Food Safety Humor

FSPCA - Food Safety Preventive Controls Alliance

Monday, February 26, 2018

Raw, Freeze-Dried Pet Food Recalled for Salmonella

Two recalls for raw, freeze-dried pet food were posted on FDA's Recall website.
  • Carnivore Meat Company of Green Bay, WI, is voluntarily recalling a limited amount, 73 cases, of “Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Beef Nibblets Entrée for Dogs” pet food because the products have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
  • TruPet, LLC of Milford, OH, is voluntarily recalling a limited amount of Treat Me Crunchy Beef Delight, 2.5oz Pet treats because the products have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. The recall includes only the product listed below.
The recalls were both "being issued in an abundance of caution following the Michigan Department of Agriculture’s collection of a retail sample from a single batch which tested positive. No illnesses have been reported to date."

Without a validated kill step, Salmonella will survive the freeze drying process just nicely.  One could imagine that the freeze dried product would appear similar to dry product, so the potential for the pet owner handling it directly is probably high, and along with that, that chance of becoming infected.  And the pooch can also become infected....increasing the chances of poopage in places where you don't want it to be.

Besides, Champy doesn't want raw pet treats...he doesn't even know what that is.  He is fine with products that have a validated process.....aged cheddar cheese, beef jerky, summer sausage, grilled pork chops, etc.  Ask him...Champy, you want a snack [with a validated process]?  Absolutely.



https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm598255.htm
Carnivore Meat Company Issues Voluntary Recall of “Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Beef Nibblets Entrée for Dogs” Pet Food
For Immediate Release
February 24, 2018

Friday, February 23, 2018

FDA Release Initial Pathogen Survey Results for Herbs and Guacamole

FDA is in the process of conducting a survey of microbiological pathogens on fresh cilantro, parsley and basil, as well as processed avocado and guacamole.  While FDA has only sampled less a small percentage of the samples they plan to get (less than 12% or so of total samples planned), they do have some results for samples taken as of 1/1/18.

Fresh herbs
35 domestic samples - None of the domestic samples tested positive for Salmonella, or E. coli STED
104 import samples - 4 tested positive for Salmonella, 3 tested positive for Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, and none tested positive for E. coli 0157:H7.
(It is important to point out that most of the outbreaks associated with these items - 7 of 9 - have been due to Cyclospora.  FDA indicated that they will survey for Cyclospora in the summer months when there is a higher tendency for this to be an issue.

Proccessed avocado/guacamole
58 domestic samples - 3 tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes
49 import samples - 1 tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes.

Not much to worry about when eating your chips and dip at happy hour.....

Constituent Update
https://www.fda.gov/Food/NewsEvents/ConstituentUpdates/ucm597356.htm
FDA Sampling Fresh Herbs, Guacamole and Processed Avocado
February 23, 2018

This Week in Mislabeled Product - Week Ending 2/23/18

A Cheyenne, WY establishment is voluntarily recalling Tuscan Kale Pesto mislabeled with Artichoke & Garlic labels because the labels do not declare tree nuts (cashews). The recall was initiated after Seggiano USA, Inc. was notified of a mislabeled product by a sales agent who saw the product on a retail shelf. [Pesto often has nuts, usually pine nuts, in the formulation. So this would be a label creation / approval error]

Emerald® Nuts is initiating a voluntary recall for a limited amount of its 6.5oz Glazed Walnuts product, distributed nationwide, due to the potential presence of undeclared peanuts, almonds, cashews and pecans in the product. Recall was initiated after receiving consumer complaints. [Cross contact issue, likely from carryover from previous run indicating improper clean out / sanitation or mishandling error, or even dust flow movement. A good reminder that nut allergens are not the same. While people who are allergic to one may not be allergic to all. By regulation, nuts must be treated as separate allergens, and the specific nut must be on the label]

Market of Choice of Eugene, Oregon is recalling Sezam Kale Salad because it may contain undeclared EGG. This recall was initiated after it was discovered that Sezam Kale Salad dressing containing EGG but label did not reveal the presence of EGG. [This is an print-on-demand label for product sold in grocery stores, so this would be a error when inputting the information into the printer, specifically regarding the salad dressing component]

Sunneen Health Foods is voluntarily recalling mislabeled Whole Foods Market Vegan Buffalo Chicken Bites sold at 13 Whole Foods Market stores in New York and New Jersey because the products contained tree nut (pecan) allergens that were not listed on the product label. The issue was discovered at the distribution center. [label creation / approval error]

A Buda, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 167 pounds of frozen beef patty and gravy products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens - the product contains milk which is not declared on the product label. The problem was discovered on Feb. 19, 2018 when FSIS was notified that the firm received two consumer complaints of mislabeled products. The cartons actually contain beef patties, mashed potatoes and cheese [cheese being the item actually part of the product but not on the label....so probably someone grabbed the wrong cartons.].

