What is the Likelihood That Salmonella is On Your Chicken...or Beef...or Pork

USDA FSIS released their yearly sampling results that indicate the prevalence, or percent positive samples, for raw meat products.  As FSIS points out, "These calculations may vary significantly from the actual prevalence of the population, but FSIS cannot make a more precise calculation with the data currently available."  It is important to note that this does not evaluate the amount present, only if any are present.

Beef - In ground meat, Salmonella was present in just over 2% of the samples while pathogenic E. coli was present in 0.05% of samples.  While the prevalence of E. coli is low, there is still a risk of it being present, and considering the seriousness of the illness (and the fact that Salmonella could be present as well) it still remains important to cook meat to the proper temperature.

Pork - While there is extremely low to no risk for pathogenic E. coli, there is a higher risk of Salmonella being present in pork compared to beef.  For cuts, the prevalence of Salmonella is over 7%, but in comminuted pork meat (ground, stuff used in sausages), the prevalence is 22 percent.  Cook those brats to the right temperature.

Chicken - as the chicken moves from whole to parts to ground, the prevalence increases for both Salmonella and Campylobacter.   For whole chickens, there is a prevalence of 5.8% for Salmonella and 1.9% for Campylobacter.  In mechanically separated meat, the prevalence is almost 76% for Salmonella and 23% for Campylobacter.

Turkey - the stated prevalence is lower than that for chicken with whole birds at 0.56% for Salmonella and 0.16% for Campylobacter.  Much of difference between whole turkey and chicken may be due in part to how they are sampled, with a sponge being used for turkeys and a whole bird rinse used for chickens.

In the end, the risk is there, so it remains important to properly cook raw meat and poultry products.  And of course, to use a thermometer to verify.

Panera Recalls Cream Cheese Products After Positive Listeria Sample

Panera Bread is conducting a recall of all 2 oz. and 8 oz. cream cheese products sold in its U.S. bakery-cafes. This recall was initiated after samples of one variety of 2 oz. cream cheese from a single production day showed a positive result for the presence of Listeria monocytogenes. The company is recalling all varieties of unexpired 2 oz. and 8 oz. cream cheese products with an expiration date on or before 4/2/18, even though it was found in only one production run.

Recalling all unexpired product is a preemptive move. Too often with Listeria related recalls, companies try to minimize the recall to the one date only to have to recall additional product when they find they did not have sufficient control on Listeria in the processing environment.

FDA Recal Notice
https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm594219.htm
Panera Bread Preemptively Recalls All 2 oz. and 8 oz. Cream Cheese ProductsFor Immediate Release
January 28, 2018

Neglected Parasitic Infections of Poverty - Impact on Mental Health

An article in the NY Times brings to light the issue of neglected parasitic infections that may impact mental health.  In this case, Toxocara, a roundworm that lives in the intestines of stray or poorly kept cats and dogs, that can have health impacts on humans who become infected - breathing, liver function, eyesight and even intelligence.  The impact of infection on the brain is not well understood, but "has been linked to lower intelligence and epilepsy".  This is an issue in poorer areas where there are more stray cats and dogs.

Another common parasitic infection, that from Taxoplasmosis gondii, has been linked to cases of schizophrenia.  As we know,  cats are a definitive host for this parasite.

In a 2014 piece sited in the NY Times article, the author discusses a group of parasites that have been linked to mental performance and illness.  The author states,  "These chronic infections may partially account for the achievement gap noted among socioeconomically disadvantaged students."  He further states, "additional information has determined that the neglected infections of poverty also cause important psychiatric and neurological effects on vulnerable populations in the southern United States."  A table from that article summarizes this impact.

(Hotez, 2014. JAMA Psychiatry. 2014;71(10):1099-1100)


CDC web site for neglected parasitic infections (NPIs).


