ERS Publishes Report on Recall Trends from 2004 to 2014

The USDA Economic Resource Service published their report, Trends in Food Recalls 2004-13,that summarizes the reasons for recalls from 2004 to 2013.

A few of the conclusions:

The number of food recalls has increased each year.  While the risk of food has [most probably] NOT increased, the number of recalls has increased, according to the report, due to:

• An increasingly complex food supply system
• Technology improvements in health risk detection,
• Increased regulatory oversight and enforcement, and the passing of two major food policy laws (FALCPA and FSMA)

       But these also need to be considered as primary drivers for increased recalls:

• Increased testing by companies 
• Increased testing by state laboratories (this may be considered part of increased regulatory oversight]
• A lower tolerance for issues by consumers  - primarily foreign materials
• The increased willingness of companies to recall food if an ingredient was recalled, even though that company's process would have eliminated the hazard

"The second major insight from the analysis is the significant increase in the number of recalls due to undeclared allergens. From 2004 through 2013, undeclared allergens were a leading cause of food recalls, accounting for 27.4 percent of all recall events."

There is a lot of information in the report, but I find that summaries are not as useful as the more detailed information for the particular industries.  These tables showing total number for the decade may be misleading because so much has changed during that time, and continues to change after that time. 

Meth in a Mango Shipment - Was That Listed in the Hazard Analysis?

US Customs confiscated 270 of meth from a tractor trailer loaded with mangoes that were crossing into the US.  Hopefully don't get to a point when we need to consider illicit chemicals such as meth in our incoming produce shipment,  but it does make you wonder about the impact of some of that substance leaking out onto the produce.

The Produce News

http://theproducenews.com/the-produce-news-today-s-headlines/23973-800k-of-meth-in-mango-shipment

$800K of meth in mango shipment 

April 27, 2018

This Week in Mislabeled Product - Week ending 4/27/18

Incorrect Formula Results in Egg Missing from Label - A Houston, TX, nutrition company is recalling specific lots of its "LeanPro8" Protein Powder because they may contain undeclared egg protein. The recall was initiated after it was discovered during a state inspection that the egg-containing product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of egg. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by an incorrect version of the formula being used during production. [Processing error - mismatch between formula and label]

State Laboratory Finds Peanut Allergen in Product - Ethnic Foods Inc. of 76 South Bayles Avenue, Port Washington, NY 11050, is recalling its 19 ounce package of Bhavnagri Mix snack mix because they may contain undeclared peanuts. "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 that the peanut-containing product was distributed in packages that did not reveal the presence of peanuts."

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm605564.htm
Labrada Nutrition Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Egg in "Leanpro8" Protein Powder
For Immediate Release
April 24, 2018

Packaged Microgreens Recalled After Positive Listeria Sample Detected

A Canadian firm, Greenbelt Greenhouse LTD of British Columbia, is recalling various clamshell packs of microgreens after the State of Washington Department of Agriculture tested and found Listeria in product.  "Due to the potential risk of contamination the company has ceased the production and distribution of all product as Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and the company continue their investigation as to what caused the problem."

Listeria contamination is likely from the packing environment where product is washed, mixed and packed.  These types of processes occur in a moist environment which can be conducive to Listeria.  In the growing area, spray systems and condensation are also a possibility as is harvest collection bins.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm605702.htm
Greenbelt Greenhouse Ltd Recalls Greenbelt Microgreens Brand Microgreens Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
April 25, 2018

CDC: 4/25 Update on E. coli Outbreak Associated with Romaine Lettuce

There are now 84 cases of E. coli infection with 42 hospitalizations related to the romaine lettuce from Yuma AZ.  Cases have occurred in 19 different states.   CDC recommends against eating any form of romaine lettuce unless you can verify that it is from an area other than Yuma.

How hard is it to determine where your romaine is from?  Probably not easy. 
Unfortunately, this will be a big impact on all those who farm or process romaine.

https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/2018/o157h7-04-18/index.html
Multistate Outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 Infections Linked to Romaine Lettuce

Canada - E. coli O157:H7 Outbreak Associated with Pork Products

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency announced a recall for pork products from an Alberta processor after being linked to an E. coli O157:H7 outbreak with 34 illnesses, 11 hospitalizations, and 1 death.

Pork is rarely associated with E. coli O157:H7 outbreaks.  This is the second major E. coli outbreak associated with pork originating out of Alberta Canada.  In 2014, an outbreak of 119 cases of E. coli O157:H7 infections associated with exposure to contaminated pork products originating in Alberta.

