the investigation
The Food and Drug Administration has been working with state officials to pinpoint the source of the outbreak. They collected leftover dried coconut from ill people’s homes, as well as dried coconut from Natural Grocers store locations where ill people shopped and from the Natural Grocers’ Distribution Center.

FDA testing identified the outbreak strain of Salmonella Typhimurium in an unopened sample of Natural Grocers Coconut Smiles Organic collected from Natural Grocers.

The outbreak strain was also identified in an opened, leftover sample of Natural Grocers Coconut Smiles Organic collected from an ill person’s home.

In addition,FDA collected dried coconut from International Harvest Inc. The outbreak strain of Salmonella Typhimurium was identified in samples of International Harvest Brand Organic Go Smile! Dried Coconut Raw and Go Smiles Dried Coconut Raw.

Courtesy of Natural Grocers

On March 16, 2018, International Harvest Inc. recalled bags of Organic Go Smile! Raw Coconut and bulk packages of Go Smiles Dried Coconut Raw on March 16. The recalled Organic Go Smile! Raw Coconut was sold online and in stores in 9-ounce bags with sell-by dates from Jan. 1, 2018, through March 1, 2019.

Recalled bulk Go Smiles Dried Coconut Raw was sold in a 25-pound case labeled with batch/lot numbers OCSM-0010, OCSM-0011, and OCSM-0014. These products were sold in various grocery stores. Regulatory officials are working to determine where else Organic Go Smile! Raw Coconut and Go Smiles Dried Coconut Raw were sold.

On March 19, Vitamin Cottage Natural Food Markets Inc. recalled packages of Natural Grocers Coconut Smiles Organic labeled with barcode 8034810 and packed-on numbers lower than 18-075. Recalled Natural Grocers Coconut Smiles Organic were sold in 10-ounce clear plastic bags with the Natural Grocers label. The packed-on number can be found in the bottom left-hand corner of the label.

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Mickey Brown beef burritos recalled for no inspections

Houma, LA-based Mickey Brown Inc. has recalled approximately 4,130 pounds of beef burrito products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).

The ready-to-eat beef burrito items were produced on various dates from March 28, 2017 through March 6, 2018. Recalled  products include:

• 1-lb. 2-oz. plastic packages containing “Mickey Brown’s A Taste of Cajun 3 Beef Burritos.”

The recalled products bear the establishment number “EST. 33915” inside the USDA mark of inspection. The products are labeled with “Keep Refrigerated” but may be frozen. The products are not labeled with a “best by” or “use by” date. These items were shipped to distributors in Louisiana, which then distributed the product for further retail and internet sales.

The mistake was discovered by FSIS during routine inspection activities.

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. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers.

When available, the retail distribution lists will be posted on th at www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls.

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Infections linked to Natural Grocers coconut; recall underway

Six illnesses have been reported in connection with Natural Grocers brand organic Coconut Smiles, which are now under recall after the company and the FDA confirmed Salmonella contamination in the product.

Natural Grocers of Lakeland, CO, distributed the implicated Coconut Smiles to 145 stores in 19 states, according to a recall news release from the company.

Courtesy of Natural Grocers

“The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing by the company revealed the presence of Salmonella in some packages,” Natural Grocers reported. “The recall was initiated after it was discovered that a sample taken by the Food and Drug Administration was positive for Salmonella.

“Production of the product has been suspended while the Food and Drug Administration and the company continue their investigation into the source of the problem. Six illnesses have been reported by individuals who ate Coconut Smiles Organic purchased from Natural Grocers. Consumers who may have purchased this product should return it to the store for credit or refund.”

As of Monday, the FDA had not posted the company’s recall notice. Agency officials were not immediately available Monday afternoon. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also had not posted information on the outbreak, but the federal public health agency generally does not report on outbreaks unless they involve more than one state.

Consumers can identify the recalled “Coconut Smiles Organic” by looking for the following label information:

• The recalled product is packaged in clear plastic bags weighing 10 ounces;
• The “Natural Grocers” brand is on the label;
• All packages with packed-on dates prior to 18-075 are subject to recall. The packed-on date can be found in the bottom left-hand corner of the label;
• UPC number 8034810.

Natural Grocers distributed the recalled coconut product in 19 states: Arkansas, Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Idaho, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. Consumers can find the specific locations of the Natural Grocers stores in those states at: https://www.naturalgrocers.com/storelocations/store-directory/.

Consumers with questions may contact the company by calling Customer Service at 303-986-4600, Ext. 80531, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mountain time.

Advice to consumers
Salmonella is a microorganism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems, including diabetics, cancer patients, transplant recipients and HIV patients.

Anyone who has eaten any of the recalled products and developed symptoms of Salmonella poisoning should seek medical attention immediately and tell their doctors about their possible exposure to the pathogen.

Symptoms can include fever, diarrhea that is often 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, endocarditis, and arthritis.

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Top sirloin steaks recalled for possible salmonella contamination

In Bridgeview, IL, SMI Holdings Inc., doing business as Stampede Meat,  has recalled approximately 484,800 pounds of beef products that may be contaminated with Salmonella, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).

The raw beef products were incorporated into a non-meat ingredient, Au Jus Seasoning, which tested positive for the presence of Salmonella.  The frozen raw beef top sirloin steak items were produced on various dates from Feb. 19, 2018 through March 14, 2018. The following products are subject to recall:

• Cases containing 64 6-oz. vacuum-packed packages of “USDA SELECT OR HIGHER BONELESS BEEF TOP SIRLOIN STEAKS,” (item #5404) with lot codes ranging from 05018 to 07318 (inclusive) and “Best By” dates from Feb. 19, 2019, to Mar. 14, 2019 (inclusive).
• Cases containing 64 8-oz. vacuum-packed packages of “USDA SELECT OR HIGHER BONELESS BEEF TOP SIRLOIN STEAKS,” (item #5419) with lot codes ranging from 05018 to 07318 (inclusive) and “Best By” dates from Feb. 19, 2019, to Mar. 14, 2019 (inclusive).