A Corona, N.Y. establishment, is recalling approximately 572 pounds of frozen pork and shrimp dumpling products due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen - the product contains egg which is not declared on the product label. The problem was discovered on Feb. 20, 2018 during routine FSIS label verification activities. The dumpling wrapper ingredient label includes pasteurized liquid whole eggs and egg whites in the list of ingredients; however, the finished product label does not declare egg. [label creation / approval error]


La Pasta Inc. of Silver Spring, Maryland is recalling the private label Potato Gnocchi manufactured for Heinen’s supermarkets because it may contain undeclared milk.  This voluntary recall was initiated due to a consumer reporting feeling ill after consuming the Heinen’s Potato Gnocchi. Company officials compared packaging with approved recipe and confirmed that product did contain MILK as part of the recipe formula but was not declared on the label.  [label creation / approval error]


https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm597927.htm
Seggiano USA, Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Tree Nuts
For Immediate Release
February 22, 2018

Wednesday, February 21, 2018

Iowa Salmonella Outbreak Associated with Chicken Salad Update - 115 Reported Cases

There are now 115 reported cases of Salmonella infection associated with chicken salad sold through Fareway grocers.  The issue was first reported last week, but little details were provided.   Now it is being reported that the "chicken salad was prepared by Triple T Specialty Meats in Ackley, which made the product solely for Fareway stores."

There have been no clear causes for the issue at this point.

The producer, Triple T, seems to be a legitimate operation.  According to their website, the company started a butcher shop over 20 years ago and has expanded into a number of different product offerings.

Des Moines Register
https://www.desmoinesregister.com/news/
Salmonella-tainted chicken salad made by Ackley plant tied to 115 illnesses
Tony Leys, tleys@dmreg.comPublished 4:32 p.m. CT
Feb. 20, 2018

Salmonella Outbreak Associated with the Controversial Botanical Kratom.....FDA Encourages Destruction of All Kratom Containing Supplements

The FDA and CDC along with state and local officials are investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to products reportedly containing kratom. The rare strain of Salmonella has infected 28 people in 20 states with eleven of the people hospitalized.

The FDA later announced the voluntary destruction and recall of a large volume of kratom-containing dietary supplements manufactured and distributed nationwide under the brand names Botany Bay, Enhance Your Life and Divinity by Divinity Products Distribution of Grain Valley, Missouri. In cooperation with the FDA, the company has also agreed to stop selling all products containing kratom. "Based on the scientific evidence of the serious risks associated with the use of kratom, in the interest of public health, the FDA encourages all companies currently involved in the sale of products containing kratom intended for human consumption to take similar steps to take their products off the market and submit any necessary evidence, as appropriate, to the FDA to evaluate them based on the applicable regulatory pathway."

Kratom, (Mitragyna speciosa) is a plant that grows naturally in Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea that is used as herb to provide relief from pain, depression and anxiety. But according to FDA, "evidence shows that kratom has similar effects to narcotics like opioids, and carries similar risks of abuse, addiction and in some cases, death. Thus, it’s not surprising that often kratom is taken recreationally by users for its euphoric effects. At a time when we have hit a critical point in the opioid epidemic, the increasing use of kratom as an alternative or adjunct to opioid use is extremely concerning."

According to the FDA, they aware of reports of 36 deaths associated with the use of misuse of kratom-containing products.  So to what degree will people using this as a recreational mood enhancer worry about a Salmonella issue?

FDA Alert
https://www.fda.gov/Food/NewsEvents/ConstituentUpdates/ucm597415.htm
FDA Investigates Multistate Outbreak of Salmonella Infections Linked to Products Reported to Contain Kratom
February 20, 2018

Tuesday, February 20, 2018

Challenges of Maintaining Gluten-Free Levels in Non-Gluten Containing Crops

A recently published study looks at the determination of gluten in gluten-free oats, and other grains, seeds, beans, pulses, and legumes.    For food to be considered gluten free, the level set by US regulation is 20 ppm.   There can be a problem with cross contact into other non-gluten crops especially oats.  Oats are grown in overlapping regions and are seeded and harvested in the similar time frame.  It is interesting to consider the difficulty in ensuring gluten-free status back to the crops and initial processing steps.

"Processors who intentionally produce gluten free grain ingredients for food manufacturers must take additional steps to ensure that their products are appropriate for gluten free consumers. These steps can include controls during growing, harvesting, transport, storage, and processing. Once these additional steps are taken, the processor must be able to demonstrate that the resulting ingredient meets the requirements for gluten free labeling according to the country of sale or other applicable regulations."

Whole grains can be a challenge for testing and setting a ppm limit.  This study evaluated a visual method for determining the feasibility of the limit in oat processing facilities.