Meatingplace
http://www.meatingplace.com/Industry/News/Details/79278?loginSuccess
E. coli prompts recall of Canadian pork products
By Julie Larson Bricher on 4/25/2018

Freeze Pops Recalled After Environmental Tests Positive for Listeria

A Wheeling, WV firm is recalling approximately 3,000 cases of Budget $aver Cherry Pineapple Monster Pops and Sugar Free Twin Pops from the company's Denver facility after state inspectors found environmental tests positive for Listeria monocytogenes.    "The voluntary recall was the result of a routine state inspection of the company’s Denver production facility which found Listeria monocytogenes in environmental samples collected by the inspector. The Ziegenfelder Company has ceased the production and distribution at the plant as the state of Colorado and the company continue their investigation as to what caused the problem."

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm605437.htm
Ziegenfelder Company Recalls Certain Ice Pops For Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
April 23, 2018

RTE Refrigerated Salmon Spread Recalled Due to Potential Listeria Contamination

A Kentwood, Michigan firm is voluntarily recalling a specific lot (produced March 26, 2018) of Smoked Salmon Spreads (487 lbs.) due to potential for Listeria monocytogenes.  The product is a RTE refrigerated product.  While no reason is provided, it may be a post-process contamination issue, and if that is the case, we may not be surprised to see additional lots eventually included in the recall.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm605105.htm
Superior Foods Company Voluntarily Recalls 487 lbs. of Smoked Salmon Spreads
For Immediate Release
April 18, 2018

This Week in Mislabeled Product - Week Ending April 21, 2018

Undeclared Peanuts in Canned Spinach - McCall Farms, Inc. is voluntarily recalling a limited amount of cases of Happy Harvest Spinach in 13.5 oz cans as a precautionary measure due to the potential presence of peanuts resulting from product mislabeling. [Operations Error - mislabeling]

Undeclared Walnuts in Artichoke Dip - Eataly USA of New York City, New York is recalling Eataly Artichoke Spread, because it may contain undeclared walnuts.  The problem was found by a costumer who is allergic to nuts. He did not encounter any illness, but had a light allergic reaction. The customer declined to fill out the Eataly incident form and just wanted to bring the seriousness of what happened to our attention. Subsequent investigation indicates that the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the packaging process. [Operations Error - Improper clean out?]


Voluntary Recall Notice of Happy Harvest Canned Spinach Due to Potential Undeclared Peanut Allergen from Product Mislabeling
For Immediate Release
April 21, 2018

CDC Includes All Forms of Romaine Lettuce from Yuma AZ in E. coli Outbreak

The CDC is now including all forms of romaine lettuce from Yuma AZ.  it was initially focused on chopped romaine in the E. coli outbreak.  They suggest that if you purchase romaine lettuce, you ensure that the product is not from Yuma.

There are now 53 cases of E.coli infection in 16 states with 31 hospitalized.

https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/2018/o157h7-04-18/index.html
Multistate Outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 Infections Linked to Romaine Lettuce
Posted April 20, 2018 4:00 PM EST

At A Glance

• Case Count: 53(https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/2018/o157h7-04-18/epi.html)
• States: 16(https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/2018/o157h7-04-18/map.html)
• Deaths: 0
• Hospitalizations: 31
• Recall: No

What's New?

• Based on new information, CDC is expanding its warning to consumers to cover all types of romaine lettuce from the Yuma, Arizona growing region. This warning now includes whole heads and hearts of romaine lettuce, in addition to chopped romaine and salads and salad mixes containing romaine. 
• Do not buy or eat romaine lettuce at a grocery store or restaurant unless you can confirm it is not from the Yuma, Arizona, growing region.
• Unless the source of the product is known, consumers anywhere in the United States who have any store-bought romaine lettuce at home should not eat it and should throw it away, even if some of it was eaten and no one has gotten sick. Product labels often do not identify growing regions; so, throw out any romaine lettuce if you’re uncertain about where it was grown. This includes whole heads and hearts of romaine, chopped romaine, and salads and salad mixes containing romaine lettuce. If you do not know if the lettuce is romaine, do not eat it and throw it away.
• Restaurants and retailers should not serve or sell any romaine lettuce from the Yuma, Arizona growing region.
• The expanded warning is based on information from newly reported illnesses in Alaska. Ill people in Alaska reported eating lettuce from whole heads of romaine lettuce from the Yuma, Arizona growing region.

Three Raw Pet Food Recalls

There were three recalls of raw pet foods - one for Listeria, one for Salmonella, and one due to improper procedures for un-eviscerated fish that could be a Clostridium botulinum issue.  In this case, it was that the fish were too big making the drying process potentially more difficult.