The recalled products bear the establishment number “EST. 19113” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped to distributors, which in turn shipped the products to restaurant locations nationwide.

The problem was discovered when Stampede Meat, Inc. was notified by their supplier of a voluntary seasoning recall based on Salmonella contamination. Stampede Meat, Inc. uses this seasoning product to formulate marinade that is injected into the top sirloin steaks. There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products.

Consumption of food contaminated with Salmonella can cause salmonellosis, one of the most common bacterial foodborne illnesses. The most common symptoms of salmonellosis are diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 12 to 72 hours after eating the contaminated product. The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days. Most people recover without treatment. In some persons, however, diarrhea may be so severe that the patient needs to be hospitalized. Older adults, infants, and persons with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop a severe illness. Individuals concerned about an illness should contact their healthcare provider.

The products were shipped to restaurants frozen. These restaurants cook and prepare the product for consumers, who may take the product home as leftovers. FSIS is concerned that some product may be in consumers’ refrigerators. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away.

FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. When available, the retail distribution lists will be posted on the FSIS website.

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Specific kratom brands recalled amid nationwide outbreak

An Oregon company is recalling three brands of kratom powder products because samples have tested positive for Salmonella and an illness has been reported in connection with one of the products.

PDX Aromatics of Portland, OR, sold the recalled products directly to consumers via websites between Jan. 18 and Feb. 18, according to the company’s recall notice on the Food and Drug Administration’s website.

The  company does business as three entities, which bear the same names as the three brands of product subject to recall: Kraken Kratom, Phytoextractum, and Soul Speciosa.

At least 10,000 “units” of the kratom powder products are subject to the recall. They are packaged in plastic heat sealed pouches and sold in weights of 28 grams 56 grams and 112 grams.

“Consumers who may be in possession of potentially contaminated products are advised not to consume products labeled with the above product descriptions and lot codes,” according to the recall notice.

“PDX Aromatics has identified a supplier in our supply chain as the source of Salmonella. The company has removed that supplier from our supply chain and all associated products from our facility. We have ceased distribution of products in order to perform a facility audit … Working in cooperation with the FDA, the company will destroy all recalled product upon return.”

The Salmonella contamination was discovered by California inspectors. The California Department of Public Health notified the Oregon company of the Salmonella contamination and the infected person, PDX Aromatics reported.

Several states are investigating illnesses among people who have ingested various brands of kratom powders. The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the FDA are also investigating the substance.

The CDC says an ongoing nationwide outbreak has sickened at least 40 people across 27 states since October 2017.

The FDA has been investigating the substance for several years and is assisting the CDC and states with the current outbreak as well as continuing its general review of the substance. The FDA has reported that it has evidence of more than 40 deaths in the United States that have been linked to kratom.

Kratom is a plant consumed for its stimulant effects and as an opioid substitute. Kratom is also known as Thang, Kakuam, Thom, Ketom, and Biak.

The specific products subject to the recall by Oregon-based PDX Aromatics are:

Brand	Product name	Weights
Kraken Kratom	Red Dragon Kratom Powder	28 g, 56 g, 112 g
Kraken Kratom	Red Vein Borneo Kratom Powder	28 g, 56 g, 112 g
Kraken Kratom	Red Vein Sumatra Kratom Powder	28 g, 56 g, 112 g
Kraken Kratom	Red Vein Thai Kratom Powder	28 g, 56 g, 112 g
Kraken Kratom	Super Indo Kratom Powder	28 g, 56 g, 112 g
Phytoextractum	Maeng Da Thai Kratom Powder (Horn Red)	28 g, 56 g, 112 g
Phytoextractum	Red Dragon Kratom Powder	28 g, 56 g, 112 g
Phytoextractum	Red Vein Borneo Kratom Powder	28 g, 56 g, 112 g
Phytoextractum	Red Vein Sumatra Kratom Powder	28 g, 56 g, 112 g
Phytoextractum	Red Vein Thai Kratom Powder	28 g, 56 g, 112 g
Phytoextractum	Super Indo Kratom Powder	28 g, 56 g, 112 g
Soul Speciosa	Maeng Da Thai Kratom Powder (Horn Red)	28 g, 56 g, 112 g
Soul Speciosa	Red Dragon Kratom Powder	28 g, 56 g, 112 g
Soul Speciosa	Red Vein Sumatra Kratom Powder	28 g, 56 g, 112 g
Soul Speciosa	Red Vein Thai Kratom Powder	28 g, 56 g, 112 g
Soul Speciosa	Super Indo Kratom Powder	28 g, 56 g, 112 g

 

---

Recalled products have any of the following LOT codes (represent packaging dates):
LOT 20180118	LOT 20180125	LOT 20180201	LOT 20180207	LOT 20180214
LOT 20180119	LOT 20180126	LOT 20180201	LOT 20180208	LOT 20180215
LOT 20180120	LOT 20180127	LOT 20180202	LOT 20180209	LOT 20180216
LOT 20180121	LOT 20180128	LOT 20180203	LOT 20180210	LOT 20180217
LOT 20180122	LOT 20180129	LOT 20180204	LOT 20180211	LOT 20180218
LOT 20180123	LOT 20180130	LOT 20180205	LOT 20180212
LOT 20180124	LOT 20180131	LOT 20180206	LOT 20180213

 

Advice to consumers
Anyone who has taken any products containing kratom powder and developed symptoms of Salmonella infection should seek medical attention and tell their doctors about the possible exposure to the bacteria.

Symptoms of a Salmonella infection, called salmonellosis, typically start 6 to 72 hours after exposure to Salmonella bacteria. However, in some people it takes two weeks for symptoms to develop.