Journal of AOAC Interntational
https://www.gluten.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Oat-Study.pdf
The Use of Visual Examination for Determining the Presence of Gluten-Containing Grains in Gluten Free Oats and Other Grains, Seeds, Beans, Pulses, and Legumes

Monday, February 19, 2018

Canned Dog Foods Recalled for Potential Low Level Pentobarbital

FDA issued a health alert for pets regarding canned dog foods made by J.M. Smucker, including. Gravy Train, Kibbles ‘N Bits, Ol’ Roy, and Skippy brands, due to the potential for pentobarbital contamination.  The company is withdrawing all lots of these products that were manufactured from 2016 through the present.   According to the report, "The FDA’s preliminary evaluation of the testing results of Gravy Train samples indicates that the low level of pentobarbital present in the withdrawn products is unlikely to pose a health risk to pets. However, pentobarbital should never be present in pet food and products containing any amount of pentobarbital are considered to be adulterated."

"Pentobarbital is a barbiturate drug that is most commonly used in animals as a sedative, anesthetic, or for euthanasia.  Pets that eat pet food containing pentobarbital can experience drowsiness, dizziness, excitement, loss of balance, nausea, nystagmus (eyes moving back and forth in a jerky manner) and inability to stand. Consuming high levels of pentobarbital can cause coma and death. However, pentobarbital present in the withdrawn products is at a low level unlikely to pose a health risk to pets."

https://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/NewsEvents/ucm597135.htm
FDA Alerts Pet Owners About Potential Pentobarbital Contamination in Canned Dog Food Manufactured by The J.M. Smucker Company, Including Certain Gravy Train, Kibbles ‘N Bits, Ol’ Roy, and Skippy Products
February 16, 2018

RTE Chicken Patties Recalled for Foreign Matter, Rubber

Pilgrim’s Pride Corp., a Waco, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 101,310 pounds of ready-to-eat breaded chicken patties that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically rubber.  According to the notice, "The problem was discovered after the firm received a customer complaint on Feb. 13, 2018. Pilgrim's Pride distributed the product to institutions, including schools. Although the product was sold through the USDA commodity program, the introduction of the foreign material was due to an equipment failure at the facility. "

That is a heck of a lot of chicken to be wasted due to a maintenance issue.

USDA Recall Notice
https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-011-2018-release
Pilgrim's Pride Corporation Recalls Ready-to-Eat Chicken Products due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Class I Recall
011-2018
Health Risk: High 
Feb 16, 2018

Friday, February 16, 2018

This Week in Mislabeled Product - Week ending Feb 16, 2018

Missing Egg on Label - Saker ShopRites, Inc., a Linden, N.J. establishment, is recalling approximately 19,757 pounds of pork and chicken empanadas due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen - the products contain egg, a known allergen, which is not listed in the ingredient statement on the label. The problem was discovered by FSIS personnel during routine label verification activities.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-010-2018-release
Saker ShopRites, Inc. Recalls Empanadas due to Misbranding and an Undeclared Allergen
Class I Recall
010-2018
Health Risk: High
 Feb 14, 2018

Imported Foods and the FSMA Foreign Verification Program Rule (FSVP)

The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), signed into law in 2011, was designed to improve public health by strengthening the food safety system. The law provided authority to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to write and enforce regulations that focus on preventing food safety issues. The law also directs FDA to enforce food safety standards for foods imported from other countries, with the intent that these foods meet the same safety standards as those grown or processed in the U.S. FDA regulated foods that are grown, manufactured, or processed outside the U.S. are therefore covered under several FSMA regulations including the Produce Safety Rule, the Preventive Controls for Human Foods Rule, and the Preventive Controls for Animal Foods Rule. The Foreign Verification Program Rule (FSVP) requires that importers perform certain risk-based activities to verify that food imported into the United States has been produced in a manner that meets applicable U.S. safety standards.

One of the first challenges for food importers is determining if a particular food falls under FSMA or is excluded. There are many foods imported into the U.S. that may be excluded from FSMA coverage because pre-existing regulation are already in place. These include foods regulated under previously enacted FDA regulations for seafood and juice products. Foods that fall under USDA jurisdiction, specifically meat and poultry products, are excluded because USDA has established its own import regulations. There are also exclusions for imported foods that will not be consumed in the U.S., as well as foods imported solely for test purposes. A general rule to remember is that if a food that is not excluded, it will fall under one or more of the FSMA rules.

A key point for importers to understand is that all foods that are brought into the U.S., and then consumed in the US, must meet U.S. food safety standards. This means that fresh fruits and vegetables grown in another country for export to the U.S. must be grown, harvested, packed, and held under the standards established in the Produce Safety Rule. Foods (human or animal) or food ingredients imported into the U.S. for further processing by U.S. manufacturers will fall under the food safety requirements written in the Preventive Controls Rule for Human Foods or the similar rule for animals food. Imported foods that will not be processed by the importer such as those directly sold through retail entities must assume responsibility, in conjunction with their foreign supplier for the safety the product by developing a plan by to ensure that the safety of the product is properly controlled by the foreign supplier. It is the importer’s responsibility to understand the requirements of this rule and implement necessary measures to ensure that their foreign supplier has adequate food safety controls in place.

