Canada - Firm Recalls Raw Chicken Nuggets Linked to Salmonella Outbreak

A Canadian firm is recalling raw chicken nuggets after the product was linked to 30 cases of Salmonella in 4 different Canadian provinces.  Product had tested positive for the strain of Salmonella.

The issue with breaded products such as this may be that they appear to be fully cooked..  People may heat them but may not be diligent in getting product to the required temperature of 165ºF (74ºC) to provide sufficient lethality. 

Products like this are often par-cooked through frying in order to set the coating, but the heating time is short, and will not provide sufficient heat to get the internal temperature to a sufficient temperature to kill pathogens such as Salmonella.   Because the product is partially cooked, it can then appear to be fully cooked.  There have been numerous recalls for these types of products because of this same reason.

MarketsInsider
http://markets.businessinsider.com/news/stocks/public-health-notice-outbreak-of-salmonella-infections-linked-to-poultry-including-frozen-raw-breaded-chicken-products-1019778225
Public Health Notice - Outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to poultry, including frozen raw breaded chicken products
PRESS RELEASE PR Newswire
Mar. 28, 2018, 08:25 PM

Canned Chicken Recalled After Two Complaints on Foreign Objects - Hard Plastic

A Madelia, Minn. establishment, is recalling approximately 96,384 pounds of canned chicken products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically hard plastic.  According to the report, "The thermally processed, commercially sterile canned chunk chicken breast items were produced on Nov. 28 and Nov. 29, 2017. The problem was discovered on March 27, 2018 after the firm received two consumer complaints regarding extraneous material contamination."

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-026-2018-release
Tony Downs Food Company, Inc. Recalls Chicken Products due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination 
Class I Recall 
026-2018 
Health Risk: High 
Mar 28, 2018 

NY Company Recalls Coconut After Notification by Distributor Regarding Potential Salmonella Contamination

Healthy Nut Factory of Bayside, NY is recalling 7 oz. Pouches of Organic Coconut Smiles because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.  The recall was initiated after we were notified by the distributor that product with expiration date 6/1/2018 purchased on 8/21/2018 might contain Salmonella. The company states that they have ceased production and distribution of the product as FDA and the company continue their investigation as to what caused the problem.  This recall is linked to the Salmonella outbreak associated with dried coconut initially posted in March.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm603242.htm
Health Nut Factory Recalls Organic Coconut Smiles Because Of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
March 29, 2018

Two Raw Pet Food Companies Recall Products.....Again

Two more raw pet food recalls were announced after both items tested positive for pathogens.  This is not the first time for either company, Darwin's,  and Blue Ridge.

• Blue Ridge Beef of Eatonton, GA, is voluntarily recalling lot#GA0131 of BRB Complete raw pet food because of the potential of contamination with Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes.
• This recall was initiated after samples collected and tested by the FDA showed positive for Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes. There has been no consumer or pet illnesses in association with this product.   This product is sold in 2lb chubs.
• Darwin’s Natural Pet Products of Tukwila, Wash., a manufacturer of fresh raw meals for dogs,is recalling a total of four lots of products after testing showed that some of the Chicken and Duck with Organic Vegetables Meals for Dogs may contain Salmonella, and the Turkey with Organic Vegetables Meals for Dogs sample may contain Salmonella and E. coli O128. While the company has not received any reports of illness in pets who consumed the food to date, the owner does not believe there is a low risk to pets and states there are handling instructions.  This product is sold as pillow pack.

Blue Ridge Beef Voluntarily Recalls BRB Complete Raw Pet Food Lot#GA0131 Because of Possible Contamination

For Immediate Release
March 26, 2018

Europe - Frozen Corn May Be Linked to Ongoing Listeria Outbreak

EFSA and ECDC have concluded that frozen corn has been the source of an ongoing Listeria outbreak.  The outbreak has affected 32 people with six deaths and has been ongoing since 2015.

EIN Newsdesk
https://www.einnews.com/pr_news/438245582/frozen-corn-likely-source-of-ongoing-listeria-monocytogenes-outbreak
Frozen corn likely source of ongoing Listeria monocytogenes outbreak
March 23, 2018

Raw Cat Food Recalled for Listeria

A Portland, OR establishment is recalling one lot of its Rad Cat Raw Diet Food Free-Range Chicken and one lot of Free-Range Turkey Recipe because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.   According to the report, "The Company was notified by the FDA and the Ohio Department of Agriculture after several tubs of multiple varieties of Rad Cat Raw Diet were purchased and tested. All samples tested negative for E. Coli and Salmonella but two tested positive for Listeria Monocytogenes."