Symptoms include fever, chills, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, headache, nausea and vomiting. These symptoms usually last for four to seven days. Anyone can become sick with a Salmonella infection, but infants, children, seniors and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of serious illness.

It is possible for some people to be infected with the bacteria and not get sick or show any symptoms, but they are still be able to spread the infection to others.

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Warning: Organic, raw goat milk cheese positive for Listeria

New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball warns consumers not to eat The Maiden’s Creamery “Wild Meadow” raw goat milk cheese made in South New Berlin because of possible Listeria contamination.

So far, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the goat cheese made by by Mark Harvey, 1277 Copes Corner Road.

The product is sold in various sizes of sealed flexible plastic packaging, displaying the plant number 36-1315, with a code of 101. The state’s  consumer warning affects all packages with this code. The goat cheese  was sold at the Cooperstown Farmers’ Market in Cooperstown, NY, in late December 2017 and early January 2018, and at the Sunflower Natural Foods Market starting on Jan. 10.

A routine sample of the cheese taken by an inspector from the Division of Milk Control and Dairy Services on Feb. 20 was tested by the New York State Food Laboratory and discovered to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. On Feb. 23, the manufacturer was notified of a preliminary positive test result and voluntarily recalled the product.

Test results were confirmed March 2, and the cheese will be destroyed by the manufacturer.

Anyone who has eaten any of the cheese and developed symptoms of Listeria infection should immediately contact their doctors and tell them of the potential exposure. It can take up to 70 days after exposure for symptoms to develop, so people who have eaten the unpasteurized cheese should monitor themselves for symptoms.

Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, nausea and diarrhea. In high-risk groups the pathogen can cause serious infections leading to complications including meningitis, blood poisoning and death. High risk groups include pregnant women, newborns, children younger than 5, adults older than 65 and anyone with impaired immune systems, including cancer patients, diabetics and HIV/AIDS patients. It can also cause stillbirths.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a standing warning about the dangers of contracting infections, viruses and parasites from raw milk and raw milk products such as cheese. Its data particularly supports the finding that children younger than 5 are a high-risk group because their immune systems are not fully developed.

Consumers with questions about the recalled goat milk cheese can call Mark Harvey at 607-859-2227.

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Smucker confirms euthinasia drug in popular dog food brands

Photo illustration

The FDA has posted notice of a voluntary recall by The J.M. Smucker Company Inc. of canned dog food after the company confirmed pentobarbital in tallow used to manufactured the affected products.

In all, the recall covers more than 107 million cans of dog food in several flavors sold under the Gravy Train, Kibbles ’N Bits, Skippy and Ol’ Roy brands. Big Heart Pet Brands distributed the Gravy Train, Kibbles ’N Bits and Skippy dog food to retailers nationwide. Walmart Stores Inc. distributed the Ol’ Roy dog food.

Initially, the Food and Drug Administration FDA had agreed to allow Smucker to issue a “product withdrawal,” pending the results of lab tests. Once pentobarbital contamination was confirmed by the company itself, Smucker agreed to a voluntary recall.

Pentobarbital is a chemical sedative used by veterinarians to euthanize animals. The presence of it at any level in a pet food is illegal, and renders the product adulterated under federal law.

The recalled dog food is sold in individual cans and multi-can packs. Smucker products included in the recall are:

• Gravy Train With Lamb & Rice Chunks, packaged in metal cans with Net WT 13.2 OZ; UPC: 7910005430 on flat case and 7910052543 on cans. Best By range 10 25 19 thru 02 09 2021; Code range: 6299 through 8040, each with the suffix plant number 803.
• Gravy Train; With T-Bone Flavor Chunks; packaged in metal cans with Net WT 13.2 OZ; UPC: 7910005410 on flat case and 7910052541 on cans. Best By range 10 25 19 thru 02 09 2021; Code range: 6299 through 8040, each with the suffix plant number 803
• Gravy Train With Beef Chunks; packaged in metal cans with Net WT 22 OZ and UPC: 7910051647 on flat case and 7910051647 on cans; or with Net WT 13.5 OZ and UPC: 7910052457 on flat case and 79100034417 on cans. Best By range 10 25 19 thru 02 09 2021; Code range: 6299 through 8040, each with the suffix plant number 803
• Gravy Train With Chicken Chunks; packaged in metal cans; Net WT 22 OZ with UPC: 7910051645 on flat case and 7910051645 on cans; and Net WT 13.2 OZ with UPC: 7910052458 on flat case and 7910034418 on cans. Best By range 10 25 19 thru 02 09 2021; Code range: 6299 through 8040, each with the suffix plant number 803
• Gravy Train With Strips In Gravy; packaged in metal cans with Net WT 13.2 OZ; UPC: 7910005420 on flat case and 7910052542 on cans. Best By range 10 25 19 thru 02 09 2021; Code range: 6299 through 8040, each with the suffix plant number 803
• Ol’ Roy Dog Food Strips in Gravy With Turkey & Bacon; packaged in metal cans with Net Wt 13.2 OZ; UPC: 7910017570 on flat case and 8113117570 on cans. Code range: 6299 through 8040, each with the suffix plant number 803; Best By range 10 25 19 thru 02 09 2021
• Kibbles ‘n Bits brand Dog Food; Chef’s Choice Homestyle Tender Slices With Real Beef, Chicken & Vegetables in Gravy; packaged in metal cans with Net Wt. 13.2 OZ; UPC: 7910052489A on flat case and 7910010380 on cans. Code range: 6299 through 8040, each with the suffix plant number 803; Best By range 10 25 19 thru 02 09 2021
• Kibbles ‘n Bits brand Dog Food; Chef’s Choice Bistro Tender Cuts With Real Turkey, Bacon & Vegetables; packages in metal cans with Net Wt. 13.2 OZ; UPC: 7910052488A on flat case and 7910010378 on cans. Code range: 6299 through 8040, each with the suffix plant number 803; Best By range 10 25 19 thru 02 09 2021
• Kibbles ‘n Bits brand Dog Food; Chef’s Choice Bistro Tender Cuts With Real Beef & Vegetables In Gravy; packaged in metal cans with Net Wt. 13.2 OZ; UPC: 7910052486A on flat case and 7910010375 on cans. Code range: 6299 through 8040, each with the suffix plant number 803; Best By range 10 25 19 thru 02 09 2021
• Skippy Premium Chunks in gravy; Chunky Stew; packaged in metal cans with Net Wt. 13.2 OZ; UPC: 7910052469 on flat case and 7910050249 on cans. Code range: 6299 through 8040, each with the suffix plant number 803; Best By range 10 25 19 thru 02 09 2021
• Skippy Premium Chunks in gravy; With Beef; packaged in metal cans with Net Wt. 13.2 OZ; UPC: 7910052508 on flat case and 7910050250 on cans. Code range: 6299 through 8040, each with the suffix plant number 803; Best By range 10 25 19 thru 02 09 2021
• Skippy Premium Strips in Gravy; With Beef; packaged in metal cans with Net Wt. 13.2 OZ; UPC: 7910052509 on flat case and 7910050245 on cans. Code range: 6299 through 8040, each with the suffix plant number 803; Best By range 10 25 19 thru 02 09 2021
• Kibbles ‘n Bits 12 Can Variety Pack; Chef’s Choice Bistro, containing 4 cans of Hearty Cuts with Real Beef, Chicken & Vegetables In Gravy; Chef’s Choice Homestyle, 4 cans of Meatballs & Pasta Dinner with Real Beef in Tomato Sauce; Chef’s Choice Bistro, and 4 cans of Bistro Tender Cuts With Real Turkey, Bacon & Vegetables in Gravy; packaged in metal cans with 12 – 13.2 OZ Cans per case; Total Net Wt 9 LB 14 OZ; Variety Pack paper box UPC: 7910027750; These packages are not meant for individual can sales and are sold as a 12 can Variety Pack. Code range: 6299 through 8040, each with the suffix plant number 803; Best By range 10 25 19 thru 02 09 2021
• Kibbles ‘n Bits 12 Can Variety Pack; containing 4 cans of Chef’s Choice Bistro, Hearty Cuts with Real Beef, Chicken & Vegetables In Gravy; 4 cans of Chef’s Choice Homestyle, Meatballs & Pasta Dinner with Real Beef in Tomato Sauce; and 4 cans of Chef’s Choice Bistro, Bistro Tender Cuts With Real Turkey, Bacon & Vegetables in Gravy; packaged in metal cans with 12 – 13.2 OZ Cans per case; Total Net Wt 9 LB 14 OZ; Variety Pack paper box UPC: 7910027750. These packages are not meant for individual can sales and are sold as a 12 can Variety Pack. Code range: 6299 through 8040, each with the suffix plant number 803; Best By range 10 25 19 thru 02 09 2021
• Kibbles ‘n Bits 12 Can Variety Pack; containing 6 cans of Chef’s Choice American Grill, Burger Dinner With Real Bacon & Cheese Bits In Gravy; and 6 cans of Chef’s Choice Bistro, Tender Cuts With Real Turkey, Bacon & Vegetables In Gravy; packages in metal cans with 12 – 13.2 OZ cans per case; Total Net Wt 9 LB 14 OZ; Variety Pack paper box UPC: 7910027685. These packages are not meant for individual can sales and are sold as a 12 can Variety Pack. Code range: 6299 through 8040, each with the suffix plant number 803; Best By range 10 25 19 thru 02 09 2021

Excluded from Friday’s voluntary recall are a number of products reported previously by Food Safety News to have been withdrawn from the market, based on information obtained directly from the company. FDA has not yet resolved this discrepancy, an agency spokesperson said.

Test results are still pending on finished product samples collected by FDA, and the agency is continuing its investigation.

What consumers should know
Pets should not be fed any of the recalled products. Consumers should safely dispose of the recalled cans of pet food and/or contact the company or the place of purchase for information about returning the products.

Pets that consume a food containing pentobarbital can experience drowsiness, dizziness, excitement, loss of balance, nausea, inability to stand and nystagmus, which causes the eyes to move back and forth in a jerky manner. Consuming high levels of pentobarbital can cause coma and death. However, low levels of pentobarbital are unlikely to pose a health risk to pets, according to FDA.

People who think their pets have become ill after consuming pet food contaminated with pentobarbital should contact their veterinarians.

The FDA encourages consumers to report complaints about this and other pet food products electronically through the Safety Reporting Portal or by calling their state’s FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinators.

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Salami, pepperoni recalled in U.S., Canada for Listeria risk

To view photos of other products included in this recall, please click on the above or below images.

A California company is recalling two tons of meat products including salami and pepperoni from U.S. retailers and businesses in Canada because of Listeria contamination discovered during routine testing.

Olli Salumeria Americana of Oceanside, CA, reported the ready-to-eat meat products were packaged on Jan. 19, according to the recall notice posted on the website of the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).

“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,” the recall notice warns.

The Gusto and Olli-branded meat products are not heat-treated, but they are considered shelf-stable, so there is concern that consumers may have unused portions in their homes. Listeria monocytogenes can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections. It can take as many as  70 days after exposure to the bacteria for symptoms of infection to develop.

No information on best-by or sell-by dates was included in the recall notice. Photos of product labels posts with the notice did not show any date codes.

The recalled products have the establishment number “M-45334” printed inside the USDA mark of inspection on their wrappers. Consumers can identify the recalled meat products by looking for the following product names, package weights and lot numbers.

