Inspired Organics Now Recalling All Lots of Almond, Peanut and Tahini Butters Due to Listeria

After an initial recall and an expanded recall (6 days later), Inspired Organics is now recalling all lots of their Almond, Peanut, and Tahini Butters when testing found that the Listeria contamination went beyond the product involved in the initial recalls.

The product was produced by Oskri Corporation, a Wisconsin establishment.  This company produces a line of their own butters, so it will be interesting to see whether this company will be recalling their own branded product  (unless there are some major processing differences or other reason why not, one would wonder why more products are not yet involved).

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm628989.htm
Inspired Organics Issues Voluntary Recall of Organic Nut & Seed Butters Due to Potential Health Risk
For Immediate Release
December 20, 2018

This week in Mislabeled Products for Week Ending 12/22/18

Eggs Missing on Label - A Pueblo, Colo. establishment is recalling approximately 956 pounds of ready-to-eat poultry products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens - the product contains eggs which is not declared on the product label.  The problem was discovered on Dec. 17, 2018 when the company notified FSIS inspection program personnel that the incorrect ingredient statement had been used for the final product.

Incorrect Packaging - A Richmond, CA establishment is recalling 14.6 ounce (414g) Greens and Grains Hummus and Quinoa Tabouleh Wrap, because it may contain undeclared soy,  The recall was initiated after it was discovered during an internal review of records that product containing soy was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of soy. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company's production and packaging processes.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-123-2018-release
Russ Davis Wholesale, Inc. Recalls Chicken Wrap Products due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens
Class I Recall 123-2018
Health Risk: High Dec 18, 2018
Distribution List PDF
Congressional and Public Affairs. Meredith Carothers. (202) 720-9113
Press@fsis.usda.gov

Impossible Burgers at the Retail Store?

Impossible Burgers has petitioned FDA to allow them to sell their plant-based burgers at retail.  The issue is the soy leghemoglobin (plant based hemoglobin produced by genetically engineered yeast) imparts a red color to the plant bases analogue product to give the appearance of meat.  So fake meat that looks like meat.  May not seem like a big deal, but if you can add an chemical to fake meat to make it red, can you add a chemical to real meat to make it more red....and that you cannot do.

I think a consumer issue will be proper handling - keeping cold, proper storage, etc

A little on Impossible Meat (they have a primer for foodservice operations that discusses how to handle and cook product)

Ingredients - Water, Textured Wheat Protein, Coconut Oil, Potato Protein, Natural Flavors, 2% or Less Of: Leghemoglobin (Soy), Yeast Extract, Salt, Konjac Gum, Xanthan Gum, Soy Protein Isolate,

Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Thiamin (Vitamin B1), Zinc, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Riboflavin (Vitamin B2),

Vitamin B12. Contains: Soy, Wheat

Handling - best to handle cold and keep cold prior to cooking, and wear gloves.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c6vtiZSSucY

Cooking - as a burger, cook as you would a hamburger, to medium or 160F

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zS1xU99Bz4o

Perhaps Jon Campbell will determine how to make Impossible landjaeger.

Bloomberg.com

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-12-18/impossible-burger-needs-fda-nod-to-sell-uncooked-to-consumers
Impossible Burger Needs FDA Nod to Sell Uncooked in Stores
By
Lydia Mulvany   and   Deena Shanker
‎December‎ ‎18‎, ‎2018‎ ‎9‎:‎39‎ ‎AM Updated on ‎December‎ ‎18‎, ‎2018‎ ‎3‎:‎27‎ ‎PM

Wegmans Recalls Prepared Produce Items Made with Recalled Cauliflower

Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. is recalling fresh Cauliflower Rice, Veggie Cauliflower Rice Blend and Stir-Fry Mix with Cauliflower, sold in the produce department between 12/7/18 and 12/18/18, because it was made with recalled cauliflower that may be potentially contaminated with Escherichia coli O157:H7 bacteria.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm628826.htm
Wegmans Issues Voluntary Recall of Fresh Cauliflower Rice, Veggie/Cauliflower Rice Blend and Stir-Fry Mix with Cauliflower
For Immediate Release
December 18, 2018

Company Issues Another Recall for Nut Butter Product After Conducting Further Testing

Inspired Organics, LLC is recalling Organic Almond Butter due to potential contamination of Listeria monocytogenes.   This comes a week after the company had issued a recall for Sunflower Butter, due to Listeria which was the result of testing conducted by Mich. Dept of Ag.  This lot of Almond Butter is now being recalled because of additional tests conducted by Inspired Organics after they had the  Sunflower Butter contamination issue.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm628680.htm
Inspired Organics Issues Voluntary Recall of Organic Almond Butter Due to Potential Health Risk
For Immediate Release
December 17, 2018

Produce Company Linked to E. coli Outbreak Issues Recall for Leaf Lettuce and Cauliflower, WA Sandwich Company Recalls Product

Adam Brothers, the only farm identified by FDA as one of the potential sources of the E.coli linked Romaine lettuce recall, issued a recall for leaf lettuce and cauliflower.  In a statement issued by the company, "The recall was initiated after it was discovered that sediment from a reservoir near where the produce was grown tested positive for E. coli O157:H7. Filtered and treated water from the
reservoir may have come in contact with the produce after it was harvested. None of the filtered,
treated water has tested positive for E. coli, all E. coli tests returning negative."

A Spokane WA sandwich company is recalling sandwiches made with green leaf lettuce grown by Adam Brothers.

While the leaf lettuce filets have not been tested to determine whether or not they have E. coli contamination, the fact that the E. coli was found in a sediment sample was sufficient enough evidence for the produce grower to issue a recall.  From the sandwich company's notice, "The affected products distributed by Spokane Produce include green leaf lettuce that was originated and recalled from Adam Bros. Farming Inc. of Santa Maria, CA."

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm628722.htm
Adam Bros. Farming, Inc. Recalls Red and Green Leaf Lettuce and Cauliflower Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
December 17, 2018

California Company Recalls Salad Due to Listeria Positive Sample

Apio, Inc. of Guadalupe, California is recalling salad bowls after after informed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) that one random sample of salad bowl product with Best Before of Dec 14, 2018 tested positive for Listeria Monocytogenes. The are currently only recalling products produced on the same day and same production line as the one that tested positive by the CFIA. 

Hopefully this company has faith in thier controls that the Listeria is limited to one lot, which would mean that the contamination is more an incidental, transient issue rather than an endemic, process-source contamination.  In the past, recalls start off small with companies assuming contamination was a one day event, only to expand as they discover the issue is much bigger.

FDA Recall Notice
https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm628566.htm
Apio, Inc. Voluntarily Recalls Five Skus of Eat Smart Single-Serve Salad Shake Ups™
For Immediate Release
December 15, 2018

Safety of Food At Sports Venues - ESPN Investigates

In an ESPN Outside the Lines report, an investigation is conducted into the safety of food served at major sporting venues.  They rank the venues based upon the number and type of violations identified in regulatory inspections.

The challenge for these operations is to feed a lot of people in a short period of time using temporary staff.  Along with this, adhering to food safety procedures and keeping facilities clean are a must.  And considering the price that patrons pay for the food, one would think these facilities would have the necessary controls in place.

http://www.espn.com/espn/feature/story/_/id/25316231/health-inspection-reports-find-critical-violations-nfl-nhl-nba-mlb-stadiums-2018-espn-lines#!
ESPN's Outside the Lines reviewed food-safety inspection reports for all 111 North American pro sports venues. Find your stadium and see how it fared.

Impact on Produce Industry of E. coli Outbreak in Romaine Lettuce

A good read in FoodDive on the impact of the E.coli outbreaks in romaine as related to the produce supply chain.  In the latest outbreak, FDA called for people to avoid Romaine lettuce and this caused a massive dump of product and a huge decrease in sales.

"But the outbreaks have pummeled romaine lettuce sales, according to data from Nielsen. Sales of the vegetable, typically the most widely consumed salad green, slumped 13% during the year ending Nov. 24 to $631 million, the analytics firm estimated. With less romaine lettuce available, USDA said prices of other lettuce varieties have surged, including Boston and iceberg lettuce — which saw a nearly 170% jump."

A warning for more to come?  Without good traceback, FDA will probably follow a similar tact with the next produce recall.  So will the industry be able to do voluntary labeling.  What about testing of irrigation water?

The Food Safety Modernization Act, signed into law in 2011, called for growers to test their irrigation water and take steps to prevent contaminated sources from being used on produce. But the FDA announced in September 2017 that implementation would be delayed until at least 2022, beginning with the largest farms, in order to allow the agency to “consider how we might further reduce the regulatory burden or increase flexibility.” 

Water testing has its issues including setting acceptable standards that can reflect the presence of pathogens, being able to find incidental contamination, etc.  Product sampling provides no guarantee either that low level contaminants will be found.  Can there ever be a 100% guarantee in preventing pathogens in leafy greens...probably not.

FoodDive
https://www.fooddive.com/news/its-not-easy-being-green-romaine-lettuce-e-coli-outbreak-rattles-food-g/543448/
It's not easy being green: Romaine lettuce E. coli outbreak rattles food, grocery industries 
Dec 10, 2018
The FDA's decision to request that the popular green gets pulled from shelves sent "a strong message" to the produce sector while costing supermarkets millions of dollars.

This Week in Mislabeled Products - Week Ending December 14, 2018

Allergen Issue Identified by Complaint at Retail  - A Dalton, Ohio establishment, is recalling approximately 47 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) beef snack stick products because the products are misbranded and may contain milk, a known allergen, which was not declared on the finished product label.  The problem was discovered on Dec. 7, 2018, when FSIS received information concerning product from the Ohio Department of Agriculture’s Division of Food Safety, which reported concerns over the label observed at a retail food establishment.