No bonus points for being free of 2 pathogens when there is still another present.

Radagast Pet Food, Inc. Voluntarily Recalls One Lot of Rad Cat Raw Diet Free-Range Chicken and One Lot of Free-Range Turkey Recipe Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
March 20, 2018

CDC Releases 2017 FoodNet Report

CDC released 2017 report for FoodNet data. FoodNet conducts active, population-based surveillance for laboratory-diagnosed infections caused by Campylobacter, Cryptosporidium, Cyclospora, Listeria, Salmonella, STEC, Shigella, Vibrio, and Yersinia in 10 sites that account for approximately 15% of the U.S. population (an estimated 49 million persons in 2016).

There was a decrease in two Salmonella serotypes [Salmonella Typhimurium and Heidelberg]
and STEC O157 infections. New regulatory requirements that include enhanced testing of poultry products for Salmonella† might have contributed to the decreases. The incidence of STEC O157 infections during 2017 also decreased compared with 2006–2008, which parallels reductions in isolations from ground beef.§ The declines provide supportive evidence that targeted control measures are effective.

There was an increase in illness from other Salmonella strains.  This may be due to non-food sources or more obscure sources such as what we are seeing with kraton.

There was an increased incidences of pathogens for which testing was previously limited might have resulted from the increased use and sensitivity of culture-independent diagnostic tests (CIDTs), which can improve incidence estimates (1). Compared with 2014–2016, the 2017 incidence of infections with Campylobacter, Listeria, non-O157 Shiga toxin–producing Escherichia coli (STEC), Yersinia, Vibrio, and Cyclospora increased.

Preliminary Incidence and Trends of Infections with Pathogens Transmitted Commonly Through Food — Foodborne Diseases Active Surveillance Network, 10 U.S. Sites, 2006–2017
Weekly / March 23, 2018 / 67(11);324–328

This Week in Mislabeled Product - Week Ending 3/23/18

Egg Missing from Cole Slaw Label - Weis Markets today issued a recall for its store-made Weis Quality Cole Slaw (one pound container) for failing to list egg as an allergen on its label. This item was made in the seafood department.  [Incorrect addition of ingredients into label printer].

Labels Incorrect for 2 Years- Piggie Park Enterprises Inc. is recalling Gourmet Carolina Gold Honey Sauce manufactured in the past two years (March 11, 2016 thru March 11, 2018), because it contains undeclared wheat and soy.
The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the powdered honey used in making the Gourmet Carolina Gold Honey Sauce contains wheat and soy, and it was not properly disclosed on the ingredients labels. The company is also recalling Maurice’s Southern Gold BBQ Sauce Honey manufactured in the past two years (March 11, 2016 thru March 11, 2018), because it contains undeclared wheat and soy.   [Labels made incorrectly and mistake not caught for over two years].

Application of Wrong Label at End of Shift - Vietti Foods is recalling approximately 200 cases of 15 oz cans of Southgate Hot Dog Chili Sauce,due to mislabeling because some of the cans may contain Dumplings with Chicken instead of Hot Dog Chili Sauce, thus missing allergens. The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the cans labeled as Southgate Hot Dog Sauce contain Chicken and Dumplings that have wheat and egg which are allergens not listed on the label. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a mislabeling of cans at the end of a production run and has not affected any other product.  [Production issue in that proper label was not applied - sounds like a good spot for an allergen preventive control].

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm602229.htm
Weis Markets Issues an Allergy Alert For Weis Quality Store-Made Cole Slaw Sold in 8 Stores Due to Undeclared Egg Allergen
For Immediate Release
March 21, 2018

Dog Treats Recalled Due to Elevated Beef Thyroid Hormone

The J.M. Smucker Company is recalling specific lots of two varieties of Milo’s Kitchen® dog treats, distributed nationally, because the products potentially contain elevated levels of beef thyroid hormone.  The notice does not reveal how the issue occurred or how it was discovered.

According to the recall notice, "Dogs consuming high levels of beef thyroid hormone may exhibit symptoms such as increased thirst and urination, weight loss, increased heart rate and restlessness. These symptoms may resolve when the consumption of these levels is discontinued. However, with prolonged consumption these symptoms may increase in severity and may include vomiting, diarrhea, and rapid or labored breathing. Should these symptoms occur, we recommend pet owners contact their veterinarian immediately."