• OC Raw Dog, LLC of Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, is recalling approximately 1,560 lbs of Chicken, Fish & Produce Raw Frozen Canine Formulation which was manufactured on 10/11/2017 with a lot number 3652 and a use by date of 10/11/18. We are voluntarily recalling because of potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.  OC Raw was notified by the FDA of the contamination after it was reported that New Jersey Department of Food and Agriculture tested the product and found it to be positive.
• OC Raw Dog, LLC of Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, is recalling the Freeze Dried Sardines because the fish have exceeded the FDA compliance guideline for fish larger than 5 inches. The FDA has determined that salt-cured, dried, or fermented un-eviscerated fish larger than 5 inches have been linked to outbreaks of botulism poisoning between 1981 and 1987 and again in 1991. Because OC Raw Dog Freeze Dried Sardines are larger than 5 inches there is a possible health risk. Clostridium botulinum can cause severe and potentially fatal toxicity in both animals consuming the pet treat and people handling the pet treat or coming in contact with contact areas that have been exposed o the product. OC Raw was notified by the Minnesota Department of Food and Agriculture after a sample of our OC Raw Dog Freeze Dried Sardines were collected and determined to contain un-eviscerated or intact un-gutted fish that measure 6-61/2 inches which is greater than FDA guidelines of 5 inches for un-eviscerated fish.
• TruPet, LLC of Milford, OH, is voluntarily recalling a limited amount of Boost Me Mighty Meaty Beef Topper Meal Enhancer because the products have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.  The recall is being issued in an abundance of caution following the FDA’s collection of a retail sample from a single batch which tested positive.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm605374.htm
OC Raw Dog, LLC RECALLS one lot of Chicken, Fish & Produce BECAUSE OF POSSIBLE HEALTH RISK
For Immediate Release
April 20, 2018

Number of E. coli Infection Cases Linked to Chopped Romaine Lettuce Increases

CDC updated information on the E. coli outbreak associated with romaine lettuce.  There are now 53 people infected in 16 dates.  Of those, 31 have been hospitalized with five who have developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a type of kidney failure. No deaths have been reported.

No specific source or reason for the contamination has been identified outisde the fact the product was from Yuma Az.

https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/2018/o157h7-04-18/index.html
Multistate Outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 Infections Linked to Chopped Romaine Lettuce
Posted April 18, 2018 4:15 PM EST

What's New?

• Eighteen more ill people have been added to this investigation since the last update on April 13, 2018. 
• Five more states have reported ill people: Alaska, Arizona, California, Louisiana, and Montana.
• Nine more hospitalizations have been reported, including two people who developed a type of kidney failure called hemolytic uremic syndrome.

FDA Issues 483 Report on Facility Issues at Egg Farm Responsible for Salmonella Outbreak

FDA issued a 483 Report for Inspectional Observations for the Rose Acre Farm facility in light of the 23 cases of salmonellosis related to thier eggs and associated recall of 207 million eggs.

The issues indicate the facility had a rodent issue as well as sanitation issues.  Records indicate a rodent issue and this was verified in that numerous rodents had been spotted during the inspection.  Issues with sanitation were also noted including improper cleaning practices, placement of food contact surfaces on the ground, and excessively filthy equipment.

It is not uncommon to have mice in the manure pit, and that is where most of the mice sightings were made.  The more important issue was to what degree was Salmonella within the laying flocks and in the the environments where chicken were housed.  Uncontrolled movement of mice and poor cleaning could be factors, but hard to determine the impact of them on the prevalence of Salmonella in chickens and in environment. 

FDA 483 Report - Rose Acre Farms
https://www.fda.gov/downloads/AboutFDA/CentersOffices/OfficeofGlobalRegulatoryOperationsandPolicy/ORA/ORAElectronicReadingRoom/UCM604794.pdf

FEI NUMBER 2000023438
NAME AND TITLE OF INDIVIDUAL TO WHOM REPORT IS ISSUED TO:
Nathan K. Nickolisen, Complex Manager
FIRM NAME Rose Acre Farms -Hyde County Egg
CITY, STATE AND ZIP CODE Pantego, NC 27860
STREET ADDRESS 1560 Hyde Park Canal Road
TYPE OF ESTABLISHMENT INSPECTED Shell Egg Producer

FDA 483 Report
Date of Inspection 3/26 - 4/11/18

CDC MMWR: 2016-2017 Outbreak of Salmonella Outbreak from Undercooked Ground Beef

A CDC MMWR article details the investiation into a 2016-2017 Salmonella outbreak associated with ground beef.  "Contaminated ground beef was the likely source of a protracted outbreak of 106 Salmonella Newport infections, 42 hospitalizations, and one death in 21 states during October 2016–July 2017. While no direct link was found, whole genome sequencing suggests dairy cows were the ultimate outbreak source."