•  6 oz. packages of “Gusto Napoli Applewood-Smoked Salame” with the lot code 1000012821
• 6 oz. packages of “Gusto Chorizo Smoked Paprika” with the lot code 1000012812
• 6 oz. packages of “Gusto Sopressata Black Peppercorn Salame” with the lot code 1000012811
• 6 oz. packages of “Gusto Toscano Fennel Pollen Salame” with the lot code 1000012805
• 6 oz. packages of “Gusto Pepperoni Classically American” with the lot code 1000012804
• 175-gram packages of “Olli Molisana Pepper + Garlic Salami” with the lot code 1000012808;
• 175-gram packages of “Olli Napoli Applewood-Smoked Salami” with the lot code 1000012810; and
• 175-gram packages of “Olli Calabrese Spicy Salami” with the lot code 1000012807

When available, the retail distribution lists will be posted on the FSIS website at www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls.

“These items were shipped to retail locations nationwide and exported to Canada,” according to the recall notice from the USDA’s subagency.

“The problem was discovered when the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) performed routine Listeria monocytogenes sampling. There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products.”

Groups at high risk of developing listeriosis after eating or drinking something contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes include older adults, children younger than 5, people with weakened immune systems and pregnant women and their newborns.

Listeriosis can cause fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance and convulsions sometimes preceded by diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms. When invasive, infection spreads beyond the gastrointestinal tract.

In pregnant women, the infection can cause miscarriages, stillbirths, premature delivery or life-threatening infection of the newborn.

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Breakfast turkey sausages recalled for undeclared allergens and misbranding

Lititz, PA-based Sensenig Turkey Farm LLC  recalled approximately 1,925 pounds of turkey sausage products Thursday due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).

The products contain wheat and soy, known allergens, which are not declared on the product label.

The raw breakfast turkey sausage items were produced on various dates from Sept. 25, 2017, to Feb. 26, 2018. The recalled products include:

• 10-lb. cases, each case containing two 5-lb. bulk packages of “Sensenig Turkey Farm LLC BREAKFAST TURKEY SAUSAGE.”
• 1-lb. vacuum-sealed packages containing “Chestnut Farms BREAKFAST TURKEY SAUSAGE.”

The recalled products bear establishment number “P-38466” inside the USDA mark of inspection. The turkey was shipped to retail locations in Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

The mistakes were discovered by FSIS inspection personnel during routine inspection activities.

There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact a healthcare provider.   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.

FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. When available, the retail distribution lists will be posted on the FSIS website.

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Customer complaint brings recall of 4,050 pounds of chicken sausage

After a customer complaint, J Bar B Foods in Waelder, TX on Thursday recalled approximately 4,050 pounds of chicken sausage products due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen.  The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced the recall.

The chicken sausage contains milk, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.  The ready-to-eat chicken sausage items were produced on Feb. 3, 2018. Here’s the product subject to recall:

• 12-oz. vacuum-sealed plastic packages containing “simple truth Chicken Sausage Links SPINACH GRUYERE,” with lot code 8034, case code 90394 and “SELL BY” date of APR 16 2018.

The recalled products bear establishment number “P-7066” inside the USDA mark of inspection. The chicken sausage was shipped to retail locations in Arizona, California, Colorado, Utah, and Virginia.

Since the customer complaint,  there have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact a healthcare provider. 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.

FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. When available, the retail distribution list(s) will be posted on the FSIS website.

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Heinen’s potato gnocchi recalled for undeclared allergen

Maryland’s La Pasta Inc. in  Silver Spring Friday recalled the private label Potato Gnocchi manufactured for Heinen’s supermarkets because it may contain undeclared milk. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product.

The product was distributed throughout Heinen’s stores in Ohio and Illinois. Heinen’s Potato Gnocchi is sold in 9 oz. clear film plastic trays with the label. Product tray measures 8 x 6 x 1 ¾ inches.

Product LOT# is composed of a four digit number and can be found on the side of the tray printed in black ink. LOT codes involved in this recall are:

1119-1120 / 1121-1122 / 1132-1133 / 2016-2017 / 2027-2028 / 2034-2035 / 2038-2039 / 2130-2131 / 2139-2140 / 2221-2222 / 2231-2232

This voluntary recall was initiated due to a consumer reporting feeling ill after consuming the Heinen’s Potato Gnocchi. Company officials compared packaging with the approved recipe and confirmed that product did contain MILK as part of the recipe formula but was not declared on the label.

The affected product was immediately removed from all stores and it will be replaced with a corrected label version that includes all allergens in the formula.

Consumers who have purchased the HEINEN’S POTATO GNOCCHI 9 oz pack UPC# 02060141062 are urged to return it to your nearest store for a full refund.

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Iowa manufacturer recalls chicken salad amid Salmonella outbreak

A week after Iowa health officials put out a public health warning about chicken salad sickening people with Salmonella, the USDA-regulated manufacturer is recalling the product.

Triple T Specialty Meats Inc. of Ackley, IA, on Wednesday recalled about 20,600 pounds of ready-to-eat chicken salad made for Fareway Stores Inc. amidst a multi-state outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium, according to the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).

Outbreak cases are being reported in all five states where Fareway stores sold the implicated chicken salad. Iowa has the most with 115 cases reported. Minnesota, Illinois and Nebraska each have one reported case. South Dakota has two reported cases.

The FSIS and the company are concerned that some of the product may be frozen and in consumers’ freezers.

“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 notice.

