Study Links Pathogenic E. coli (STEC) to Flour in 2016 Outbreak

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows that flour was the source of a 2016 pathogenic E. coli (STEC) outbreak. In this outbreak 56 cases were identified in 24 states, with more than a quarter of those cases developing hemolytic–uremic syndrome - very severe kidney damage.   Although there were many challenges related to flour as an ingredient, this study was able to conclude that the flour was the source of the contamination. In concluding, the study highlights the risky behaviors that led to infection - "These behaviors included the consumption of raw or undercooked homemade dough or batter, which has long been discouraged because of the known risk of salmonellosis from consuming raw eggs, as well as allowing children to play with raw dough in restaurants and using flour to make play-dough for children at home. Our data show that although it is a low-moisture food, raw flour can be a vehicle for foodborne pathogens."

Still, people continue to eat raw dough
New England Journal of Medicine
http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1615910#t=article
Shiga Toxin–Producing E. coli Infections Associated with Flour

FDA Warning Issued to a Processor of RTE Salads

A NC refrigerated ready-to-eat (RTE) salad manufacturing facility was issued a warning letter.

FDA found two positive Listeria monocytogenes samples in the processing area - one from a wheel of (?) that was supported by a stack of lids located in the back kitchen. The lids contained accumulated water and debris and were continuously leaking product at connection junctions.  And another positive sample from under the packer [equipment?] in the back kitchen.  Potato salad was being manufactured in the back kitchen during the inspection.

The WGS analysis found two different strains of LM, and both of these strains had been found in the company's other processing facility during a previous year's sampling.  Because of this, FDA deemed that the plant did not have adequate control of Listeria.

• One of the strains of LM found was genetically identical to isolate found in thier other processing facility.  "that it is identical to (b)(4) FDA environmental swabs collected from your Chester, SC facility in May 2012, August 2013, and April 2015. This strain was also found in (b)(4) isolates that were obtained from USDA samples of chicken salad and ham salad from your Charlotte, NC facility, and (b)(4) of USDA’s environmental swabs collected from your Charlotte, NC facility in 2015."
• The other strain of L. monocytogenes  "shows that it is identical to L. monocytogenes isolated from FDA’s February 2017 sample of your Chester, SC facility’s pimento spread, the state of North Carolina’s 2017 sample of your pimento cheese and old fashioned spread, and FDA environmental swabs collected from your Chester, SC facility in May 2012, August 2013 and April 2015. This evidence demonstrates that L. monocytogenes had maintained a presence in your Chester, South Carolina facility from 2012-2017 and an identical strain of L. monocytogenes has been isolated in your Charlotte, NC processing environment."

The facility was sited with numerous GMP violations.

• The production sprayers and the water bath hose were observed pooling water throughout the entire production room floor and splashing water onto food contact surfaces
• Soiled garments of employees including hair nets, arm guards, and aprons coming into direct contact with raw ingredients and in-process finished product.
• An employee was observed using a probe thermometer to check the temperature of each batch of pimento spread without cleaning or sanitizing it between uses.
• Employees storing and resting food contact equipment such as product scoops and spatulas on non-food contact surfaces such as brown paper towels and tables then using them to manipulate raw materials and/or in process finished product without first washing or sanitizing them.
• After sanitation operations, had been completed in the back kitchen a mixer had chicken salad residue and dried mayo debris on the paddle, the interior and the mixer stand attachment. The equipment was used for the next production run without any additional sanitation being performed
• A bucket labeled as sweet pickle relish to contain bleach, a bucket labeled as diced celery to contain quaternary ammonia, and an unidentified container, which reportedly contained bleach, was found to contain a 50ppm chlorine solution.
• Chemicals were observed to be stored directly adjacent to the potato washer and the potato conveyor where food items were actively undergoing processing. In addition, the investigators observed sanitizer overspray to be inside an open box containing finished product containers as well as wetting boxes containing finished product container.
• Finished product troughs, raw ingredient transport bowls, and mixers were observed to be pitted and cracked, cutting boards contained numerous gauges and cuts and salad tubs were heavily gouged.
• Two pallets of canned pimentos and one pallet of canned jalapenos were observed to be stored in the maintenance shop. The pallet of jalapenos had opened motor oil containers and lubricants stored on top. The front pallet of pimento had a viscous black liquid spilled onto the middle cans on the pallet. Chemical drums stored adjacent to the rear kitchen were observed to be leaking onto open boxes of finished product containers
• Condensate was observed dripping onto packaged product, exposed raw materials such as relish and cabbage, and food contact surfaces. Condensate was also observed pooling where sanitized production equipment was being stored. 
• Accumulated condensation from a shop fan in the front and was blowing onto sanitized cooked potato containers.
• An employee in the front kitchen was observed using gloved hands to assemble sanitized production equipment. This employee stopped assembly to manipulate the hose that had been on the floor and then resumed assembling the sanitized equipment without first washing and sanitizing or changing the gloves.
• Multiple employees were observed returning from breaks without washing their hands or washed their hands and then put on hairnets and earphones, without first re-washing their hands, before resuming production activities in the front and back kitchens and the spice room.
• The equipment washing sink in the front kitchen was observed to be directly plumbed into the sewer system without an air break or a backflow prevention device.

