Defending Food Safety : Food Safety Defense Lawyer & Attorney : Gass Weber Mullins Law Firm : National Food Product Defense Counsel : Defending Food Safety Blog

According to the FDA, Basic Food Flavors (of Las Vegas, Nevada) has announced a recall of hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP) paste and powder. HVP is a common ingredient used most frequently as a flavor enhancer in many processed foods, including soups, sauces, chilis, stews, hot dogs, gravies, seasoned snack foods, dips and dressings.

The recall of HVP was announced following the discovery of Salmonella Tennessee in certain product samples, along with other samples reportedly collected at the company’s processing facility. In turn, Basic Food Flavors announced a recall all HVP in powder and paste produced and distributed by the company since Sept. 17, 2009. Click on the following links to view a copy of the FDA News Release and FDA Recall Information.

Although, to date, there have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of any food products affected by the recall, the FDA and CDC report that they are currently assessing and closely monitoring the potential risks of illness from affected products.

The FDA is also advising industry that any recalled bulk HVP product should be destroyed or reconditioned according to FDA-approved procedures. Click on the following link for Product Handling And Reconditioning Information. Under the guidelines, FDA is allowing companies to recondition potentially affected HVP if thier processing contains protocols validated to inactivate Salmonella. 

Additionally, according to FDA, companies will not be required to recall any food products containing HVP if the products have validated cooking instructions which are sufficient to inactive Salmonella, FDA is recommending that any down-stream food companies that used HVP as an ingredient in food products which might be eaten by consumers without any further processing or cooking to address the potential risk, however, consider recalling such products. Under new FDA guidelines, certian companies may also have reporting obligations under the Reportable Food Registry.

In any event, additional information relating to potentially affected products can be found at www.foodsafety.gov.

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According to the FDA, Johnny's Fine Foods (of Tacoma, Washington) has announced a precautionary and voluntary recall of various French Dip Powdered Au Jus Products distributed to retail outlets nationwide.

The products subject to the recall include: (1) French Dip Powdered Au Jus in 6oz bottles; and (2) French Dip Powdered Au Jus in 1.1oz foil packets.

The Johnny's French Dip Powdered Au Jus 6oz is packaged in a clear plastic bottle with a red, white and blue label. The expiration date for this product is 0332. The Johnny's French Dip Powdered Au Jus 1.1oz is packaged in a red, white and blue foil packet. The expiration date for this product is 02212. Both of these products had been distributed nationwide and are sold in retail stores. Click on the following link to view a copy of the FDA Recall Release.

The recalled products were made using hydrolyzed vegetable protein manufactured by Basic Food Flavors (located in Las Vegas, Nevada). Basic Food Flavors initiated a recall of the hydrolyzed vegetable protein following discovery of Salmonella contamination during testing. It is also important to note, despite the issuance of a precautionary recall, that to date there have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of these products.

According to the company, the recalled products should be discarded. Additionally, consumers with any questions may contact Johnny's Fine Foods at 1-800-962-1462, Monday through Friday (8am to 3pm Pacific Standard Time).

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According to the FDA, Wholesome Spice (of New York) has announced a recall of crushed red pepper because of a potential link to illnesses associated with an ongoing nationwide Salmonella Montevideo Outbreak. As of February 24, there had been as many as 238 individuals from 44 states infected with the outbreak strain.  Click on the following link to view a copy of the most recent CDC Outbreak Report.

Wholesome Spice manufactured and then distributed the crushed red pepper to Daniel International for use in the production of various sausage and salami products which had been previously recalled by Daniel. Click on the following link to view Previous Daniel Recall Updates.  According to reports, a broad investigation into the source of the contamination was ongoing, and FDA recently discovered that samples of Wholesome Spice crushed red pepper had tested positive for the outbreak strain. In response, Wholesome Spice immediately announced a recall of all potentially affected products.

The Wholproducts subject to the recall include all lots of 25 pound boxes of Crushed Red Pepper sold by Wholesome Spice between April 6, 2009 and January 20, 2010.

The Crushed Red Pepper was packaged in a clear plastic bag, which was then placed inside a cardboard box marked with an adhesive white label containing a blue border and blue and black lettering. The brand name on the product labels is WHOLESOME SPICES. The product name is listed as CRUSHED RED PEPPER. The 25 pound boxes of Crushed Red pepper were distributed throughout the Northeastern United States. The product was not sold at the retail level or directly to consumers. Click on the following link to view a copy of the FDA Wholesome Spice Recall Release.

In a separate news release posted on the Rhode Island Department of Health website, David R. Gifford, Rhode Island's health director, noted that the recall “confirms that the source of the Salmonella was from outside of Daniele's manufacturing plants." According to additional reports, Wholesome Spice is currently working closely with FDA to determine how the contamination occurred.

In any event, manufacturers who may have purchased any of the recalled products are being urged not to use the products, and to recall any other products which may have used red pepper as an ingredient. Manufacturers with questions may contact Wholesome Spice via telephone at (718) 388-1549, Monday to Friday between 8:30-4:30pm EST.

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According to the USDA, Daniele International (with operations in Pascoag and Mapleville, Rhode Island) has announced a voluntary and precautionary recall of approximately 1,200,000 pounds of sausage products which had been distributed nationwide.

The recall was announced as a precautionary matter, during the course of an ongoing CDC investigation into the source of a Salmonella Montevideo outbreak which has sickened hundreds in over 40 states.

Based upon analysis of preliminary epidemiological data, the CDC and FSIS believed there was a possible association between limited numbers of these illnesses and the consumption of certain sausage products. Some illnesses, however, showed no connection to Daniels or the products it processed. Nevertheless, although the investigation is ongoing, the CDC has posted information about the multi-state outbreak on its website. Click on the following link to view the most recent CDC Outbreak Report.

Because of speculation that the potential source of the salmonella in sausage products may be linked to contaminated pepper, the company elected to recall all products which may be potentially affected. Click on the following link to view the FSIS Recall Release. As the investigation continues, Daniels is working closely with state and federal agencies to help determine the most likely source.

JANUARY 31, 2010 UPDATE:

As the investigation continues into the source of the national Salmonella Montevideo outbreak, Daniels has announced an expansion of its original January 23, 2010 recall. The expanded recall, involving approximately an additional 17,000 pounds of sausage products, was announced after the finding of Salmonella in certain samples of sausage not included in the original recall. Click on the following link to view the January 31, 2010 FSIS Recall Release.

FEBRUARY 4, 2010 UPDATE:

As the investigation continues into the source of the national Salmonella Montevideo outbreak, Daniels announced a second expansion of its ongoing recall. The expanded recall, involving approximately an additional 23,000 pounds of sausage products. Click on the following link to view the February 4, 2010 FSIS Recall Update. FSIS has also published a list of all the retail locations to which these products were distributed and sold. Click on the following link to view the FSIS Retail List.

FEBRUARY 16, 2010 UPDATE:

The FSIS has announced another expansion of the recall originally issued on January 23, 2010.  The expanded recall was triggered after a finding by FSIS of salmonella in an unopened salami product, and involves an additional 115,000 pounds of products.  Click on the following link to view a copy of the FSIS Expanded Recall Release. 

According to the CDC, the outbreak currently involves over 230 people from 44 states. Ove these, approximately 44 people have been hospitalized, and no deaths have been reported. As noted above, however, some individuals have reported no exposure to Daniels or any of its products. For this reason, the CDC, FSIS, countless state and local health officials, as well as Daniels representatives, are continuing to work tirelessly to determine the most likely original source of the contamination. Click on the following link to view the most recent CDC Outbreak Report.

We, of course, wish them luck in their continuing endeavors.

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According to the FDA, Willamette Shelling has announced a recall of 114,350 pounds of shelled hazelnuts. To date, additional companies affected by the recall include Willamette Filbert Growers, Kunze Farms, and numerous other distributors and grocers nationwide.