The recalled ready-to-eat chicken salad was produced on various dates between Jan. 2 and Feb. 7. The following products are subject to the recall:

• 3950 lbs. of two 5 lb. bags with “CHICKEN SALAD, PACKED FOR FAREWAY WHOLESALE COMPANY” on the label with a pack date of 01/02/18.
• 1250 lbs. of two 5 lb. bags with “CHICKEN SALAD, PACKED FOR FAREWAY WHOLESALE COMPANY” on the label with a pack date of 01/03/18.
• 3700 lbs. of two 5 lb. bags with “CHICKEN SALAD, PACKED FOR FAREWAY WHOLESALE COMPANY” on the label with a pack date of 01/12/18.
• 2010-lbs. of two 5 lb. bags with “CHICKEN SALAD, PACKED FOR FAREWAY WHOLESALE COMPANY” on the label with a pack date of 01/19/18.
• 3660-lbs. of two 5 lb. bags with “CHICKEN SALAD, PACKED FOR FAREWAY WHOLESALE COMPANY” on the label with a pack date of 01/24/18.
• 2770-lbs. of two 5 lb. bags with “CHICKEN SALAD, PACKED FOR FAREWAY WHOLESALE COMPANY” on the label with a pack date of 01/31/18.
• 3290-lbs. of two 5 lb. bags with “CHICKEN SALAD, PACKED FOR FAREWAY WHOLESALE COMPANY” on the label with a pack date of 02/07/18.

The recalled products bear establishment number “P-21011” printed inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped to Fareway grocery stores in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, Nebraska and South Dakota.

On Feb. 9, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s FSIS received notification from health officials in Iowa about an investigation of Salmonella Typhimurium illnesses. The Iowa Department of Public Health, Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals, and Iowa State Hygienic Laboratory determined that there is a link between the chicken salad from Triple T Specialty Meats Inc. and this outbreak.

Based on an epidemiological investigation, 37 confirmed cases and 78 probable cases have been identified in Iowa, with illness onset dates ranging from Jan. 14 to Feb. 6. Results are pending on whether the outbreak strain is resistant to antibiotics.

The Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals and Department of Public Health issued a joint consumer advisory about the Salmonella infections on Feb. 13, urging consumers to throw away any chicken salad from Fareway stores. The chicken salad product subject to recall was sold from Jan. 4 to Feb. 9 in various weight containers in the deli sections of Fareway grocery stores.

FSIS continues to work with state and federal health officials to determine if there are additional illnesses linked to this product.

Consumption of food contaminated with Salmonella can cause salmonellosis, one of the most common bacterial foodborne illnesses. The most common symptoms of salmonellosis are diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 12 to 72 hours after eating the contaminated product. The illness usually lasts four to seven days.

Most people recover without treatment. In some persons, however, diarrhea may be so severe that the patient needs to be hospitalized. Older adults, infants, and persons with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop a severe illness. Individuals concerned about an illness should contact their healthcare provider.

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Pork and chicken empanadas recalled for misbranding and allergens

Linden, NJ-based Saker ShopRites, Inc. has recalled approximately 19,757 pounds of pork and chicken empanadas due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).

The products contain egg, a known allergen, which is not listed in the ingredient statement on the label.  The fully cooked pork and chicken empanadas were produced between Oct. 7, 2017, and Feb. 12, 2018. There have been no reports of injuries.

• 9-oz. vacuum-packed plastic packages containing three pieces of “3 pk CHICKEN EMPANADA wheat shell filled with seasoned chicken” with various expiration dates between Oct. 15, 2017, and Feb. 20, 2018.
• 6-oz. vacuum-packed plastic packages containing three pieces of “2 pk CHICKEN EMPANADA wheat shell filled with seasoned chicken” with various expiration dates between Oct. 15, 2017, and Feb. 20, 2018.
• 9-oz. vacuum-packed plastic packages containing three pieces of “3 pk PORK EMPANADA wheat shell filled with seasoned pork” with various expiration dates between Oct. 15, 2017, and Feb. 20, 2018
• 6-oz. vacuum-packed plastic packages containing three pieces of “2 pk PORK EMPANADA wheat shell filled with seasoned pork” with various expiration dates between Oct. 15, 2017, and Feb. 20, 2018.

The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST. 5495” or “EST. P-5495” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped to retail locations in New Jersey.

The mistake was discovered by FSIS personnel during routine label verification activities. There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact a healthcare provider.

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.

FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. Retail distribution was limited to Saker Shoprites Inc. stores in New Jersey.

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Dog food recalled for Salmonella; two children confirmed sick

Raws for Paws has recalled 4,000 pounds of its  Ground Turkey Pet Food due to possible Salmonella contamination after reported illnesses, including two children in a household who got sick from Salmonella Reading.

The food is sold online by Christofersen Meats Co. Inc., doing business as Swanson Meats, in Minneapolis (relation to Swanson Meals).

The Minnesota Department of Health reports that two children in a single household got sick. One of the children ended up with septicemia (blood infection) and osteomyelitis, a painful and serious bone infection, the FDA said.

Testing done by the Minnesota Department of Health and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture demonstrated that the same strain of S. Reading found in the children was also found in four samples of Raws for Paws Ground Turkey Food for Pets that was used to feed the family dog, the Federal Drug Administration said.

Christofersen Meats  recalled the Raws for Paws product on Feb. 5 and began directly notifying its customers on the same day.

The outbreak is of particular public health importance because of the potential hazard to both human and animal health, the FDA said.

People who have handled the dog food are at risk of Salmonella infection and are advised to seek medical attention immediately if they develop symptoms of Salmonellosis. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea that is watery or bloody, fever and headache.

An FDA study unrelated to this recall found that raw pet food was more likely to be contaminated with Salmonella or Listeria compared to non-raw pet foods. In addition to Salmonella, handling raw meat at home can expose pet owners to parasites, viruses and bacteria including E. coli, Campylobacter and Listeria.

The recalled Raw Paws branded food comes in 5-pound and 1-pound sealed plastic tubes often referred to as “chubs.” The recalled Turkey Pet Food and Pet Food Combo Packs can be identified by looking for case codes: 9900008, 9900009, 9900014, and 9900015. The Turkey Pet Food, which ships direct to consumers in cases, were manufactured on Oct. 12, 2017. The Combo Packs were manufactures from Oct. 12, 2017-Feb. 2.

The recalled lot codes and the manufacturing dates are not printed on the individual plastic chub packaging, so customers who have discarded the case have no means of determining whether they have the recalled products.