JAMA Psychiatry
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/1895572
Neglected Infections of Poverty in the United States and Their Effects on the Brain
Peter J. Hotez, MD, PhD1,2,3
Author Affiliations |Article Information
JAMA Psychiatry. 2014;71(10):1099-1100. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2014.1045

Federal Court Upholds Hefty Prison Sentences for PCA Executives in 2008 Salmonella Outbreak

A federal appeals court upheld the sentences handed down in the Peanut Corporation of America case where Salmonella-contaminated peanut butter was allowed to be sold by company executives. 
 - PCA president Stewart Parnell’s 28-year prison term
 - Operation manager - Michael Parnell’s 20-year prison sentence 

 - Quality assurance director - Mary Wilkerson- 5-year prison sentence 

In this 2008/2009 outbreak, over 700 people become infected with Salmonella after eating the contaminated PCA peanut products.  "The outbreak led to one of the largest food recalls in U.S. history, and Peanut Corp. permanently shuttered its operations.  Stewart Parnell had directed PCA to retest products that had tested positive for salmonella until a negative result was obtained, the appeals court said. The company also shipped peanut products before receiving test results and even shipped products after receiving confirmed, positive results."

Atlanta Journal-Constitution
http://www.myajc.com/news/court-upholds-lengthy-sentences-for-peanut-corp-executives/cDazByM3FkHtN1FMDeqA4N/
Court upholds stiff sentences for Peanut Corp. executives
President serving 28 years in deadly salmonella case
By Bill Rankin - The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Posted: 3:23 p.m. Thursday, January 25, 2018

California - Health Officials Warn People to Be Aware of Poisonous Wild Mushrooms

California officials warn consumers about the risks of eating wild mushrooms that may be poisonous. In over 14 months, there have been 1,038 reported cases where poisonous mushrooms were ingested. Some of these cases resulted in severe health issues including liver failure.

Generally, wild mushrooms are not allowed to be offered for sales. This is because of the difficulty in determining how to approve a 'wild mushroom expert'.

 From the US Food Code - 3-201.16 Wild Mushrooms.

Frozen RTE Meatballs Recalled Due to Listeria Concerns

Rich Products Corporation, a Vineland, N.J. establishment, is recalling approximately 3,420 pounds of RTE beef meatball products produced on Dec 17, 2017 due to the potential for Listeria contamination.  "The problem was discovered on Jan. 24, 2018 when FSIS received notification from the firm that they shipped adulterated product into commerce."

A concern for FSIS is that because this is a frozen product, people may have put into freezers and not check to see if this is the recalled lot.  Another concern may be that if this one lot is positive for Listeria, what about other other production lots.

While it is not indicated how the company determined the product had a Listeria contamination issue, it is important to note that the product was produced over a month prior to issuing the recall.  So either internal testing was delayed or a customer company did the testing.  If the former, then one would expect a test-and-hold procedure for the frozen product.

The risk - although this product will likely be heated before being served, as a fully cooked product, the heating instructions will be for heat and serve rather than fully cooking the product.  The heat-and-serve heating conditions may not be sufficient to eliminate the organisms present.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-006-2018-release
Rich Products Corporation Recalls Beef Products due to Possible Listeria Contamination
Class I Recall 

006-2018
Health Risk: High 

Jan 24, 2018

This Week in Mislabeled Products - Week Ending 1/26/18

Eggs not on Label - Perdue Foods LLC, a Monterey, Tenn. establishment, is recalling approximately 530 pounds of chicken products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens -the product contains eggs which is not declared on the product label. The problem was discovered by the firm while performing routine label verification activities.

Supplier Mislabels Protein Source - Bulletproof 360, Inc. is voluntarily recalling one lot #1017088 of Bulletproof Collagen Protein dietary supplement due to undeclared milk.  This voluntary recall was initiated after we discovered that bulk whey (milk) protein was mis-labeled as collagen protein by our third-party manufacturer during the manufacturing process. 

Wrong Label Applied - Sun Noodle of Carlstadt, NJ is voluntarily recalling one lot of their retail Tonkotsu Ramen because it is mis-labeled. While it is labeled Tonkotsu, the actual flavor packet inside is Assari Shoyu, which contains an additional undeclared allergen of fish (sardines).  The decision to recall this product was initiated after it was discovered that the product had the wrong label applied to the product, and did not accurately represent what was packaged. Subsequent investigation indicated that the problem was caused by mis-labeling of the product at the New Jersey facility.