FDA Warning Letter
https://www.fda.gov/ICECI/EnforcementActions/WarningLetters/2017/ucm586088.htm

November 14, 2017

 WARNING LETTER

18-ATL-01

Stanley C. Bracey, President
Bill R. Rudisill, General Manager
B&H Foods
2122 Thrift Road
Charlotte, NC 28208

Dear Mr. Bracey:

The United States Food & Drug Administration (FDA) inspected your refrigerated ready-to-eat (RTE) salad manufacturing facility located at 2122 Thrift Road, Charlotte, NC 28208 from May 9 through 31, 2017. During our inspection, FDA collected environmental samples (i.e., swabs) from various areas in your processing facility, including areas that are near food and food contact surfaces.  FDA laboratory analyses of the environmental swabs found the presence of Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes), a human pathogen in your facility. Additionally, FDA investigators observed serious violations of the Current Good Manufacturing Practice (CGMP) in Manufacturing, Packing, or Holding Human Food regulation, Title 21, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 110 (21 CFR Part 110) [1]. Based on FDA’s analytical results for the environmental sample and inspectional findings documented during the inspection, we have determined that your RTE food products are adulterated within the meaning of section 402(a)(4) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (the Act) [21 U.S.C. § 342(a)(4)], in that they were prepared, packed or held under insanitary conditions whereby they may have been rendered injurious to health. You may find the Act and FDA's regulations through links in FDA's home page at http://www.fda.gov.

Protein Bars Recalled After Single Complaint of Foreign Material in the Form of Plastic

Leclerc Foods has initiated a limited voluntary recall of a single lot of Fit & Active Chocolatey Chip Protein Meal Bars The recall was initiated as a precautionary measure after a small piece of yellow plastic was discovered by a consumer.


https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm586503.htm
Leclerc Foods Issues Limited Voluntary Recall of Fit & Active Chocolatey Chip Protein Meal Bars – Due to Presence of Plastic Piece
For Immediate Release
November 23, 2017

Flies as a Vector for Foodborne Illness and Human Disease - What is the Risk?

A recent study originating from Penn State's College of Science and published in Scientific Reports evaluates the microbiome of house flies (grey) and blow flies (metallic green or blue, larvae live off of dead animals) and their ability to transfer bacteria.  But as reported in many mass media articles, the assertions drawn from this study may have people avoiding flies like the plague.

As an example from the The Telegraph
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/science/2017/11/24/flies-carry-bacteria-first-thought-warn-scientists/
Title:  Don’t eat food if a fly lands on it, as they carry more dangerous bacteria than previously thought, warn scientists

• "But a new study suggests the insects carry far more dangerous bacteria than previously thought, meaning sandwiches are best avoided if they have been contaminated by flies."
• "Flies in urban areas were found to carry more bacteria than the countryside leading scientists to suggest avoiding city parks for a picnic, and eating food into more rural locations."
• "It might be better to have that picnic in the woods, far away from urban environments, not a central park."

The metgenomic analysis of the fly microbiome  in the study does show that flies can carry a number of bacterial pathogens, however the presence may not translate to absolute risk.  Like the metagenonic analysis conducted on surfaces in the city environment  that showed the presence of  a number of different bacterial pathogens in the subway and other places, that presence doesn't mean there is a huge risk.   A fly landing on your food doesn't necessarily mean that the food is now contaminated to a point that makes it unsafe.  Or, I wouldn't skip the opportunity of having a picnic in a city park because a fly may land on my food.

So perhaps some more reasonable takeaways from the study:

• Don't swat a fly when it is on your food.  If you swat it on the counter, clean that surface.  The majority of bacteria will be in the fly or on various parts that will more likely transfer to the food or food contact surface when the fly is splattered.
• The higher transfer rate of bacteria will be from a surface the fly was just on.  So if you are eating lunch in a pasture full of cow patties where numerous flies are landing on cow poop and then landing on your sandwich, then one would consider that a higher risk than having a fly land on your sandwich when eating it in your home. See this link - https://www.hindawi.com/journals/isrn/2013/718780/
• When preparing food, especially food for others, it is important to keep flies away the best you can.  Keep doors and windows closed or screened.  It is still important to avoid risks where we can.