Traceback to an individual farm or processing lot was not possible.  "In the current outbreak, as has been observed in previous outbreaks, ground beef purchases traced back to numerous lots and slaughter/processing establishments (6). One possible explanation is that dairy cows carrying a high Salmonella load that overwhelmed antimicrobial interventions could have gone to multiple slaughter/processing establishments (7), resulting in contamination of multiple brands and lots of ground beef. This might explain the reason for failure to identify a single, specific source of contaminated ground beef."

CDC MMWR
https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/67/wr/mm6715a2.htm?s_cid=mm6715a2_e
Protracted Outbreak of Salmonella Newport Infections Linked to Ground Beef: Possible Role of Dairy Cows — 21 States, 2016–2017
Weekly / April 20, 2018 / 67(15);443–446
Katherine E. Heiman Marshall, MPH1; Mackenzie Tewell, MPH2; Selam Tecle, MPH3; Molly Leeper, MPH1; Jennifer Sinatra, DVM4; Bonnie Kissler, MPH4; Adrienne Fung, MPH5; Kerri Brown, MSPH6; Darlene Wagner, PhD1; Eija Trees, PhD1; Kelley B. Hise, MPH1; Vishnu Chaturvedi, PhD7; Linda K. Schlater, DVM8; Brenda R. Morningstar-Shaw, MS8; Laura Whitlock, MPH1; Kristin Holt, DVM4; Karen Becker, DVM4; Megin Nichols, DVM1; Ian T. Williams, PhD1; Michael Jhung, MD1; Matthew E. Wise, PhD1; Laura Gieraltowski, PhD1 (View author affiliations)

Freeze Dried Raw Pet Food Recalled Due To Listeria Concerns

K9 Natural Ltd is voluntarily recalling four batches of the K9 Natural Frozen Chicken Feast 2.2lb and 11lb bags that was imported into the US market in June 2017 because that product has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes

The product is a freeze dried 'raw' food  produced in New Zealand.  The product was shipped in June of 2017, so this testing was probably not part of the importation process.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm604645.htm
K9 Natural Ltd Voluntarily Recalls K9 Natural Frozen Chicken Feast Raw Pet Food 2.2lb And 11lb Bags Because Of Possible Listeria Monocytogenes
For Immediate Release
April 13, 2018

207 Million Whole Shells Eggs Recalled After Linked to Salmonella Outbreak

An Indiana company is voluntarily recalling approximately 207 million whole shell eggs after they were linked to 22 cases (reported) of infection from Salmonella Braenderup.  The eggs were distributed from the farm in Hyde County, North Carolina and reached consumers in the following states: Colorado, Florida, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia through retail stores and restaurants via direct delivery.  Brands include Food Lion, Great Value, Glenview, Country Daybreak, Coburn Farms, Sunshine Farms, Crystal Farms, Nelms, and Waffle House.  The recall after a number of Salmonella cases were reported.

Rose Acre Farms is a family-owned company headquartered in Seymour, Ind., and has 17 facilities in eight states.  The Hyde County farm produces 2.3 million eggs a day and has 3 million laying hens.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm604640.htm
Rose Acre Farms Recalls Shell Eggs Due to Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
April 13, 2018

E. Coli STEC Outbreak Linked to Chopped Romaine Lettuce from Yuma AZ

The source of the the E. coli O157:H7 outbreak has just been identified as romaine lettuce from Yuma AZ.   Since the last updated on April 10th by CDC, there are now 35 illnesses from 11 different states.  Pennsylvania leads the tally with 9 cases.  Of the 35 cases, 22 people have been hospitalized.

At this time, no common grower, supplier, distributor, or brand has been identified.

https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/2018/o157h7-04-18/index.html
Multistate Outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 Infections Linked to Chopped Romaine Lettuce
Posted April 13, 2018 2:00 PM EST

This Week in Mislabeled Products - Week Ending 4/13/18

State Laboratory Detects Undeclared Sulfites on Potatoes - A Miami, FL food company is voluntarily recalling its ten-ounce packages of La Marinera Brand Dried Yellow Potatoes because it may contain undeclared sulfites, a chemical that cause allergic-like symptoms.  The voluntary recall was initiated after routine sampling by the Florida State Department of Agriculture and analysis by food laboratory personnel revealed the presence of sulfites in the product, which were not declared on the label. [operations issue if it was added outside of label, or a label design issue if sulfites are normally added and was not included when label was made]

Mislabeled Sauce - Cookwell & Company Is voluntarily recalling potentially up to 6,522 units of its Four J Charred Tomato & Basil Sauce because it may contain undeclared soy, wheat and fish.  This recall was voluntarily issued by the company after it discovered that the product was unintentionally mislabeled [Operations - labeling issue].