Allergens and Colors Missing from Label - A Puerto Rico company is collecting the following PACHECO brand products because they may contain undeclared allergens (Wheat, Soy, Egg, Milk) and artificial colors not listed in ingredients (Red # 40, Yellow # 5, Yellow # 6.)

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-005-2018-release
Perdue Foods LLC Recalls Chicken Products due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens
Class I Recall  005-2018 
Health Risk: High 
Jan 23, 2018 

Frozen Green Beans and Mixed Veggies Recalled After Pet Food Customer Test Indicates Listeria

National Frozen Foods Corporation (NFFC) is voluntarily recalling a limited quantity of Not-Ready-To Eat IQF green beans and IQF mixed vegetables because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.  The recall was initiated based on a 3rd party test result of the IQF Green Beans only by a downstream customer that revealed that the finished products may potentially be contaminated with the bacteria.

This customer was a company who manufactured foods for pets using restaurant grade ingredients.  They also issued a recall for the pet foods.  "JustFoodForDogs (JFFD) of Los Alamitos, CA, is voluntarily recalling its Beef & Russet Potato, Fish & Sweet Potato and Turducken dog food meals in all sizes. JFFD uses 100% USDA and other restaurant grade ingredients in all of its pet food, and because the green beans used in these meals may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes".  "While testing demonstrates that only several dates of production were affected, out of an abundance of caution, JFFD is recalling all of the above mentioned products made from the dates of November 1, 2017 through January 14, 2018. These represent Best By lot code dates on all three of the JustFoodForDogs’ recalled products of 11/01/18 through 01/14/19."

This is another case of a not-ready-to-eat product being recalled for Listeria.  In this case, a the pet food customer who purchased this product to use  as an ingredient in making another product, tested and found Listeria.  Was this customer considering this a RTE product or did the see that there may be some issue where the product coudl be under-cooked?  Regardless, it then triggered the selling company to issue a recall, and thus affecting product sold to customers that would not have had any issue because they would have followed label instructions for cooking.

For the seller, this information needs to be part of the sales agreement with a realistic understanding of the capabilities of meeting that agreement- how the product is going to be used, what are the microbiological requirements that were stated on the specification,  will there be any testing of the ingredient was going - because as in this case, this can affect the sales of a lot of other product sold to other customers.  And if these customers made product, then we can expect cascading recalls to occur.

It is a dog-eat-dog...scratch that....a dog-eat-human food world...

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm593835.htm
National Frozen Foods Corporation Recalls Frozen Green Beans and Frozen Mixed Vegetables Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
January 24, 2018

This Week in Mislabeled Product - Week Ending 1/20/17

Misprinting of Label Leaves Off Milk - Ottogi America, Inc. of Gardena, CA is recalling 6.40 ounce “Rice cake soup” food, because it may contain undeclared milk.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the milk-containing product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of milk. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a misprinting in the company's packaging processes.

Chicken Salad with Wrong Lid - Duke Sandwich Productions, Inc., an Easley, S.C. establishment, is recalling approximately 743 pounds of chicken salad products due to misbranding - the products were packaged with two different product names. The chicken salad was packaged in the pimento cheese container, but it had “Chicken Salad” listed on the lid.  The problem was discovered on Jan. 16, 2018, after the firm received a complaint from a retail store manager.

Chicken Salad with Wrong Label  Café Spice GCT Inc., a New Windsor, N.Y. establishment, is recalling approximately 289 pounds of chicken salad products due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen, - the chicken salad was packaged with a chicken wrap label. The chicken salad contains milk, a known allergen, which is not declared on the chicken wraps’ product labels.  The problem was discovered by a retail customer, who then notified the company. Following the company’s internal investigation, they contacted FSIS.

Almond Flour In Cheesecake Due to Supplier Error  - Nine Whole Foods Market stores in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island are voluntarily recalling cheesecake bars because the product potentially contained a tree nut allergen (almond flour) that was not listed on the product label. The issue was discovered by Whole Foods Market after the incorrect product was shipped by the supplier to the distributor.