Incorrect Packaging for Hazelnut Product A Portland, Oregon establishment is recalling 600/4 oz. bags of Sea Salt Caramels Tumbled In Milk Chocolate, because it may contain undeclared hazelnuts.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product has the potential to be contaminated with hazelnuts and product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of hazelnuts.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-119-2018-release
3-D Meats, LLC Recalls Ready-To-Eat Beef Snack Stick Products due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens
Class I Recall
119-2018
Health Risk: High
Dec 9, 2018

Vermont Establishment Recalls Beef Quarters for SRM

A Vermont establishment is recalling approximately 10,828 pounds of raw intact bone-in beef quarters from cattle identified as being over 30 months of age because the products may contain specified risk materials (SRM), specifically vertebral column.  The problem was discovered when FSIS was notified by the state of Vermont of a complaint received by the state.  FSIS then investigated the complaint.

Specified risk materials (SRMs) are tissues in cattle that are considered to be of high risk for prion contamination. Prions are proteins that cause bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) or mad cow, a disease that causes deterioration of the brain.  Establishments that slaughter cattle or process carcasses or parts of cattle must identify, remove, and segregate SRMs from edible meat, and dispose of those parts.

From USDA procedures for SRM Control, "SRMs are found in cattle of all ages. The age of cattle determines which SRMs require segregation, removal and disposal. Tonsils and the distal ileum of the small intestine are SRMs from cattle of any age. Several tissues are SRMs only in cattle 30 months of age and older (OTM+). For cattle 30 months of age or older, additional SRMs are the skull, brain, trigeminal ganglia (nerves attached to the brain), eyes, spinal cord, vertebral column (excluding the vertebrae of the tail, the transverse processes of the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae, and the wings of the sacrum), and dorsal root ganglia (nerves attached to the spinal cord)."

USDA Recall Notice
https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-121-2018-release
Vermont Packinghouse, LLC Recalls Raw Intact Bone-In Beef Products due to Possible Specified Risk Materials Contamination 
Class II Recall
121-2018
Health Risk: Low
Dec 13, 2018

FDA Updates E.coli Outbreak Linked to Romaine Lettuce, At Least One Farm Identified

Updating the ongoing investigation into the E.coli O157:H7 contamination in romaine lettuce, FDA announced that one farm so far has been linked so far as a source of product.  FDA "identified a positive sample result for the outbreak strain in the sediment of a local irrigation reservoir used by a single farm owned and operated by Adam Bros. Farms in Santa Barbara County."    With that, they are leaving the romaine warning in place for "Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Barbara Counties".  While the E.coli organism found in the sediement matched the outbreak strain via Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS), the traceback analysis indicates that more than this one farm are probably involved.

They went on to state, "It’s important to note that although this is an important piece of information, the finding on this farm doesn’t explain all illnesses and our traceback investigation will continue as we narrow down what commonalities this farm may have with other farms that are part of our investigation. While the analysis of the strain found in the people who got ill and the sediment in one of this farm’s water sources is a genetic match, our traceback work suggests that additional romaine lettuce shipped from other farms could also likely be implicated in the outbreak. Therefore, the water from the reservoir on this single farm doesn’t fully explain what the common source of the contamination."

"As of Dec. 13, our investigation yielded records from five restaurants in four different states that have identified 11 different distributors, nine different growers, and eight different farms as potential sources of contaminated romaine lettuce. Currently, no single establishment is in common across the investigated supply chains. This indicates that although we have identified a positive sample from one farm to date, the outbreak may not be explained by a single farm, grower, harvester, or distributor."

Also as of the December 13th report, there have been 59 people infected in 15 states, with the last reported illness onset date being Nov. 16.

The farm with the positive E.coli sample in the sediment, Adams Brothers, has been cooperating.   They are a fifth generation farm.

FDA Statement
https://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm628400.htm
Statement from FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, M.D. and FDA Deputy Commissioner Frank Yiannas on new findings and updated consumer recommendations related to the romaine lettuce E. coli O157:H7 outbreak investigation
For Immediate Release
December 13, 2018

RTE Sausage Links Recalled Due to Metal Complaints

An Owingsville, Ky. establishment is recalling approximately 29,028 pounds of frozen, ready-to-eat (RTE) pork and poultry sausage links products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically pieces of metal.  The problem was discovered on Dec. 10, 2018, when FSIS received notification that the establishment had received five consumer complaints of metal pieces in the RTE sausage links.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-120-2018-release
CTI Foods LLC, Recalls Ready-To-Eat Pork and Poultry Sausage Products due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination 
Class I Recall
120-2018
Health Risk: High
Dec 10, 2018

Sunflower Butter Recalled After Listeria Positive Test

Inspired Organics, LLC has issued a voluntary recall of Organic Sunflower Butter due to potential contamination of Listeria monocytogenes.   "This was brought to [the company's]attention by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) after product testing returned positive test results for potential for Listeria monocytogenes."

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm628186.htm
Inspired Organics Issues Voluntary Recall of Organic Sunflower Butter Due to Potential Health Risk
For Immediate Release
December 11, 2018

Canned Corn Recalled Due to Under-processing Concerns

Del Monte Foods Inc. announced a recall of 64,242 cases of FIESTA CORN Seasoned with Red & Green Peppers due to under-processing which were the result of  deviations in the commercial sterilization process.

Based on the fact that it was a single product produced on multiple production days, one would guess that this was a scheduling issue (not having the right time or the right blend of product) rather than an equipment issue.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm628259.htm
Del Monte Foods Announces Limited Recall of Canned Fiesta Corn Seasoned with Red & Green Peppers Due to Under Processing
For Immediate Release
December 11, 2018

Cat Food Recalled for Potential Low Levels of Thiamine

The J.M. Smucker Company is recalling specific lots of 9Lives® Protein Plus® wet, canned cat food due to possible low levels of thiamine (Vitamin B1). No illnesses related to this issue have been reported to date and the product is being recalled out of an abundance of caution.  The potential for low thiamine levels was identified internally by finished product testing.

Cats have to be supplied two chemicals - the amino acid taurine and the vitamin thiamine, or Vitamin B1.  A cat eating a diet low in thiamine can result in a thiamine deficiency  which can result gastrointestinal issues as well as neurological problems.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm628058.htm
The J.M. Smucker Company Issues Voluntary Recall of Specific Lots of 9Lives® Protein Plus® Wet, Canned Cat Food Due to Low Levels of Thiamine (Vitamin B1)
For Immediate Release
December 7, 2018

Natural (Raw) Pet Food Recalled Due to Listeria Positive Test

Columbia River Natural Pet Foods of Vancouver, WA is voluntarily recalling 933 packages of Cow Pie fresh frozen meats for dogs and cats, produced in August 2017, because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.   The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing by the Washington State Department of Agriculture revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in one package.  Cow Pie is a fresh frozen meats product intended to feed raw to dogs and cats. Cow Pie was distributed in Alaska, Oregon, and Washington through retail stores and direct delivery. The product comes frozen in 2 lbs. purple and white plastic bags. 

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm627721.htm
Columbia River Natural Pet Foods Inc. Recalls Cow Pie Fresh Frozen Meats for Dogs and Cats Because of Possible Listeria monocytogenes Health Risk
For Immediate Release
December 5, 2018

This Week in Mislabeled Products for Week Ending December 8, 2018

State Sampling Finds Milk Allergen in Candy - Fine Land Corp is recalling it’s 12 ounce (340 g) Meiqili Durian Candy in plastic bag with clear window because it contains undeclared milk allergens.  The recall was initiated after routine sampling by New York States Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors and subsequent analysis by Food Laboratory personnel revealed the presence of undeclared milk allergens.

Breaded Chicken Missing Milk, Soy, and Egg - Amboy Group, LLC, a Woodbridge, N.J. establishment, is recalling an undetermined amount of raw boneless and skinless poultry products because the products are misbranded and may contain milk, egg, and soy, known allergens, which are not declared on the finished product label.  The problem was discovered on Dec. 5, 2018 by FSIS inspection program personnel while conducting a routine label verification task.

State Sampling Finds Peanut in BBQ Sauce - Accra Super Market of Worcester MA, is recalling 0.53 lbs packages of "Suya Barbecue Seasoning" because it may contain undeclared peanuts. The recall was initiated after routine testing conducted by the State of New York Department of Agriculture and Markets found undeclared peanuts in the product.  Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company's production and packaging processes.

Wrong Topper Lid - Danone North America is voluntarily recalling 3,521 cases of Light & Fit® Greek Crunch Nonfat Yogurt & Toppings S’Mores Flavor due to some of the toppers sold on the product contain peanuts and are improperly labeled.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that some of the products include the wrong topper.

Whole Chocolate Milk with Eggnog Contamination - Hiland Dairy is announcing a voluntary recall of half-gallon premium whole milk chocolate that is produced at the Kansas City, Missouri facility, over concerns the products may contain eggnog that could affect those individuals that have sensitivity to egg allergens.  Hiland Dairy initially learned of a potential issue and then confirmed after internal quality control testing at the Kansas City facility. 1,151 one-half gallon units of Hiland Whole Chocolate Milk were affected.

Dark Chocolate with Undeclared Milk - Chukar Cherries of Prosser, WA expands a recall on Ultra Dark Chocolate product because it may contain undeclared milk.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that ultra dark chocolate containing milk was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of milk.