Scientific Reports

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-16353-x
The microbiomes of blowflies and houseflies as bacterial transmission reservoirs
Ana Carolina M. Junqueira, Aakrosh Ratan, Enzo Acerbi, Daniela I. Drautz-Moses, Balakrishnan N. V. Premkrishnan, Paul I. Costea, Bodo Linz, Rikky W. Purbojati, Daniel F. Paulo, Nicolas E. Gaultier, Poorani Subramanian, Nur A. Hasan, Rita R. Colwell, Peer Bork, Ana Maria L. Azeredo-Espin, Donald A. Bryant & Stephan C. Schuster
Scientific Reports 7, Article number: 16324 (2017)
doi:10.1038/s41598-017-16353-x
Received:29 June 2017Accepted:10 November 2017Published online:24 November 2017

Abstract

Blowflies and houseflies are mechanical vectors inhabiting synanthropic environments around the world. They feed and breed in fecal and decaying organic matter, but the microbiome they harbour and transport is largely uncharacterized. We sampled 116 individual houseflies and blowflies from varying habitats on three continents and subjected them to high-coverage, whole-genome shotgun sequencing. This allowed for genomic and metagenomic analyses of the host-associated microbiome at the species level. Both fly host species segregate based on principal coordinate analysis of their microbial communities, but they also show an overlapping core microbiome. Legs and wings displayed the largest microbial diversity and were shown to be an important route for microbial dispersion. The environmental sequencing approach presented here detected a stochastic distribution of human pathogens, such as Helicobacter pylori, thereby demonstrating the potential of flies as proxies for environmental and public health surveillance.

FDA Warns About Giving Bones and Bone Treats to Dogs

FDA issued a consumer warning about giving bones including commercially-sold bones and bone treats to dogs. Also included of course are chicken and turkey bones.

As dog owners know, some dogs can handle a bone, while others want to swallow it whole. If your dog is one that can't resist knocking back the whole bone, then even a commercially-sold bone can be a problem.  The hard part for owners is overcoming 'the stare'.

FDA Warning to Consumers
https://www.fda.gov/forconsumers/consumerupdates/ucm208365.htm
No Bones (or Bone Treats) About It: Reasons Not to Give Your Dog Bones

Bone Treats Pose Risks for Dogs 
Bone treats are real bones that have been processed, sometimes flavored, and packaged for dogs. Giving your dog a “bone treat” might lead to an unexpected trip to your veterinarian, a possible emergency surgery, or even death for your pet.

Many dog owners know not to toss a turkey or chicken bone to their dog; those bones are just too brittle. But the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says the risk goes beyond that, especially when it comes to the “bone treats” you may see at the store.

Catered Thanksgiving Event Results in Numerous Cases of Foodborne Illness

Update - 10/27 According to a report, the causative agent was determined to be Salmonella.  No specific product was identified as the source, but it looks as though a local pizza shop was the caterer.

A catered Thanksgiving event in northern GA resulted in numerous cases of foodborne illness. At least two have been hospitalized, and the total number of cases may be as high as 1800. Reported symptoms of foodborne illness includes upset stomach, stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, and fever.

No specific pathogen or suspect food has been identified at this point.

We can add this to our Thanksgivings past and foodborne illnesses outbreak list – something to consider for your holiday celebrations – warning to our late shift employees on being served food from earlier in the day.

• 2016 - C. perfrigens Identified as Cause of Thanksgiving Foodborne Illness Outbreak - Shortly after Thanksgiving, an outbreak of foodborne illness was reported in California that was linked to a Thanksgiving charity event. There were 3 deaths and another 22 others who were ill. The causative agent was found to be Clostridium perfringens, a sporeforming pathogen that can grow rapidly when food is temperature abused.
• A 2015 Thanksgiving Luncheon Becomes Scene for C. perfringens Outbreak - A CDC Report - With Thanksgiving leftovers still in the fridge, it is a good time to review a 2015 outbreak that occurred during a Thanksgiving luncheon. About 40 people who attended a catered company Thanksgiving lunch became ill with diarrhea and abdominal pain the following day (roughly 13 hours later). C. perfrignes entrotoxin was found in the patient stool samples and C. perfrigens was isolated from the turkey as well as the patients. According to the CDC report "The caterer had previously maintained a permitted facility, but reported having prepared the lunch food served at this event in an uninspected, residential kitchen. Turkeys were cooked approximately 10 hours before lunch, placed in warming pans, and plated in individual servings. Food was then delivered by automobile, which required multiple trips. After cooking and during transport, food sat either in warming pans or at ambient temperature for up to 8 hours. No temperature monitoring was conducted after cooking."
• 2012 Martha Stewart, celebrity chef and author, contracts Salmonella - Martha Stewart contracted Salmonella over Thanksgiving from mishandling food in the form of raw turkey. While we hate to see anyone become ill, having a celebrity chef come down with Salmonella can have a positive outcome. Too often we see these celebrity chefs demonstrating poor practices, whether it is inadequate hand washing, cooking to the incorrect temperatures, or canning foods using the oven technique. But my hope is that Martha will use this experience as motivator to endorse good safety practices.
• 2015 Fifteen Postal Workers Ill from Potluck Leftovers - Potlucks are one thing, but leftovers from potlucks..... In this case, 15 postal workers become ill after consuming leftovers from a potluck dinner held for 200 to honor veterans. Officials at the facility said nearly 200 employees participated in a potluck dinner Tuesday evening to honor co-workers who are veterans. Some of the food was refrigerated overnight Tuesday. Employees and managers returning to work Wednesday night helped themselves to the leftovers and after consuming them, some complained of stomach pains, officials said.
• 2014 Catered Office Party Is the Site of Staph Aureus Intoxication - Approximately 60 people became ill after attending an office party in Florida. About 25 were taken to the hospital. The catered event served turkey, ham, stuffing and green bean to some 700 people. The caterer was identified as Kitchen Divas, which from the website, appears to be a legitimate operation. It sucks when staff parties turn into 'staph' parties
• Advice on handling leftovers.