Inadequate Line Cleaning - Palmer Candy Company (www.palmercandy.com), is recalling Sea Salt Caramel Hearts (that were only sold at one store in the Midwest States) due to possible peanut allergen contamination.  "The issue was discovered by Palmer Candy Team Members. During the packing process a peanut was observed stuck to the outside of the Sea Salt Caramel Heart."  This may indicate that the processing line was inadequately cleaned after a peanut production run.

Wrong Package Label - Bellisio Foods, Inc., a Jackson, Ohio, manufacturer, is voluntarily recalling certain Michelina’s Fettuccine Alfredo due to the possibility some packages may contain undeclared chicken with soy that is not listed on packaging.  This recall was issued on 12/22/17, but FDA issued this report this week.  While details are limited, one would guess this was a packaging error when the Alfredo was placed on a chicken and soy containing product.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm592996.htm

Ottogi America, Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in Rice Cake Soup

For Immediate Release

January 19, 2018

Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Sprouts Sold at Sub Shop Chain

A Salmonella outbreak is being linked to raw sprouts sold at Jimmy John's in Illinois. The State Health Department has requested that the sub shop chain remove sprouts from the menu.  Sprouts have been implicated in a number of outbreaks, including sprouts sold at Jimmy John's (2012).

The Packer

https://www.thepacker.com/article/salmonella-infections-linked-sprouts-jimmy-johns

Salmonella infections linked to sprouts from Jimmy John’s 

Ashley Nickle

January 19, 2018 02:26 PM

New Development to Modify Stainless Steel to Prevent Bacterial Growth

A new process was developed in which stainless steel can be modified to prevent the growth of bacteria. This is an interesting new development for application to the medical field.  Is it something that can be applied to food operations?

Technology Networks.com
https://www.technologynetworks.com/applied-sciences/news/stainless-steel-that-is-more-resistant-to-bacteria-296387
Stainless Steel That Is More Resistant to Bacteria
News Jan 17, 2018 | Original Story from the University of Montreal.

CDC MMWR Report - 2017 Legionella Outbreak Associated with Memphis Hotel Hot Tub

In the January 19th MMWR release, an investigative report into a 2017 Legionella outbreak associated with a hotel hot tub and pool.  While the outbreak came to light because of a few cases, many more were found through old-fashioned investigative work rather than sample analysis.

Initially 3 cases were identified, and this led them to the hot tub.  Through proceeding to survey past guest, 92 cases were identified, including nine laboratory-confirmed (urinary antigen positive) cases, 19 probable (self-reported pneumonia) cases, and 64 suspected (self-reported fever and ≥1 compatible symptom*) cases.  Of these, 70 had required medical care, and 16 people were hospitalized and there was one reported death.

Not the way to meet up with Elvis after going into a Memphis hotel hot tub, or any hotel water for that matter.  But how do you know?  In this case, "environmental health specialists conducted an assessment of the hotel aquatics facility and identified improper water treatment monitoring and low chlorine residuals (0 ppm; acceptable range = 1–3 ppm)."  "Laboratory testing of the aquatics facility water samples identified three Legionella polymerase chain reaction–positive samples from the pool, pool sand filter, and hot tub sand filter, and isolated Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 from the hot tub sand filter."   Something to be said about that smell of chlorine when poolside.

CDC MMWR
https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/67/wr/mm6702a5.htm?s_cid=mm6702a5_e
Notes from the Field: Legionellosis Outbreak Associated with a Hotel Aquatics Facility — Tennessee, 2017

FDA to Expedite Recall Postings by Eliminating the Need to Have Classification Status at Time of Posting

FDA released a statement on its plan to expedite the recall postings / alerts to consumer.  The plan to remove the need for the 'recall classification' at the time of posting.  Normally, "only recalls that have already been classified into one of three categories based on the severity of the hazard have been listed in the report".    And, these "recall classifications can sometimes take weeks – or even months when FDA needs to conduct a complex evaluation."