Raw Beef Recall for Potential Salmonella Expanded to 12.1 Million Pounds

JBS Tolleson, Inc's establishment in Tolleson, Ariz. is expanding it's Oct 4 Recall  of 6.5 million pounds to now approximately 12.1 million pounds.

CDC's epidemiological investigation has identified 246 confirmed case-patients from 25 states with illness onset dates ranging from August 5, 2018 to October 16, 2018.  Three cases (of 16 cases evaluated)  were from beef not included in the initial Oct 4 recall.  This additional product was  produced and packed from July 26, 2018 to Sept. 7, 2018.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-085-2018-EXP-release
JBS Tolleson, Inc. Recalls Raw Beef Products due to Possible Salmonella Newport Contamination
Class I Recall

085-2018 EXP
Health Risk: High 

Dec 4, 2018

This week in Mislabeled Product for Week Ending December 1, 2018

Supplier Issue has Cashews and Almonds in Granola Mix - Kwik Trip, Inc. located in La Crosse, WI is recalling Kitchen Cravings Strawberry and Mixed Berry Parfaits in an 8.25 oz. cup because they may contain undeclared traces of cashews or almonds. This recall was initiated after a chocolate covered cashew or almond was discovered in granola mix from an outside supplier.

Egg Missing on Label - Ottogi America, Inc. of Gardena, California announced today it is recalling 1lb 5.16ounce of Jin Ramen Mild 5pk. (Best Before Aug. 19th 2019) and Jin Ramen Spicy 5pk. (Best Before Aug. 20th 2019) due to undeclared egg as an ingredient on the packages.   Canadian Food Inspection Agency(CFIA) announced that the products may contain egg which is not declared on the label.

FSIS Label Check Finds Missing Allergens - Chunwei, Inc., a Huntington Park, Calif. establishment, is recalling approximately 65,023 pounds of various ready-to-eat and raw meat and poultry products because the products are misbranded and may contain soy, wheat, dairy, egg, and sesame, known allergens, as well as monosodium glutamate (MSG), which are not declared on the finished product label.  The problem was discovered by FSIS Inspection Program Personnel while conducting a routine label verification task.

Tree Nuts Missing from Label - First Source of Tonawanda, NY, is voluntarily recalling Chocolate and Nut Tray because it contains undeclared tree nuts, pecan and cashew. The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product containing pecan and cashews was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of the pecan and cashew. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company’s labeling process.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm626868.htm
Allergen Alert: Kitchen Cravings Strawberry and Mixed Berry Parfaits with Trace Tree Nuts
November 27, 2018

MI RTE Food Establish Closes After Unwilling to Comply with FDA to Fix Compliance Issues

A Michigan processor of RTE foods decided to shut down completely after it was unwilling to fix the issues identified in federal inspections.  The company had received a Warning Letter in 2016 when FDA inspectors found Listeria in the facility along with a number of issues that would potentially spread that listeria to food.  After further inspection, FDA was moving to block operations until the issues were resolved.

"The company, under its legal filing, agreed to a consent decree under which it cannot again operate at its facility until it develops a listeria monitoring program, creates a food safety employee training program, and meets other training and safety requirements."  The company responded that they "have always placed great importance on producing high-quality food and on food safety. We are well aware of the Complaint and Consent Decree that was recently filed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). We agreed to enter the Consent Decree to resolve outstanding compliance issues raised by the FDA rather than in response to any known health concerns."

MI Live
https://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/index.ssf/2018/11/ionia_county_food_processor_sh.html
Ionia County food processor shutting down in response to safety, compliance issues
Updated Nov 30; Posted Nov 30
By Brian McVicar,   bmcvicar@mlive.com

FDA Updates the Trace Back Areas for the E. coli Contaminated Romaine Lettuce

FDA provided an update on 11/28/19 to detail the counties that are involved in the trace back analysis.  According to the report, "current evidence indicates this romaine was harvested in the Central Coast growing regions of northern and central California.
The specific California counties FDA is including in this region are:

• Monterey
• San Benito
• San Luis Obispo
• Santa Barbara
• Santa Cruz
• Ventura

There have not been any new cases since the last update on 11/26/18.

https://www.fda.gov/Food/RecallsOutbreaksEmergencies/Outbreaks/ucm626330.htm
FDA Investigating Multistate Outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 Infections Likely Linked to Romaine Lettuce Grown in California

Case Counts
Total Illnesses: 43
Hospitalizations: 16
Deaths: 0
Last illness onset: October 31, 2018
States with Cases: CA (11), CT (1), IL (2), MA (2), MD (1), MI (7), NH (2), NJ (9), NY (5), OH (1), RI (1), WI (1)

NY Cheese Producer Issues Recall After Listeria Found in Environment

Sprout Creek Farm of Poughkeepsie, New York is recalling 4 wheels of “Kinkead” cheese, raw semi-firm, washed natural rind cheese, made on 5-10-18, because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.   The issue was discovered as part of the corrective action when Listeria monocytogenes was discovered during routine testing earlier this month. "Sprout Creek Farm voluntarily ceased all production of cheese immediately following that recall initiated on November 6. Additionally since the November 6 recall, there has been no production or distribution of any cheese by the farm.

The same firm had issued a recall on 11/7/18 for 132 wheels of cheese after product tested positive.  NY regulators also issued an alert on 10/8/18 after issues with pasteurization were discovered.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm627077.htm

Sprout Creek Farm Recalls “Kinkead” Cheese due to Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
November 28, 2018

Hawaii - Restaurant Closed After Video Goes Viral of Employee Cooking Rat on Grill

A burger restaurant in Hawaii was shut down after employees posted a video where they appeared to be cooking a rat on the restaurant grill.

Corrective Action - Fire employees, replace equipment, schedule pest control operator, hire lawyer to recover costs from employees.
Will that be sufficient to recover sales?

https://www.mynbc5.com/article/burger-joint-closes-after-video-appears-to-show-rat-cooking-on-grill/25303833
Burger joint closes after video appears to show rat cooking on grill
Associated Press  Nov 26, 2018

Dry Dog Food Recalled Due to High Vitamin D Levels

Updated 11/29/18
Sunshine Mills is recalling 7 different packs of dry dog food due to the potential for high Vitamin D levels. High Vitamin D levels can lead to symptoms including vomiting and weight loss to renal dysfunction.

ELM Pet Foods, Inc is issuing a voluntary recall of Elm Chicken and Chickpea Recipe dog food because the products could contain elevated levels of Vitamin D.

ANF, Inc. is also recalling select products of ANF Pet Lamb and Rice Dog Food due to potentially elevated levels of Vitamin D.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm627087.htm
ANF Pet Inc. Issues Voluntary Precautionary Recall of Dry Dog Food Due to Potentially Elevated Levels of Vitamin D
For Immediate Release
November 28, 2018

FDA Now Advises to Avoid Romaine Lettuce from Northern and Central CA

Updated 11/27/18
FDA updated its recommendation on Romaine lettuce - "If romaine lettuce does have this labeling information, we advise avoiding any product from the Central Coast growing regions of northern and central California. Romaine lettuce from outside those regions need not be avoided.  Romaine lettuce that was harvested outside of the Central Coast growing regions of northern and central California does not appear to be related to the current outbreak. Hydroponically- and greenhouse-grown romaine also does not appear to be related to the current outbreak. There is no recommendation for consumers or retailers to avoid using romaine harvested from these sources."

Of course, it is important to make sure that packages of Romaine indicate harvest information, including the date and location.  The industry has agreed to voluntary labeling to ensure compliance.

There are now 43 cases with 16 hospitalizations across 12 states.

FDA News Release
https://www.fda.gov/Food/RecallsOutbreaksEmergencies/Outbreaks/ucm626330.htm
FDA Investigating Multistate Outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 Infections Likely Linked to Romaine Lettuce Grown in California
Update: November 26, 2018

CDC MMWR Report - 2017 Norovirus Outbreak During Thanksgiving Holidays

CDC released a report on a 2017 norovirus outbreak associated with a vomiting event in a restaurant.  Thirty-six cases were identified  with individuals suffering from diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps occurring 2.5 to 54 hours after visiting the restaurant.  Symptoms lasted about 3 days.  Those most likely to become ill were in the restaurant close to the time of the vomiting event.

Basically, an ill patron vomits in the restaurant.  Although an employee applied spray disinfectant, 36 patrons still contracted the virus.  "A point-source norovirus outbreak occurred after an infected patron vomited in a restaurant. Transmission near the vomiting event likely occurred by aerosol or fomite. Norovirus spread throughout the restaurant could have occurred by aerosol, person-to-person, fomite, or foodborne routes. Inadequate employee handwashing likely facilitated foodborne transmission through servings of pecan pie."  Norovirus is highly infectious and transmits easily in the environment.

So if you are in an eating establishment and someone vomits, consider leaving immediately.  For the food establishment, move people away from event, clean like heck following established protocol, and consider giving the cleaner the rest of the night off.

https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/67/wr/pdfs/mm6746a4-H.pdf
Notes from the Field: Multiple Modes of Transmission During a Thanksgiving Day Norovirus Outbreak — Tennessee, 2017
Weekly / November 23, 2018 / 67(46);1300–1301

CDC Advises To Avoid ALL Romaine Lettuce After E.coli Cases Reported

UPDATE ISSUED - 11/26/18 GO TO LINK

CDC is advising that people not eat romaine lettuce after an outbreak of E. coli has been identified.  There have been thirty-two people infected with the outbreak strain of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli O157:H7 have been reported from 11 states with thirteen people hospitalized, including one person who developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a type of kidney failure. No deaths have been reported. The illnesses are listed with dates ranging from October 8, 2018 to October 31, 2018.