Rome News Tribune

http://www.northwestgeorgianews.com/region/health-department-investigating-likely-foodborne-illness-outbreak-at-toyo-tire/article_3e226290-ce36-11e7-bef0-03c2be8bd607.html
Health department investigating likely foodborne-illness outbreak at Toyo Tire event
Press release
11/20/17

Store Caramel Apples At Refrigeration Temperatures

Unfortunately, we are still seeing caramel apples at retail being displayed at room temperature.  Less than two years ago, a Listeria outbreak was linked to caramel apples.  It was later determined that if those apples had been stored at refrigeration temperatures, there would not likely have been an issue.

Penn State News
http://news.psu.edu/story/490097/2017/10/24/impact/caramel-apples-stored-room-temperature-extended-periods-can-pose-risk
Caramel apples stored at room temperature for extended periods can pose risk
October 24, 2017

Trader Joe's Chicken Salad Products Recalled After Complaints of Glass-like Foreign Material

Green Cusine, a CA establishment, issued a recall for 36,854 pounds of Trader Joe's chicken and turkey salad after the company received consumer complaints of glass shards / silica foreign material.

News Release
https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2017/recall-125-2017-release
Green Cuisine Recalls Poultry Products Due To Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Class I Recall 

125-2017
Health Risk: High 

 Nov 18, 2017

Dairy Calves Linked to Outbreak of Antibiotic Resistant Strain of Salmonella

CDC has identified an ongoing Salmonella outbreak associated with dairy calves.  The calves originated in Wisconsin.  The ongoing outbreak has progressed for some time, dating back to January 2015, with now 54 people in 15 states.  It is a multidrug resistant strain of Salmonella Heidelberg.

Dairy Herd Management
https://www.dairyherd.com/index.php/article/cdc-links-salmonella-outbreak-contact-dairy-calves
CDC Links Salmonella Outbreak to Contact with Dairy Calves
John Maday
November 16, 2017 10:18 AM

CA Firm Recalls Guacamole Product Due to Listeria Positive Sample

A California firm is recalling its 9-ounce containers of "Real Guacamole" because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.  This issue was identified after FDA product sampling identified Listeria monocytogenes in the product.

Initially (11/15), one lot was recalled.  But with many Listeria related recalls, they get expanded.
Two days later (11/17), the company issued an expanded recall.  In the later recall notice, it stated, "The recall was necessitated by positive test results for Listeria monocytogenes on two packages out of many samples collected for the U. S. Food and Drug Administration random sample testing program."

Casa Sanchez Foods Recalls "Real Guacamole" Because Of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
November 15, 2017

This Week in Mislabeled Product - Ending 11/17/17

Chicken Wraps with Undeclared Peanut and Soy - A Swedesboro, N.J. establishment, is recalling approximately 46 pounds of chicken wrap products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens  The product contains peanut and soy, known allergens, which are not declared on the product label  The problem was discovered on Nov. 15, 2017 by the firm’s quality assurance supervisor while performing verification activities. After discovering the issue, the firm immediately notified FSIS.

More Dark Chocolate Products Recalled Due to Undeclared Milk - A Marshfield, WI company is recalling 2 gingersnap products that are related to the GKI FOODS LLC Dark Chocolate Products recall because it may contain undeclared milk allergen.
Lipari Foods, LLC has also issued voluntary recall of specific dark chocolate products packaged by sister company JLM due to an undeclared milk allergen.  Products were distributed under the Weis and All Natural brand names or as generic product without branding.

Chocolates With Almonds Getting in with Non-Almond Product - A Washington firm is recalling 127 cases of Costco item # 2335, Dilettante Chocolates Espresso Blend, Espresso Beans in Semisweet, Milk and White Chocolate, because it may contain undeclared almonds. The recall was initiated after the firm discovered the chocolate covered almonds were mixed and packaged with the Dilettante Espresso Blend.  Product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of almonds.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm584663.htm
Figi’s Issues Recall Alert Due to Undeclared Allergen (Milk) in Dark Chocolate Gingersnaps
For Immediate Release
November 9, 2017

Frozen Corn Recalled Due to the Potential for Listeria Contamination

Two supermarket chains are recalling frozen corn after their supplier, Bonduelle, a French food conglomerate, had discovered a Listeria issue in the frozen corn.