So, the FDA advises anyone who bought the product since Oct. 12 but cannot determine whether it is affected by the recall throw the dog food away.

Courtesy of FDA

Raw Paws food included in this recall was distributed throughout Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa. The company sells and ships its products directly to customers through online mail orders.

The FDA study, which ran from October 2010 through July 2012, tested more than 1,000 samples of pet foods and pet treats for foodborne bacteria, including Salmonella. Of the 196 samples of raw pet food tested during the study, 15 were positive for Salmonella.

In 2013, FDA issued a “Compliance Policy Guide for Salmonella in Food for Animals,” affirming a zero-tolerance policy for Salmonella in pet food due to the risk to human health.

Raws for Paws urges consumers to stop using the ground turkey and contact the company at 612-465-0372.

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Five years of data show bacteria-related food recalls increasing

To view the report, please click on the image.

For five years the Stericycle Recall Index has been tracking product recalls in the United States. With numbers for the fourth quarter of 2017 in, the food and beverage category shows the largest increase in recalls since 2012.

“The food and beverage industry experienced the most dramatic spike in units recalled over the past five years,” according to the report released today.

“Food products recalled by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration skyrocketed 92.7 percent since 2012, and recalled pounds regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which largely oversees meat production, jumped 83.4 percent in the same period.”

Bacterial contamination, such as Salmonella, E. coli and Listeria monocytogenes, was the most consistent culprit, and it worsened over the years. About 28 percent of FDA food recalls were for bacterial contamination in 2012. By the end of 2017 that number had grown to 31.3 percent.

Undeclared allergens were the top cause of recalled pounds of food by the USDA in 2012 at 35.4 percent. That number increased to 41.2 percent during the past five years.

To view the full report, click on the image. Source: Stericycle

Bacterial contamination and undeclared allergens continued to be the main causes of food recalls in Q4 of 2017. Of all the food and beverage recalls in the last quarter of 2017, 44 percent were for bacterial contamination and 30.8 percent were for undeclared allergens.

However, FDA recalls declined 5 percent to 150 in the last quarter of 2017 — the lowest since Q1 of 2016. And while the number of USDA recalls increased slightly in the 2017’s Q4, the volume of recalled pounds dropped 92 percent to the lowest since Q3 of 2013.

Major drivers behind the increases in recalls include technological improvements in food testing, factory farming and growing automation in food production, Stericycle reported.

The big picture
In addition to food and beverage recalls, Stericycle Expert Solutions also tracks recalls of medical equipment, automotive, pharmaceutical and consumer goods.

Overall, recalls for all products covered by the index increased by 33 percent in the five years since Stericycle began tracking the data. From 2012 through 2017, the biggest year for recalls overall was 2016, with Stericycle reporting a total of 3438 recalls that year.

An improving economy, globalization, and growing consumer awareness are some of the contributing factors for increased recalled units, Stericycle reported today.

“One thing didn’t change over the past five years: Consumers, manufacturers, regulators, and lawmakers remain concerned about the safety of products,” Stericycle Vice President Mike Good said today in a news release marking the fifth anniversary of the recall index.

“What has changed is the public is paying more attention to the recall process and how effectively brands manage product recalls and notifications.”

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Panera recalls cream cheese nationwide after test for Listeria

Panera Bread is recalling all 2- and 8-ounce tubs of its cream cheese sold in its U.S. locations because tests of samples showed contamination by Listeria monocytogenes, a potentially deadly foodborne pathogen.

The St. Louis-based chain of bakery-cafes posted the “nationwide pre-emptive, voluntary recall” on Sunday on its website. Cream cheese from only one production day tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes, but Panera’s recall includes additional products.

“The safety of our guests and associates is paramount, therefore we are recalling all cream cheese products sold in the U.S. with an active shelf life.  We have likewise ceased all manufacturing in the associated cream cheese facility,” according to a statement from Blaine Hurst, Panera’s president and CEO.

The recall includes all varieties of unexpired 2-ounce and 8-ounce cream cheese products with expiration dates on or before April 2:

• Recalled 2-ounce varieties of Panera cream cheese are — Plain Cream Cheese, Reduced-Fat Plain Cream Cheese, Reduced-Fat Chive & Onion Cream Cheese, Reduced-Fat Honey Walnut Cream Cheese and Reduced-Fat Wild Blueberry Cream Cheese.
• Recalled 8-ounce varieties of Panera cream cheese are —  Plain Cream Cheese, Reduced-Fat Plain Cream Cheese, Reduced-Fat Chive & Onion Cream Cheese, Reduced-Fat Honey Walnut Cream Cheese, Reduced-Fat Wild Blueberry Cream Cheese.

“Consumers in possession of these products should discard them immediately,” according to the recall notice.

Consumers can contact Panera Bread Customer Service at 855-6-PANERA or visit Panera.custhelp.com for a full refund. For any other questions, please visit www.panerabread.com/recall.

Panera was founded 35 years ago with a single location and now has more than 2,000 bakery-cafes.

Advice to consumers
Listeria monocytogenes is 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 adults 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.

Anyone who has eaten any of the recalled Panera cream cheese and developed symptoms of Listeria infection should seek medical attention and tell their doctors about the possible exposure to the pathogen.

Also, because it can take up to 70 days after exposure for symptoms to develop, people who have eaten the recalled cream cheese should monitor themselves for symptoms in the coming weeks.

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French dairy expands baby milk recall to include 83 countries

Fallout from a Salmonella outbreak traced to baby milk products from Lactalis is raining down on the French dairy company and retailers that continued selling the contaminated recalled products.

Friday Lactalis officials expanded the recall to include 83 countries and more than 12 million boxes of infant milk products. It is the second expansion since the company’s initial recall in December 2017 when 30 countries were involved.