The Willamette Shelling hazelnuts subject to the recall were shelled at a facility (located in Newberg, Oregon) for distribution to numerous down-stream hazelnut processors. Specifically, shelled hazelnuts distributed by the company were sent to various Oregon processors, along with a Canadian processor, and then further distributed by those firms.

All products subject to the initial Willamette Shelling recall were packed in 25 and 50 pound corrugated boxes, and marked with lot code numbers 296091A, 299091A, 300091A, VH3696BO, and 310091A. The corrugated boxes were also marked with the following brand names: Kunze Farms, Evonuk Oregon Hazelnuts, Canadian Hazelnuts, and Firestone Farms. It is important to note, however, that Willamette Shelling unshelled hazelnuts are not affected by this recall. Click on the following link to view a copy of the FDA Recall Releas (Willamette Shelling).

Willamette Shelling announced the recall immediately after learning that routine, random sampling confirmed positive for Salmonella in one of its hazelnut production lots. In turn, in an abundance of caution, and to ensure consumer safety, the company elected to voluntarily recall all shelled hazelnuts processed at its facility between October 12, 2009 and November 25, 2009. Thus, any hazelnut processors who used potentially recalled product are urged to return the product directly to Willamette Shelling.

As noted, the additional following downstream companies affected by the recall included Willamette Filbert Growers (of Newberg, Oregon), Kunze Farms (of Dayton, Oregon), and additional distributors and grocers located in Colorado:

• Contemporaneous with the announcement of the original recall, Willamette Filbert Growers announced its own recall of 29,861 pounds of potentially affected Shelled Hazelnuts and Shelled Organic Hazelnuts. The Willamette Filbert products subject to the recall were packed in 25 pound corrugated boxes, labeled with “Willamette Filbert Growers” or “Meridian Organic Hazelnuts,” and lot code numbers 289091A and 311091A. The hazelnuts were distributed in Oregon and California through wholesale distributors and for direct delivery. Here too, unshelled hazelnuts are not subject to the recall. Click on the following link to view a copy of the FDA Recall Release (Willamette Filbert).

Any customers who may have purchased Willamette Filbert Shelled Hazelnuts or Meridian Organic Hazelnuts are being urged by the company to return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Ben Mitchell at (503) 538-9256.

• Following the original recall announcement by Willamette, Kunze Farms also announced its own recall of 32,950 pounds of potentially affected hazelnut kernels. The Kunze Farms product was packed in 25 pound cartons, under the product brand name of Kunze Farms, ‘Select Shelled Hazelnuts’ Dayton, Oregon, with the code numbers 289091A or 299091A. The hazelnut kernels were distributed to several different processors and wholesaler’s in the following areas: Dayton, Oregon; Milton-Freewater, Oregon; Hauppauge, New York; Mesa, Arizona; Cottonwood, Arizona; Seattle, Washington; Ogden, Utah; San Antonio, Texas.; and Parker, Colorado. Click on the following link to view a copy of the FDA Recall Release (Kunze Farms).

In turn, consumers who may have purchased Kunze hazelnuts affected by the recall are being urged by the company to return the products to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Kurt Kunze at (503) 864-2102.

The Colorado Department of Public Health has also identified additional companies that have been affected by the recall. Click on the following link to view the CDPH Hazelnut Recall Notice.

In Colorado, the recalled hazelnuts were sold by Mountain Man Nuts and Fruits Co. via the Internet, to numerous stores and sales distributors. Additionally, the product was distributed in Colorado to a variety of retail firms for bulk sale, including Whole Food Markets, Ft. Collins Food Co-op, Mountain Mama Natural Foods in Colorado Springs, and Healthy Solutions, in Denver.

All firms receiving recalled product have reportedly been notified, and the product is being pulled from shelves. Currently, the following additional products and lot codes are being recalled:

• Filberts, 289091A, 299091A;

• Natural Mixed Nuts, 32009, 33809;

• Fancy Mixed Nuts, 8- and 16-oz. bags, 30909, 31309, 31709, 32009, 32309, 32909, 33509, 33709 34209, 34309, 34809, 34909 35009;

• Choice Mixed Nuts, 16-oz. bags, 31309, 32709, 33609, 34909;

• Dry Roast Mixed Nuts,16-oz. bags, 30909;

• Sweet Simplicity™ Trail Mix, 32909;

• Mountain Jubilee® Trail Mix, 8- and 16-oz. bags, 31309, 32409, 33709, 34909;

• Cinnamon Almond Appleanche™ Trail Mix, 31009;

• Fancy Mixed Nut Gift Packs, 1.75 lb., all product, except 35009; and

• Fancy Mixed Nut Gift Packs, 1 lb., all product, except 35009.

According to the CDPH, products with these lot codes may also have been used as a component in certian gift baskets, including the 12 Tastes Basket, Bounty Basket and Half-Pound Sample Baskets. Moreover, given the potentially wide distribution of recalled product, additional recalls will likely be announced.

DECEMBER 23, 2009 UPDATE:

In addition to the specific recalls identified above, additional downstream companies have announced or expanded recalls of potentially affected products.  These include the following:

• Evonuk Oregon Hazelnuts:  View the FDA Recall Release.

• Harry and David:  View the FDA Recall Release.

• Whole Foods Market®:  View the FDA Recall Release.

• Burnt Ridge Orchards: View the FDA Recall Release.

• Market of Choice:  View the FDA Recall Release.

• Mountain Man Nut & Fruit Co.®:  View the FDA Recall Release.

Finally, it is important to note that, to date, there have been no reports of illnesses associated with the consumption of these products. Nevertheless, Willamette has ceased production and is working closely with FDA to investigate the issue, and will resume production and shipment  when any potential concerns have been resolved.

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According to the FDA, Timco Worldwide Inc. (based in Davis, California) has announced a voluntary recall of a limited number of Large Seedless Watermelons.

The Large Seedless Watermelons affected by the precautionary recall contain the “MelonUp!” sticker label, with a PLU (Price Look Up) # 4032 and UPC # 0 33383 40240 6. The watermelons were distributed to select grocers, wholesalers and processors in California and Texas. Click on the following link to view a copy of the FDA Recall Release.

Timco announced the recall immediately after learning that routine, random sampling by a distribution company confirmed positive for Salmonella. In turn, the company announced, in an abundance of caution, a recall of all potentially affected products.

It is also important to note that, to date, there are no reports of illnesses associated with the consumption of these products. Nevertheless, consumers who may have purchased watermelons in the markets noted above (with the MelonUp! label) are being urged by the company to return them to the place of purchase for a refund. In turn, consumers with questions, or who need additional information, are invited to contact the company at 1-530-757-1000 (press “4” for Food Safety).

As with all fresh fruits and vegetables, Timco also recommends that fresh melons be thoroughly washed and rinsed before cutting and/or consuming them.

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According to the FDA, Five Crowns Marketing (based in Brawley, California) has announced a voluntary and precautionary recall of select cantaloupes packed under the Majesty label.

The cantaloupes affected by the precautionary recall were packed in various sizes with and without individual “Majesty” stickers. All cartons carry the label "Majesty," and are further identified with lot numbers 198 2 or 198 3, and pack dates of Nov 4, Nov 6, and Nov 10. Additionally, the cantaloupes in the identified lots were harvested and shipped to wholesalers, retailers, and food service operators in the states of Alabama, California, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee. Click on the following link to view the FDA Recall Release.

Five Crowns Marketing announced the recall immediately after learning that routine testing on a lot of cantaloupes packed on November 4, 2009 confirmed positive for Salmonella. In turn, the company announced, in an abundance of caution, a recall of all cantaloupe from the same lot.

It is also important to note that, to date, there have been no reports of illness associated with the consumption of these products. According to the company, most of the cantaloupes have likely already passed through the distribution chain. Nevertheless, the company continues to work with its customers to ensure that all of the potentially affected cantaloupes have been accounted for.

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According to the California Department of Public Health, Ippolito International (based in Salinas) has announced a voluntary and precautionary recall of select “Queen Victoria” and “Tubby” bunched spinach.