The reason for warning against all romaine lettuce is that the source is not known yet.  Until more information is gathered, CDC is taking a precautionary stance.

While this strain is linked to past outbreaks, it is not linked to the recent E.coli outbreak in Yuma AZ, but it is linked to the 2017 E. coli outbreak.    "Whole genome sequencing (WGS) results showed that the E. coli O157:H7 strain isolated from ill people in this outbreak is closely related genetically to the E. coli strain isolated from ill people in a 2017 outbreak linked to leafy greens in the United States and to romaine lettuce in Canada. The current outbreak is not related to a recent multistate outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 infections linked to romaine lettuce. People in the spring outbreak were infected with E. coli O157:H7 bacteria with a different DNA fingerprint."

In the 2017 outbreak of the same strain, the source was not definitively found, although it was said to be leafy greens. In that outbreak, CDC and FDA were criticized for not stating it was Romaine lettuce.

CDC News Release
https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/2018/o157h7-11-18/index.html
Outbreak of E. coli Infections Linked to Romaine Lettuce
Posted November 20, 2018 at 2:30 PM ET

CDC, public health and regulatory officials in several states, Canada, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are investigating a multistate outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O157:H7 (E. coli O157:H7) infections linked to romaine lettuce.

At A Glance

• Reported Cases: 32

• States: 11

•Hospitalizations: 13

•Deaths: 0

•Recall: No

Advice to Consumers, Restaurants, and Retailers

CDC is advising that U.S. consumers not eat any romaine lettuce, and retailers and restaurants not serve or sell any, until we learn more about the outbreak. This investigation is ongoing and the advice will be updated as more information is available.

Stew Source of C. perfringens Outbreak at NC Church BBQ

Hundreds of attendees of a church BBQ in North Carolina were stricken with C. perfringens.  Tests indicate that it was the Brunswick stew.  This would indicate that the stew was not held at proper temperatures between the time it was made and the time it was served, allowing the C. perfringens to grow to high number.  Symptoms, including watery diarrhea and mild abdominal cramps occur about 16 hours after consumption of foods containing large numbers (>106 live vegetative cells or >106 spores) of enterotoxin-producing C. perfringens and will last 12 to 24 hours.

Cabarrus Health Alliance

https://www.cabarrushealth.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=108
UPDATE: Poplar Tent Presbyterian Church BBQ
New Update
Update: November 16, 2018

This Week in Mislabeled Product - Ending November 19, 2018

Marinade Label Missing Soy and Wheat - Deleite Foods Enterprises, Inc., a Salt Lake City, Utah establishment, is recalling approximately 11,000 pounds of marinated raw poultry products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the products contain wheat and soy, known allergens, which are not declared on the product label. The problem was discovered during routine label verification activities by an FSIS inspector, who found that the product did not include an ingredient statement nor declare soy and wheat.

Wrong Package for Chocolate Cherries - Chukar Cherries of Prosser, WA is recalling 7.5oz Amaretto Rainier Chocolate Cherries because they may contain undeclared milk. One allergic reaction has been reported to date. The recall was initiated after it was discovered that Amaretto Rainier Chocolate Cherries containing milk was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of milk.

Issue with Label Control - Jay Robb Enterprises is recalling Jay Robb Unflavored Egg White Protein Product,manufactured by Agropur MSI, LLC of La Crosse, Wisconsin, because it may contain undeclared milk allergen. "The recall was initiated after it was discovered that Agropur MSI, LLC packaged whey protein powder into Unflavored Egg White Protein pouches that did not reveal the presence of milk allergen. The product was intended to be packaged into Jay Robb Unflavored Whey Protein Isolate packages. The company is requesting return of all Unflavored Egg White Protein with the listed lot dates in order to fully account for product recovery. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the manufacturer’s label control policies."

Now Defunct Co-Packer Mislabeled Product -  Nor Cal Food Solutions, LLC of Auburn, CA is announcing a recall of 567 cases of Pumpkin Pesto Tapenade, manufactured by Purveyors Kitchen, because it contains an undeclared tree nut (walnut). The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the Purveyors Kitchen – Pumpkin Pesto Tapenade containing tree nuts (walnuts) was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of the tree nut (walnut). At present, the source of this problem is unknown as Purveyors Kitchen is no longer in operation. The owners of Purveyors Kitchen are not participants in Nor Cal Food Solutions, LLC.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-115-2018-release
Deleite Foods Enterprises, Inc. Recalls Poultry Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens
Class II Recall
115-2018
Health Risk: Low
Nov 19, 2018

Limited Lots of Cap'n Crunch Recalled After Routine Testing Reveals Potential Salmonella Contamination

The Quaker Oats Company, a subsidiary of PepsiCo, Inc., is recalling a small quantity of Cap’n Crunch’s Peanut Butter Crunch cereal after routine sampling program by the company revealed the finished product may contain bacteria. Salmonella.  "While the potentially affected product only reached five specific Target stores and is limited to 21 boxes of one variety with two Best Before Dates, Quaker is initiating the voluntary recall to protect public health.  The recall was initiated as the result of a routine sampling program by the company, which revealed the finished product may contain [Salmonella]".

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm626142.htm
The Quaker Oats Company Issues Voluntary Recall of a Small Quantity of Cap’n Crunch’s Peanut Butter Crunch Cereal Distributed to Five Target Stores Due to Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
November 16, 2018

Michigan Company Recalls Ackawi Cheese After State Inspection Discovers Listeria Issue

Green Cedar Dairy of Michigan is recalling Ackawi cheese after a Listeria issue was discovered on November 9, 2018 during a routine inspection by the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development, Food & Dairy Division (MDARD) and by the Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

From www.cheese.com, Ackawi cheese is "a Middle Eastern cheese named after the Aker region of Palestine, where it first originated. In Arabic, akkawi means "from akka". It is soft unripened brine cheese with a chewy, smooth consistency and a very mild, slightly salty flavour. The cheese is widely popular across most of the Levant where it is used as a table cheese, eaten as it or paired with a fruit."

Further, "The cheese is commonly made using pasteurized cow's milk, but can be made with goat or sheep's milk as well. It is produced on a large scale in Palestine, Lebanon, Jordan, Syria and Cyprus where people typically eat it with a soft flatbread at lunch and dinner. Its texture can be compared to that of a Mozzarella, Feta or a Mizithra, as it does not melt down very well. The resistance to melting makes it an excellent frying cheese, because it holds its shape very well. The cheese can be stored for up to a year."
https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm626134.htm
Recall of Green Cedar Dairy Ackawi Cheese Bearing a Sell by Date of March 26, 2019 or Later
For Immediate Release
November 16, 2018

Two Utah Establishments Recall Ground Beef Products After USDA Testing Finds E. coli O157:H7

Swift Beef Co's Hyrum, Utah establishment is recalling approximately 99,260 pounds of raw ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7.  This product was shipped to retail distributors for further processing and food service distributors for institutional use in locations in California, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington.  "The problem was discovered on November 15, 2018, when FSIS visited Swift Beef Company in response to a FSIS ground beef sample that was collected at a further processing establishment and was confirmed positive for E. coli O157:H7."

Majestic Meat Company of Salt Lake City, Utah is also recalling approximately 532 pounds of ground beef products (bulk ground beef, ground beef patties, and meatballs) after "FSIS identified that product associated with a sample that confirmed positive for E. coli O157:H7 had been shipped. The establishment held 2 of the 3 boxes of source material associated with the sampled product, however, the third box of source material was further processed and shipped."

Three have been no reported cases of illness in either case.


https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-114-2018-release
Swift Beef Company Recalls Ground Beef Products due to Possible E. Coli O157:H7 Contamination
Class I Recall

114-2018
Health Risk: High 

Nov 17, 2018

Chicken Salad Product Recalled for Potential Listeria Contamination

A Houston, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 6,912 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) chicken salad products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes.  The problem was discovered on November 13, 2018 during routine record review by FSIS inspection program personnel.

No exact reason was listed in the announcement.  It could be a Listeria positive test result on an environmental food contact surface sample or something similar.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-111-2018-release
Ron's Home Style Foods Recalls Ready to Eat Chicken Salad Products due to Possible Listeria Contamination 
Class I Recall 
111-2018 
Health Risk: High 
Nov 14, 2018 

Recall Issued After Supplier Ships Frozen Asparagus with Listeria Issue

The Pictsweet Company has recalled 1,872 cases of Pictsweet Farms 8-ounce Steam’ables Asparagus Spears after it was notified by the manufacturer that product suspected of containing Listeria monocytogenes was inadvertently shipped to The Pictsweet Company.

It is hard to know exactly how this happened.  Perhaps a test-and-hold program that didn't hold too well?  Or a sample was taken for testing and that lot of product was not held?  The next question is whether this supplier has a larger Listeria issue extending beyond this lot.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm625788.htm
The Pictsweet Company Recalls 8-ounce Steam’ables Asparagus Spears due to Potential for Listeria Monocytogenes
For Immediate Release
November 13, 2018

Raw Ground Turkey Recalled After Linked to Salmonella Outbreak

Jennie-O Turkey, a Barron, Wis. establishment, is recalling approximately 91,388 pounds of raw ground turkey products after being linked to a Salmonella outbreak with 164 cases in 35 different states.   According to the USDA report, "The patient tested positive for Salmonella Reading and the sample from the ground turkey matches the outbreak strain."