Plain Chocolate Lid on Chocolate Peanut Butter Ice Cream - Stewart’s Shops Corp. is recalling units of Stewart’s pint Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup ice cream because they may have been packaged incorrectly with a “Chocolate” lid. The recall was initiated after it was discovered that a Stewart’s pint Chocolate ice cream lid had been found on a Stewart’s pint Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup ice cream container.[Operations - Labeling / packaging issue]

Wrong Ingredient Adds Undeclared Allergens to Bruschetta Mix - Cut Fruit Express, Inc. of Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota is recalling packaged Bruschetta Mixes and Dips because they may contain undeclared milk and soy  According to the report, "The recall was initiated after products that may contain milk and soy were packaged into containers that did not declare the presence of milk and soy. Subsequent investigation indicates that an incorrect ingredient may have been used to produce the product." [Operations - batching error].

Egg Detected By Government Testing - Seoul Trading Corp. is recalling Dong Won brand [breaded] Frozen Shrimp Cutlet from the marketplace because it contains egg which is not declared on the label  This recall was triggered by Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) test results. The CFIA is conducting a food safety investigation, which may lead to the recall of other products. [Some types of breading have egg, some don't, so there was either carryover from a previous product, or the breading used had egg which was not caught somewhere in processing or formulation].

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm604556.htm
Guixens Food Group Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Sulfites in La Marinera Brand Dried Yellow Potatoes
For Immediate Release
April 12, 2018

Will Sesame Be Added to the Big Eight for Required Allergen Labeling?

There is a push to get sesame added to those allergens that require labeling as part of the FALCPA -
Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004.  While sesame label declaration is already required in Canada and Europe, it is not here.  It seems though, that many US companies may already be doing so.  Will it get to the point where there is enough pressure to push FDA to add this to the list....not sure, but it may be worth the effort to understand where you may be using sesame, especially when part of a natural flavor or spice ingredient.

According to FARE (Food Allergy Research and Education), a 2010 study indicated that about 0.1 percent of the population has a sesame allergy.  I have never run across anyone who stated having a sesame allergy.

CSPI
https://cspinet.org/news/food-industry-split-disclosing-sesame-allergen-20180413
For Immediate Release: Friday, April 13, 2018
Contact: Jeff Cronin, 202-777-8370 or Ariana Stone, 202-777-8355

Food Industry Split on Disclosing Sesame, an Allergen
CSPI Urges FDA to Require Sesame Labeling and Industry to Close Gaps in Policies

WASHINGTON—Fourteen of 22 major food manufacturing companies declare the presence of sesame and do not obscure it as an unspecified “spice” or “natural flavoring,” according to a new report by the nonprofit Center for Science in the Public Interest.  But the remaining companies do not provide appropriate labeling, leaving consumers at risk for potentially life-threatening allergies.

Kentucky - Fast Food Worker May Have Exposed Patrons to Hepatitis A

In Kentucky, a fast food worker at a McDonald's restaurant may have worked while infectious with Hepatitis A.  Those patrons who ate at that McDonalds need to now watch for the symptoms as short window for vaccination with immunoglobulin (<2 weeks) has passed.
More on Hepatitis A transmitted by food from CDC.

http://www.madisoncountyhealthdept.org/
Health Department Investigating Hepatitis A Case in a Food Handler

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Jim Thacker PIO 859-626-4259
April 12, 2018. Richmond/Berea, KY.

CDC Reports Ongoing Outbreak E. coli STEC Infections with 17 Cases So Far, Food Not Yet Identified

The CDC reports that there is an ongoing outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 infections.  To date, there have been 17 cases in 7 states, with those states located across the country.  A source food or establishment has not yet been identified.
Connecticut  2
Idaho  4
Missouri  1
New Jersey  6
Ohio  1
Pennsylvania  2
Washington  1
Total  17

While finding the source in this type of cross-country outbreak is probably not easy, the ability to track and match the bacterial strains for each of the cases is incredible, especially when you consider that many of the states only have one or two cases.

https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/2018/o157h7-04-18/index.html
Investigation Notice: Multistate Outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 Infections
Posted April 10, 2018 6:00 PM EST

Two Massive Recalls of Meat Products Due to Complaints of Foreign Material

There were two massive recalls of meat products for foreign Material this week.  In the past month, USDA has announced 5 recalls due to foreign matter contamination.