The spinach affected by the precautionary recall was packed in 12-count and 24-count spinach bunches in cardboard boxes with “Spinach” printed on the side panel, in wire bound crates or reusable plastic containers. The cartons of recalled spinach were also labeled with the following Code Date Stickers which can be located on the outside edge panel of the carton:

• 10522441 5 205 (harvested September 1, 2009);

• 10522451 5 205 (harvested September 2, 2009);

• 10522461 5 205 (harvested September 3, 2009).

The Tubby label was packed only on Code Date 10522451 5 205.

In turn, the individual 12-count and 24-count spinach bunches were bound with a twist tie which says “PLU 4090 UPC 33383-65200.” The twist tie associated with the “Queen Victoria” label has the Queen Victoria logo on it. The twist tie for the Tubby label has a generic spinach band on it.

Of the 1,715 cartons of bunched spinach recalled, a total of 1,515 cartons were packed under the “Queen Victoria” label and distributed to California, Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, and to British Columbia, Ontario, and Manitoba in Canada. The remaining 200 cartons were packed under the “Tubby” label and distributed in California and New York. The recalled spinach was distributed to retail, food service and wholesale buyers.

Ippolito International immediately announced the precautionary recall following the discovery of Salmonella during routine product testing. It is also important to note that, to date, there have been no illnesses associated with the consumption of these products. Nevertheless, consumers who purchased these products should discard them or return to the place of purchase for a refund. Consumers with questions, or who need additional information on where the recalled products were sold, are also invited to contact Ippolito International at 1-831-772-9991.

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According to the FDA, Muranaka Farms has announced a voluntary recall of 1005 cases of 60 count bunched Parsley because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

The recall was trigged as a result of a voluntary sampling program conducted by the California company in cooperation with the FDA, which revealed that certain finished products could potentially contain the bacteria. Click on the following link to view the FDA Recall Release.

The specific products affected by the recall include 60 count fresh bunched parsley Lot Code 0023909. The products were shipped in a brown wax carton under the Muranaka Label with a parsley silhouette on the side. In turn, individual parsley bunches were banded using a red rubber band. The lot code 0023909 is on a sticker on the outside of the carton.

The affected products were distributed in the following 10 states: Arizona (30 cases), California (574 cases), Colorado (35 cases), Florida (60 Cases), Iowa (3 cases), Illinois (1 case), Missouri (7 cases), Tennessee (5 cases), Texas (278 cases) and Wisconsin (12 cases). These cases were distributed within both retail and foodservice outlets.

Because of Muranaka Farm's trace recall program the company was able to immediately determine which customers purchased the product in question. Muranaka's food safety protocols also ensure the company was able to determine the amount of cases harvested, the crew harvesting the product, and the field on which the parsley was grown and harvested. The company is continuing to work with the FDA to determine a potential cause.

It is also important to note that, to date, there have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of these products. Moreover, although the product is over two weeks old, and likely past its useable shelf-life, the company is nevertheless working diligently with customers to ensure that the products are fully accounted for and out of the supply chain.

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According to the FDA, Ocean Mist Farms has announced a precautionary and voluntary recall of 1,746 cases of iceless green onions. The announcement follows confirmation from federal regulators of a positive test for Salmonella on iceless green onions.

Although no Ocean Mist Farms’ product was identified, the positive sample did come from onions supplied by Circle Produce to several shippers, including Ocean Mist Farms. Thus, in an abundance of caution, the company elected to initiate a precautionary and voluntary recall. Click on the following link to view the FDA Recall Release.

The specific recalled iceless green onion pack styles and code dates are as follows:

• 4 x 12 count

• 2 x 24 count

• 24 count 5.5oz Cello Bag

• 36 count 5.5 oz Cello Bag

• 40 count 5.5 oz Cello Bag

Trace Back Code:  95ONCP7G

Production Dates: 80309; 80709; 80809; 81109; 81209; 81309

Because it is possible that a small amount of this product may have already been purchased by consumers, anyone who may have purchased onions with the trace back codes listed below should dispose of the product.

It is also important to note that, to date, there have not been any reported illnesses associated with the consumption of these products. Nevertheless, according to Ed Boutonnet, President of Ocean Mist Farms, “[t]he health and safety of our customers and their consumers always comes first. As soon as we learned of the positive test, it became our immediate responsibility to begin a voluntary recall of the product in the interest of protecting public health.”

The company also announced that it has suspended receiving any Circle Produce green onions. Instead, Ocean Mist Farms will continue to provide green onions from its own growing and packing operation.

Ultimately, Ocean Mist noted that the current inspection scheme is “having a positive effect in ensuring food safety.” In turn, following the positive sample in this case, the company was able to quickly and effectively trace back and recall all potentially affected products.

For additional information, consumers can also visit www.oceanmist.com.

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The battle for food safety continues to be waged on multiple fronts.

In addition to testing and developing new technologies (beyond cooking) to reduce naturally occurring pathogens in food, researchers are now looking for ways to defeat pathogens in our bodies.

As we reported previously, continuing NASA research might soon lead to a Salmonella vaccine. And now, we have learned, the United States military has joined the fight. According to the Washington Post, a new scientific breakthrough recently announced by the Naval Medical Research Center suggests that a Campylobacter vaccine may be on the way as well.

Campylobacter is well known as a leading cause of food-borne illness. According to some studies, the pathogen may be responsible for as many as two million cases in the United States each year, and cause several hundred million more worldwide. The infection can also (in some instances) be difficult to treat because of widespread antibiotic resistance.

Nevertheless, after a quarter century of research, Navy scientist Patricia Guerry may have discovered the path to a vaccine which will inhibit the bacteria’s ability to attach to our intestinal lining and cause illness. Indeed, as explained by the Washington Post:

Guerry, a molecular microbiologist, began her work in the 1980s and over time created new research tools that allowed her to identify the pathogen's unique genetic, biochemical and structural features. This led to the development of a vaccine that neutralizes the bacteria's ability to attach to the intestinal lining.

The vaccine candidate against the pathogen Campylobacter jejuni, developed by Guerry, her colleagues at the U.S. Naval Medical Research Center in Silver Spring and Canadian scientist Mario Monteiro, successfully protected against infection in monkeys during testing last year and is slated for human clinical trials.

If true, this may be the first known (and, promising) food-borne illness vaccine actively tested on humans. And, although Guerry has been conducting her research as part of an ongoing effort to better protect U.S. soldiers oversees, her research, of course, may very well have a profound impact on the rest of the nation – and world. Click on the following link to read the Full Story.

In any event, this is great news for industry and consumers alike. We proudly salute Guerry and, of course, the rest of her team.

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According to the FDA, Melon Acres has announced a voluntary and precautionary recall of cantaloupes because they may have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

The cantaloupes affected by the voluntary recall were distributed through Farm-Wey Produce (of Lakeland, Florida) between August 13 and 14, 2009. The cantaloupes, identified as 41 MG 10, Bin Numbers 4753-4980, were shipped to Aldi's in Greenwood, Indiana and to Meijer in Lansing, Michigan, Newport, Michigan, and Tipp City, Ohio. Click on the following link to view the FDA Recall Release.

The recall was issued following routine testing by the FDA on Tuesday, August 11, 2009, which revealed that a single sample (from twenty cantaloupes taken by the Agency) tested positive for Salmonella. The FDA reported the positive test to Melon Acres on Friday, August 21, 2009.

In turn, the FDA and Melon Acres worked together to identify the field in which the positive sample was grown. According to the company, no further shipments will be made from the source field. Additionally, on August 7, 2009, Primus Labs, a third party food safety auditing firm specializing in produce, inspected Melon Acres' fields and facilities regarding its food safety practices. Melon Acres received grades of excellent/good respectively, in this audit.

It is also important to note that, to date, there have been no reported of illnesses associated with the consumption of these products. Further, the company wishes to assure the public that stringent Food Safety Programs are in place at its shipping locations and fields, and is working closely with the FDA to identify the potential source of contamination.