Limited Production of Two Varieties of Milo’s Kitchen® Dog Treats Voluntarily Recalled Due to Potentially Elevated Levels of Thyroid Hormone
For Immediate Release
March 22, 2018

NC Firm Recalls Mini Eclairs After Positive Listeria Sample

A NC establishment is issuing a voluntary recall of selected mini eclair products that were made over a 5 day period (March 5-9, 2018) because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes,  "The recall was a result of a routine sampling program by the company which revealed that finished product ran on the same line contained the bacteria. The company did not release any product that tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes and as a precautionary measure is recalling all product ran on the line during that production week."  No illnesses have been reported.

Poppies International, Inc. Recalls Delizza Belgian Custard Cream Mini Eclairs 30 Count, Due to Potential Health Risks
For Immediate Release
March 23, 2018

Organic Coconut Flour Recalled after Testing Reveals Positive Test Result

King Arthur Flour issued a voluntary recall for Organic Coconut Flour (16 oz.) after testing revealed the presence of Salmonella in 1 pouch of Organic Coconut Flour (16 oz.).

It is not stated if this recall is related to the ongoing investigation of dried coconut that has been linked to a Salmonella outbreak, or whether testing was done as a result of that FDA news release.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm602489.htm
King Arthur Flour Company, Inc. Voluntarily Recalls Organic Coconut Flour (16 Oz.) Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
March 23, 2018

Salmonella Outbreak Associated with Dried Coconut

The CDC reports that 13 people from 8 different states have become infected from Salmonella from dried coconut.  The company, Vitamin Cottage Natural Food Market has recalled dried coconut in retail size (10 oz) and foodservice (25lb bags).

https://www.fda.gov/Food/RecallsOutbreaksEmergencies/Outbreaks/ucm602212.htm
FDA Investigates Salmonella Typhimurium Outbreak Linked to Dried Coconut
March 21, 2018

Deli Items Recalled by WA Retail Stores Due to Potential Salmonella in Onions

In cooperation with the Taylor Farms recall of diced yellow onions that may be contaminated with Salmonella, 12 Haggen stores are voluntarily recalling deli products that contain raw Taylor Farms brand diced yellow onions

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm601753.htm
Twelve Haggen Stores Voluntarily Recall Select Deli Products in Cooperation with Taylor Farms’ Onion Recall Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination
For Immediate Release
March 17, 2018

Oregon Food Bank Recalls Two Additional Items That Were Shipped with Recalled Chia Seeds

The Oregon Food Bank is recalling pumpkin seed and nutritional yeast.  This product was on the same shipment as chia seed that was recalled last week.  That product was recalled due to the presence of mice poop. 

The reason listed for these product was 'potential Listeria'.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm601536.htm
Oregon Food Bank Voluntarily Recalls Pumpkin Seeds Because Of Possible Contamination By Listeria Species
For Immediate Release
March 17, 2018

Another Recall of Raw Beef Due to Contaminated Marinade Seasoning Mix

A second raw beef recall was issued because potentially contaminated Au Jus seasoning. SMI Holdings, Inc., doing business as Stampede Meat, Inc., a Bridgeview, Ill. establishment, is recalling approximately 484,800 pounds of beef products that may be contaminated with Salmonella. The raw beef products incorporated a non-meat ingredient, Au Jus Seasoning, which tested positive for the presence of Salmonella. Standard Meats, a TX established also recalled injected raw beef.


https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-023-2018-release
SMI Holdings, Inc Recalls Beef Products Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination
Class I Recall 

023-2018
Health Risk: High 

Mar 16, 2018

This Week in Mislabeled Products - Week Ending 3/16/18

Mislabeled Cinnamon Rolls - A Seattle, WA firm is recalling 106 units of Gourmet Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls because it may contain undeclared Egg.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the some of the Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake units, which contain egg, were mislabeled as Gourmet Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls. The Gourmet Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls labels do not list Egg in the label. [Labeling mistake]

Potential Allergen Carry-over Issue in Nuts A MN  is voluntarily recalling various products roasted in their facility and sold in consumer packaging that may contain undeclared peanuts and various tree nuts.  The recall was initiated after the potential for allergen cross-contact was identified during an inspection by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. The issue was caused by a breakdown in the company's production scheduling processes.  Basically, they had carryover from product to product for every nut specific allergen - Peanuts, Almonds, Brazil Nuts, Cashews, Filberts, Macadamia Nuts, Pecans, Pistachios. [Scheduling and allergen clean out between products]