Three dozen infants in France have been confirmed sick and other children in Spain and Greece are possible cases. Lactalis does sell products in the United States, but as yet none of the recalled baby milk has been traced to U.S. distributors.

In recent days French officials announced a criminal investigation into what Reuters reported some said was a “bungled recall” by Lactalis.

The government is also investigating Salmonella contamination at a Lactalis production plant. Investigators are also reviewing retailers’ records in an attempt to discover why recalled products remained on store shelves and were sold to consumers.

Also, angry parents of sick children have vowed that Lactalis cannot buy their silence. They are filing civil actions against the company. The parents expressed their rage as the company released a statement that it would “compensate” victims.

“We will compensate every family which has suffered a prejudice,” Chief Executive Emmanuel Besnier of Lactalis told the weekly Journal du Dimanche. He did not indicate how much the company would pay.

As of the most recent expansion, all lots produced at the Lactalis factory in Craon in northwest France are now under recall. Salmonella was found in the factory in December. The factory is closed for cleaning, resulting in lay offs of 250 of the 327 staff there, according to a Lactalis statement.

“It’s not easy to evaluate the number of items that need to be returned because we don’t know what’s been consumed already,” Bernier said Monday, according to Journal du Dimanche.

At least four of the largest supermarket chains in France are also on record about the complicated nature of the recall via statements to European and British media.

The online publication foodbev.com out of the United Kingdom reported the four chains all admitted to having stocked the recalled baby products.

“Carrefour, E.Leclerc, Auchan and Systéme U all continued to offer Lactalis baby milk after a recall had been issued last December. The issue threatens to deepen food safety concerns that have already led to the launch of a government inquiry,” according to the foodbev.com report.

A spokesperson for Systéme U told foodbev.com all the retailers had “made mistakes” and said the recall was complex. The spokesman, however, rejected the suggestion that Systéme U had taken too long to respond.

The family-owned Lactalis is the largest dairy group in the world with 230 industrial plants in 43 countries employing 75,000. In Europe, it is the largest in dairy and cheese, milk collection and cheese production. In addition to Europe, its products are sold in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. It owns numerous French and international brands. It has done business under the name of Lactalis since 1999.

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Briefly: Prison brew — Disease detecting — Deadly delicacy

Dozens of brands of ice cream bars now on recall for Listeria

A Listeria-related ice cream bar recall that started Jan. 5 with less than 400 cases of frozen treats now includes additional flavors and brands, totaling close to 29,000 cases sent to more than 35 retail chains across the country.

No illnesses have been confirmed in connection with the ice cream products. However finished samples tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes before the initial recall and more samples have tested positive since then, spurring Fieldbrook Foods Corp. to broaden its recall.

Listeria monocytogenes can survive extended periods of freezing temperatures and can cause serious, sometimes fatal infections. The entire 2017 production year of certain Fieldbrook products — some that have best-by dates 18 months away — is now under recall.

Officials are concerned that consumers and entities along the food supply chain may still have the recalled ice cream treats in their freezers. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Do not eat the recalled products.

“There is no evidence of any contamination prior to Oct. 31, 2017, but the company has issued the recall back to Jan. 1, 2017, through an abundance of caution and in full cooperation with the FDA (Food and Drug Administration),” according to the recall notice posted on the FDA website.

“The company has suspended production and distribution of all products produced on this production line while it cooperates with the FDA to fully investigate the source of the problem.”

The “Hoyer 1 Line” in Dunkirk, NY, is the only production line and the only one of Fieldbrook Foods three plants. The recalled orange cream bars, raspberry cream bars, and chocolate coated vanilla ice cream bars were sold at the following merchants under the indicated brands in the chart below.

The recalled products have production dates of Jan. 1, 2017, to Dec. 31, 2017, and a “best by” date of Jan. 1, 2018, to Dec. 31, 2018. The Hood and Kemps products may show “best by” dates of July 1, 2018, to June 30, 2019.

Advice to consumers
Anyone who has eaten any of the recalled products in the past 70 days and developed symptoms of Listeria infection should immediately seek medical attention.

Similarly, because it can take up to 70 days after exposure for symptoms to develop, anyone who has recently eaten any of the recalled products should monitor themselves in the coming days and weeks for symptoms.

Listeria monocytogenes is a microscopic organism that cannot be seen or smelled when it contaminates food. It can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems, according to the recall notice.

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.

To view photographs of products provided to the FDA, please click on the recall notice links below this chart.

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RECALLED PRODUCTS

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Merchant	Brand	Merchant	Brand
Acme	Lucerne	Safeway (DC/DE/FL/MD/VA)	Lucerne
ALDI	Sundae Shoppe	Save-A-Lot	World’s Fair
Amigo (Puerto Rico Only)	Great Value	Shaws	Lucerne
Bi Lo	Southern Home	Shoprite	Polar Express
BJ’s	Wellsley Farms	Shoprite	Shoprite
Demoulas	Market Basket	Smart & Final	First Street
Dillon	Kroger	Smiths	Kroger
Dollar Tree	Party Treat	Star	Lucerne
Econo (Puerto Rico Only)	Econo	Stater	Stater
Food 4 Less	Kroger	Stop N Shop	Ahold symbol
Fred Meyer	Kroger	Tops	Tops
Frys	Kroger	Various	Food Club
Giant	Ahold symbol	Various	Stoneridge
Giant Eagle	Giant Eagle	Various	Hagan
Harveys	Southern Home	Various	Greens
Jewel	Lucerne	Various	Hood
King Soopers	Kroger	Various	Kemps
Kroger	Kroger	Various	Stoneridge
Meijer	Purple Cow	Walmart (Puerto Rico Only)	Great Value
Price Chopper	PIC	Weis	Weis
Price Rite	Price Rite	Winn Dixie	Winn Dixie
Ralphs	Kroger

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Initial Recall

1st Expanded Recall

2nd Expanded Recall

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