The good news is that the recall does not involve whole turkeys at this point, so it should not impact Thanksgiving turkey purchases.  However, the investigation is ongoing and it seems that some people who became ill handled live turkeys.  So it is important to use proper procedures for handling and preparing whole turkey products, especially during our Thanksgiving holiday.  From the USDA report, "Patients have reported eating different types and brands of turkey products purchased from many different stores, handling raw turkey pet food and/or raw turkey, or working with live turkeys or living with someone who handled live turkeys."

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-112-2018-release
Jennie-O Turkey Store Sales, LLC Recalls Raw Ground Turkey Products due to Possible Salmonella Reading Contamination 
Class I Recall
112-2018
Health Risk: High
Nov 15, 2018

CDC Investigating Ongoing Salmonella Outbreak Associated with Raw Turkey.....Just in Time for Thanksgiving

CDC is investigating an ongoing Salmonella outbreak involving raw turkey.  There have been 135 cases in 35 different states with 63 hospitalizations and one death.  CDC has not been able to pinpoint an exact source except that it is related to raw turkey.  The strain, Salmonella Reading, is sufficiently virulent to be causing this ongoing and serious issue.

So with Thanksgiving upon us, it is especially important this year to follow proper practices.  

• Wash your hands after touching raw turkey or drippings.
• Wash all surfaces after contacting raw turkey or drippings (cutting boards, refrigerator shelves, knives, etc)
• Cook your turkey to the right temperature.  Use a thermometer to verify at least 165F.  But this year, go a few degrees more than you normally do just to be safe.

A few other important things.....

• Don't wash your turkey in the sink spraying that turkey stuff all over.
• Cook the stuffing separate from the bird.  Sure, you may like it better, but it ain't worth sitting on the pot for a week.
• Don't eat raw or undercooked turkey.  If your Aunt Mabel serves it undercooked, it is time to set her straight. 
• Don't feed your dog raw turkey dog food.

CDC Investigation Notice
https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/reading-07-18/index.html
Outbreak of Multidrug-Resistant Salmonella Infections Linked to Raw Turkey Products
Posted November 8, 2018 at 11:45 AM EDT

At A Glance
Reported Cases: 164
States: 35
Hospitalizations: 63
Deaths: 1

FDA Releases Report on Sources of Foodborne Illnesses on Four Primary Pathogens

The IFSAC, a federal interagency group focused on food safety released a report on sources of foodborne illness from four pathogens - Salmonella, E. Coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes, and Campylobcacter.  The report year was 2016.

The full report titled "Foodborne illness source attribution estimates for 1998 to 2016 for Salmonella,

Escherichia coli O157, Listeria monocytogenes, and Campylobacter using multi-year outbreak surveillance data, United States" can be found HERE.

From that report, here are the key takeaways.  There is nothing surprising.

"Salmonella illnesses came from a wide variety of foods.

Salmonella illnesses were broadly attributed across multiple food categories. More than 75% of Salmonella illnesses were attributed to seven food categories: Seeded Vegetables (such as tomatoes), Chicken, Pork, Fruits, Other Produce (such as nuts), Eggs, and Beef."

[Salmonella is carried by so many animals and with that, comes in on raw ingredients such as meats, grains, produce, etc.  Also can survive in the processing environment for long periods of time.  Simple errors such as under-cooking, cross contamination, inadequate sanitation provides opportunity for this organism to contaminate food.]

"E.coli O157 illnesses were most often linked to Vegetable Row Crops (such as leafy greens) and Beef.
Nearly 75% of illnesses were linked to these two categories."

[This organism is associated with animal (ruminants) poop.  It gets to people either via beef, primarily ground beef, and then people don't properly cook (no thermometer) or the organism gets onto produce via contaminated water or when ruminants poop around the produce]

"Listeria monocytogenes illnesses were most often linked to Dairy products and Fruits.
More than 75% of illnesses were attributed to these two categories, but the rarity of Listeria monocytogenes outbreaks makes these estimates less reliable than those for other pathogens."

[This contamination is primarily a processing environmental contaminate.  In facilities where equipment sanitation is not as good as it should be, the organism establishes itself and then the food.  The meat industry has it pretty much figured out...there are no silver bullets, just solid procedures and constant vigilance]

"Non-Dairy Campylobacter illnesses were most often linked to Chicken.
Over 80% of non-Dairy foodborne illnesses were attributed to Chicken, Other Seafood (such as shellfish), Turkey, Other Meat/Poultry (such as lamb or duck), and Vegetable Row Crops, with Campylobacter illnesses most often linked to Chicken. An attribution percentage for Dairy is not included because, among other reasons, most foodborne Campylobacter outbreaks were associated with unpasteurized milk, which is not widely consumed, and we think these over-represent Dairy as a source of illness caused by Campylobacter. Removing Dairy illnesses from the calculations highlights important sources of illness from widely consumed foods, such as Chicken."

[The food with the highest incidence rate is raw milk, but since most people don't consume raw milk, the number is not as high as it would be if we all started to drink it.  Outside of that, it is poultry.  With Thanksgiving coming up, that is something to keep in mind.]

FDA Constituent Updates

https://www.fda.gov/Food/NewsEvents/ConstituentUpdates/ucm625291.htm
Release of a New Report on the Sources of Foodborne Illnesses for 2016 from the Interagency Food Safety Analytics Collaboration
November 9, 2018

This Week in Mislabeled Products - Week Ending November 10, 2018

Mislabeled Burrito - NuVue Foods, a Hamtramck, Mich. establishment, is recalling approximately 268 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) chicken burrito products due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen, -the products contain egg which was not declared on the product label.  The problem was discovered on November 9, 2018 after the firm received a consumer complaint. The establishment produced “18th Street Deli Farmers Burritos,” containing eggs, which were mistakenly labeled as “18th Street Deli Chicken Burrito”.

FDA Sampling Finds Milk in Chocolate - Recchiuti Confections (San Francisco, CA) discovered two batches of their Bittersweet Chocolate Bar and two batches of their Feve Chocolate Bar contain high levels of milk protein after FDA sampling.

Supplied Ingredient Has Allergen Not on Labeled - Wegmans has initiated a voluntary recall of the pumpkin loaf and coffee cake because they may contain milk not declared on the label.  The recall was initiated when it was learned that one of the ingredients (a streusel topping supplied by Bake'n Joy Foods of Andover, MA) contained milk that had not been declared on the finished product label.

NuVue Foods Recalls Burrito Products due to Misbranding and an Undeclared Allergen
Class I Recall  110-2018 
Health Risk: High 
Nov 9, 2018 

Australia - Woman Charged in the Needle-in-Strawberry Case

A 50 year old Queensland woman have been charged with the needle-in-strawberry contamination case in Australia.  The issue resulted in stores removing strawberries from shelves and having a huge impact the half billion dollar industry.  While a motive has not been yet listed, it was stated that the woman could receive 3, perhaps a 10 year sentence.  Doesn't seem nearly long enough.

news.com.au
https://www.news.com.au/national/queensland/police-arrest-woman-over-strawberry-contamination/news-story/fbe4e890572060b129c6c100a2fcca62#.yfmcm
Police arrest woman over strawberry contamination
A 50-year-old Queensland woman has been charged over a strawberry needle contamination that sparked a nationwide crisis.

November 11, 20189:47pm
Shireen Khalil

Summary of FDA's Report on Risk Factors in Food Service Establishments

FDA compiled analysis of inspection reports of different foodservice establishments over 2013/2014 as part of a 10 year study.    The whole report can be found here, but we have summarized the most important findings:

• Most establishments had 3 or more food safety issues.
• It helps to have a Certified Food Safety Manager onsite.  Many jurisdictions do not require it.
• It is beneficial to have an established food safety management system.  Most have no system to a rudimentary system.
• While people generally cook food correctly and handle raw meats properly, handwashing and keeping TCS foods out of the temperature danger zone are the biggest issues.

NY Artisan Cheese Processor Recalls Product Tests Positive for Listeria

Sprout Creek Farm of Poughkeepsie, New York is recalling 132 wheels of their "Margie" cheese, a soft, white rind, cow's milk cheese, because it may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.  The product is being recalled after an FDA inspection found Listeria monocytogenes in products that they sampled.

A few items of concern...if this product was tested and found to be positive, other products may be implicated.  Also, it is likely that FDA will see if the organism found here matches any cases of illness.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm625254.htm
Sprout Creek Farm Recalls "Margie" Cheese Due to Listeria Monocytogenes
For Immediate Release
November 6, 2018

Duncan Hines Cake Mix Recalled after Outbreak Strain Found in Product

Conagra Brands is recalling Duncan Hines cake mixes after being connected "with a positive finding of Salmonella in a retail sample of Duncan Hines Classic White cake mix that may be linked to a Salmonella outbreak", where five people have become infected.  The Salmonella strain, Salmonella Agbeni, matched the organism collected from ill persons as determined through the use of Whole Genome Sequencing.  "While it has not been definitively concluded that this product is linked to the outbreak and the investigation is still ongoing."

The baking process, if properly followed, will eliminate the organism,  However, people do eat raw batter and there is the issue of cross contamination that can occur in the kitchen when the powder mix gets onto food contact surfaces as well as other food.

