Pet (Fish) Food Recalled After Lab Misreads Salmonella Results

A Wisconsin firm is recalling fish food, Aqueon Betta Food, after Salmonella test results were reversed and called positive.  It appears the firm shipped the product on getting negative Salmonella results and then had to conduct a recall after two negatives were confirmed as positive.  "Central Aquatics has appropriate testing protocols and followed all such internal testing protocols. However, the outside independent laboratory contracted to conduct and read Salmonella testing mistakenly indicated the two lots of the recalled product were negative for Salmonella, when in fact it was found to be positive for Salmonella. Central Aquatics immediately initiated steps to recall the subject product upon notification of the error by the independent laboratory."

As indicated in the report, there is little information on the impact of Salmonella on fish, however, the concern would be that people handling the fish food, often dosed to the fish by pouring some in the fish feeders hand,  could be transmitted to that person or others.

The important point in this is the impact of the laboratory and the results they furnish regarding the product.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/central-aquatics-recalls-aqueon-betta-food-95-oz-jar-because-possible-salmonella-health-risk
Central Aquatics Recalls Aqueon Betta Food (.95 oz Jar) Because of Possible Salmonella Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date: June 26, 2019
FDA Publish Date: June 26, 2019

NC Establishment Recalls Sausage Due to Complaint of Metal Piece

An Elon, N.C. establishment, San Giuseppe Salami Co, is recalling approximately 832 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE), frozen andouille sausage products after they received a report that a consumer found a piece of a metal ring in the product, thus indicating that the product may be contaminated with metal extraneous materials.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2019/recall-071-2019-release
San Giuseppe Salami Co. by Giacomo Recalls Ready-To-Eat, Frozen Andouille Sausage Products due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination 
Class I Recall
071-2019 
Health Risk: High 
Jun 24, 2019

FDA Provides Update on E. coli Outbreak Linked to Flour, More Product Added to Recall

FDA released an update on the outbreak investigation into the illnesses cased by E. coli linked to flour.  There have been 17 cases so far, with the last one occurring mid-April.

Another company was added to those issued a flour related recall due to this.  Brand Castle is recalling cookie and brownie mixes.

https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-e-coli-o26-linked-adm-milling-co-flour-may-2019
Outbreak Investigation of E. Coli O26 Linked to ADM Milling Co. Flour, May 2019

Additional recall linked to ADM Milling Co. flour; Brand Castle, LLC announces recall of several cookie and brownie mixes due to potentially contaminated flour

Case Counts

• Total Illnesses: 17
•  Hospitalizations: 3
•  Deaths: 0
•  Last illness onset: April 18, 2019

Infant Formula Powder Recalled for Potential Foreign Material

Perrigo Company plc is issuing a voluntary nationwide recall a single lot of 35-ounce, 992-gram containers of Parent's Choice Advantage Infant Formula Milk-Based Powder with Iron. because of the potential presence of metal foreign matter,   This product is sold exclusively at Walmart.
"No adverse events have been reported to date, and the recall is being initiated out of an abundance of caution stemming from a consumer report"

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/perrigo-issues-voluntary-recall-parents-choice-advantage-infant-formula-milk-based-powder-iron
Perrigo Issues Voluntary Recall For Parent's Choice Advantage Infant Formula Milk-Based Powder With Iron
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  June 21, 2019
FDA Publish Date:  June 21, 2019

Bottled Water from Mexico Recalled after Tests Reveal Arsenic Above Regulatory Limits

Keurig Dr Pepper today announced it will voluntarily withdraw Peñafiel unflavored mineral spring water products, imported from Mexico, due to the presence of violative levels of arsenic. Water quality tests of Peñafiel samples conducted by an independent laboratory on behalf of Keurig Dr Pepper detected arsenic at levels that exceeded the FDA’s bottled water standards for mineral water of 10 ppb.

From the published notice, "Arsenic is found in nature, including in aquifers that are the source of mineral water and where levels can vary over time. Keurig Dr Pepper has recently installed enhanced filtration systems at its facilities that produce Peñafiel, and the product now being produced is well within regulatory guidelines."