In some cases, the determination of who the importer is is not easy. Imported foods may by touched by a number of different entities as they make their way into the U.S. The key part of the regulation is to make sure that the importer is identified before the food enters the U.S. FDA requires this in order to assign responsibility for the imported product to that entity. This responsible entity must have a U.S. address where the proper documentation will be kept.

The designated FSVP importer is required, through development of a hazard analysis, to determine what potential hazards, if any, represent a potential risk for the given imported food. For those identified hazards having significant potential risk, the importer must ensure, or verify, that the foreign supplier has adequate controls to prevent or eliminate that risk. As a means of verification, importers can use one or more ways, including implementing testing requirements, conducting food safety audits, and collecting pertinent documentation. Verification must take place beforehand as part of a supplier approval process, and then monitored on an ongoing basis.

Individuals tasked with writing and implementing an a Foreign Supplier Verification Program must be qualified through training to do the task. This can be accomplished through attending a FSVP training course developed by the Food Safety and Preventive Control Alliance (FSPCA) and which is offered by Penn State. This training is not just necessary for those who import foods and therefore must write a FSVP plan. It is also important for U.S. food processors, retailers, and other food businesses who buy food from foreign sources; because in the end, they will also pay a price for a foreign supplier’s inadequate food safety program.

As you can see, the FSVP is complex and requires training to understand how the rule could affect your food operation. Visit the Penn State Extension FSMA website at extension.psu.edu/fsma for more information on the FSVP Rule and when and where Penn State will be offering training.

Links.
Registration site for the Penn State Foreign Supplier Verification Workshop
https://extension.psu.edu/foreign-supplier-verification-workshop

FSMA Final Rule on Foreign Supplier Verification Programs (FSVP) for Importers of Food for Humans and Animals
https://www.fda.gov/Food/GuidanceRegulation/FSMA/ucm361902.htm

People Have Gene to Produce Chitin Digesting Enzyme - Please Pass the Stinkbugs

A study in Molecular Biology and Evolution shows that people do have the enzyme that can break down insect casings.  Primates, including humans do have the gene that breaks down chitin, the substance that forms the exoskeleton of bugs.  Most of us were taught that chitin would not be broken down in our digestive systems.  Not so.

An article in National Geographic from 2013,  U.N. Urges Eating Insects; 8 Popular Bugs to Try, suggests these bug species:
1. Beetles
2. Butterflies and Moths
3. Bees and wasps
4. Ants
5. Grasshoppers, crickets, and locusts
6. Flies and mosquitos
7. Water boatmen and backswimmers
8. Stinkbugs

Yes, Stinkbugs....from the article  "If you can get past the funky smell, these insects apparently add an apple flavor to sauces and are a valuable source of iodine. They're also known to have anesthetic and analgesic properties. Who would have thought?"  Not me, that is for sure.

So what wine should we pair with our bowl of crunchy crickets.....a nice grassy sauvignon blanc perhaps?  An article on the subject in Food and Wine magazine suggests pairing a Riesling with honey mustard crickets. 


IFT Weekly Newsletter
http://www.ift.org/Food-Technology/Newsletters/IFT-Weekly-Newsletter/2018/February/021418.aspx
Study finds most primates, including humans, can digest insects

Wednesday, February 14, 2018

Iowa Retailer Recalls Chicken Salad After Reported Cases of Salmonella Infection

An Iowa retailer is recalling chicken salad after the product was linked to several cases of Salmonella infection.  The chicken salad was produced by a third party establishment.

Iowa Department of Public Health News Release
https://idph.iowa.gov/News/ArtMID/646/ArticleID/158205/Consumer-Advisory-Issued-for-Chicken-Salad-Purchased-at-Fareway-21318
Consumer Advisory Issued for Chicken Salad Purchased at Fareway (2/13/18)
Author: Polly Carver-Kimm/
Tuesday, February 13, 2018/
Categories: Infectious Disease Prevention

FDA Issues Alert for Raw Pet Food Brands About Potential Pathogens

FDA issued an alert for raw pet food products under the Darwin’s Natural and ZooLogics brand labels.  "The FDA is alerting pet owners to a history of four recalls of and multiple complaints associated with Darwin’s Natural and ZooLogics pet foods, manufactured by Arrow Reliance Inc., dba Darwin’s Natural Pet Products, over the period from October 17, 2016 to February 10, 2018. In each instance, the company recalled these products after being alerted to positive findings of Salmonella and/or Listeria monocytogenes in samples of their raw pet food products."

There have been a number of complaints of illness and deaths associated with the product.     "As part of an ongoing investigation into complaints associated with products manufactured by Arrow Reliance/Darwin’s Natural of Tukwila, WA, the FDA has confirmed that new samples of Darwin’s Natural Pet Products raw pet foods have tested positive for Salmonella."   In addition to illness, there have also been injuries associated with bone shards.