Wrong Sauce Packet - A NY retailer is recalling their Thai Sweet Chili Sauce Cup 1.5 oz. (UPC7-66630-98023) with a best-by of 7/4/18 or 7/5/18 because the product may contain undeclared egg.   The recall was initiated because an employee in one store discovered that the incorrect sauce had been packaged and labeled incorrectly. [Incorrect addition of sauce packet]

Wrong Label on Alka-Seltzer - Bayer is voluntarily recalling select Alka-Seltzer Plus® packages  because the ingredients on the front sticker may not match the actual product in the carton.

Wrong Cookies in the Cookie Bag - Chris’s Cookies has recalled one lot of its Trader Joe’s Chocolate Chip Cookie 12 Oz (340g) Bags (Barcode#: 0068 0752) after a report that Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies were discovered in a Chocolate Chip Cookie Bag, and therefore the product may contain undeclared peanuts.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that a bag labeled as Trader Joe’s Chocolate Chip Cookies instead contained Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies. While there is a warning statement on the label that the product may contain traces of peanuts, “peanuts” is not listed as an ingredient.  [Wrong bags?]

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm600725.htm
Schwartz Brothers Bakery Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Egg in Gourmet Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
For Immediate Release
March 12, 2018

Jury Verdict in Foster Farms Salmonella Case Awards Plaintiff, Recognizes Fault on Family

A jury verdict of $6.5 million in favor of a young boy who suffered brain injury due to Salmonella infection that was a part of the 2014 Foster Farms Salmonella outbreak.

Of this total of $6.5 million, only a 30% portion was assigned to Foster Farms.  "The jury attributed 30 percent of the fault to Foster Farms and 70 percent to family members for their preparation of the chicken. The net verdict for the family was $1.95 million".

While Salmonella can be naturally present on poultry, the case against Foster Farms was that they did not do a good enough job in controlling Salmonella.  In the outbreak, the issue was high levels of Salmonella in the chicken parts processing area.

Meat and Poultry
http://www.meatpoultry.com/articles/news_home/Food_Safety/2018/03/Court_says_Foster_Farms_respon.aspx?ID=%7B69C9A99A-E7DF-4043-AB64-9B7223E8E632%7D
Court says Foster Farms responsible in Salmonella case
March 12, 2018 - by MEAT+POULTRY Staff

Study Analyses Consumer Decisions Involving Food Waste

A research report on consumer food waste drivers.  Food waste is often portrayed as an issue which can easily be corrected, but from the consumer's perspective, what decisions go into throwing out food?  "Some food waste analyses seem to treat household food waste as a “mistake” or careless decision; however, consumer decisions to waste also likely reflect trade-offs and economic incentives."  This study finds that "food waste is a function of consumers’ demographic characteristics, and that decisions to discard food vary with contextual factors."

In the report, some interesting points are made.

"In the case of meal leftovers, respondents were generally less likely to waste the leftovers when the meal cost was high, when there were leftovers for a whole meal, when there were no future meal plans, and when the meal was prepared at home."

"With milk, the decision to waste was heavily impacted by food safety considerations as reflected in the smell of the product. Not surprisingly, milk that smelled slightly sour was more likely to be thrown out than milk that smelled fine—signaling individuals’ aversion to consuming a product they believe could make them or their family members ill (Graham-Rowe, Jessop, and Sparks 2014; Neff, Spiker, and Truant 2015). However, a subset of consumers opted to throw out the milk even when it smelled fine. This may be due to the expiration date information given in the vignette. In all scenarios, the milk was one day past its expiration, which may have caused some consumers to throw it out regardless of sensory properties."

"[We] found that younger individuals (18–44 years) were more likely to waste food than older consumers. Interestingly, this group was more likely to waste in contexts where a decision to waste was less intuitive—when the meal was higher-priced and when the milk smelled fine."

 "[We] find that consumer segments respond differently to different decision attributes. As educational campaigns are identified as a critical solution in reducing food waste (Rethink Food Waste through Economics and Data 2016), understanding the heterogeneity in waste behaviors can enable policymakers or other advocacy groups to better target educational efforts to the households most susceptible for high levels of food waste."