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/keurig-dr-pepper-announces-voluntary-withdrawal-unflavored-penafiel-mineral-spring-water-does-not
Keurig Dr Pepper Announces Voluntary Withdrawal of Unflavored Peñafiel Mineral Spring Water that Does Not Meet FDA Bottled Water Quality Standards
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  June 21, 2019
FDA Publish Date:  June 21, 2019

This Week in Mislabeled Product for Week Ending June 22, 2019

Egg Missing on Tempura Product Label - Mai Cuisine Inc., of Philadelphia, PA is voluntarily recalling 31 packs of Spicy Shrimp Tempura Roll and 32 packs of Spicy Shrimp Tempura Crunch Roll because it may contain undeclared egg.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product containing egg was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of egg. Although these products have shelf life of 1 day, the firm is initiating this recall to ensure customer safety.

Wrong Potato Chip Bag - Chips Packed in Wrong Bag, Milk Not Listed - Frito-Lay today issued a limited voluntary recall of 7 3/4 oz. bags of Lay’s Lightly Salted Barbecue Flavored Potato Chips because they may contain undeclared milk ingredients. The recall was initiated after it was discovered that bags of Lay’s Lightly Salted Barbecue Flavored Potato Chips were inadvertently filled with another flavor of potato chips, potentially exposing consumers to undeclared milk.

High Sulfite Level on Dried Dates - Shivam Distributors of Longwood, FL is recalling its 14 ounce packages of “Dry Dates” because they contain high sulfite content.  The recall was the result of a random testing done on May 21 2019 by FL agriculture department which notified our company on June 5, 2019 that revealed high sulfite level in the 14 ounce packages of “Dry Dates” with batch # 127/BHBI.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/mai-cuisine-inc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-egg-allergen-spicy-shrimp-tempura-sushi-rolls
Mai Cuisine Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Egg Allergen in Spicy Shrimp Tempura Sushi Rolls
Summary
Company Announcement Date: June 17, 2019
FDA Publish Date: June 17, 2019

Ready-to-Eat Food Items Recalled Due to Temperature Abuse During Transport to Retail Location

 C&S Wholesale Grocers, located in Westfield, Mass. is recalling an undetermined amount of ready-to-eat and not-ready-to-eat meat and poultry products due to temperature abuse during transport,The ready-to-eat and not-ready-to-eat meat and poultry products were sold on June 17, 2019, at two Target retail stores in New York. The problem was discovered when the firm notified FSIS that the product was held at an incorrect temperature and then inadvertently shipped into commerce.  All remaining inventory of the recalled items have been removed from the store and destroyed.

In the FDA recall notice for the same two shipments, the reasoning was mechanical failure during transportation.  One may guess an improperly operating, or non-operating refrigeration unit.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2019/recall-070-2019-release
C&S Wholesale Grocers Recalls Meat and Poultry Products due to Possible Temperature Abuse During Transport at Two Stores in New York 
Class I Recall
070-2019
Health Risk: High
Jun 20, 2019

Frozen Berries Recalled for Norovirus After FDA Testing Reveals Presence

Alma Pak of Alma, Georgia is recalling specific lots of product containing frozen blackberries (noted below) due to the potential of being contaminated with Norovirus. FDA testing of frozen blackberries was reported to have tested positive for Norovirus.

It appears that the recalls associated with viral contamination, in this case Norovirus, are triggered by FDA testing.  Hopefully, there is an investigation into how this contamination got there and with that, the types of controls that can be instituted.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/alma-pak-voluntarily-recalls-frozen-blackberries-due-possible-health-risk-norovirus
Alma Pak Voluntarily Recalls Frozen Blackberries Due to Possible Health Risk of Norovirus
Summary
Company Announcement Date: June 20, 2019
FDA Publish Date: June 20, 2019

Frozen Grilled Red Peppers Recalled After Sample Tests Positive for Listeria

UNFI is voluntarily recalling its 10 ounce packages of Woodstock frozen Organic Grilled Red Peppers after routine testing by the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes. Currently, one lot of product is being recalled, but the company has suspended production of the product while RIDOH and UNFI continue to investigate.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/unfi-recalls-its-woodstock-frozen-organic-grilled-red-peppers-because-possible-health-risk
UNFI Recalls its Woodstock Frozen Organic Grilled Red Peppers Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date: June 19, 2019
FDA Publish Date: June 19, 2019

Frozen Chunk Avocado Recalled After FDA Discovers Positive Listeria in Sample

Nature's Touch Frozen Foods, a Canadian-based importer is recalling its frozen chunked avocado after FDA testing found Listeria in one of the bags they sampled.  The product was shipped to 15 states, all west of the Mississippi, and to numerous retailers.