As FDA states on this Alert, "Raw pet food is more likely than other types of pet food to contain Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes. Pet owners who choose to feed raw pet food should be aware of the risks associated with these products."  But it further states, "The FDA has a zero-tolerance policy for Salmonella or other pathogenic bacteria in all pet food, meaning the agency will take action, as appropriate, against any pet food found to be contaminated with the harmful bacteria."

So why aren't these processors using High Pressure Processing to eliminate pathogens?  Why do we recall it knowing that pathogens can be present?  Why do people buy this knowing that the harm to the dog can far outweigh any benefit?  Really, if people want to feed raw meat to dogs, buy whole cuts of meat, surface sanitize and cut it yourself.  While this will not eliminate the risk completely, it is less risky than buying commercially made product.

FDA Alert
https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm596594.htm
FDA Investigates Pattern of Contamination in Certain Raw Pet Foods Made by Arrow Reliance Inc., Including Darwin’s Natural Pet Products and ZooLogics Pet Food
For Immediate Release
February 13, 2018

Online Consumer Complaint Portals - Too Much Transparency?

An interesting article in the NY Times titled Too Much Power to the People? A Food Safety Site Tests the Limits discusses the online complaint site IWasPoisoned.com and the impact it has on food companies.  According the article, the site has collected about 89,000 reports since starting in 2009.   The site provides an outlet for consumers to voice their issues, in this case, the blame for their illness.

While it has proved a key for pointing out linkages to foodborne illness associated with less-than-good operators such as Chipolte, there are some major drawbacks of having too much transparency.
"Restaurant executives have criticized IWasPoisoned for allowing anonymous and unverified submissions, which they say leads to false reports and irresponsible fear-mongering. Some public health officials have objected on the grounds that food poisoning victims can’t be trusted to correctly identify what made them sick."  

So for one, people can publicly bash a restaurant with out substantiating the restaurants involvement.  Depending on the type of agent involved in foodborne illness, the food may have been consumed hours before or days before the symptoms show up.  Unfortunately, people are apt to blame the food they last ate.

People may just want to pile on without actually being sick.  In some cases, people may do it because they don't like a given food establishment, or perhaps they favor a competitor.

The website does review complain submissions and they do provide an opportunity for those establishments which have been blamed for an illness to appeal any complaints.

However, the high level of transparency makes this information readily available for all, including news media outlets who are always hungry to report an outbreak of foodborne illness.

One fact is interesting in how a website like this makes money - they provide an early warning to investor and others willing to pay for leads on a given restaurant that may be involved in an outbreak scenario.

NY Times
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/02/13/business/too-much-power-to-the-people-a-food-safety-site-tests-the-limits.html
Business Day
Too Much Power to the People? A Food Safety Site Tests the Limits
The Shift
By KEVIN ROOSE FEB. 13, 2018

Tuesday, February 13, 2018

Dog Treats Recalled After Positive Laboratory Test

A CA pet products company is recalling a single product, bully stick dog chews, after the Colorado Department of Agriculture found that a single sample collected from a retail location detected positive for Salmonella.  According to the owner, every product lot before it tested before it leaves the manufacturing plant. This lot code in question was tested both at the company lab as well as by a third-party testing facility.

Hopefully the positive was analyzed to determine that it was not from the laboratory.  But conducting further analysis, specifically DNA testing, will help in determining the source and whether this organism was transient or established within the facility.

Is it possible for a facility to do finished product testing and still have a positive sampling?  Absolutely.  Small levels of contamination may not be found by limited finished product testing.  More important is having a comprehensive monitoring system that focuses on the environment.

FDA Recall Notice
https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm596190.htm
Redbarn Pet Products Issues Voluntary Recall of Dog Chews
For Immediate Release
February 9, 2018

Study Assesses Exposure to PAA for Food Processing Employee Safety

With peracetic acid (PAA) being used more in food processing operations, a study reported in Meatingplace looked at exposure levels to employees who work in poultry facilities.  In summary, the level of exposure to employees was below proposed threshold limits for health and safety, but the researchers recommended additional work is needed.

Meatingplace - Industry News - AM
http://www.meatingplace.com/Industry/News/Details/78054
Study assesses poultry workers’ exposure to peracetic acid
By Tom Johnston on 2/13/2018

Monday, February 12, 2018

FDA Releases 2017 Food Code - What's New in the Regulation

FDA released the 2017 version of the Food Code.  The Food Code is a model for ensuring safe food that is provided for adoption by local, state, and federal governmental jurisdictions for administration to food service, retail food stores, or food vending operations.  Every 4 years, a new version is issued with updates.   According to the release, there are 4 significant changes.   