One prominent factor is risk aversion regarding food safety.  Rightfully so.  People should not be made to feel they use food that is at a point where they feel the food is spoiled.  Much focus has gone into what manufacturers do to extend the life of the product, rather then teaching people to be more thoughtful in using products before they get to the point where a decision has to be made.

PhysOrg
https://phys.org/news/2018-03-food-safe-decision.html#jC
Wasting food may be safe, reasonable decision for some, study says
March 15, 2018 by Brian Wallheimer, Purdue University

Canada - Salmonella Outbreak Associated with Raw Breaded Chicken

The Canadian Public Health Agency announced that there have been 30 cases of Salmonella Enteritidis infection and this is being linked to raw breaded chicken breasts.  At this point, the brand name of the product has not been released.

CISION
https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/public-health-notice---outbreak-of-salmonella-infections-linked-to-poultry-including-frozen-raw-breaded-chicken-products-677002393.html
Public Health Notice - Outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to poultry, including frozen raw breaded chicken products   
News provided by Public Health Agency of Canada
Mar 15, 2018, 16:55 ET

Raw Meat Recalled After Injected Spice Marinade Determined to Contain Salmonella

Standard Meat Company, a Saginaw, Texas establishment, is recalling up to 53,154 pounds of raw beef products that may be contaminated with Salmonella,  "The raw beef products incorporated a non-meat ingredient, Au Jus Seasoning, that was found positive for the presence of Salmonella.  The problem was discovered when Standard Meat Company was notified by their supplier, who shipped the seasoning, of a voluntary seasoning recall based on Salmonella contamination. Standard Meat Company uses this seasoning product to formulate marinade that is injected into the top sirloin steaks."

So raw beef is being recalled because the spice used had Salmonella?  Seems odd since beef may naturally have Salmonella, but a recall can be justified.  1) The spice is injected into the sirloin steaks which would put Salmonella, if present in the spice, into the interior of the meat, and as we know, people tend to think they can cook these sirloin steaks on the rare side.  2)  The meat is sold frozen, and this increases the likelihood that a person will under cook it, especially when they insufficiently thaw the meat or don't thaw it at all.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-022-2018-release
Standard Meat Company Recalls Beef Products Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination 
Class I Recall 
022-2018 
Health Risk: High 
Mar 15, 2018 

Jalapeno Cheddar Smoked Sausage Recalled Due to Three Complaints for Green Hard Plastic Pieces

Johnsonville, LLC, a Sheboygan Falls, Wis. establishment, is recalling approximately 109,603 pounds of smoked pork sausage products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials. The problem was discovered after the firm received three consumer complaints for pieces of hard, green plastic identified in the sausage product.  The recall is limited to one date code of the “JALAPEÑO CHEDDAR Smoked Sausage”.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-021-2018-release
Johnsonville, LLC Recalls Smoked Pork Sausage Products due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Class I Recall
021-2018
Health Risk: High
Mar 15, 2018

FDA Issues Warning for Cheese Sold at Farmers' Market Due to Listeria Potential

NY Ag issued a warning about raw goat milk cheese for potential Listeria contamination.  "A routine sample of the cheese, taken by an inspector from the Division of Milk Control and Dairy Services on February 20, 2018, was subsequently tested by the New York State Food Laboratory and discovered to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. On February 23, 2018, the manufacturer was notified of a preliminary positive test result and voluntarily recalled the product from all their customers. Test results were confirmed on March 2, 2018. The cheese will be destroyed by the manufacturer."  To date, there have been no reported illnesses.

This is not the first case of Listeria-in-cheese issue we have seen involving a small processor.  NY has had several recalls and an associated outbreak over the past year or so.  These cases should not incriminate all small cheese makers, however a trend of issues can be a drag on the entire industry sector.  Therefore it behooves the industry to rise above the regulations rather then bemoan them.  We need to do more than applaud small business, but recognize that there is risk and with that, the need for mitigation strategies, independent of the size of company.  This includes strict sanitation practices and verification including monitoring.  The excuse for inaction that these are 'just a small local producers' does no good when we find a owner with the best of intentions suddenly out of business, in court, with product responsible for someone's illness.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm600681.htm
Consumer Alert:  Listeria  Contamination In Maiden’s Creamery Wild Meadow Raw Goat Milk Cheese
For Immediate Release
March 12, 2018

Oregon Food Bank Recalls Chia Seeds After Rodent Droppings Discovered in Product

Oregon Food Bank of Portland is recalling chia seeds after it was discovered that there is the presence of rodent droppings.  "The issue was discovered through investigation of a customer complaint regarding foreign material. Product which was still in inventory at Oregon Food Bank was determined to contain rodent droppings. Subsequent investigation indicates the chia seeds were observed to have evidence of rodent activity by the donor, Live Local Organic of Milwaukie, Oregon. The recall was initiated after it was determined all chia seeds received in this donation might be at risk."