Has this been an issue in the past?  Salmonella as well as STEC E. coli have been involved in flour related outbreaks and recalls (1, 2, 3 4, 5 ).  Improved techniques for tracking outbreaks and for identifying specific organisms using Whole Genome Sequencing have given a truer look at sources that may not have identified in the past.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm625144.htm

Duncan Hines Classic White, Classic Butter Golden, Signature Confetti and Classic Yellow Cake Mixes Recalled Due to Potential Presence of Salmonella

For Immediate Release

November 5, 2018

This Week in Mislabeled Products - Week Ending November 3, 2018

State Testing Lab Finds Milk in Dark Chocolate - A Brooklyn, NY is recalling its 2.82oz MarieBelle Japanese Matcha Japanese Green Tea and White Chocolate Bar, container code 101619, Cacao Market by MarieBelle Rosemary Truffle Salt 60% Dark Chocolate Bar, all container codes, and the Cacao Market by MarieBelle Orange Peels 60% Dark Chocolate Bar, all container codes, because they may contain undeclared milk allergens. The recall was initiated after routine sampling by New York State Department of Agriculture and Market Food Inspectors and subsequent analysis by Food Laboratory personnel revealed the presence of undeclared milk allergens

Tortilla Chips in the Popcorn Bag - Frito-Lay announced a voluntary recall of select 1/2 oz. bags of Smartfood Delight Sea Salt Flavored popcorn because they were inadvertently filled with cheese flavored tortilla chips that contain undeclared milk ingredients. The issue was discovered after a consumer notified Frito-Lay that their Smartfood Delight bag contained tortilla chips. Frito-Lay has informed the FDA of our actions.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm624518.htm
Maribel’s Sweets Inc. Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk Allergens in Chocolate Bars
For Immediate Release
October 29, 2018

Nut Company Recalls Roasted In-Shell Pistachios After Positive Test For Salmonella

Barcelona Nut Company of Baltimore, Maryland is recalling 239 cases of roasted and salted in shell pistachios, because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, "Barcelona Nut Company's processor and supplier, ARO, voluntarily initiated the recall after a separate and unaffiliated manufacturer, performed a routine test which revealed salmonella. Since Barcelona Nut Company received product from the same lot, it is necessary to take precautions. Barcelona Nut Company has ceased the production and distribution of this particular lot of roasted and salted in shell pistachios as the FDA and the companies involved continue their investigation."

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm625001.htm
Barcelona Nut Company Recalls Roasted and Salted in Shell Pistachios Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
November 2, 2018

Formulation Error in Dry Pet Food Leads to Complaints for Vitamin D Toxicity

Nutrisca and Natural Life Pet Products, related companies out of Saint Louis, Missouri are voluntarily recalling dry dog food due to high levels of vitamin D.  The companies "became aware of the elevated levels of vitamin D after receiving complaints from three pet owners of vitamin D toxicity after consuming the product. An investigation revealed a formulation error led to the elevated vitamin D in the product."

As part of the Preventive Controls for Animal Feeds, addition of chemicals that can become a health issue may require a preventive control, in this case a way to track Vitamin D addition.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm625016.htm
Natural Life Pet Products Issues Recall of Dry Food Due to Elevated Levels of Vitamin D
For Immediate Release
November 2, 2018

Will Your Baby Formula Be Made from Algae?

An article in Food Navigator reports how a San Diego Company is producing breast milk proteins from algea.  Scientists at Triton introduced a gene into an algae, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii.

San Diego start-up develops algae production platform capable of producing proteins found in bovine and human breast milk 
29-Oct-2018 By Elaine Watson

A San Diego-based firm building a production platform for food proteins from green algae says it can produce recombinant proteins identical to those found in bovine and human breast milk, which it claims could prove a game changer in the infant formula market.

https://www.foodnavigator-usa.com/Article/2018/10/29/Triton-Algae-Innovations-develops-algae-production-platform-capable-of-producing-proteins-found-in-bovine-and-human-breast-milk

FDA Issues Report on E. coli O157:H7 Outbreak associated with Romaine Lettuce from the Yuma AZ Area

FDA issued a report on the E.coli outbreak associated with romaine lettuce from the Yuma AZ area that was first identified in April of 2018.  This was the largest number of E. coli O157:H7 infections in the United States in the last decade with 210 reported illnesses from 36 states, resulting in 96 hospitalizations, 27 cases of hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) and five deaths.

The investigation found that there were no obvious deficiencies in the processing facility, but did have these findings for the growing area.

• The outbreak strain of E. coli O157:H7 was found in water from three locations along a 3.5 mile stretch in an irrigation canal near Wellton in Yuma County, Arizona.
• The outbreak strain was not found anywhere else in sampling done during the EA in the Yuma growing region of Imperial County, California, and Yuma County, Arizona, although other human pathogens were identified in collected samples.
• FDA has concluded that the water from the irrigation canal where the outbreak strain was found most likely led to contamination of the romaine lettuce consumed during this outbreak.
• FDA cannot rule out that other sources or means of romaine lettuce contamination with the outbreak strain of E. coli O157:H7 may have occurred.
• There are several ways that irrigation canal water may have come in contact with the implicated romaine lettuce including direct application to the crop and/or use of irrigation canal water to dilute crop protection chemicals applied to the lettuce crop, either through aerial or ground-based spray applications.
• How and when the irrigation canal became contaminated with the outbreak strain is unknown. A large animal feeding operation is nearby but no obvious route for contamination from this facility to the irrigation canal was identified. Other explanations are possible although the EA team found no evidence to support them.

With this, FDA makes recommendations (below) for helping to prevent these issues including putting measures in place to assure the safety of the irrigation water and to assess the risk of land use surrounding the water source.

The full investigative report can be found here.  LINK
It includes maps with sampling sites as well as test results.  Worth the read if interest in the topic.


https://www.fda.gov/Food/RecallsOutbreaksEmergencies/Outbreaks/ucm624546.htm
Environmental Assessment of Factors Potentially Contributing to the Contamination of Romaine Lettuce Implicated in a Multi-State Outbreak of E. coli O157:H7
November 1, 2018
This document provides an overview of factors that potentially contributed to the contamination of romaine lettuce with E. coli O157:H7 that was implicated in a 2018 multi-state foodborne illness outbreak.

Farmers market vendors need training to improve food-safety practices

https://news.psu.edu/story/545445/2018/11/01/research/farmers-market-vendors-need-training-improve-food-safety-practices

Jeff Mulhollem

November 01, 2018

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Many vendors at farmers markets take inadequate precautions to prevent the spread of foodborne illness, and they should be trained to reduce food-safety risks, according to Penn State researchers who completed the final phase of an innovative five-year study.

Using a comprehensive three-way approach, the research assessed food safety behaviors at Pennsylvania farmers markets using direct concealed observations, state sanitarian observations, and self-reported vendor surveys. The results revealed key distinctions between observed vendor food-handling practices — by both researchers and state sanitarians — and vendor self-reported practices.

FDA Warning Letter - MN Warehouse with Egregious GMP Violations

FDA issued a Warning Letter to the owner of a warehouse facility in Minnesota due to egregious GMP violations.  Hard to imagine food being stored in these conditions.

1. Did not take effective measures to exclude pests from your packing and holding areas to protect against contamination of food on the premises by pests - dead rodents, gnaw marks and holes in product, rodent droppings and live birds.
2. Did not maintain your building, fixtures, and other physical facilities of your plant in a clean and sanitary condition and in repair adequate to prevent food from becoming adulterated - leaky roof with damp/wet product below, product spillage in multiple locations
3. Did not store food under conditions that protect against biological, chemical, and physical contamination - improper chemical storage with the potential for contamination of food, refrigated food stored at ambient temperatures.
4. Failed to properly store equipment, remove litter and waste, and cut weeds and grass that may constitute an attractant, breeding place, or harborage for pests within the immediate vicinity of the plant,

FDA Warning Letter
https://www.fda.gov/ICECI/EnforcementActions/WarningLetters/ucm624404.htm
Gold Star Distribution., Inc. 10/19/18

Frozen Vegetable Recall Due to Inadequate Followup on Presumptive Positive Pathogen Results

The FDA Enforcement Report gives an indication for the cause of the frozen produce recall associated with McCain's Foods.  In FDA's October 31st release of Enforcement Reports, FDA has posted the McCain Foods recalled products, over 50 different items, recalled and the reason.

"During an internal audit at the manufacturing location, it was discovered that finished product had been released on numerous occasions after receiving presumptive positive test results for Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella; confirmation was not conducted".

Basically, product testing was done and when a presumptive positive was found, there was no followup.  There was no corrective action for the product.  They never determined if it was positive or negative for the pathogen.  Because of this, they recalled the product.  

Presumptive positives can be common depending upon the test and food matrix.  In many cases, depending upon the cleanliness of the facility and how well they follow their procedures for processing and control of the post-roasting environment, these would have come out negative.  But we don't know.

Because of the pacakage sizes, this product is packed for food processing and food service sectors.  These are not consumer size packs, and thus the reason we had not seen in FDA Recalls Notices.

Product list includes:

Additional Frozen Veggie Related Recall

J&J Snack Foods Handheld Corp. of Holly Ridge, NC is voluntarily recalling two lots of Fit & Active Southwest Veggie Stuffed Sandwiches due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella.  The potential for contamination was discovered after a supplier, McCain Foods, IL, announced it was recalling frozen vegetables which are ingredients used in the product.

This recall is in addition to the other recalls associated with McCain Foods.

Food Recall of Fit & Active Southwest Veggie Stuffed Sandwiches Due to Possible Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella Contamination in Vegetables
For Immediate Release
October 29, 2018

Controversy on Herbicide Round-up Found in Food

A report was issued by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) that documents traces of the herbicide Roundup in oat cereals such as Cheerios.  While the "levels, though, were far below the concentrations deemed unsafe by state and federal regulators", EWG believes the EPA established levels are too high and the amounts found can impact health, especially for children.