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According to FSIS, King Soopers has announced a voluntary recall of various ground beef products after learning the products could potentially be linked to an ongoing Salmonella outbreak. The possible association is being investigated by the Colorado Department of Health.

Approximately 466,236 pounds of ground beef chubs, tray packs and patties (processed in Denver, Colorado) are affected by the voluntary and precautionary recall. The products were processed on various dates between May 23, 2009 and June 13, 2009, and bear Establishment Number "EST. 6250." In turn, the ground beef chub products bear a use-by/sell-by date between "05/31/09" and "06/21/09;" the tray packs of ground beef bear a use-by/sell-by date between "06.02.09" and "06.23.09;" and the ground beef patty products bear a use-by/sell-by date between "06.01.09" and "06.22.09." The products were distributed to retail establishments in Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming. The products (produced in Denver, Colorado). Click on the following link to view the FSIS Recall Release.

The specific products subject to recall include:

• 1-pound chubs of (93/7) ground beef. Each package bears the identifying case code "69558."

• 1 - 1.25-lb. tray packs of (96/4) ground beef. Each package bears the identifying case code "67164."

• 1 - 1.25-lb. tray packs of (96/4) ground beef. Each package bears the identifying case code "67664."

• 1 - 1.25-lb. tray packs of (93/7) ground beef. Each package bears the identifying case code "67663."

• 1 - 1.25-lb. tray packs of (93/7) ground beef. Each package bears the identifying case code "67163."

• 2.5 - 3-lb. tray packs of (93/7) ground beef. Each package bears the identifying case code "67654."

• 6-pack trays of (93/7) ground beef patties. Each package bears the identifying case code "67106."

• 4-pack trays of (93/7) ground beef patties. Each package bears the identifying case code "67115."

As a result of an ongoing investigation into an outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium DT104 potentially associated with ground beef, the Colorado Department of Public Health notified FSIS of the problem. Epidemiological investigations, and a case control study, conducted by Colorado Department of Health and CDC determined that there may be an association between the fresh ground beef products and 14 illnesses reported in Colorado.

Although the FSIS has no reason to believe that the products are still available for sale in commerce, the agency is nevertheless advising consumers that may have purchased the fresh ground beef between May 23 and June 23, 2009, and who may still have the products in their freezers, to look for and discard any potentially affected products.

As always, FSIS also reminds consumers that thoroughly cooking raw beef products to an internal temperature of 160 degrees will destroy any pathogens that may be present, and will render the products safe.

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Researchers at the University of Arkansas have discovered some new ways to greatly inhibit the presence of pathogens in food.

According to a recent study, infusing chicken meat with a combination of organic acids (acetic, citric, lactic, malic and tartaric) and select plant extracts (from grape seeds and green tea) can drastically reduce the amounts of E. coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella Typhimurium that may be present.

Not suprisingly, even better results were obtained when the expirimental technique was coupled with small amounts of irradiation.  In this regard, the researchers believe that a combination of organic acids and plant extracts, coupled with very small amounts of irradiation, could ultimately provide the optimal amount of protection against a wide range of food-borne illnesses.

According to Navam Hettiarachchy, a UA food science professor who supervised the project, "we want to determine the least amount of plant extracts that we can use, and the least amount of irradiation dosage, to get the best inhibitory effect."

Although research is continuing, Hettiarachchy has confirmed that at least one poultry company has expressed interest in the project. In turn, to achieve the maximum food safety benefit, Hettiarachchy also remains "hopeful that, with time, the public will become aware of irradiation processing so that they accept [the technology]." 

Although we'll leave it to others to interpret those tea leaves, we will, at the very least, continue to report on new developments. 

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Tanimura & Antle (located in Salinas, California) has announced a voluntary recall of various romaine lettuce products following a finding of Salmonella in a random sampe taken by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture. Immediately after being informed of the positive test result, the company initiated comprehensive trace-back efforts, and was able to contact all customers within hours. Those buyers have been told to destroy the lettuce.

The recalled lettuce, which had been distributed to retail, foodservice and wholesale customers in 29 states, was harvested between June 25 and July 2, 2009. The specific products affected by the recall include cartons of bulk and wrapped lettuce with a lot code 531380. Click here to view a copy of the Company Press Release.

According to Tanimura & Antle, the affected products were distributed to the following states: Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

Chief executive officer Rick Antle stated that Tanimura & Antle practices strict food safety guidelines. Additionally, despite the lettuce being past its shelf life, he cited an "abundance of caution" in issuing the recall. "We will continue to review opportunities for improvement," Antle said. “Although the recalled product is well beyond the 14-16 day shelf life, we are voluntarily issuing this recall because we want to ensure that we minimize even the slightest risk to public health.”

To date, there have been no reports of illness associated with the lettuce. Moving forward, the company also stated that it will continue to update its website with more information. Consumers with questions, or who need information, may call Tanimura & Antle at 1-877-827-7388.

AUGUST 3, 2009 UPDATE:

On August 3, 2009, Tanimura & Antle expanded the geographic scope of its original recall to include product distributed to all 50 states.  Although the volume of cases from the single recalled lot (which is identified above) has not changed, the company recognizesd the possibility that some customers may have distributed the romaine in states beyond the original 29 -- thus, prompting the expansion. Click on the following link to view a copy of the Updated Recall Release.

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Mike’s Produce, Inc. (d/b/a. Kowalke Family Sprouts) has announced a voluntary recall of all Kowalke Family Sprouts Brand Alfalfa Products with sell-by dates from June 18, 2009 through June 30, 2009.  The recall was announced after the company received notification that a sprout sample (taken from a retail location) had tested positive for Salmonella. 

After being notified of the positive sample, Kowalke Family Sprouts (located in Los Angeles, California) promptly informed the FDA of its actions. It is not clear how Salmonella may have been introduced into the sprouts, and the company is cooperating fully with the agenciy's continuing investigation.

According to reports, Kowalke Family Sprouts met all FDA disinfection, processing, and pathogen testing guidelines. In addition, although the FDA tested for the presence of Salmonella on sprout growing equipment, food contact surfaces, walls, floors, and drains at the Kowalke Family Sprouts facility, all tests results were negative. Despite extensive efforts, the FDA found no Salmonella at the Kowalke Family Sprouts facility.

Even though all environmental samples were negative, and although the alfalfa sprouts tested negative prior to being shipped to retailers, the firm (given the positive retail finding – and, in an abundance of caution) decided to recall all sprouts from the potentially affected lot.

Kowalke alfalfa products are sold in 4 oz, 8 oz, 1 pound and 5 pound clear plastic, clam shell packages. Two other Kowalke products also contain alfalfa sprouts - the Dinner Salad in a 6 oz package and the Onion/Alfalfa Mix in a 4 oz package.

These products were sold to distributors in Los Angeles and to retail stores in Southern California, Nevada, and Arizona. It is possible, however, that the sprouts may have been transported to other states. Click on the following link to view the FDA Recall Release.

To date, no illnesses have been reported from these products.

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According to the FDA, the Plainview Milk Products Cooperative has announced a voluntary recall of various milk products following the discovery of potential Salmonella contamination. The recall includes all instant nonfat dried milk, whey protein, fruit stabilizers, and gums (thickening agents) produced by the company during the past two years at its facility in Plainview, Minnesota. Click on the following link to view a copy of the FDA News Release.

The investigation which led to the recall is an interesting example of the ways in which the governmental agencies, which oversee the food industry, can and do work together to identify any potential problems which may arise. The investigation began when the USDA found Salmonella in 100-gram pouches of Dairyshake powder that were not for retail sale. The USDA then alerted the FDA, who later discovered salmonella on some of the processing equipment used in the Plainview plant. The FDA conducted the investigation in collaboration with USDA, CDC, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, and various state and local health departments.