Nasty. 

Chia seeds, used as a thickening agent and added as a nutritional benefit to food, looks an awful lot like mouse dropping. although a bit smaller.  (about 2mm for Chia vs up to 5mm for MD).

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm600756.htm
Oregon Food Bank Issues Alert on Foreign Material in Chia Seeds
For Immediate Release
March 12, 2018

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

Limited Production Run Mislabeled  - Ciolo Foods of Lafayette, CO has voluntarily recalled it’s 7-ounce containers of “Nut-Free Basil Pesto” because they contain undeclared tree nuts (Pine Nuts and Walnuts). The recall was initiated after discovery that some of this limited run of product was mislabeled. No other lots were affected by this issue. [Production labeling issue]

Contract Manufacturer Error - IDLife, LLC of Frisco, TX is voluntarily recalling its line of Protein Bars (Lot #s PR33471, PR31771, & PR31971), Snack Bars (Lot #s SN32071 & SN30771), and Kids Bars (Lot #s A3617-1 & 03047-1), because they may contain undeclared allergens. As part of its quality control review process, IDLife discovered that the lots of Protein Bars referenced above may contain undisclosed almonds, the lots of Snack Bars referenced above may contain undisclosed peanuts, and the lots of Kids Bars may contain undisclosed almonds and coconut oil. The recall was initiated after IDLife’s quality control team discovered a problem at the Company’s contract manufacturer for its bars. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the contract manufacturer’s quality control procedures.

Reaction to Improperly Listed Allergen - Kodiak Cakes of Park City, UT is recalling all lots and codes of Kodiak Cakes Blueberry Chia Energy Waffles 10.72 oz that were on shelf prior to March 5, 2018 because they contain undeclared milk. The improper labeling was discovered when a consumer notified Kodiak Cakes that a family member had a reaction to the product and that “milk” was not included in the allergen statement. While the specific ingredient “whey” is included in the ingredient declaration, the presence of milk is not identified in the ingredient list or declared in the allergen “contains” statement. [Label design issue]

Label Missing Allergens - Weis Markets today announced it has expanded its recall for its store-made Weis Quality Dried Beef Party Rye dip for failing to list egg and milk allergens on its label. The issue was discovered during a routine inspection. [Label design issue]

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm600120.htm
Ciolo Foods Issues Allergy Alert for Undeclared Tree Nuts in "Ciolo Nut-Free Basil"
For Immediate Release
March 7, 2018

Chicken Salad Salmonella Outbreak Cases Increases to 170

A Salmonella outbreak associated with chicken salad first announced in February, now has 170 cases according to the CDC news release.  This is an increase of 105 cases.  The most recent case began on February 18, so may be unlikely there are many more cases.

CDC Outbreak News Release
https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/typhimurium-02-18/index.html
Multistate Outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium Linked to Chicken Salad

Recall Expanded After FDA Finds Additional Salmonella in Supplied Material

A California pet treat manufacturer is expanding their recall for products due to Salmonella.  The initial recall, posted in February, was for one one of product.  "Redbarn is expanding this recall to include all products manufactured from the raw material supplier of the first recalled product. We came to this decision after being notified that the FDA tested a different lot of raw material from this supplier at Redbarn and it tested positive for Salmonella."

Supplier control is more than providing a COA that product is clean, or even tests of the product.  It is a program that provides sufficient confidence in the supplier's control of safety for the purchased materials.  It encompasses a number of facets depending on the risk associated with that material, including an evaluation of that suppliers food safety systems (auditing, environmental monitoring, process control, etc)   When FDA finds pathogen positive product in another lot of supplier product, this indicates the downstream customer did not have adequate systems in place to evaluate their supplier's systems.  Testing is part of the system, but with low contamination levels, the likelihood of discovery is low.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm600124.htm
Redbarn Pet Products Expands Voluntary Recall of Dog Chews
For Immediate Release
March 6, 2018

Two, Check That, Three More Raw Pet Food Recalls, Will This Become a Weekly Thing?