Wow, that was the hold up.  I bet most could probably predict what the classification is just by reading the notice.  For others, it probably doesn't even matter.  But for FDA, determining whether a recall is Class I, II or III can be a lengthy process.  "Such analysis can involve determining whether any diseases or injuries have already occurred, the likelihood that a hazard might occur, or whether vulnerable segments of the population, such as children, are more at risk"

Through some process improvement determination, "FDA has decided that the public would benefit by having recall information about FDA-regulated products as soon as possible, even though further evaluation remains to be done. Moving forward, FDA will include “not-yet-classified” recalls of human drugs, foods, and veterinary products in the weekly Enforcement Report, even while classification work is still ongoing."

FDA Voice
https://blogs.fda.gov/fdavoice/index.php/2018/01/fda-to-expedite-release-of-recall-information

FDA to Expedite Release of Recall Information
Posted on January 18, 2018 by FDA Voice

France - Investigation Deepens Regarding French Infant Milk Contaminated with Salmonella

Investigators are searching French dairy Lactalis for information related to Salmonella outbreak linked to their infant milk.  More than 12 million boxes have been recalled in 83 different countries.  "At least 37 babies are so far reported to have been affected in France, with one case reported in Spain and a further unconfirmed case in Greece."

Reports were also released that the French grocery stores still continued to sell the recalled product.
"This is a major dysfunction in the withdrawal and recall by the operators, who bear responsibility," Agriculture Minister Stephane Travert told reporters.

BBC News
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-42715187
France's baby milk scare: Police search Lactalis sites
17 January 2018

CDC and FDA Hold Off from Implicating Romaine Lettuce in E. coli Outbreak

FDA and CDC did not pull the trigger on making a public notice to avoid romaine lettuce for involvement in an E. coli outbreak.   The Canadians were first to issue a public notice implicating Romaine lettuce on Dec 14th.  At this point, however, there were no additional cases of E. coli infection reported with the last case on December 12th being reported (and recognizing there is a delay from infection and reporting).

In the end, that call was right.  Even if it is found that romaine lettuce was the source, that contaminated product would had already been through the system (considering the short shelf-life of product).  A public notice would have been missed the target and resulted in needless waste.

However, what we did see was a lot of confusion on the part of various entities issuing reactionary notices.  FDA and CDC would have done better to put their findings out there earlier.  Outbreak investigations are not perfect, and while it would have been easier on their part to trash the leafy green industry, relaying the findings would have gone a long way to quieting the alarmists.

https://www.fda.gov/Food/RecallsOutbreaksEmergencies/SafetyAlertsAdvisories/ucm591989.htm
FDA Information about E. coli O157:H7 Outbreak Likely Linked to Leafy Greens
January 10, 2018

This Week in Mislabeled Product - Ending Jan 13, 2018

Juice Products May Contain Milk Protein - Hiland Dairy is announcing a voluntary recall of two products produced at the Omaha, Nebraska facility, over concerns the products may contain milk protein that could affect those individuals that have sensitivity to milk allergens.  Hiland Dairy initially learned of a potential issue during internal quality control testing at the Omaha facility.

Tofu Product Does Not Declare Soy on Label - Rico Brand of Salt Lake City, Utah is recalling Tofu Breakfast Burrito, because it may contain undeclared Soy [And tofu is fermented soy, so must realize that some consumers may not recognize that fact?].  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the product “Tofu Breakfast Burrito” containing Soybean was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of Soybean. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company's packaging processes.

Supplier Mistakenly Labels Coconut Macaroons as Oatmeal Cookies -  Dollar General Corporation announced a voluntary recall of a lot of its 12-ounce packages of Clover Valley® Iced Oatmeal Cookies  over concerns of undeclared milk and tree nuts.  Dollar General initially learned of a potential issue based upon information received from a store level employee. The Company promptly contacted the product’s manufacturer who confirmed a production facility labeling error in which Clover Valley® Coconut Macaroons were inadvertently placed in Clover Valley® Iced Oatmeal Cookie packaging.

Hiland Dairy Announces Voluntary Recall Of Hiland Dairy Orange Juice And Tampico Citrus Punch
For Immediate Release
January 13, 2018

Frozen Novelty Recall Expanded and Revised

A recall of frozen orange cream bars initially posted on 1/5/18 has been expanded on 1/9/18 and then clarified on 1/11/18 to include all //product produced on one production line at one of the company's facility due to the potential for Listeria contamination. The recall now includes chocolate covered vanilla bars in addition to the orange cream bars, as well as raspberry cream bars sold in split cases.  The recall covers close to 30 different brands.