Item #1 - Revised requirement for the Person in Charge (PIC) to be a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) (Section 2-102.12)

What’s changed – in the 2013 version, section 2-102.12 specifies that one person within the operation be a certified person. The update removes the 'one person'  but puts in that the person in charge is teh certified person.  The change makes the regulation less prescriptive, so instead of saying at least one person, now it says whoever has the duties of the person in change (2-103.11), that person has to be certified.   This may make it easier for small multi-unit operations to comply.

Item #2 - Added a new section that addresses the use of bandages, finger cots or finger stalls (Section 2-401.13)

What’s new – This section was added into the code. While covered in the ServSafe training, covering a wound on the hand is now detailed in the regulation - the wound is covered by bandage or cot (or stall) and then covered by a glove. (A finger cot and stall are essentially the same, but a stall generally refers to a finger covering that has a support back to the wrist).

Item #3  Harmonized cooking time/temperature parameters for intact and non-intact meat and poultry in accordance with guidance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) (Section 3-401.11) 

What's changed - There are two significant changes here - the first is the dwell time for ground meat, injected meat, mechanically tenderized meat - it is 155ºF for 17 seconds, instead of 15 seconds.  The second is for poultry and stuffed meat - the temperature is 165ºF is an instantaneous time, instead of of what is listed in the earlier versions as 15 seconds.

Item #4  Updated procedures for retail food establishment operations to continue during an extended water or electrical outage if a written emergency operation plan has been pre-approved by the Regulatory Authority, immediate corrective action taken and the Regulatory Authority has been notified upon implementation of the plan (Section 8-404.11) 

What's changed  - More detail was added to the regulation about continuing operation when an outage of electrical or water service is encountered.  It gives the regulatory authority and the operator means of writing and approving a plan provided there is no risk.

LINK to 2017 Food Code

The specific sections are covered below showing impacted sections of the regulation.


FDA Constituent Update
LINK To Announcement
FDA Releases 2017 Food Code

Friday, February 9, 2018

Recall Data from Past Five Years - What is Changing?

Each quarter, Stericycle Expert Solutions releases their Recall Index which analyzes the frequency, volume, and causes of U.S. product recalls.   This week they issued a 5 year summary of making these reports. From this article,  Reflections on Recalls: Five Years of the Stericycle Expert Solutions Recall Index
"The food and beverage industry experienced the most dramatic spike in units recalled over the past five years. Food products recalled by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) skyrocketed 92.7 percent since 2012, and recalled pounds regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which largely oversees meat production, jumped 83.4 percent in the same period.  Technological improvements in food testing, combined with factory farming and growing automation in food production were major drivers of the increases. "
Many have interpreted this report to make it seem like things are out of control.  Not really.  Increased testing, improved testing, and a risk-averse public have more to do with the number of recalls.  Our systems of supply have not changed as much as our testing requirements and capabilities and with that, our threshold for the issues that are found.  Because of this, our food supply is becoming more safe, not less safe.

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/reflections-on-recalls-five-years-of-the-stericycle-expert-solutions-recall-index-300594063.html
Reflections on Recalls: Five Years of the Stericycle Expert Solutions Recall Index 
Q4 2017 Recall Index Reveals Zero Fines for Consumer Products, Continued Decreases in Medical Device Recalls, and Severity of Drug Recalls Continuing to Rise, Among Other Findings 

FDA Has Increased Number of Imported Shrimp Refusals

According to Seafood Source, the FDA has had an increase in the number of import refusals for shrimp in the month of January.    The issues were due to the presence of Salmonella while others were rejected for the presence of banned antibiotics.  

As stated in the article, many of these suppliers are on import alert which holds the import until the proper testing can be completed. Once a supplier is place on import alert, it can be very difficult to get off of that list.

Seafood Source
https://www.seafoodsource.com/news/food-safety-health/fdas-shrimp-import-refusals-rose-in-january
FDA’s shrimp import refusals rose in January
By Christine Blank

Lawsuit Against Cruise Line After Ship Has Eight Consecutive Norovirus Outbreaks

In 2016/2017, there was a norovirus outbreak on eight consecutive cruises on the Sun Princess cruise ship.  A lawsuit is being filed that "Carnival was negligent in its sanitation of the vessel, leading to continued outbreaks."   While the ship has had satisfactory inspection, this case points to the difficulty of eliminating an pathogen such as norovirus.

Norovirus is highly infectious, so there does not need for a lot of virus particle to be present.  As a non-enveloped virus, it can remain on surfaces for weeks.  Thirdly, it is resistant to normal strength sanitizers, so you have to clean and then hit with a strong sanitizer.  This can be a problem when the particles get onto carpeting, bedding, and other non-easy-to-clean surfaces.  Add this to the fact that these cruise ships are huge - this one has a capacity over 2000 passengers with 15 decks, 1000 cabins, and a slew of lounges, bars, and recreational areas.  And then, if the article below is correct, they are turning this ship around for the next cruise in hours.

Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/business/tourism-cruises/article198720189.html
On eight cruises in a row, passengers got ‘violently ill.’ A lawsuit may be coming
By Chabeli Herrera  cherrera@miamiherald.com
February 06, 2018 06:00 PM
Updated February 07, 2018 03:10 PM

Pork Extract Broth Recalled for Improper Processing

An Okla. establishment, is recalling approximately 4,202 pounds of fully cooked pork products due to a processing deviation that may have allowed potential spore-forming pathogen growth including Clostridium botulinum and Clostridium perfringens,  It is a paitan which is a soup base made from meat, bone and cartilage extract, so contains fats and collagen to form a hearty thick broth.

This product is a cooked product that is packed in plastic pouches (pillow pack) and then frozen.  This is used as an ingredient.  Processing is not designed to rid products of spores, so the issue would have had to have been related to the cooling to freezing.  If not cooled properly, Clostridial spores, which survive the cooking, would have had an opportunity to grow.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-009-2018-release
Guymon Extracts, Inc. Recalls Fully Cooked Pork Products Due to Possible Processing Deviation 
Class I Recall
009-2018
Health Risk: High
Feb 6, 2018

This Week in Mislabeled Product - Week Ending February 9, 2018

Wasabi Almonds Packaged in an Unsalted Almond Package - Kanan Enterprises announces the voluntary recall of Southern Grove Unsalted Almond 14 oz., Best By SEP 25 2018 KN due to the presence of wheat and soy that are not listed as ingredients.  The company was notified by a customer that wasabi almonds were packaged in a bag of Southern Grove Unsalted Almonds.

In-store Label Missing Allergens Associated with Mayonnaise and Sour Cream - Weis Markets today announced it had issued a recall for its store-made Weis Quality Dried Beef Party Rye dip for failing to list egg and milk allergens on its label.

In-store Label Missing Allergens Leaves Out Milk - Weis Markets today announced it had issued a recall for its pre-made Penne Pasta with Asiago Sauce and Grilled Chicken single serving meal for failing to list a milk allergen on its label.  The problem was discovered during a label review.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm595459.htm
Kanan Enterprises Conducts Voluntary Recall of Southern Grove Unsalted Almond Due to Undeclared Wheat and Soy
For Immediate Release
February 2, 2018
Contact
Consumers  1-800-860-5464

Retailer Recalls Yogurt for Potential Glass Contamination

Meijer is recalling of their Greek and Low-fat yogurt as a precautionary measure due to the potential risk of a small glass particles after customer returned a yogurt cup containing two small pieces of glass.  "Upon investigation at the retailer’s manufacturing facility, there may have been a possible risk of contamination."

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm596050.htm
Meijer Recalls Select Meijer Greek and Low Fat Yogurt Products
For Immediate Release
February 8, 2018

Raw Ground Turkey Pet Food Recalled for Salmonella Contamination

A Minnesota Pet Food Company, Raw for Paws, is recalling its Ground Turkey Pet Food after two reported illnesses and  "testing by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) revealed the presence of Salmonella in some packages of Turkey Pet Food."

Raw ground turkey AND Salmonella...is this surprising?....wouldn't one think that there may be some Salmonella present?.  Tried to determine if this product was HPP processed, but the company website is down.    The company does have safe handling instructions, but of course does not include cooking.




https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm596043.htm
Raws For Paws Recalls Turkey Pet Food Because of Possible Salmonella Health Risk
For Immediate Release
February 8, 2018

Beefy Munchies Dog Treats Recalled After Salmonella Positive Test

A California Pet Food company, Smokehouse Pet Products, Inc. "is recalling 4-oz bags of dog treats labeled as “Beefy Munchies,” because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella."   The issue was found through routine sampling by the Colorado Department of Agriculture which resulted in a Salmonella positive sample.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm596038.htm
Smokehouse Pet Products Inc Recalls Limited Lots of “Beefy Munchies” Sold Regionally Because of Possible Salmonella Contamination
For Immediate Release
February 8, 2018

A CO Eatery Responsible for 33 Cases of Salmonella Infection

A Denver CO Mexican Eatery has been identified as the source of a Salmonella outbreak that sickened 33 and one death.  One of the ill was an employee.  The outbreak occurred back in November

As part of the investigation, a facility inspection was conducted on November 22, 2017.  "Health department officials found four “critical” violations: cross-contamination, improper or lack of hand washing, improper hot-holding of foods, improper cooling of foods and lack of hot water at a hand sink."  The food inspector recommended that “food safety training is strongly recommended.”   Follow-up visits were conducted in November and December to determine whether their recommendations were followed.  "Follow-up inspections, however, found there were “continued problems” with cross-contamination, improper washing of the hands, improper hot-holding of foods, improper cooling of foods, and a lack of hot water at a hand sink."

At what point does one shut down a facility?