According to the Enforcement Report, the product was from Canada.  The Listeria testing was conducted by the Virginia Department of Agriculture.  The recall was classified as Class 2.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm585550.htm
Stop & Shop Alerts Customers to Voluntary Recall of Store Brand Frozen Whole Kernel Sweet Corn
For Immediate Release
November 15, 2017

NH Firm Expands Listeria Related Recall to Include All Products

A NH company is now recalling all of its products due to the potential to be contaminated by Listeria monocytogenes.  Earlier this week, Yorgo's recalled products with the same date code.  But like all Listeria recalls, rarely is one lot involved unless there is substantial evidence that controls were in place and the one day in question represented an event out of the ordinary.  The company also produces product for Trader Joe's (of course).

As we have seen in many past Listeria-related recalls, recalls are expanded after regulators investigate and discover that there is likely a lack of sufficient control.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm585420.htm
Yorgo’s Foods Inc Is Recalling All Flavored and Unflavored Food Products (Hommus; Tahini Sauces; Yogurt Dip, Salads, Tzatziki, Grape Leaves; Taboule) Due to Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
November 15, 2017

CA Establishment Ships Product Sampled by USDA, and Recalls After Positive Listeria Test

A Hayward, Calif. establishment specializing in Indian foods, is recalling approximately 264 pounds of cooked chicken tikka masala products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes  According to the recall notice, the problem was discovered on Nov. 13, 2017 when the UDSA district office received notification that the firm shipped product that USDA had earlier sampled (Nov 7) and confirmed to be positive with Listeria monocytogenes (Nov 13). 

In this case, the company should have held product that was sampled by USDA until the results came back.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2017/recall-121-2017-release
Sukhi's Gourmet Indian Foods Recalls Chicken Tikka Masala Products Due To Possible Listeria Contamination 
Class I Recall 
121-2017 
Health Risk: High 
Nov 14, 2017 

PA Beef Slaughter Facility Shutdown Because of Pests

A PA slaughter facility has been temporarily shut down because of 'pests'. 

Hard to know exactly the extent of the situation, but pests like mice and rats can become incredibly embedded within facility structures if not promptly handled.  Once tunnels, runways, and nesting sites are put in place in the bowels of the structure, it creates opportunities for reinfections over time.

Reuters
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-jbs-beef/pests-force-temporary-shutdown-of-jbs-pennsylvania-beef-plant-idUSKBN1D8379
Pests force temporary shutdown of JBS Pennsylvania beef plant
Theopolis Waters
November 8, 2017 / 5:45 PM

Hommus and Baba Ghannouj Recalled After FDA Finds Listeria in NH Processing Plant

A NH company is recalling hommus and baba ghannouj after FDA sampling discovered Listeria monocytogenes in the processing environment.  "The production of the products have been suspended while FDA and the company continue to investigate the source of the problem."

Hommus and hummus are the same...which is chickpea paste mixed with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic and tahini.  (Of course, this is different than humus which is fully decomposed organic matter used for improving planting soil.)  Baba Ghannouj (aka baba ganoush) is made from mashed grilled eggplant mixed with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic and tahini.  Both hummus and baba gannoush are the types of foods where Listeria is a risk for post process contamination.

FDA Recall Notice
https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm584693.htm
Yorgo Foods Inc is Recalling Various Flavors of Hommus Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
November 10, 2017

This Week in Mislabeled Product - Week ending 11/10/17

Donated Unlabeled Hot Pockets Recalled - Nestle Prepared Foods Company, a Mount Sterling, Ky. establishment, is recalling approximately 26,400 pounds of pork and beef products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens - the product(s) contains eggs, milk, soy, and wheat, known allergens, which are not declared on the product label.   Interesting point here - These items were donated to a charitable organization, in which the product was further distributed to a food bank in Missouri. The products may have been repackaged and further distributed and sold to additional food banks in Missouri. The products do not have the USDA mark of inspection and do not identify the ingredients.

USDA Recall Notice
https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2017/recall-118-2017-release
Nestle Prepared Foods Company Recalls Pork and Beef Products Due To Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens 
Class I Recall
118-2017
Health Risk: High
Nov 8, 2017

CDC MMWR - Waterborne Disease Outbreaks from Drinking Water - 2013 to 2014

As an important raw material for most food operations, water must be evaluated as part of the hazard analysis. The source of the water as well as how that water is stored and used must be considered. In CDC's report, disease outbreaks associated with drinking water (period 2013-2014) are reviewed. By their definition, "for an event to be defined as a waterborne disease outbreak, two or more cases must be linked epidemiologically by time, location of water exposure, and illness characteristics; and the epidemiologic evidence must implicate water exposure as the probable source of illness."