The products which were voluntarily recalled have not been linked to any illnesses, nor did they reach consumers directly. Rather, they were sold to other downstream companies, which then used the ingredients to process other foods.

We will, of course, continue to report on continuing developments.

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The source of the multi-state Salmonella Outbreak linked to fresh alfalfa sprouts has likely been determined.

According to reports, the Salmonella strain implicated in the outbreak likely originated from seeds sold by the Caudill Seed Company of Louisville, Kentucky. In turn, Lyle Orwig, a company spokesman, stated that the offending seeds were imported by Caudill from Italy. As reported previously, Caudill has withdrawn all seed batches with six-digit lot numbers starting with “032”; the recalled seeds are packaged in 50-pound white bags marked with a white or yellow label.

Although testing did not reveal any Salmonella at Caudill’s facilities, Orwig reports that, “what [the FDA] has said to us, is the cases all led to sprouts, from multiple growers, and the common link is seeds.”  Seeds, anyway, from Italy...
 

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Wisconsin health officials have announced that bags of Kleen-Pak brand fresh spinach are being recalled after Salmonella was discovered during routine food safety testing. Kleen-Pak, of Milwaukee, is working closely with health officials to facilitate the recall.

The precautionary recall involves approximately 8,000 packages distributed to grocery stores in the Milwaukee, southern Wisconsin, and parts of Illinois. An additional 1,200 pounds of spinach were distributed to food wholesalers and restaurants. Jane Larson, spokeswoman for the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, confirmed that the recall was prompted by routine testing, and there have not been any reports of illness.

Jerry Kowaleski, vice president of Kleen-Pak of Milwaukee, confirmed that the spinach had been packaged almost two weeks ago. As a result, "people may [still] have a package of it in their refrigerator at home," he said. In turn, consumers are advised to either discard any 10-ounce bags of Kleen-Pak curly-leaf fresh spinach with the listed "use by dates" of April 29, April 30 and May 1, or return the bags to the store where they made the purchase.

The precautionary recall is NOT associated with the ongoing national investigation of salmonella contamination of peanut butter products, pistachios or alfalfa sprouts.

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As a result of an ongoing Salmonella outbreak being investigated by the CDC and FDA, the FDA has warned consumers to avoid eating raw alfalfa sprouts until further notice.

To date, 31 cases of illnesses with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Saintpaul have been confirmed in Michigan, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Utah and West Virginia. In turn, most of the individuals who became ill reported eating raw alfalfa sprouts. While some cases reported eating raw sprouts at restaurants, others reported purchasing raw sprouts at the retail level. According to the FDA, the outbreak appears to be an extension of an earlier outbreak in February and March (which involved cases Nebraska, South Dakota, Iowa, Kansas, and Minnesota).  Click on the following link to view the FDA Alfalfa Sprout Notice.

Interestingly, the ongoing investigation has indicated that the Salmonella contamination in harvested sprouts may be may have originated from contaminated alfalfa sprout seeds. Thus, because suspected seed lots have been sold and grown throughout the country, and because washing the harvested products will likely not help, the FDA and CDC have warned consumers not to eat any raw sprouts from any source until further notice. 

According to the FDA, governmental investigators are working closely with the alfalfa sprout industry to identify which alfalfa seeds and sprouts are not affected, so that the current advisory can be refined as quickly as possible. 

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As pistachio recalls continue to expand, Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, Inc. (“Setton”) has issued a clarification to wholesale customers regarding the identification codes for wholesale bulk pistachio products originally recalled on April 6, 2009. The clarification does not concern product codes on retail products sold to consumers (search for recalled products using the FDA Pistachio Recall database found on the left-hand side of our blog).

The April 6 voluntary recall included all roasted shelled pistachios and roasted in-shell pistachios from the 2008 crop (and a small amount from the 2007 crop that was packaged alongside the 2008 crop) due to potential contamination with Salmonella. The recall also included raw shelled pistachios from the 2008 crop (and a small amount from the 2007 crop that was packaged alongside the 2008 crop) that were not subsequently roasted prior to retail sale. Setton’s raw in-shell pistachio shipments were NOT affected by the recall.

For bulk packages received by wholesale customers, products with either "7" or "8" as the 4th digit of the FMO number, and packaged between Julian dates 245 through 366 and 001 through 084 and shipped after September 1, 2008, are included in the recall. Thus, wholesale customers should check their stocks to determine if they have any of the affected products on hand.

If wholesale customers do have products covered by the April 6 recall, they should discontinue distributing them and contact the Company at (559) 535-6050 to make arrangements for the return or appropriate destruction of the affected products. If recalled products were distributed to other firms that further mixed, repackaged or distributed the bulk products, those customers should be informed of the recall, and should be directed to contact the FDA.

A list of pistachio products NOT affected by the ongoing recalls can be found at www.pistachiorecall.org.

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Nuts. Following one of the largest food recalls in history (involving peanut products distributed by PCA), the pattern may be repeating. Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, Inc. (in California), is expanding its earlier recall of 2,000,000 pounds of pistachios to include ALL pistachios produced in 2008.

That’s a lot of pistachios. Setton, reportedly, is the second largest pistachio distributor in the nation.

As the FDA and the California Department of Public Health continue to investigate Salmonella contamination in pistachios, Setton voluntarily expanded its March 30, 2008 recall to include all lots of roasted in-shell pistachios and roasted shelled pistachios produced from nuts harvested in 2008. The Company is also recalling all raw shelled pistachios from the 2008 crop that are not subsequently roasted prior to retail sale.

Because the pistachios were sold to numerous downstream customers, and used as ingredients in a wide variety of foods, the expanded recall will likely affect many additional products, and is expected to result in numerous additional recalls. Click on the following link for a searchable database of recalled products. This database is updated continuously by the FDA, and will likely grow as potentially affected products are identified and new recalls are announced.

In the meantime, the FDA is advising wholesalers, retailers, restaurants and food service establishments not to sell or serve any pistachios (or pistachio-containing products) until the original source of the pistachios can be determined. Companies should check with their suppliers to determine whether the source of the pistachios is Setton. Additionally, consumers should not eat pistachios or food products containing them (such as pistachio bakery goods and pistachio ice cream) until they determine that the products are not affected by the recall. Visit the following link for a list of those products NOT believed to be affected by the current recalls.

As noted, the recalls triggered earlier this year by investigations into PCA were some of the largest in history. Thousands of products and hundreds of companies were affected. In turn, as the current pistachio investigation continues, we will wait patiently to see whether, and to what extent, pistachios can distinguish (or, at the very least, unstick) themselves from peanut butter . . . 

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According to recent reports, Setton Pistachio, the California company that recalled nearly 2,000,000 pounds of pistachios in recent days, had received positive Salmonella test results in various products for as long as five months. Despite such findings in its own, internal testing, none of the results had been shared (until recently) by the company.

Following the discovery of Salmonella by a Setton customer, the FDA was promptly notified and the company issued a recall of their products. In turn, the FDA launched its own investigation, and discovered that Setton’s own internal testing had previously detected the presence of Salmonella in its products.

Although it appears, at this point, that any lots testing positive had been destroyed by the company (we are waiting for confirmation), the root cause of the contamination remains a mystery. Because the pistachios are roasted to a temperature that should kill any Salmonella that may be present, the positive test results suggest the pistachios may have been contaminated post-intervention.

In any event, as the investigation continues, we will, of course, continue to report on emerging developments.

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These guys are everywhere. And, proving to be a bit nimble, as well.

Following recent Salmonella recalls involving peanuts, peanut butter, pepper and pistachios, we can now add mayonnaise to the list. After receiving word from an outside supplier of possible salmonella contamination in an egg product used to make Kroger brand mayonnaise, the grocery chain promptly announced a recall of all potentially affected products.

The recall involves 32-ounce plastic jars of Kroger Lite Mayo, sold in Kroger stores in three states (Ohio, northern Kentucky and southeast Indiana). The suspect jars have a "Sell by" date of "SEP-25-09."