Updated 3/7/18 - Three more 'raw' pet food recalls were announced by FDA.  This is becoming a series of recalls related to raw pet foods.

One was kitten food, produced by Blue Ridge Beef of Eatonton, GA, that contained both Salmonella and Listeria.  "This recall was initiated after the FDA received a complaint of two kitten deaths, including one death which was confirmed to be caused by Salmonella septicemia. Subsequent testing by the FDA of Kitten Grind Lot#GA1102 revealed the presence of Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes."  This product was a fresh refrigerated chub pack.  On the company website is stated: "Protecting against bacteria, all of our facilities Utilize stainless steel equipment that is cleaned and sterilized between each product run and at the end of each day".   But no validated kill step.

Steve’s Real Food , a Salt Lake City, Utah establishment, is recalling one lot of 5lb Raw Frozen Dog Food Turkey Canine Recipe due to Salmonella.  "This recall is being initiated after the firm was notified by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture that a retail sample was collected and tested positive for Salmonella."

"Raw Basics, LLC. of Pleasant Prairie, WI is recalling 540lb of 5lb Pork-Bison Boxes because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella....... This recall is being issued after our firm was notified by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture of the positive Salmonella finding."

This is becoming a series of recalls for raw pet food.  This past week, there were recalls for frozen chubs and two for freeze dried pet food.  Others this year: 1 and 2.   One would guess that FDA or the state laboratories could sample and test any of the raw products and find a positive for Salmonella, Listeria, Campylobacter, or even E. coli.  It is also likely that any of the 'raw' pet foods has the risk of infection for the pet or its owner.  It just seems crazy that regulatory effort has to be expended because people demand raw pet food.  But once people become ill from foodborne illness due to raw pet food, whether that be through direct contact with the food, direct contact with the sick pet, or direct contact with the sick pet's  fecal matter or vomit, it likely becomes a public concern.

Will this become a weekly thing to see raw pet food recalls?  Easily if sampling is done.
For those who make raw pet foods, it is time to lace it up and prepare the recall procedures.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm599261.htm
Blue Ridge Beef Recalls Kitten Grind Raw Pet Food Lot#GA1102 Because of Possible Contamination
For Immediate Release
March 1, 2018

CA Establishment Recalls RTE Processed Meat Products After Positive Listeria Test by CFIA

A California establishment is recalling close to 4,000 lbs of RTE processed meat products for potential Listeria contamination after product was tested and found to be positive by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.  There have been no reported illnesses.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-018-2018-release
Olli Salumeria Americana Firm Recalls Ready-To-Eat Meat Products due to Possible Listeria Contamination
Class I Recall 

018-2018
Health Risk: High 

Mar 2, 2018

Oregon Meat Processor Recalling Ground Meat for Potential E. coli Contamination

A Clackamas, Ore. establishment, Interstate Meat Distributors, Inc.,  is recalling approximately 14,806 pounds of ground beef and pork products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7. "The problem was discovered when the firm notified FSIS Inspection Program Personnel (IPP) that the firm’s sample of beef trim was positive for E. coli O157:H7 based on results by their third party lab. "

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-019-2018-release
Interstate Meat Distributors, Inc., Recalls Ground Beef and Pork Products due to Possible E. Coli O157:H7 Contamination
Class I Recall 

019-2018
Health Risk: High 

Mar 3, 2018

South Africa - Meat Product Linked to Large Listeria Outbreak, 180 Deaths

Processed meat has been identified in South Africa's large Listeria outbreak.   There have been 180 fatalities and 948 reported cases.  The product polony, which is essentially bologna in South Africa, was produced by Enterprise Foods, a division of Tiger Brands.  Enterprise Foods is pulling their products from teh retail shelf as well as Rainbow Chicken who also had a product test positive.  People have been asked to return meat to store for refund and to thoroughly clean their refrigerators.

It is amazing it took as long as it did considering the number of cases that occurred since January.  

According to a quote in one news report, it appears the company had been testing product. "Muzi Kheswa of Scottsville said he couldn’t understand how the listeria got past quality control for such a long time, adding: “From my knowledge, all batches of food are supposed to be tested before being put onto the market. If that was done surely a contaminated batch would be positive for listeria and not sold to the public.”

