Macadamia Nuts Recalled Due To Salmonella Positive Sample

Whole Foods is recalling raw macadamia nuts after an FDA contract laboratory found a sample of the product to be positive for Salmonella.

Macadamia nuts are often eaten raw.  The processing is fairly simple - Dehusking, drying, de-shelling, and further drying to a moisture level of 1.5%.  Contamination can occur from the point when the nut is de-shelled until when it is packaged.

There have been a number of recalls of macadamia nuts due to Salmonella (Nov 1, 2014, 2010 and 2009).

FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm432870.htm
Whole Foods Market Recalls Raw Macadamia Nuts from Stores in AL, GA, MS, NC, SC and TN Due to Possible Health Risk

Contact: Consumer: 512-477-5566 ext. 20060

Media Contact: Darrah Gist Darrah.Gist@wholefoods.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — February 3, 2015 — ATLANTA, GA — Whole Foods Market is recalling packaged raw macadamia nuts due to possible Salmonella contamination. Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.

The product was labeled as “Whole Foods Market Raw Macadamia Nuts” and was packaged in 5.6 oz. plastic tubs. The recalled products have sell-by dates of 4/22/15, 5/4/15 and 5/6/15 and a UPC code of 7-23055-21415-3. The recalled product was distributed to Whole Foods Market, Greenlife Grocery, and Harry’s Farmers Market stores in AL, GA, MS, NC, SC and TN.

No illnesses have been reported to date.

Based upon routine testing conducted by an FDA-contracted laboratory, it was determined that the raw macadamia nuts products tested positive for Salmonella.

Customers who have purchased this product at Whole Foods Market, Greenlife Grocery or Harry’s Farmers Market stores in the affected states should discard it and may bring in their receipt for a full refund.

Consumers with questions may contact Whole Foods Market Customer Service, 512-477-5566 ext. 20060 Monday to Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm CDT.

Recall -- Firm Press Release

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