According to Kroger, the precautionary recall was prompted as a result of the raw material testing and, to date, no illnesses have been reported. Nevertheless, customers are being advised not to eat the mayo, and to return any unused portions to the store.

Special thanks to Kroger and its suppliers for robust protocols to catch this potential problem early. Once again, the system worked as it should.

And, although some of our most favorite spreads are, well, spread a bit thin, don’t despair. When life serves you peanuts (or mayo), there’s always jelly.

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Gone are the days when Salmonella was associated with a few, select food products. Recent Salmonella outbreaks and recalls have involved popular foods such as poultry, pot pies, peppers, pepper (the spice), peanut butter, peanuts and now . . . pistachios. 

Following the discovery of Salmonella in its products, California-based Setton Farms (the second-largest pistachio producer in the nation) announced a voluntary recall of up to 1,000,000 pounds of pistachios. The nuts originated from Terra Bella, California, about 75 miles south of Fresno. Although raw pistachios are roasted to a temperature that will typically kill the pathogen, the positive test results suggest that the pistachios may have been contaminated post-intervention.

The products were distributed from California to a plethora of places throughout the United States. The bulk pistachios, typically shipped in 2,000-pound containers, were either repackaged by customers for resale or incorporated into other food products such as ice cream and trail mix. Popular foods, all.

On March 24, 2009, Kraft Foods (one of about three dozen companies that purchase pistachios from Setton Farms) notified the FDA that it discovered Salmonella in the products during routine probing. Working closely with health officials, Setton Farms quickly issued a recall of all potentially affected products.  In this case, it would appear, the system worked Perfectly.

To date, there have been no confirmed illnesses associated with these products. Although the FDA has reportedly received two complaints from two people (on the East and West coasts) who allegedly felt poor after eating pistachios, a link to Setton Farms, while possible, has not yet been proven.

As an aside, the Setton Farms voluntary recall is not in any way related to the recent PCA recalls associated with peanuts or peanut butter (from Blakely or . . . Plainview).

So, what’s the potential link between pathogens and popular foods starting with the letter “P”? Probing Question. Given past Salmonella issues associated with other popular purchases -- from Pets (including Parrots and Pythons) to Pet Foods (some made with Pork) -- we all remain a bit, well, Perplexed . . .

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Researchers at Purdue University have designed a device which uses electricity to kill harmful pathogens in prepackaged foods. Dr. Kevin Keener, an associate professor in the Department of Food Science, developed the technology.  According to Keener, the device uses high-voltage coils to ionize oxygen (which creates a plasma field) inside a sealed package of food. The plasma field, which increases temperature by only a few degrees, does not alter the product, but will kill any harmful bacteria such as E. coli O157:H7 and Salmonella that may be present.

The technology works by placing two high-voltage, low-watt coils on the outside of a sealed package of food. The oxygen in the package is charged, becomes ionized and then turns into ozone. In turn, the ozone kills bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella. The process uses only 30-40 watts of electricity (less than most incandescent light bulbs), and treatment times range from 30 seconds to about five minutes. Eventually, once the charge is removed, the ionized gas will revert back to its original composition. "It's kind of like charging a battery,” said Keener. “We're [simply] charging a sample without electrode intrusion."

According to Keener, the testing has worked with glass containers, flexible plastic-like food-storage bags and rigid plastics, such as strawberry cartons and pill bottles. "Conceptually, we can put any kind of packaged food we want in there," said Keener. "So far, it has worked on spinach and tomatoes, but it could work on any type of produce or other food." He also said the technology could work to ensure pharmaceuticals are free from bacteria.

The next step, reported Keener, is to develop a commercial prototype of the device that could work on large quantities of food.

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As the CDC outbreak investigation continues, and thousands of products are recalled, reported cases are on the decline. 

In early January 2009, the CDC and public health officials determined that peanut butter products were the likely source of the ongoing national Salmonella Typhimurium outbreak. Product testing eventually prompted recalls of various peanut butter products produced by the Peanut Corporation of America (“PCA”). Crisis management efforts, at all levels, then began in earnest.  On January 28, 2009, PCA recalled all peanuts, peanut meal, peanut paste and peanut butter, distributed from its Blakely, Georgia facility since January 1, 2007. Following additional governmental investigations, PCA also recalled all products, including peanut meal, granulated peanuts and dry roasted peanuts, produced and distributed from its Plainview, Texas facility since the plant opened in March 2005.

PRODUCTS AFFECTED:

Although the majority of products produced by PCA were not distributed for direct consumer sale, most products were distributed to downstream manufacturers for use as ingredients in many other products. As a result, the PCA recalls prompted hundreds of these manufacturers to recall their own products as well. Given the expansive scope of the recalls, and diverse use of PCA’s products as raw materials in many consumer foods, the FDA and industry are continuing their efforts - even to this day - to determine what additional products might potentially be affected. So far, more than 2,000 consumer products have been recalled. To find products affected, use the searchable FDA Recall Interface on our blog (just scroll down the left-hand column).

PRODUCTS NOT AFFECTED:

According to the CDC, major national brands of jarred peanut butter found in grocery stores are NOT affected by the recall. As we reported previously, Girl Scout Cookies are also Not affected. For a list of additional products not affected by the ongoing recalls, please visit the American Peanut Council Website.

CDC INVESTIGATIVE UPDATES:

The following are highlights from the CDC’s most recent investigation update:

• Case count is 642 in 44 states with latest confirmed, most recent reported illness beginning on January 28, 2009;

• Although the outbreak is continuing, the numbers of new cases have declined modestly since December. Many recently ill persons report eating peanut butter and other recalled peanut-containing products; and

• Consumers should continue to check at home for recalled peanut butter containing products, and discard them.

As noted, as of February 15, 2009, 642 persons believed to be infected with the outbreak strain have been reported from 44 states. The number of ill persons identified in each state is as follows: Alabama (2), Arizona (13), Arkansas (6), California (76), Colorado (15), Connecticut (10), Florida (1), Georgia (6), Hawaii (4), Idaho (16), Illinois (9), Indiana (9), Iowa (3), Kansas (2), Kentucky (3), Maine (5), Maryland (8), Massachusetts (48), Michigan (35), Minnesota (39), Missouri (14), Mississippi (7), Nebraska (1), New Hampshire (13), New Jersey (23), New York (28), Nevada (6), North Carolina (6), North Dakota (17), Ohio (94), Oklahoma (4), Oregon (12), Pennsylvania (19), Rhode Island (4), South Dakota (4), Tennessee (13), Texas (9), Utah (6), Vermont (4), Virginia (21), Washington (18), West Virginia (2), Wisconsin (5), and Wyoming (2). Additionally, one ill person was reported from Canada (learn how food-borne illness outbreaks are tracked).

Oregon public health officials also recently confirmed, in a press release, that the ongoing outbreak may have also affected some pets. One laboratory-confirmed case of Salmonella in a dog from an Oregon household was reported, and further characterization of this Salmonella isolate is pending. Salmonella resembling the outbreak strain was also reportedly isolated by a private laboratory from recalled Happy Tails dog biscuits from the dog’s household. 

We, of course, will continue to report new developments.

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On Monday, February 9, 2009, the Plainview Peanut Co., a subsidiary of Peanut Corporation of America (“PCA”), voluntarily halted operations at its Plainview, Texas production facility pending the resolution of continuing governmental investigations.

On Thursday, February 12, 2009, the Texas Department of State Health Services announced, in a News Release, that it has ordered a recall of all products ever produced at the facility. The order followed the discovery of various sanitary issues identified in the plant.  The following day, on Friday, February 13, 2009, PCA formally declared bankruptcy.

The newest recall follows PCA's announcement, on January 28, 2009, that it was recalling all peanuts, peanut meal, peanut paste and peanut butter, distributed from it's Blakely, Georgia facility since January 2007.  PCA has now recalled all products, including peanut meal, granulated peanuts and dry roasted peanuts, produced and distributed from the Plainview, Texas facility since March 2005.   

