Prevening Allergen Related Recalls Due to Mislabeling

The leading cause of recalls is allergens.  Case in point, 3 allergen-related recalls over the last two days due to mislabeling.  In two cases, the wrong preprinted label was placed on the food item, in the other, the wrong sauce mix packet added to the food package.

Prevention – making labeling a CCP – a critical control point to prevent a chemical hazard – allergens.  There are many companies that use multiple labels with varying allergens on each.  Having the additional attention that goes along with designating a process step as a CCP will require more thorough monitoring, verifying, and reporting.  For example, the label operator must sign-off on each pack or case of labels by reviewing the days production sheet as well as the formulation sheet in order to check for compliance with the label.  In addition, there would be verification of labels and formulation by QC and production supervisors, as well as daily sign-off by the HACCP coordinator.  All would be need to be trained in label review with an eye towards allergen identification.   I would argue that this step must be a CCP because based on industry history, hazards are not being prevented.  From a cost savings standpoint, although this added step will require operator time, it is cheaper than conducting a recall.

Blount Fine Foods Announces Rip Roar'N Crab Soup Recall For Undeclared Milk, Wheat And Crab Allergens

01/11/2012 03:04 PM EST

Blount Fine Foods of Fall River, MA is recalling a single date code of Blount Fine Foods branded Rip Roarin’ Crab Soup in 16 ounce retail cup pack size because of undeclared milk, wheat and crab allergens. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk, wheat or crab run the risk of suffering serious or life-threatening reactions if they consume this product.

Product Labels: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm286848.htm

D.F. Stauffer Biscuit Co., Inc. Issues Allergy Alert and Voluntary Recall on Safeway Snack Artist Sugar Free Bite-Sized Chocolate Chip Cookies Due to Mislabeling and Undeclared Allergens

01/11/2012 01:52 PM EST

D. F. Stauffer Biscuit Co., Inc. is voluntarily recalling one specific lot of Safeway Snack Artist Sugar Free Bite-Sized Chocolate Chip Cookies because they contain undeclared milk and eggs. People with an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk or eggs run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume this product. Symptoms may include itching, hives, wheezing, vomiting, anaphylaxis and digestive problems, such as bloating, gas or diarrhea.

Product Labels: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm286752.htm

Gilster-Mary Lee, Corp. Announces Recall Of Hill Country Fare Brand Of Lasagna Dinner Mix Due To The Presence Of Undeclared Soy

01/12/2012 05:06 PM EST

Gilster-Mary Lee of Chester, IL is recalling some packages of dry lasagna dinner mix. The only brand involved is Hill Country Fare 6.4 oz. Lasagna Dinner which has a Best By date of NOV 21 12 Y18. (UPC# 41220-78102) Consumers should return to store for full refund.