"The potential for contamination was noted after routine industry testing revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in only a few ice cream bar samples of many tested. The expansion of the recall is out of precaution for consumer health and food safety after a few additional samples tested positive for the presence of Listeria monocytogenes. There is no evidence of any contamination prior to October 31, 2017, but the company has issued the recall back to January 1, 2017 through an abundance of caution and in full cooperation with the FDA."

The Recall Notice goes on to state:

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

Which would indicate that they do not yet know what the problem was...and being they don't know the source, the recall was expanded.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm592326.htm
Fieldbrook Foods Corporation Clarifies Scope of its Voluntary Recall. Products Include Orange Cream
For Immediate Release
January 11, 2018

Sushi Recalled by Grocery Chain After Supplier has Potential Listeria Contamination Issues

Price Chopper, a northeast-based supermarket chain is recalling sushi product produced by AFC Franchise Corp due to the potential to be contaminated by Listeria.  There was no information on which item was involved, but being that two stores from different states had suspect product, it is more likely an ingredient issue than a store issue.

AFC franchises sushi bars that are often located in supermarkets.  AFC provides the know-how and materials to allow a franchisee to operate a sales space in a grocery store.  AFC had a recall early this past year for packages of edamame due to Listeria.

Many of the ingredients used in making sushi have the sufficient nutrients and are stored under conditions that allow the growth of Listeria.   Once the product is made and packaged in the store, there is always the risk of consumer mishandling, in this case, storing at elevated temperatures.  This would exacerbate the situation by allowing more growth.

WBNG.com
http://www.wbng.com/story/37228295/price-chopper-recalls-packaged-sushi-made-with-tuna
Price Chopper recalls packaged sushi made with tuna
By David Hermanovitch
Posted: Jan 09, 2018

New Trend - Drinking 'Raw Water'

There is a new trend...'raw water'...water that is unfiltered, untreated spring water. A article in the New York Times, Unfiltered Fervor: The Rush to Get Off the Water Grid discusses a Oregon operation, Live Water, is selling water for $14.99/bottle refill while a San Diego operation sells their version for $2.50/gallon.

"The quest for pure water is hardly new; people have been drinking from natural springs and collecting rainwater from time immemorial. The crusade against adding fluoride to public water began in the 1950s among Americans who saw danger in the protective measures that had been adopted over decades to protect the populace from disease and contamination.  But the off-grid water movement has become more than the fringe phenomenon it once was, with sophisticated marketing, cultural cachet, millions of dollars in funding and influential supporters from Silicon Valley."

One can also purchase water collection systems that capture moisture from the air.

From a safety perspective, without treating water, one opens themselves to increased risk to a host of  microbial pathogens including bacteria and parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium, .  Beyond that, people across globe do not have access to clean water and would prefer avoid drinking 'raw' water.  The article below, from National Review, sums that up pretty well.

National Review
‘Raw Water’ Makes a Mockery of Human Suffering
Read more at: http://www.nationalreview.com/article/455235/raw-water-movement-mocks-human-suffering
by Jibran Khan January 8, 2018 1:05 PM

It’s a play-act of poverty that puts ‘slum tourism’ to shame. Every few months, there’s a new trend that promises life-changing health benefits — a spice, or a juice, or another mundane consumable, often with an Indian or East Asian name thrown in to make it seem ancient and exotic. We see these things, laugh, and move on with our lives. We live and let live.

Orange Cream Bars Recalled After Lot Tests Positive for Listeria

A NY firm is recalling 340 cases  of orange cream bars due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.  This comes after the company's routine testing revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in another production lot that had been fully contained.

Unfortunately, in these cases where Listeria is found in product, the recall often is expanded unless the company can clearly demonstrate that Listeria control had been maintained over time with some plausible exception for the lot that tested positive.