Earlier, investigators reported that the Plainview facility had been operating for years without any inspections or licensure from the state. As the FBI continues its criminal probe into PCA's operations, we will continue to report new developments.  

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In the coming months, the FDA will likely begin requiring food manufacturers that obtain positive test results from product samples to report such findings to the agency. Although the new rules will likely have a significant impact on industry as adjustments are made to ensure compliance, the rules (once implemented) would likely add an additional layer of safety to our food regulatory system.

In 2007, former President Bush signed into law the Food and Drug Administration Amendments Act (Public Law 110-85). The Act, which amended the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act by creating a new section 417 (21 U.S.C. 350f), required the Secretary of Health and Human Services, no later than September 27, 2008, to establish a Reportable Food Registry. The stated purpose of the amendment was “to provide a reliable mechanism to track patterns of adulteration in food [which] would support efforts by the FDA to [better] target [its] limited inspection resources.” Implementation of the new law, along with its mandatory reporting requirements, however, has been delayed while the FDA continues to develop an effective electronic reporting system.

In its current form, the new food registry will apply to food manufacturers, and will define “reportable foods” as any article of food (other than infant formula) found to contain harmful pathogens, “for which there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, such of food will cause serious adverse health consequences or death to humans or animals.” 21.U.S.C. 350f. If a food sample tests positive for any pathogen considered an adulterant for the particular food at issue, manufacturers would be required, within 24 hours, to submit an electronic report to the agency.

Currently, the FDA anticipates that the registry (and the associated reporting requirements) will likely go into effect sometime later this spring.  We, of course, will keep you posted.

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Stewart Parnell, president of the Peanut Corporation of America (“PCA”), along with Sammy Lightsey, a PCA plant manager, were called today to testify before the House Energy and Commerce subcommittee. It has been alleged that PCA shipped certain peanut butter products from its Blakely, Georgia facility after receiving conflicting laboratory reports about the presence of salmonella. The testimony lasted only 10 minutes, however, as both individuals cited Fifth Amendment protections against self-incrimination and refused to answer questions. Prior to the appearance by PCA representatives, the subcommittee received statements from family members of individuals believed to be affected by the outbreak.

Also testifying today was the president of Deibel Laboratories, a company previously hired by PCA to conduct sampling on its products. Charles Deibel told the subcommittee that his company had consistently informed PCA of positive test results when salmonella was isolated from samples. According to Deibel, "[i]t is not unusual for . . . food testing laboratories to find samples that test positive for salmonella and other pathogens." In turn, when ready-to-eat samples are found to be positive for a harmful pathogen, companies should either dispose of such products or employ additional safeguards (such as a lethality step or adopting other interventions) to ensure product safety. Characterizing product testing of ready-to-eat foods as "the last chance to catch a problem," Deibel also expressed his view that FDA regulations needed to be updated to enhance the overall safety of our food supply. Notably, with the coming months, the FDA will likely introduce a new food registry that will require food companies to promptly report any positive testing results, along with the disposition of any potentially implicated products, directly to the FDA.

To date, the 2008-2009 salmonella outbreak has affected more than 1,800 consumer products. (use the FDA Recall Interface on the left-hand column of our blog to search for recalled products). The FBI, working closely with the FDA, is continuing its investigation into PCA and its operations to determine whether, and to what extent, there was wrongdoing.

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As the investigation into the Peanut Corporation of America (“PCA”) continues, it has been reported that salmonella was isolated from various product samples manufactured by a PCA subsidiary in Plainview, Texas. The facility, operated by the Plainview Peanut Company, issued a press release following its closure yesterday at the request of the FDA and Texas Department of State Health Services. Early reports indicate that the facility agreed to halt operations ahead of an announcement that salmonella may have been found at the site. Although the pathogen was reportedly isolated from certain product samples, officials have also stated that, at this point, it does not appear that any of the tested products reached consumers. The Plainview production facility, like PCA’s Blakely, Georgia facility, produces peanut meal, granulated peanuts and dry roasted peanuts.

As we reported previously, federal officials are continuing their criminal investigation into PCA operations. The closing of PCA’s Plainview facility comes only one day after the FBI executed search warrants at both PCA’s production facility in Blakely, Georgia, and and its headquarters in Lynchburg, Virginia. To date, the ongoing outbreak may have sickened as many as 550 people, and may have contributed to as many as eight deaths. The recalls which followed (and continue to this day) have affected more than 1,800 consumer products.

Congressional hearings on the outbreak and recalls are scheduled to occur tomorrow, and we will continue to report on emerging developments.

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I never gave much thought to the number of foods made using peanuts until we started tracking the recent peanut butter recalls. A quick visit to the local grocer confirmed that our choices, once in the thousands, had been narrowed to just a few. 

The declining availability of peanut related products has left consumers, quite literally, in a jam.  The situation, however, is one we can heartily embrace. Walking through the store, I was delightfully amazed by the diverse range of jelly products waiting to fill my cart. There was an entire aisle, nearly twenty feet high and a quarter mile long, lined on both sides, top to bottom, with nothing but jelly. In addition to your standard jelly, there was jam, marmalade, spreads and something called preserves. There was seeded and seedless. There was orange, grape, cherry, strawberry, blueberry, mango, muscadine, and dozens of others, including one flavor, called scuppernong. There was low-cal and fat-free. There was even sugar-free which, for a moment, flummoxed me greatly. I had long been under the mistaken impression that jelly was, for all intents and purposes, nothing but sugar. Very cool. Jelly can also be used for dips, sandwiches, cookies, cakes, streusels, and even, as a sugar substitute in rock candy. There are even vegetable jellies which make for a fantastic glaze on ribs and lamb chops.

Let’s be honest, the current supply of peanut butter has been spread a bit thin. Until the recalls are over, consider letting jelly take its place. Kids love jelly-filled candies and adults cherish American-style marmalade. And, in case you've been worried, there's simply no reason to let the salmonella outbreak ruin your Valentine's Day. Just buy Jelly Beans. They’re fat free, make for a lovely, thoughtful gift, and are delicious.  Even better, some companies sell jelly beans that taste just like, well . . . peanut butter.

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The salmonella peanut butter recall, which is still expanding, will likely be remembered as one of the largest in history.  On January 28, 2009, the Peanut Corporation of America ("PCA") announced a recall of all peanuts (dry and oil roasted), peanut meal, peanut paste and peanut butter that had been produced at its Blakely, Georgia facility since January 1, 2007.  Although none of the products involved in the expanded recall were distributed for direct consumer sale, the products were supplied to downstream manufacturers for use as ingredients in many other foods. To date, more than 1,500 consumer products have been recalled, and hundreds of companies (including manufacturers, distributors, grocers and retailers) have been directly impacted.  Find products affected by the ongoing recall using the searcheable FDA Recall Interface. (just scroll down the left-hand column of our blog). We will continue to keep the interface, which is updated coninuously, running until the outbreak has concluded and recalls have been closed. 

As you may recall, the salmonella outbreak was first identified by the CDC in late 2008.  On January 13, 2009, following the discovery of salmonella in its products, PCA announced the initial recall of peanut butter and peanut paste. On January 28, 2009, following an extensive governmental investigation into the manufacturing procedures utilized by the company, PCA expanded the recall to include all peanuts (dry and oil roasted), peanut meal, peanut paste and peanut butter produced at the facility since January 1, 2007. 

Given the expansive scope of the recall, and diverse use of PCA’s products as raw materials in many consumer foods, the FDA is continuing to work closely with industry to determine what additional products might potentially be affected. As continuing recalls are announced, the searchable interface will be updated automatically. 

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As we follow the PCA recalls, we are reminded that in matters of great public concern, some resort to rhetorical extremes. Pulitzer Prize-winning historian, Richard Hofstadter, described this tradition in his 1964 essay, “The Paranoid Style in American Politics,” which essay was recently revisited in “Politics for Grown Ups,” by Paul Hond, Columbia (Winter 2008-09).