• Koch Foods, Inc., a Fairfield, Ohio establishment, is recalling approximately 119,480 pounds of beef rib-shaped patty products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically thin blue plastic pieces.  There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products.  The problem was discovered when the firm received notification from "a" customer,
• Conagra Brands, Inc., a Russellville, Ark. establishment, is recalling approximately 135,159 pounds of Salisbury steak products (poultry, pork, and beef) that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically bone.  The problem was discovered after the firm received several consumer complaints and three reports of minor oral injury associated with consumption of this product.

The rib-shaped beef patties with thin blue plastic pieces (gloves or wrapping?) was a Class II recall and was the result of "a" complaint...so one complaint.  Back in the day, someone would just throw it out...now, a recall of 60 tons of produce, close to 3 full tractor trailer loads.  But we get it, it shouldn't be there.

The Salisbury steak recall was classified as a Class I recall since there were actual injuries.  Sounds like the bone collection system on the grinder may not have been working well enough?  (how a bone collection system works)  This recall was for 67 tons of product. Salisbury steak is that wonderful concoction of meat and other ingredients (Mechanically Separated Chicken, Pork, Water, Beef, Textured Vegetable Protein (Soy Flour, Caramel Color), Breader (Enriched Bleached Wheat Flour [Bleached Wheat Flour, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid], Durum Flour, Leavening [Sodium Bicarbonate, Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate], Yeast), 2% or less of the following: Soy Protein Concentrate, Salt, Dehydrated Onion, Caramel Color, Flavoring, Sodium Tripolyphosphate, Dextrose, Natural Flavors, Citric Acid, Soy Lecithin.) smothered with gravy.   Grill marks added for added pleasure.

So that is over 120 tons of meat product....that's a lot of meat. 

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-032-2018-release
Koch Foods Inc. Recalls Beef Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Class II Recall

032-2018
Health Risk: Low 

Apr 11, 2018

French Creme Cheese Recalled Due to Listeria Positive Sample

Whole Foods Market is voluntarily recalling Explorateur French Triple Crème cheese from nine stores located in six different states after the grocery store chain was notified by a distributor of a positive test result for Listeria monocytogenes.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm604172.htm

Nine Whole Foods Market Stores Issue Voluntary Recall for Explorateur French Triple Creme Cheese Due to Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
April 9, 2018

Flour Recalled for Salmonella, Sell-By Date Over 2 years Ago

Bob’s Red Mill Natural Foods is voluntarily recalling 2,099 cases of Organic Amaranth Flour (22 oz.), after recent testing revealed the presence of Salmonella in a single LOT of Organic Amaranth Flour (22 oz.) with a Sell By date of Nov. 26, 2015.  (Note this expiration date)  "Bob’s Red Mill issued a voluntary recall for Organic Amaranth Flour (22 oz.) after recent testing revealed the presence of Salmonella in a tested sample of Organic Amaranth Flour (22 oz.) with a Sell By date of Nov. 26, 2015. Bob’s Red Mill has commenced an investigation of the source of the problem in the Supply Chain."

Not sure why someone would be testing flour that has an sell-by-date that has long ago.  According to the FDA notice, some product was found at store level.  If this was a recent test that discovered the Salmonella, that fact that it was there shows how long Salmonella can persist in dry product.

FDA Recall Notice

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm604028.htm
Bob’s Red Mill Natural Foods, Inc. Voluntarily Recalls Organic Amaranth Flour (22 Oz.) Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
April 6, 2018

Barbequed Beef Recalled After Two Foreign Material Complaints - Rubber Pieces

An Ohio establishment is recalling approximately 14,525 pounds of fully cooked not shelf stable pulled barbequed beef products after receiving two complaints for foreign material contamination in the form of rubber pieces.  There have been no reports of injury.

USDA Recall Notice
https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-030-2018-release
J.T.M. Provisions Company Recalls Beef Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Class II Recall

030-2018
Health Risk: Low 

Apr 7, 2018

This Week in Mislabeled Products - Week Ending 4/6/18

Cup of Salad with Right Lid and Wrong Side Label - A Wisconsin establishment, is recalling approximately 130 pounds of fully cooked ready-to-eat curry chicken salad products due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen - the products contain tree nuts, specifically cashews, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.   "The problem was discovered on April 2, 2018 when the firm was notified by a customer that the deli cup container for the curry chicken salad products had a correct label on the lid, but an incorrect label on the side of the cup. The firm inadvertently labeled the side of the containers with labels for Artichoke & Jalapeno Dip, which does not contain cashews. Therefore, tree nuts (cashews) are not listed in the ingredient statement applied to the side of the cup."  [Processing error at labeling].