FDA Recall Notice
https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm591580.htm
Fieldbrook Foods Corporation, Announces a Voluntary Recall of Orange Cream Bars for Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
January 5, 2018

FDA Recalls Too Slow? Is Romaine Lettuce the Source of an E. coli Outbreak? A Food Safety Vortex

Last week, the US Inspector General issued a report that criticized the FDA for not moving quickly enough to recall foods.  At the same time, an E. coli outbreak has caused illness in 17 people in the US.  While Canada has identified romaine lettuce as the causative agent in E. coli cases that occurred there, the CDC and FDA have not followed the Canadians in blaming romaine lettuce.  Of course, the US agencies have been criticized  for this and Consumer Reports has issued a news release stating the consumers avoid romaine lettuce for now.

As romaine lettuce is being pulled from the store shelves (which, if considering the short shelf-life and the time frame of the outbreak, will not amount to much), we look back at the 2008 Salmonella outbreak where tomatoes were falsely accused, and can see why the federal agencies are acting in a judicious manner.  I guess we don't expect the federal agencies to have the correct answer immediately, especially considering the tediousness of conducting an outbreak investigation, but I do agree with others saying that the agencies should be providing more information about that investigation.  Not only will it let people decide for themselves (rather than having the Canadians decide for us), but will help inform all of us of the difficulties that are entailed in an outbreak investigation.

For the consumer, there is a lot of confusion.  If you have romaine lettuce in your refrigerator, do you return it?

USA Today
https://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/2018/01/02/fda-food-recalls-still-too-slow-editorials-debates/993481001/
 Why is FDA so slow on food recalls?
The Editorial Board, USA TODAY
Published 5:54 p.m. ET Jan. 2, 2018 | Updated 6:59 p.m. ET Jan. 2, 2018

This Week in Mislabeled Product for Week Ending 1/5/18

Ice Bars Recalled After Reported Complaint for Allergic Reaction - California Popsicle, Inc. dba Polly Ann Ice Cream of South San Francisco, CA is recalling ice bars, because it may contain undeclared milk.  The recall was initiated after notification by FDA of a consumer complaint in Canada.

Instant Coffee Mix Missing Milk on Label - Hong Lee Trading Inc., NY, is recalling its CHAO CAFÉ VIETNAMESE INSTANT COFFEE MIXED 3 IN 1, 384 GRAM, CONTAINER CODE JUNE 06 2018, because they contain undeclared milk allergens.  The recall was initiated after routine sampling by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors and subsequent analysis by Food Laboratory personnel revealed the presence of milk allergens in the packages [of product] which did not declare a milk ingredient on the label.

Veggie Cups labeled as Fruit Cups - Condies Foods of Kearns, UT is recalling 166 cases of veggies cups because they were labeled as fruit cups.  The veggie cups had dressing  which was not on the fruit cup label so there is a possibility that this may contain undeclared milk and egg allergens. After getting an initial complaint from a customer about the label not matching the description of the product, after seeing the pictures from the email it was decided to initiate a voluntary recall to ensure that our public would not get further exposure to an erroneous product.

Eggs Left Off Label - New Seasons Market has initiated a voluntary recall of its New Seasons Market Grab and Go pre-packaged Macaroni and Cheese because it may contain undeclared egg. An employee noticed the mislabeled packages during a routine stock rotation check. New Seasons Market Macaroni and Cheese normally contains eggs, but eggs were accidentally left off the ingredients list and the “contains” allergens statement on the label.

Milk Not Declared on Label - Daisy’s Bakery Inc. of Clifton, New Jersey is recalling 4 ounce packages of Gourmet Concha, because it may contain undeclared milk. The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the milk containing product was distributed with a label that did not reveal the presence of milk. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company’s production and packaging processes.