A summary of key findings:

• "Legionella was implicated in 24 (57%) outbreaks, 130 (13%) cases, 109 (88%) hospitalizations, and all 13 deaths (Table 1). Eight outbreaks caused by two parasites resulted in 289 (29%) cases, among which 279 (97%) were caused by Cryptosporidium, and 10 (3%) were caused by Giardia duodenalis. Chemicals or toxins were implicated in four outbreaks involving 499 cases, with 13 hospitalizations, including the first reported outbreaks (two outbreaks) associated with algal toxins in drinking water."
• "Thirty-five (83%) outbreaks were associated with public (i.e., regulated), community or noncommunity water systems,¶ and three (7%) were associated with unregulated, individual systems. Fourteen outbreaks occurred in drinking water systems with groundwater sources and an additional 14 occurred in drinking water systems with surface water sources. The most commonly cited deficiency, which led to 24** (57%) of the 42 drinking water–associated outbreaks, was the presence of Legionella in drinking water systems"
• "All of the outbreak-associated deaths reported during this surveillance period as well as all of the outbreaks reported in hospital/health care settings or long-term care facilities, were caused by Legionella. A review of 27 Legionnaires’ disease outbreak investigations in which CDC participated during 2000–2014 identified at least one water system maintenance deficiency in all 23 investigations for which this information was available, indicating that effective water management programs in buildings at increased risk for Legionella growth and transmission (e.g., those with more than 10 stories or that house "
• "Cryptosporidium was the second most common cause of both outbreaks and illnesses, demonstrating the continued threat from this chlorine-tolerant pathogen when drinking water supplies are contaminated."

Some background from one of the references (copied below) on Legionella in water systems.

• "Legionnaires’ disease is a lung infection that is fatal for about one in 10 persons who become infected. Legionella, the bacterium that causes Legionnaires’ disease, grows well in warm water, but can be killed by disinfectants, such as chlorine. Persons can get Legionnaires’ disease when they breathe in small droplets of water contaminated with Legionella."
• "Legionella grows best in building water systems that are not well maintained, especially where levels of chlorine or other disinfectants are low and water temperatures are optimal for its growth. Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks most often occur in hotels, long-term care facilities, and hospitals. The most common sources are potable water (e.g., drinkable water used for showering), cooling towers, hot tubs, and decorative fountains."

CDC MMWR
https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/66/wr/mm6644a3.htm?s_cid=mm6644a3_e
Surveillance for Waterborne Disease Outbreaks Associated with Drinking Water — United States, 2013–2014
Weekly / November 10, 2017 / 66(44);1216–1221

PA Establishment Recalls Raw Poultry Product for Foreign Metal Contamination

A Mifflintown, Pa. poultry establishment, is recalling approximately 10,839 pounds of raw poultry products that may be contaminated with metal pieces.  According to the report, "The problem was discovered on November 2, 2017 by an establishment employee who observed metal foreign material in a chicken breast while performing routine duties. The establishment took corrective actions to recover products before reaching commerce."  So not sure why a recall needed to be issued since it appears the product did not leave the building.

USDA Recall Notice
https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2017/recall-119-2017-release
Empire Kosher Poultry Inc. Recalls Chicken Products Due To Possible Extraneous Material Contamination 
Class I Recall
119-2017
Health Risk: High
Nov 9, 2017

FDA Report - Pesticide Residue Monitoring Program FY 2015

FDA issued their 2015 Pesticide Monitoring Program Report.   Overall, the findings showed low levels of violations, and basically these numbers were similar to the previous year.   It must be remembered that this is targeted sampling...that is, FDA will focus their effort on looking on those items/locations where there is more likely to be an issue.

In comparison of domestic versus imported foods, imported products were more likely to have violative pesticide levels.

Frozen Green Beans Recalled Due to Positive Listeria Test

A Canadian firm with a US repack facility is recalling frozen green beans after Connecticut Dept of Consumer Protection found one Listeria positive sample.
Based upon information gleaned from a company write-up in Business View Magazine (Sept 2017) this product is probably not domestic.  And like all Listeria related outbreaks, it will be a question of whether more product will be pulled into the recall. Much of that will depend on the investigation into the packing facility's Listeria Control Plan.

This is the type of product that would fall under the Foreign Supplier Verification program with the foreign company being the FSVP Importer having the US facility.  And this is why the address in the announcement is the facility in Virginia.

In the Business View write-up, the following passage is interesting.  Clearly, they see their product as meeting ready-to-eat standards. As Lee Corso would say...'not so fast my friend'.

Another growing item of concern to Tentomas [company founder] is food safety. “There’s been a major shift change in both regulatory as well as consumer behavior in how we eat these products,” he states. “Consumers today are eating raw and frozen fruits and vegetables, putting them in their smoothies and putting them in their salads, and there have been some major recalls in 2016 for both frozen fruits and a massive one in frozen vegetables. So, the food safety landscape has changed significantly. And what you’re seeing is the industry looking at their product as truly ‘ready-to-eat.’ Therefore, we need to establish the food safety parameters that come with a ready-to-eat product. And we see more significant change coming in enforcing the guidelines. That’s going to be one major change that will be positive for consumers because it will result in dramatic decreases in potential contamination of frozen fruits and vegetables. As an industry, we have a tremendous responsibility in making sure that we improve the food safety profile as consumers are eating more and more of it.”