Reuters
https://af.reuters.com/article/commodities07News/idAFL5N1QM0Q3
UPDATE 1-South Africa traces deadly listeria to processed meat, issues recall
March 4, 2018 / 11:36 AM
Reuters Staf
* Outbreak killed 180 people since January 2017
* Source identified as brand of processed cold meat
* Products recalled, consumers told to avoid ready-to-eat meat (Adds RCL comment)
By James Macharia

This Week in Mislabeled Product - Week Ending March 2, 2018

Consumer Complaint For Milk Issue - a Waelder, Texas establishment is recalling approximately 4,050 pounds of chicken sausage products due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen, milk, which is not declared on the product label.  The problem was discovered when the firm received a customer complaint.

Incorrect Design - The Double Cola Company is recalling approximately 200 cases of its Cherry SKI product because they are incorrectly labeled. Only the Cherry SKI products with the new design are being recalled, which were delivered to the southern Illinois, Eva

Inspectors Find Labels Missing Alergens - A Lititz, Pa. establishment is recalling approximately 1,925 pounds of turkey sausage products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens - wheat and soy, known allergens, which are not declared on the product label. The problem was discovered by FSIS inspection personnel during routine inspection activities.

Peanut Allergen Found by Government Lab - LOTTE Int’l America Corp. located in Los Angeles, CA is recalling its 1.48-ounce packages of "Kancho Choco Biscuit" manufactured by LOTTE Confectionery Co. Ltd. Korea because of findings of small amounts of peanut in the product and no peanut declaration.  LOTTE Int’l America Corp discovered this fact through lab test result done by CFIA and notified manufacturer and all customers right away about this discovery.  [Cross contamination issue or ingredient issue]

Gnocchi Label Misses Dairy - 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. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product.  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 and approval error]

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-016-2018-release
J Bar B Foods Recalls Chicken Sausage Products due to Misbranding and an Undeclared Allergen

MMWR - 2017 Trichinellosis Outbreak Linked to Raw Pork From Home-Raised Swine

CDC's MMWR covers a 2017 trichinellosis outbreak where ten confirmed and two probable cases of trichinellosis occurred after eating raw pork from home-raised swine.  While swine were the primary source of cases pre-1950's, most cases today are related to wild game, specifically bear meat.  This outbreak linked to home-raised swine

According to the report, "The caretaker of the source farm could not be reached, but the event host who owns the farm reported that the caretaker purchased the pig from a private farm at age 5 weeks, raised it in an outdoor, fenced pen, and slaughtered it with the farm owner at age 2.5 years. The farm owner stated there are several pigs being raised on the farm, and the swine are only given commercial feed and never cooked or uncooked meat, offal, or garbage. The farm owner denied any rodent infestation issues on the farm but did state that small animals such as chicks had occasionally gotten into the fenced pen and been eaten by the pigs, indicating that small mammals infected with Trichinella could have entered the pen and been consumed by the swine."


Morbidity and Mortality Weekly
https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/67/wr/mm6708a3.htm?s_cid=mm6708a3_e
Trichinellosis Outbreak Linked to Consumption of Privately Raised Raw Boar Meat — California, 2017
Weekly / March 2, 2018 / 67(8);247–249

Frozen Chubs of Dog Food Recalled for Listeria

Northwest Naturals of Portland, Oregon is recalling 5lb frozen Chicken and Salmon pet food chubs because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes after testing done on one chub of product found Listeria.

According to the report. "The company was notified on 2-21-2018 by FDA and the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). MDARD bought 1 chub at a Michigan specialty pet store and tested the sample which was negative for e coli, salmonella, and positive for Listeria moncytogenes. The company tests all batches of products for all pathogens in a positive release program before releasing for shipping. The company tests over 600 batches of product per week."

According to the company's website, they process the chubs with HPP (high pressure processing), although they state that it is done for poultry. (But what about the other meat varieties?)  So was the high pressure processing insufficient to eliminate the Listeria?

"Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) can affect animals eating the product. There is the possibility of risk to humans from handling product that is positive for Listeria monocytogenes especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after and if they have made contact with the product or any surfaces exposed to the product."
https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm598158.htm
Updated - Northwest Naturals Voluntarily Recalls 5lb Frozen Chicken and Salmon Pet Food Chubs Because of Possible Listeria Monocytogenes Health Risk
For Immediate Release
February 27, 2018