"But the question of how much of the herbicide in kids' food is too much — and whether it's a carcinogen at all — has become hotly debated among scientists and regulators around the world, with no clear answer."  Controversy is good.  It forces us to question and reevaluate.

Star Tribune
http://www.startribune.com/roundup-found-in-cheerios-reignites-debate-on-food-safety/498472351/
Roundup found in Cheerios reignites debate on food safety

Lawsuit Filed Against Airline for Mishandling Listeria Issue

Former employees have filed a lawsuit against United Airlines after the airline disregarded their complaints about Listeria contamination in the airport commissary.

While it is difficult to comment on the validity of the lawsuit, one takeaway from this can be how non-food companies who handle food address food safety issues.  Companies whose sole focus is processing / handling / distributing food, tend to have decision-making executives with industry experience, thus are in tune with the regulations.  Does the same go for entities like airlines where the main focus of the business is something other than food?  It is important for companies or organizations who serve food as some part of their business to recognize the impact of food safety issues and the need to understand and follow regulations and food industry best practices.

CNBC

https://www.cnbc.com/2018/10/29/united-airlines-mishandled-listeria-contamination-lawsuits-claim.html
United Airlines mishandled listeria contamination, endangering travelers, lawsuits claim
Megan Leonhardt | @Megan_Leonhardt |
4 Mins Ago

Microplastic in Your Poop - Is this Something New to Worry About?

A recent study found that human stool samples collected from 8 volunteers all contained microplastic.  Microplastics, from 50 micrometers to 500 micrometers in size, are generated through our use and discarding of plastic.  They are "created unintentionally by shredding, abrasion or decomposition of larger plastic parts in the environment".

We have known that microplastics are widespread in the environment including the oceans.  It has been shown to be a wide variety of animals including worms and mammals.  The impact on health is not fully understood, "there are initial indications that microplastics can damage the gastrointestinal tract by promoting inflammatory reactions or absorbing harmful substances, further studies are needed to assess the potential dangers of microplastics for humans".

Microplastics Found in Human Stools for First Time
News   Oct 23, 2018 | Original Story from the Medical University of Vienna.

Two Recalls of Curry Issued Due to High Lead Levels

Two recalls were issued for curry spice due to high levels of lead.  The first recall was issued due to a consumer complaint.   "The product sampling was conducted as a result of a consumer complaint regarding elevated blood lead levels in a child."  Yikes

In this recall,  Sirob Imports, Inc of Lindenhurst, NY recalled curry under the brands Corrado, Orlando Imports, Nouri’s Syrian Bakery, Mediterranean Specialty Foods Brand and Butera Fruit Market Curry Powder.  The recall was initiated after FDA sampling found elevated levels of lead in the product. The product sampling was conducted as a result of a consumer complaint regarding elevated blood lead levels in a child.

In the second recall,  "UBC Food Distributors Inc, due to a high level of lead after testing was done by the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development.  This product was purchased from an importer.  The importer, along with the FDA, are now in the process of contacting the source of the product, so that corrective action can be taken on their part.  Use of, or consumption of this product may elevate lead levels in the blood."

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm624397.htm
UBC Food Distributors Recalls Hot Curry Powder and Curry Powder due to Lead
For Immediate Release
October 25, 2018

Canada - Breaded Chicken Burgers Recalled After Linked to Salmonella Outbreak

In Canada, Sofina Foods is recalling breaded chicken burgers after the product was linked to 25 cases of Salmonella infection.  There were two hospitalizations.  This is a uncooked product, stated clearly on the label, and has cooking instructions on the back (cook to 165F / 74C).

According to the Canadian Public Health Release (below), there have been 14 outbreaks associated with raw chicken, including frozen raw breaded chicken products with 474 cases and 90 hospitalizations.

It would be interesting to know to what degree do people verify cooking temperature or cross contamination.  A good guess would be under-cooking, especially an issue when starting with frozen product.

http://inspection.gc.ca/about-the-cfia/newsroom/food-recall-warnings/complete-listing/2018-10-26/eng/1540600587248/1540600589249
Food Recall Warning - Janes brand Pub Style Chicken Burgers recalled due to Salmonella
Recall date:October 26, 2018
Reason for recall:Microbiological - Salmonella 
Hazard classification:Class 1 
Company / Firm:Sofina Foods Inc. 
Distribution:National
Extent of the distribution:Retail 
Reference number:12567

Organic Chicken Products Recalled Due to Low Levels of Thallium

Suzanna’s Kitchen, Inc., a Peachtree Corners, Ga. establishment, is recalling approximately 15,363 pounds of grilled chicken products due to an unapproved substance -the product contains concentrations of thallium.   "The problem was discovered when the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services tested retail packages of Nature Raised Farms Organic Gluten Free Grilled Chicken Strips produced by Suzanna’s Kitchen, Inc. and found concentrations of thallium in the product. The concentration levels do not present an immediate health hazard; however, FSIS is recommending this Class II recall out of an abundance of caution because prolonged ingestion of contaminated product in sensitive populations could cause some health effects. FSIS is working with the involved parties to identify the source of the contamination and prevent any further product from going into commerce."

From Wikipdia, "Commercially, thallium is produced not from potassium ores, but as a byproduct from refining of heavy-metal sulfide ores.  Soluble thallium salts (many of which are nearly tasteless) are toxic, and they were historically used in rat poisons and insecticides. Use of these compounds has been restricted or banned in many countries, because of their nonselective toxicity. Thallium poisoning usually results in hair loss, although this characteristic symptom does not always surface. Because of its historic popularity as a murder weapon, thallium has gained notoriety as "the poisoner's poison" and "inheritance powder" (alongside arsenic)."

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-105-2018-release
Suzanna’s Kitchen, Inc., Recalls Poultry Products due to an Unapproved Substance 
Class II Recall 
05-2018 
Health Risk: Low 
Oct 26, 2018 

This Week in Mislabeled Products - Week Ending October 27, 2018

No Allergens Listed on Label - Red Square Foods, Inc., a Somerset, N.J. establishment, is recalling an undetermined amount of various frozen meat and poultry ravioli and blintzes products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens - the products contain eggs, milk, and/or wheat, all known allergens, which are not declared on the product label. The problem was discovered by FSIS inspectors during routine label verification activities.

Wrong Label - Shirley’s Cookie Company Inc. of Claysburg, PA, is recalling its 16 ounce packages of "Chocolate Whoopie Pie" because they may contain undeclared peanuts.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the peanut-containing product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of peanuts. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company's production and packaging processes.

Tamari Sauce Contains Soy - New Seasons Market is recalling 193 jars of New Seasons Market Hot & Sour Broth because it contains undeclared soy.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the broth containing soy was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of soy. The product contains Tamari sauce, which is made from soy beans.[Tamari sauce is similar to soy sauce, but contains little to no wheat, while soy sauce does have wheat]

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2018/recall-106-2018-release
Red Square Foods, Inc., Recalls Frozen Not-Ready-To-Eat Meat and Poultry Products due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens 
Class I Recall 
106-2018 
Health Risk: High 
Oct 27, 2018 

Ongoing Outbreak of Salmonella Associated with Raw Chicken Products

CDC reported on an ongoing Salmonella outbreak associated with raw chicken products.  There have been 92 cases reported in 29 different states, but no single source has been identified.

https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/infantis-10-18/index.html
Outbreak of Multidrug-Resistant Salmonella Infections Linked to Raw Chicken Products
Posted October 17, 2018 at 12:00 PM ET

CDC Updates Case Counts of Salmonella Infections Associated with Raw Ground Beef From AZ Processor

CDC updated information on a Salmonella outbreak associated with ground meat produced by a Arizona processor, JBS Tolleson, Inc. The company had issued a recall earlier this month. There are now 120 reported cases of salmonellosis in 22 different states, primarily in the western part of the country. Thirty-three of those cases have resulted in hospitalizations.

Although this is a raw product, it shows the difficulty when a product like ground meat has a level of pathogens that increase the risk during handling or insufficient cooking (you know who you are non-thermometer users).  Manufacturers must do their part to provide sufficient reduction of pathogens such as Salmonella and E. coli.

CDC Food Safety Alert
Posted October 23, 2018 at 3:00 PM ET
A multistate outbreak of Salmonella Newport infections linked to ground beef produced by JBS Tolleson, Inc.

At A Glance

• Reported Cases: 120
• States: 22
• Hospitalizations: 33
• Deaths: 0
• Recall: Yes

Canada - Salmonella Outbreak Likely Associated with Cucumbers

In Canada, there have been around 45 cases of Salmonella infection, mostly in the western provinces, that are being linked to cucumbers.  There have also been six cases in Washington State.

Government of Canada

https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/public-health-notices/2018/outbreak-salmonella-infections-under-investigation.html
Public Health Notice - Outbreak of Salmonella infections under investigation
October 19, 2018
Why you should take note

FDA Reminds Facilities to Renew Registration as Part of Biennial Renewal Requirement

FDA is reminding FDA-regulated companies of the need to renew their facility registrations. This renewal registration process occurs every two years. FDA has the Biennial Registration Renewal open from October 1, 2018 through December 31, 2018.

https://www.fda.gov/Food/GuidanceRegulation/FoodFacilityRegistration/ucm324780.htm
2018 Food Facility Biennial Registration Renewal
October 1, 2018 12:01AM through December 31, 2018 12:59PM

FDA Issues Warning Letter to NY Processor for Nastiness

The U.S. FDA issued a Warning letter to a NY firm that manufacturers Ready-to-Eat (RTE) single serve condiment manufacturing and has a warehouse facility.  Based on FDA’s findings during the inspection, the FDA determined that the food products were adulterated within the meaning of regulation in that they were prepared, packed or held under insanitary conditions whereby they may have been contaminated with filth or rendered injurious to health.