FDA Recall Notice
https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm584148.htm
Nature’s Touch Frozen Foods Voluntarily Recalls Nature’s Touch Frozen Organic Fine Whole Green Beans Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
November 7, 2017

This Week in Mislabeled Product - Ending 11/3/17

Five Whole Foods Market stores in Northern California are voluntarily recalling frosted Pumpkin Drop cookies because the products contained tree nut allergens (walnuts) that were not listed on the product label.   One reaction has been reported to date.

aylor Farms Florida, an Orlando, Fla. establishment, is recalling approximately 732 pounds of salads with chicken products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens.  The products contain fish (anchovies), a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.   The problem was discovered on Oct. 26, 2017, when Taylor Farms Florida received a consumer complaint about the taste of the salad dressing. After conducting an internal investigation, the firm determined that the products incorrectly contained Caesar salad dressing instead of Bacon Ranch salad dressing. The Caesar salad dressing contains anchovies.


Allergy Alert Issued in Five Northern California Whole Foods Market Stores for Undeclared Walnuts in Pumpkin Drop Cookies
For Immediate Release
October 27, 2017

FSMA Guidance Document - Co-manufacturers Working with Brand Owner's Suppliers

FDA released a guidance document today that allows co-manufacturing companies more time to comply with supplier preventive controls when those co-manufacturing operations are involved in packing products for a brand owner where the suppliers of ingredients for the product are under the control of the brand owner.  The co-manufacturer's food safety plan will state that which activities of the supplier approval and supplier verification are under the brand owner's control.

From the Guidance document:
"If a contract prevents a co-manufacturer from being able to review a brand owner’s documentation of supplier verification activities, the co-manufacturer would not be able to verify suppliers based on its review of that documentation. Consequently, the co-manufacturer would need to conduct supplier verification activities (e.g., on-site audits) that might otherwise not be required."  "To provide time for contracts to be revised to allow co-manufacturers to review all necessary documentation from the brand owner, FDA is announcing that, under certain circumstances and on a temporary basis, we do not intend to take enforcement action against a receiving facility that is a co-manufacturer, and that is not in compliance with certain supply-chain program requirements for food manufactured for the brand owner."

Supplier Approval
FDA does not intend to take enforcement action under the following circumstances: (1) a brand owner conducts supplier approval activities, (2) the co-manufacturer describes these activities in its food safety plan, and (3) the co-manufacturer conducts any necessary supplier approval activities not conducted by the brand owner. For example, FDA does not intend to take enforcement action when a brand owner (rather than the co-manufacturer) evaluates supplier performance as part of approving a supplier, the co-manufacturer’s food safety plan states that the brand owner will consider supplier performance before a supplier is approved, and the co-manufacturer conducts any other necessary supplier approval activities (e.g., hazard analysis of the food). The co-manufacturer is always responsible for following written procedures for receiving raw materials and other ingredients, and documenting use of the procedures (21 CFR §§ 117.420 and 507.120).

Supplier Verification
FDA does not intend to take enforcement action under the following circumstances: (1) a brand owner determines and/or conducts supplier verification activities for its co-manufacturer, (2) the
co-manufacturer describes these activities in its food safety plan, and (3) the co-manufacturer conducts any necessary supplier verification activities not conducted by the brand owner. For example, FDA does not intend to take enforcement action when an audit is determined to be the appropriate supplier verification activity but a co-manufacturer does not independently obtain a supplier audit or review the conclusions of a supplier audit obtained and reviewed by the brand owner, the co-manufacturer’s food safety plan states that the brand owner will obtain and review audits of the supplier, and the co-manufacturer conducts any other necessary supplier verification activities (e.g., sampling and testing of the raw material or other ingredient).

We do not intend to take enforcement action regarding the affected provisions until November 6, 2019.


https://www.fda.gov/downloads/Food/GuidanceRegulation/GuidanceDocumentsRegulatoryInformation/UCM583490.pdf
Guidance for Industry: Supply-Chain Program Requirements and Co-Manufacturer Supplier Approval and Verification for Human Food and Animal Food
Contains Nonbinding Recommendations
November 2017

Outbreak of E. coli Affects Hundreds of Marine Recruits

About 300 marine recruits were stricken with E. coli infection this past week, and of that, 85 are still ill.  The outbreak occurred at Marine Corps Depot San Diego along with some personnel at Camp Pendleton,  The investigation continues as to the cause.

Fox 5 News - San Diego
http://fox5sandiego.com/2017/11/02/dozens-of-marine-recruits-remain-sick-from-e-coli/
Dozens of Marine recruits remain sick from E. coli
Posted 8:51 PM, November 2, 2017, by City News Service

Airline Stops Foodservice Operations After Supplier Found with Listeria on Non-contact Surfaces

American Airlines suspended its food service for flights out of Los Angeles after it food supplier, Gates Gourmet, was found to have 'traces' of Listeria on non-food contact surfaces. including drains and floors.

It is hard to know the real risk with the the little information provided.  We would need to know much more (were food contact surfaces positive, how pervasive was the contamination throughout the operation, what trends were seen, what practices were or were not in place, the accessibility of the non-contact areas to being a risk to food, etc), to opine on the appropriateness of this action.  Just because Listeria is found in a drain, in itself, would not constitute a risk and can really be considered normal.  It seems the supplier was pretty confident in the low risk of the situation.