Supplier Issue with Peanut Cross Contact - Izzy’s Ice Cream, LLC is voluntarily recalling limited numbers of its Maple Nut Ice Cream pints following a supplier’s recall of walnuts due to the possible presence of undeclared peanut residue. The recall was initiated after receiving notification from the nut supplier, Midwest Northern Nut, that nuts used in Maple Nut Ice Cream may have possible cross-contact with a peanut allergen. [Supplier Control of Allergens]

Label Challenges Associated with Newly Acquired Brand -Sulfites Missing on Labels - Austin, TX, is recalling its 60 gram bars of EXO Blueberry Vanilla, Peanut Butter & Jelly, and Apple Cinnamon bars because they may contain undeclared sulfites.The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the apricots used in the products contain sulfur dioxide as a preservative, and the packaging did not reflect the presence of sulfites. Aspire Food Group recently acquired full rights to the Exo brand, including product recipes, from Exo, Inc on February 23, 2018. As part of our audit of Exo, Inc's recipes, our manufacturing team identified this labeling error. All warehoused products that were manufactured after February 23, 2018 will be reconditioned to declare sulfites. All recalled products manufactured prior to February 23, 2018 will be destroyed, in addition to any product returned from customers regardless of manufacture date. [

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-029-2018-release
Good Foods Group, LLC Recalls Ready-To-Eat Chicken Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergen
Class I Recall

029-2018
Health Risk: High 

 Apr 3, 2018

Addressing Packaging Risks in The Food Safety Plan

An article in this month's Food Safety Magazine (April 3, 2018), "How Should Packaging Be Addressed in Your Food Safety Program:, discusses the risk associated with packaging.  In general the risk of hazards from food packaging is low.

Foreign objects - low.  Perhaps for glass if packaging in glass containers. 
But there are a number of controls in place to help reduce issues including washers and detectors.

Allergen management can pose a bigger risk especially when food manufacturers are handling multiple labels covering multiple allergen combinations.  Issues include poor execution in creating labels, not checking labels at receiving, using the wrong labels when processing.

In their summary, "So, is packaging a significant risk in the overall food safety management system? The answer is no. The overall risk is probably even lower today with the emphasis on adoption of GFSI audit schemes or ISO 22000. "

Food Safety Magazine  FSM eDigest | April 3, 2018
https://www.foodsafetymagazine.com/enewsletter/how-should-packaging-be-addressed-in-your-food-safety-program/#References
How Should Packaging Be Addressed in Your Food Safety Program?
By Richard F. Stier

FDA Uses Ability to Mandate Recall for First Time, This for Contaminated Kratom

FDA issued its first mandatory recall of contaminated 'food' product (although this product is a dietary supplement which are considered food) when the agency issued one for powdered kratom product contaminated with Salmonella.  The ability to mandate a recall was granted to FDA under the FSMA regulation.  Kratom has been involved in a wide spread Salmonella outbreak.

According to the news report, "The agency asked Triangle on Friday to voluntarily recall the kratom items. When the company did not comply with the request, the FDA the next day ordered the firm to cease distribution. The company could have requested a hearing, the agency said, but it did not respond within the required time frame. The agency then issued the mandatory recall order."

Once the weapon is pulled out of the holster for the first time, it become a lot easier the second time around.

Washington Post
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/to-your-health/wp/2018/04/03/in-a-first-fda-orders-recall-of-a-contaminated-food-kratom-with-salmonella/?utm_term=.214cd8fb6fe4
In a first, FDA orders recall of a ‘contaminated food’ — kratom with salmonella
by Laurie McGinley by Laurie McGinley Email the author
To Your HealthApril 3, 2018

FDA Issues Warning Letter To Raw Pet Food Company, Bacteriophage Use Not Accepted

FDA issued a warning letter to Arrow Reliance (Darwin's Natural Pet Products) in light of the Salmonella contamination found in the raw pet food that resulted in a dead kitten.  Two recalls (1, 2) were made after pathogens were found.  FDA had found the same strain of Salmonella in the kitten and in product.  FDA requested a response on corrective actions within 15 days.

The warning letter reveals how the facility was planning to rid product of Salmonella - through application of bacteriophage.  While bacteriophage has had some success in reducing pathogens in food applications, particularity liquids, it has not gained sufficient validation as an absolute control.  Issues with bacterial strain diversity can be a challenge if the cocktail of bacteriophage is not equally diverse (Ref).  This is a good example of why bacteriophage was not the silver bullet.