While such tactics garner attention – Joe McCarthy was front-page news – there is a price to be paid, and not just by those who are the targets of a “cruelly reckless character assassin.” As Hond explains, the paranoid advocate damages his campaign, as he “doesn’t so much invent wild ideas, then, as undermine sound ones, alienating people with his exaggerations and ultimately discrediting his own cause.”

We are seeing examples of the paranoid style in recent writings about the PCA recall. Even before the facts are fleshed out, some insist that first-degree murder (or perhaps only manslaughter) occurred, with executives, technicians, customers and regulators acting as aiders and abettors of these murderous acts. Moreover, whatever happened at PCA, say these advocates, is replicated in each company throughout the food industry.

Thus, it should not surprise that today a PCA critic reminded us of the recent Chinese executions of food safety regulators, and suggested that something similar (“figuratively”) should be done here.

Let’s allow the rule of law and its procedural safeguards to play out.  Sometimes speculation is simply wrong. News that a peanut shipment had been rejected by Canada led to the supposition that this product had been sold in the United States. It wasn’t. The FDA has confirmed that the shipment at issue was rejected because of small metal fragments – and the product was destroyed.

While the recall proceeds, we should allow the regulators and prosecutors to do their work. Facts will be gathered and disclosed and we’ll see who knew what, and when they knew it. Until then, fanning the flames of outrage with unfounded inferences and broadsides against entire industries causes thoughtful readers – the people we need to reach – to step back from our message.

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According to reports, Congress will likely hold public hearings on the ongoing salmonella outbreak and recalls.  Representative Henry Waxman (D-California) stated recently that the hearings, anticipated within the coming weeks, will likely focus on the Blakely, Georgia facility owned and operated by the Peanut Corporation of America (“PCA”).

As the FDA continues its investigation into the ongoing outbreak, early reports have suggested that salmonella was isolated, on various dates in 2007 and 2008 from certain PCA products, by private labs PCA employed for routine testing. These reports have also indicated, however, that subsequent testing resulted in negative findings.  Because the specific protocols followed by PCA and the labs in question (along with the specific circumstances surrounding the sampling and testing of such products) are not yet fully understood, all parties will need to wait for the investigation to be completed before any final conclusions can be made regarding the ultimate merits or implications of these reports.  Additional information may also be learned from the proposed hearings, during which it is anticipated that representatives of PCA and the laboratories in question may be called to testify.

On Wednesday, January 28, 2009, PCA expanded its initial recalls (announced on January 13, 2009 and January 18, 2009 respectively) to include additional products produced at the facility since January 1, 2007 (see our reports below).  For continuing updates regarding the growing list of products affected by the expanded recall, please visit the FDA Peanut Butter Recall Website.  The American Peanut Council has also published a list of products reportedly not affected by the ongoing recalls.

To date, more than 500 people may have become sick, and as many as eight people may have died, in connection with the ongoing outbreak.  Although most of these illnesses are presumed to be associated with peanut butter, not all cases may be directly linked.  Early reports have indicated that at least one person from Wyoming (who was carrying the outbreak strain) did not appear to have any known exposure to peanut butter products.

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For nearly a decade, our food safety team has worked closely with food companies managing outbreaks and defending claims.  In most cases, outbreaks and recalls can be effectively managed by working closely with governmental agencies to gain a complete picture of an ongoing investigation, while at the same time encouraging investigators to freely and rapidly share developing information 

Unfortunately, however, accurate information regarding the potential sources or scope of an outbreak can sometimes be extremely difficult for companies to obtain.  This is because, once illnesses are identified, the CDC and FDA (along with state and local health departments) are the only entities who have real time access (via PulseNet and OutbreakNet) to the most current and important information regarding the developing outbreak. 

As a result, until developing outbreak information is actually shared by investigative agencies, food companies in the supply chain often have no idea what specific upstream companies, suppliers, product lines and/or lots might potentially be implicated in the ongoing investigation.  This is especially true when multiple companies are involved in the production of a product, and where lots are, in some instances, defined by hours or days.   In turn, most companies must wait for information to be shared by governmental investigators before even becoming aware that their products might potentially be involved - let alone to be in a position to determine whether to issue a precautionary recall of select foods.  This is also why, in our view, it is extremely important for consumers and industry alike to understand fully how food-borne illnesses and outbreaks are identified and tracked.

In the current salmonella outbreak investigation, these efforts, of course, are continuing.  Since our last update, an additional six companies have announced precautionary and voluntary recalls of select products manufactured with raw materials potentially associated with the current outbreak.  These companies include Landies Candies (select peanut butter filled chocolates), Lovin Oven (certain Peanut Crunch Chewy Granola Bars), Best Brands Corp. (peanut butter frozen cookie dough), Aspen Hills (certain cookie dough products), Nash Finch (select bakery products), and Chef Jay's Food Products (select peanut butter bars, cookies and brownies).  In turn, following the expanded recall by the South Bend Chocolate Company (which included various candies containing peanut butter), the Rain Creek Baking Corporation announced a voluntary and precautionary product withdrawal of select Peanut Butter Turtles, Baskets and Princesses. 

Although the CDC reports that it is still working to determine whether any additional food products might be affected, it confirms (as we reported previously) that these and other product manufacturers are working very closely with the agency to identify the existence and scope of any additional potentially affected foods.  We appreciate their joint and continuing efforts.  We also, of course, will continue to report as additional news develops.

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• Return to Incubation Periods And Symptoms.
• Return to Salmonella Images.
• Return to About Salmonella.

Salmonella is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped, motile bacterium.  Salmonella serotype Typhimurium and Salmonella serotype Enteritidis are the most common in the United States, and have been known to cause illness for over 100 years. They were discovered by an American scientist named Salmon, for whom they are named. 

Although Salmonella is typically associated with raw and undercooked poultry products, the pathogen has also been found in a wide variety of other foods, including raw beef, milk and dairy products, fish and shrimp, frog legs, yeast, salad dressings, cake mixes, cream-filled desserts and toppings, dried gelatin, peanut butter, cocoa, chocolate and various pet foods. S. enteritidis creates additional challenges with respect to shell eggs, because, when present, the organism can survive inside the egg. 

In addition to direct contamination from source food products (such as eggs), Salmonella can also be transmitted from the contaminated feces of carriers (such as infected individuals) to foods, food product surfaces and other people.  Acute symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, fever, and headaches. In extremely rare cases, chronic symptoms such as arthritis may develop 3-4 weeks following the onset of acute symptoms. Typically, the incubation period ranges between 12 and 36 hours. Although the infective dose usually requires only a relatively small number of bacteria, the amount ultimately depends upon the age and health of host.  In most cases, acute symptoms will only last for 1 to 2 days, and often do not require treatment other than oral fluids. Persons with severe diarrhea may require rehydration with intravenous fluids. Antibiotics, such as ampicillin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, or ciprofloxacin, are not usually necessary unless the infection spreads from the intestines.

As is the case with many other pathogens, illness from Salmonella can be easily avoided.  Preventative measures include:

• Cooking poultry, ground beef, and eggs thoroughly to 160 degress F.  If you are served undercooked meat, poultry or eggs in a restaurant, do not hesitate to send it back to the kitchen for further cooking;

• Avoiding foods containing raw eggs, or raw (unpasteurized) milk;

• Washing hands, kitchen work surfaces, and utensils immediately after they have been in contact with raw meat or poultry products;

• Being particularly careful when handling foods prepared for infants, the elderly, and those with weak immune systems;

• Washing hands with soap after handling reptiles, birds, or baby chicks, and after potential contact with pet feces; and

• Avoiding direct or even indirect contact between reptiles (turtles, iguanas, other lizards, snakes) and infants or immunocompromised persons;

References:

www.cfsan.fda.gov/~mow/chap1.html

www.cdc.gov/nczved/dfbmd/disease_listing/salmonellosis_gi.html

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