Business Insider
http://www.businessinsider.com/american-airlines-flights-no-food-after-listeria-outbreak-lax-catering-kitchen-2017-11
American Airlines flights are going without food after listeria found at catering kitchen
Benjamin Zhang

11/1/17

Canada: Breaded Chicken Strips Recalled Due to Staphylococcus Enterotoxin

A Canadian firm is recalling a lot of breaded chicken strips due to the potential presence of Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin.  The product was recalled after a consumer.  The recall was triggered due to a consumer complaint.

Staphylococcus enterotoxin is a heat stable toxin that is formed as the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus grows in the food when that food is temperature abused.  In this case, it could have grown in the batter as the product was made, or on the breaded strips if those strips were temperature abused.  With one complaint at this point, it is more likely the latter.  This could be a case where the consumer leaves the box of chicken strips on the counter for a long period of time, perhaps when defrosting them, and then cooks them.  In this case, the organism grows on the strips and produces toxin.  Because the strips have been par-fried (to set the coating), there is a little microbial competition present. 

If more cases are reported from a diverse area, this would more likely indicate a production issue.  In this case, the batter temperature was not properly controlled.   For the facility, they would want to demonstrate proper batter temperature throughout the production run, adequate cooling and freezing after the par-cooking step, and then proper temperature control through the shipment of that product.

NET News Ledger.com
http://www.netnewsledger.com/2017/11/02/food-recall-maple-leaf-chicken-breast-strips/
Food Recall – Maple Leaf Chicken Breast Strips
Posted 2 November 2017 by NetNewsLedger in Featured

Recall of Burrito Products After a Sample Tests Positive for Listeria

A Denver, Colo. establishment, is recalling approximately 28,064 pounds of pork and chicken burritos and wrap products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes. The company notified FSIS on Oct. 30, 2017 that one of its products, Burrito Carnitas Caliente, had tested positive for L. monocytogenes during the firm’s product testing. After a review of the ingredients used in the Burrito Carnitas Caliente, the company determined that four additional products may be affected.

The labels indicate that this is a RTE product based upon the 'heat and serve' directions.

FSIS Recall Notice
https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2017/recall-116-2017-release
Chelsea Food Services Firm Recalls Pork and Chicken Products Due To Possible Listeria Contamination 
Class I Recall 
116-2017 
Health Risk: High
Nov 1, 2017 

Health Alert Issued for Salad Items With Potential Listeria Contamination

A public health alert was issued for chicken meat products produced by Ghiringhelli Specialty Foods, a Vallejo, Calif. establishment.   may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. The Notice comes after receiving notification that the broccoli products used in the chicken salads were included in a U.S. Food & Drug Administration recall due to potential contamination with L. monocytogenes. A recall was not requested because it is believed that all products are no longer in commerce and are past their “Use by” dates.

This recall is related to the other Listeria / vegetable products from Mann packing recalled on October 20, 2017.

FSIS Health Warning Notice
https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/newsroom/news-releases-statements-transcripts/news-release-archives-by-year/archive/2017/pha-103117
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Poultry Products Due To Possible Listeria Contamination 

CA Company Recalls Taboule Salad after Sample E. coli STEC Positive

Haig’s Delicacies of Hayward, CA is recalling 342 cases of Taboule Salad because it may be contaminated with Escherichia coli O157:H7 bacteria (E. Coli O157:H7).  The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing by the company detected the presence of E. coli O157:H7.  No illnesses have been reported to date.

FDA Recall Notice
https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm583041.htm
Haig’s Delicacies LLC Recalls Lot of Taboule Salad Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
October 30, 2017

Supplier Recall of Dark Chocolate for Undeclared Milk Allergen Triggers Customer Recalls

A number of recalls have been issued for dark chocolate products after the supplier, GKI foods, recalled the dark chocolate ingredient because it had undeclared milk.

GKI Foods LLC
Blue Marble, Roundy's Select, and HyVee

Dark Chocolate Products

CVS Gold Emblem, Ocean State Candy, Hannaford Excellent, Market Basket, & Weigels
New American Food Products, LLC
Dark Chocolate Products  

Aurora, AG Supermarkets, Belmont Market, and others
Aurora Products, Inc.
Dark Chocolate Products

Toothsome Chocolate Emporium
Rucker’s Makin’ Batch Candies, Inc.
Dark Chocolate Coffee Beans

Uncle Buck’s and Family Choice
Rucker’s Wholesale and Service Co
Dark Chocolate Peanuts

21st Century Snack Foods
21st Century Snack Foods
Dark Chocolate Almonds

Shoreline Fruit and Cherry Bay Orchards

Shoreline Fruit LLC

Dark Chocolate Covered Cherry Products

Wegmans, Alpine Valley, Circle K and others First Source

Dark Chocolate Products

Meijer
Meijer
Dark Chocolate Products

Figi
Dark Chocolate Gingersnaps


https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm582769.htm
First Source Issues Allergy Alert for Undeclared Milk in Several Dark Chocolate Products Received from our Supplier GKI Foods LLC
For Immediate Release
October 30, 2017