FDA Warning Letter
https://www.fda.gov/ICECI/EnforcementActions/WarningLetters/ucm603589.htm
Arrow Reliance Inc 4/2/18

US Food and Drug
Seattle District Office
22215 26th Avenue SE, Suite 210
Bothell, Washington 98021

April 2 2018

NY Cheese Plant Ordered Closed Until Proof That Product and Process is Listeria Free

In an FDA News Release, "the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York entered a consent decree of permanent injunction against Vulto Creamery LLC (Walton, N.Y.) and its owner and manager Johannes “Jos” H. Vulto. The defendants cannot prepare, process, manufacture, pack and/or hold FDA-regulated food products until they can ensure that L. mono is not present in their facility and their food."

The Vulto linked Listeria outbreak which occurred last year, impacted 8 people, killing 2.  "Before the company can resume operations, the consent decree requires it, among other things, to retain an independent laboratory to collect and analyze environmental and finished samples for the presence of L. mono, retain an independent expert and develop a program to control L. mono, and eliminate unsanitary conditions at its facility."

FDA News Release
https://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm603372.htm
New York raw milk cheese company ordered to stop sales for food safety violations
For Immediate Release
April 2, 2018

Summary
Vulto Creamery source of outbreak that sickened eight people, killing two

This Week in Mislabeled Product - Week ending March 31, 2018

Ingredient Allergen Issue Leads to Recall - eBars LLC of Franklin, Tenn. is issuing a voluntary recall on its line of products that may contain undeclared peanut and/or almond allergens.   The expanded recall was initiated after eBars’ quality control team discovered this issue at their manufacturing facility. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem may have arisen from a supplier whose raw ingredients tested positive for amounts of undeclared peanut and/or almonds.  As part of its quality control review process, eBars discovered that MAN, WOMAN, TRIM, RUN Cocoa Raspberry, RUN Cocoa Almond, GOLF Cocoa Almond, GOLF Cocoa Raspberry, referenced above may contain undisclosed peanut allergens. Furthermore, all the LOT#’s of FOCUS Chocolate Peanut, HEAL Chocolate Peanut, FIT Organic Peanut Butter Chocolate Raspberry, may contain undisclosed almond. Additionally, the FOCUS 4 Kids Bars may contain undisclosed peanut and/or almond. [Supplier control issue]

Mixed Product on Incoming Materials Creates Confusion - First Source of Tonawanda, NY, is voluntarily recalling 9 OZ packages of Wegmans Yogurt Raisins, because the product may contain undeclared peanuts. The recall was initiated after we received a consumer complaint stating that the product contained undeclared yogurt covered peanuts. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was most likely caused by a pallet of product received from our supplier having some yogurt peanut cases mixed in with the yogurt raisin cases which were not detected during our packaging operation due to the very similar appearance of the product, the cases, and the case labels.  [Inadequate raw material processing procedures]

Crab Allergen Detected in Salad Items - Mrs. Gerry’s Kitchen Inc. of Albert Lea, MN is issuing a voluntary recall  salads may contain undeclared traces of imitation crab meat.  [While no reason was listed, it would appear to primarily be a sanitation issue because various products may contain small amounts of fake crab meat.]

Egg Missing from Label - Nine Whole Foods Market stores in Northern California are voluntarily recalling some decorated (iced) cookies from the self-service cookie displays because the products contained egg allergen that was not listed on the product sign. [Label design / label review issue]

Crab Meat Found in Egg Salad - WI is issuing a voluntary recall of Kitchen’s Cravings Premium Egg Salad Sandwich on Oat Multigrain Bread because it may contain undeclared traces of imitation crab meat.  The recall was initiated after a Kwik Trip co-worker identified traces of imitation crab meat (containing fish or shellfish) in the egg salad product. [Process control or sanitation issues].

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

Retailer Recalls Items from Hawaii Store After Losing Temperature Control During Shipment

Target Corp issued a recall for close to 200 SKUs of frozen food products sold at its store in Honolulu after it was discovered that  temperatures were not properly maintained.  According to the report, "This recall was initiated after Target received notification of a temperature malfunction during shipment of the products to Hawaii. Once Target discovered the issue, Target teams were immediately dispatched to remove all of the impacted products from the store."

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm603172.htm
Target Corporation Issues a Voluntary Recall For a Variety of Frozen Products Sold at a Single Store on Oahu
For Immediate Release
March 29, 2018