Denver Ch 7 ABC
https://www.thedenverchannel.com/lifestyle/health/one-dead-33-others-sickened-after-salmonella-outbreak-at-aurora-restaurant-health-department-says?page=2
One dead, 33 others sickened after salmonella outbreak at Aurora restaurant, health department says
By: Oscar Contreras
Posted: 12:09 AM, Feb 9, 2018
Updated: 12:09 AM, Feb 9, 2018

Tuesday, February 6, 2018

Ozone as a Sanitizing Agent - Applications and Limitations

There have been many questions on the use of ozone in food operations, specifically fruit.  An article in Growing Produce provides a good synopsis of the advantages and limitations of ozone as a sanitize.   In summary, ozone is not a magic bullet and does not provide tremendous results in fresh produce packing.  In the author's opinion, "the most straightforward and beneficial use of ozone in fruit handling and packing is as a terminal rinse step and as the post-ultrafiltration treatment of re-circulated water in postharvest wash and fluming systems".   "Another commonly beneficial application is cold storage or forced-air treatment with gaseous ozone or room fogging."  

One issue is that some product are more susceptible to the ozone that results in damage compared to the microbes.  Ozone is a strong oxidizer, but gets utilized quickly.    Notice that in the two suggested applications, water and air treatment, are essentially applications that do not come in direct contact with the food.

Growing Produce
http://www.growingproduce.com/fruits/food-safety-ozone/
Food Safety: Once More Into the Ozone
By Trevor Suslow|February 3, 2018

Friday, February 2, 2018

This Week in Mislabeled Product - Week Ending 2/2/18

Milk Missing on Beef Jerky Label - A Mass. establishment, is recalling approximately 1,391 pounds of beef jerky products due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen  - the products contain milk which is not declared on the product label. The problem was discovered by FSIS personnel during routine verification activities.  Likely issue - Inadequate label approval process

Kimchi Product Recalled After Allergenic Reaction to Shellfish - JFC International Inc. of Los Angeles, CA is voluntarily recalling a Kimchi Hot Pot Soup Base because it was found to contain undeclared Crustacean Shellfish (Shrimp, Crab).  The recall was initiated after JFC was notified of an allergic reaction by a consumer who consumed this product. Likely issue - cross contamination due to poor sanitation, or an ingredient issue

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-007-2018-release
Whip City Jerky, LLC Recalls Beef Jerky Products Due to Misbranding and an Undeclared Allergen

Salmonella Outbreak Strain in French Baby Milk Facility For Over a Decade

Researchers have determined that the strain of Salmonella found in an European outbreak linked to baby milk product is the same that caused an outbreak in 2005 from the same facility.  The facility, which is owned by Lactalis since 2006, was "closed in December after it emerged that contamination had started in one [of two] of its drying towers".  Of course the question is...has this milk caused any other illnesses over the past decade.

For a strain of Salmonella to persist in a facility for over a decade is not unusual, and points to the difficulty of eradicating an entrenched environmental contaminate like Salmonella.  In a news article, it was stated that the current outbreak began after construction was conducted.  "It is thought that the disassembly of partitions and repair of floors in the building at the beginning of 2017, may have led to the accidental release of the bacteria, despite controls put in place to contain the spaces under construction."  And this type of event may provide the organism to reemerge from a subterranean location.  If they occurred, probably not at a sufficient level to raise concern.

I think it is also important to point out that the company had been doing testing.  The facility "conducted more than 16,000 analyzes on finished products, all of which proved to be compliant."  This points to the limitations of testing when one is looking for small levels of contamination.

BBC News
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-42908706
Lactalis baby milk scare in France: Salmonella taint 'began in 2005'
1 February 2018

Thursday, February 1, 2018

CDC MMWR - Pet Rats Source of Seoul Virus (a Type of Hantavirus) - 2017

Considering a new pet rat?  Well, as part of the assessment, you may need to consider Seoul virus.  A report in MMWR reviews a 2017 outbreak of Seoul virus that had been linked to pet Norway rats.  In addition to two individuals who became ill and 183 who were serum positive,   "the investigation identified 31 facilities in 11 states with human and/or rat Seoul virus infections; six facilities also reported exchanging rats with Canadian ratteries."

Seoul virus is a type of hantavirus that causes symptoms ranging from mild influenza-like illness to severe disease with kidney failure and even death.  Norway rats are an asymptomatic carriers for the virus and transmit this virus to humans through contact with contaminated rat urine or droppings, or inhalation of virus particles in dust from contaminated bedding.  This is the first known case of pet rats being the source for human infection.

Norway rats, also known as brown rats, are considered a pest for food operations and can be the source of a number of different pathogens.  With a high birth rate and a diet that can consist of most anything, rat issues in a food facility can be an issue, being very difficult to eradicate once the rodents become established.  So the thought of owning a rat, is difficult for many..  And now, if this Seoul virus is not enough to make you think twice, just have to watch Willard.

CDC MMWR
https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/67/wr/mm6704a5.htm?s_cid=mm6704a5_e
Outbreak of Seoul Virus Among Rats and Rat Owners — United States and Canada, 2017