The issues were too numerous to detail, so in summary:

• Were packing product that had a pH above 4.6 without proper controls for this low acid product.
• Lots of dead rodents and lots of rodent poop (REP -rodent excreta pellets)
• Roaches
• Unclean surfaces and equipment
• Condensation issues
• Improper processing and cleaning procedures

Elwood International has a website. From the website about the company:

30 years ago, Elwood began making dietetic portion controlled products exclusively for hospital service. Today, Elwood is a recognized leader in the dietetic food industry; with a complete line of Salad Dressings, Jellies and Condiments specifically formulated for diabetics and others who must follow modified and restricted diet meal plans.
Elwood manufactures a complete line of great tasting sucrose-free foods that diabetics can trust, such as:
Salad Dressings, Jellies, Sauces, Condiments and Pancake Syrup. Some of our exciting flavors are Russian, Oil & Vinegar, Thousand Island and Blue Cheese Salad Dressings, Cranberry, Tartar, Barbecue and Seafood Cocktail Sauces, Strawberry, Grape, Apricot, Raspberry and Apple Jelly, Pancake Syrup and Condiments like Mayonnaise and Mustard.  

So great, this product is going to people likely to be considered high risk.

FDA Warning Letter

https://www.fda.gov/ICECI/EnforcementActions/WarningLetters/ucm623049.htm
Elwood International, Inc. 9/27/18

This Week in Mislabeled Product - Week Ending October 20, 2018

Sulfites Detected by State - #1 Bronx, NY is recalling Fruits Du Sud Golden Seedless Raisins (Lot No. FDS T499/18) 30 lbs Box, because they contain undeclared SULFITES.  The recall was initiated after routine sampling by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors and subsequent analysis by the Department’s Food Laboratory Personnel revealed the presence of sulfites in the product, which were not declared on the label.

Sulfites Detected by State - #2 New Nan Fong Hong Trading Inc. is recalling its 16 oz (454g) packages of Source Day Natural Treasures Dried Liquorice Slice because they contain undeclared sulfites. The recall was initiated after routine sampling by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors and subsequent analysis of the product by the New York State Food Laboratory personnel revealed the presence of sulfite allergens in packages of Source Day Natural Treasures Dried Liquorice Slice which did not declare sulfites as an ingredient on the label.

Residual Milk in Processing Lines - Saratoga Springs, NY - Stewart’s Shops Corp. is recalling units of Stewart’s Shops brand Cranberry Apple Refresher 16 fluid oz. because the product may contain undeclared milk. The recall was initiated after routine quality control testing discovered that a milk allergen was in the product.

Edamame is Soy - Cedar’s Mediterranean Foods, of Ward Hill, MA is voluntarily recalling Cedar’s Chickpea Salad 8 oz. because it may contain undeclared edamame (soy). Cedar’s initiated the recall when it was discovered that misprinted labels omitted the edamame ingredient and allergy statement.

Wrong Beans - Faribault Foods, Inc. of Faribault, MN is recalling its 15 ounce S&W White Beans because it contains undeclared sulfites.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered via consumer feedback that the contents in the can are garbanzo beans and were mislabeled as white beans. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company’s packaging processes.

Wrong Label Angel Food Caked Labeled as Cornbread - Clackamas Bakery has recalled Fred Meyer Bakery Angel Food Cake Bar (12 oz.) sold in its retail stores because the product may contain milk and soy not listed on the label. Clackamas Bakery initiated the recall when it was discovered that the Fred Meyer Bakery Angel Food Cake Bar label had been incorrectly applied to packages of cornbread.

Formula Changed Not Reflected on Label - Feel Good Foods Inc. of Brooklyn, NY is recalling six lots of “Vegetable Fried Rice” frozen meals, UPC 00899039002129 because they may contain undeclared egg.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that egg-containing product was distributed in packaging, which did not declare egg as an ingredient.  This problem was a result of the manufacturer failing to remove egg from the product formula as instructed. The manufacturer continued to include egg in the formula, while applying revised ingredient labels to packaging, which did NOT call out egg.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm623694.htm
P. East Trading Corp. Issues Alert on Undeclared Sulfites In Fruits Du Sud Golden Seedless Raisins
For Immediate Release
October 17, 2018

Frozen Vegetables from Canadian-based Frozen Food Company Responsible for Multiple Recalls in US

Numerous US companies have issued recalls after using frozen vegetables recalled by the supplier, McCain Foods, a Canadian based company at their California facility.  The products are being recalled for Listeria and Salmonella.    According to one news report, "As McCain Foods explained in a Friday e-mail to The Miami Herald, the company “recently identified a potential health risk related to its fire roasted, caramelized or sautéed frozen vegetable and fruit products produced at its Colton facility, California. As a result, we have made the decision to voluntarily recall all products produced at this facility."

Read more here: https://www.heraldsun.com/news/state/north-carolina/article220428265.html#storylink=cpy

• Product recalled include both RTE products and products that have cooking instructions.
• Recalled product includes various store brands produced by further processing companies including Trader Joe's, Whole Foods, Marketside.
• The statement does not indicate how the potential contamination issue was there.  One would guess testing because the statement indicates, 'out of an abundance of caution.
• Another indication the recall was found by testing is that it was for both Listeria and Salmonella...so this may indicate that a screening test was done
• There have been no illnesses to date.

Recalls posted thus far:

• Hy-Vee Voluntarily Recalls Several Meat and Potato Products - Hy-Vee, Inc., based in West Des Moines, Iowa, is voluntarily recalling six of its meat and potato products across its eight-state region
• 103-2018 Bakkavor Foods USA, Inc. Recalls Meat and Poultry Products due to Possible Salmonella and Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination In Onions - Bakkavor Foods USA, Inc., a firm with establishments located in Carson, Calif., Charlotte, N.C. and Jessup, Penn., is recalling approximately 795,261 pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products that contain an onion ingredient
• SK Food Group Recalls Chicken Products due to Possible Salmonella and Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination in Vegetables - WASHINGTON, Oct. 19, 2018 – SK Food Group, a Groveport, Ohio and Reno, Nev. establishment, is recalling approximately 174,207 pounds of chicken wrap products that contain vegetables
• Buddy’s Kitchen, Inc. Recalls Pork and Chicken Products due to Possible Salmonella and Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination in Vegetables - WASHINGTON, Oct. 19, 2018 – Buddy’s Kitchen, Inc., a Burnsville, Minn. establishment, is recalling approximately 212,746 pounds of ready-to-eat pork and chicken products that contain vegetables
• Envolve Foods Recalls Chicken and Beef Products due to Possible Salmonella and Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination in Vegetables - Envolve Foods, a Corona, Calif. establishment, is recalling approximately 292,764 pounds of ready-to-eat chicken and beef products that contain a vegetable 
• Caito Foods, LLC Recalls Salad And Bowl Products Made With Chicken Due To Possible Salmonella and Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination In Corn - Caito Foods, LLC, an Indianapolis, Ind. establishment, is recalling approximately 1,532 pounds of ready-to-eat salad and bowl products made with chicken that contain a corn ingredient
• Ruiz Food Products, Inc. Recalls Beef and Poultry Products due to Possible Salmonella and Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination in Onion Ingredient -  Ruiz Food Products, Inc., a Denison, Texas, establishment, is recalling approximately 2,490,593 pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry taquitos
• GHSW, LLC Recalls Salad Products Due To Possible Salmonella And Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination In Corn - GHSW, LLC, a Houston, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 1,786 pounds of ready-to-eat salad with chicken products that contain a corn ingredient 
• GHSE, LLC Recalls Salads Containing Meat Products due to Possible Salmonella and Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination In Corn - GHSE, LLC, a Green Cove Springs, Florida establishment, is recalling approximately 738 pounds of ready-to-eat salad with meat products that contain a corn ingredient 
• Taylor Farms Northwest LLC Recalls Pork Carnitas Bowl Products due to Possible Salmonella and Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination In Tomatillos -  Taylor Farms Northwest LLC, a Kent, Wash. establishment, is recalling approximately 276 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) pork carnitas bowl products that contain tomatillos
• Mary’s Harvest Fresh Foods, Inc. Recalls Wrap and Salad Meat Products due to Possible Salmonella and Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination In Corn - Mary’s Harvest Fresh Foods, Inc., a Portland, Ore. establishment, is recalling approximately 916 pounds of ready-to-eat wrap and salad products that contain a corn ingredient 
• GH Foods CA, LLC Recalls Salads Containing Chicken Products due to Possible Salmonella and Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination In Corn  - GH Foods CA, LLC, a Sacramento, Calif. establishment, is recalling approximately 987 pounds of ready-to-eat salad with chicken products that contain a corn ingredient
• Prime Deli Corporation Recalls Salads Containing Meat Products due to Possible Salmonella and Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination in Corn -  Prime Deli Corporation, a Lewisville, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 217 pounds of ready-to-eat salad with bacon products that contain a corn ingredient

https://www.fda.gov/Food/RecallsOutbreaksEmergencies/SafetyAlertsAdvisories/ucm623828.htm
FDA Alerts the Public Regarding Recalled Vegetable Products
October 19, 2018