Soy Found In Product - PFP Enterprises LLC, also doing business as Texas Meat Packers, a Fort Worth, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 7,570 pounds of ground beef products due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen, soy, which is not declared on the product label. The problem was discovered when FSIS received a complaint from a school about the product’s packaging. FSIS laboratory testing confirmed that the product contained soy and added water.


https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm591278.htm
California Popsicle, Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in Ice Bars
For Immediate Release
January 3, 2018
Contact
Consumers  650-745-809

Recall Issued for Shredded Coconut After State Lab Test Positive for Salmonella

Evershing International Trading Company is recalling 16 ounces Coconut Tree Brand Frozen Shredded Coconut because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.  The issue was discovered by testing performed by the State of Massachusetts.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm591335.htm
Evershing International Trading Company Recalls Frozen Shredded Coconut Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
January 3, 2018

Washington Establishment Recalls Pepperoni After Receiving Metal Complaints

A Washington establishment is recalling over 4000 pounds of pepperoni sticks products after receiving 3 consumer complaints for extraneous material, specifically small metal pieces.   There have been no "confirmed" reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products.

USDA Recall Notice
https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-001-2018-release
Hempler Foods Group, LLC Recalls Pepperoni Products due to Possible Extraneous Material Contamination
Class I Recall
001-2018
Health Risk: High
Jan 4, 2018

Recall Issued after Supermarket Chain Identifies Foreign Material in Beef Stew Product

Swift Beef Co., doing business as JBS USA Food Company, a Cactus, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 4,702 pounds of beef stew product that may be contaminated with foreign matter , specifically plastic and metal.  The problem was discovered on Dec. 24, 2017, by the HEB grocery store chain in San Antonio, Texas, when they opened boxes containing the multi-vac packages.  That same day HEB locked the sales of all stew meat from their registers and pulled all products from shelves in all the stores.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2017/recall-131-2017-release
Swift Beef Company Recalls Beef Stew Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination 
Class I Recall  
131-2017 
Health Risk: High 
Dec 26, 2017 

E. coli (STEC) Outbreak in US and Canada Under Investigation

CDC, several states, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration are investigating a multistate outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli O157:H7 infections where 17 people have become ill in 13 states.   A possible link may exist to an outbreak in Canada.  While the Canadian Public Health Agency has identified romaine lettuce as the source of the outbreak in Canada, no particular product has been identified in the U..

https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2017/s1228-e-coli-outbreak.html
CDC Investigating Multistate Outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 Infections
For Immediate Release: Thursday, December 28, 2017
Contact: Media Relations
 (404) 639-3286

Ohio Company Issues Recall for Biscuits Due to the Potential for Listeria Contamination

An Ohio company,  T. Marzetti Company, is recalling biscuit products for potential Listeria contamination.  The products were sold under various store brands includign Food Lion, Piggly Wiggly, and Shur Fine, and were distributed in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia.  According to one report, there may have been a contamination issue at one of the  T. Marzetti Company plants.

FDA Recall Notice
https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm590976.htm
T. Marzetti Company Voluntarily Recalls Frozen Biscuit Dough Packed Under Various Brands Due to Potential Listeria Contamination
For Immediate Release
December 29, 2017

FDA Issues Summary of Inspection Items Listed on 483 Reports Issued in FY2017

FDA posted the summary of inspectional observation items listed on 483 reports from FY 2017 (10/2016 to 9/2017). During an inspection, ORA investigators may observe conditions they deem to be objectionable. These observations, are listed on an FDA Form 483 when, in an investigator’s judgment, the observed conditions or practices indicate that an FDA-regulated product may be in violation of FDA’s requirements. "These spreadsheets are not a comprehensive listing of all inspectional observations but represent the area of regulation and the number of times it was cited as an observation on an FDA Form 483 during inspections conducted by FDA and its representatives."

According to the posting, there were 2662 483's issued during FY 2017, compared to 2196 in 2016.    While the top 5 are similar to those listed in 2016, and most issues involve pest control, sanitation, processing concerns, and building  structure issues, there is a new item which is the Failure to Develop a FSVP (Foreign Supplier Verification Program).  The FSVP is for controlling foreign suppliers when a company not operating under Preventive Controls is importing the food.

Sliced Apples Recalled After Supplier Issued Recall of Whole Apples for Potential Listeria

Two companies are recalling sliced apple products after their supplier, Jack Brown Produce recalled whole apples for Listeria.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm590372.htm
Fresh Pak Inc. Recalls Lot Specific Sliced Apple Products Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
December 22, 2017