Only one lot code was recalled...so far.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/natures-touch-frozen-foods-west-inc-voluntarily-recalls-signature-select-avocado-chunks-due
Nature’s Touch Frozen Foods (West) Inc. Voluntarily Recalls Signature Select Avocado Chunks Due to Potential Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date: June 18, 2019
FDA Publish Date: June 18, 2019

Plastic Jars of Ragu Pasta Sauce Recalled Because of Potential for Plastic Pieces

Mizkan America, Inc., is recalling select production codes of certain RAGÚ® pasta sauces in the U.S. because the sauce may contain fragments of plastic. According to the report, there have not been any reports of consumer injuries or complaints.

"These sauces were produced between June 4-8 and Mizkan America believes that the majority of this production run is in its control.  However, some cases of the sauces listed above were shipped to customers recently and these cases/products are subject to this voluntary recall."

Mizkan America Website
https://www.ragu.com/press-release/mizkan-america-inc-announces-voluntary-recall/
Mizkan America, Inc., Announces Voluntary Recall Of Select Varieties/Production Codes of RAGÚ® Pasta Sauce

Frozen Cut Spinach Recalled Due to Listeria Positive Product Samples

An AZ retailer is recalling its branded frozen cut spinach after random sampling revealed that finished products contained Listeria monocytogenes.  The product was manufactured by National Frozen Foods of Oregon.  One date code for both organic and conventional spinach was recalled.  Product was shipped to 19 states (AZ, CA, NV, UT, NM, CO, TX, KS, OK, MO, TN, AL, GA, FL, SC, NC, PA, MD, and VA)

As we have seen with so many of these recalls in the past, one may expect additional lots recalled if the company finds that additional product lots have contamination, thus indicating inadequate controls were in place.

While freezing restricts growth and proper cooking would eliminate the Listeria risk, the concern would be the use of spinach in applications where heating is limited or product is not heated at all (smoothies, spinach dip) or where there is the chance of cross contamination in the kitchen.

This is not National Frozen Foods first Listeria related recall.  In 2016, this company had the extensive recall with frozen peas and in 2018, there was a recall of frozen green beans.

FDA Recall Notice
https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/sprouts-farmers-market-recalls-frozen-cut-leaf-spinach-and-frozen-organic-cut-leaf-spinach-16oz
Sprouts Farmers Market Recalls Frozen Cut Leaf Spinach and Frozen Organic Cut Leaf Spinach 16oz. Packages Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date :June 14, 2019
FDA Publish Date: June 17, 2019

Preliminary Findings from Cyclospora Outbreak Associated with Romaine Lettuce in 2018

A Blue Ribbon Panel was put together to investigate the 2018 cyclospora outbreak associated with Romaine lettuce.   Little is know about this parasite and the goal of the panel was to focus on root-cause assessment, preventive measures/controls, collaborative approach, and testing validation.  "Although several outbreaks attributed to C. cayetanensis occurred during 2018 that were linked to fresh produce — particularly multi-commodity vegetable trays, cilantro, and others — this working group focused initial attention on the outbreak associated with a romaine lettuce mix."

Cyclospora is a human-specfic parasite that has been problematic in RTE produce such as lettuce (2018), veggie trays (2018), raspberries, and cilantro.  Cyclospora is spread by people ingesting food or water that was contaminated with feces from an infected individual.

For this case, "Outbreak investigative evidence, epidemiology, trace-back, and secondary on-farm investigative follow-up strongly indicated raw material contamination to a domestic production source in California"

While the report provides a pretty broad list in the root cause analysis, the recommendations for preventive controls focus on key elements:

"Recommendations

• Source protection for agricultural water should emphasize protection against human fecal contamination.
• Because humans appear to be the primary reservoir for C. cayetanensis, surveillance of diarrheal illness among workers involved in propagation and harvesting of fresh produce should be conducted, and workers with diarrheal illnesses be tested for C. cayetanensis and other enteric infections.
• Equipment used in propagation and harvesting of fresh produce should be maintained and cleaned to prevent C. cayetanensis transmission.
• Prevention measures need to account for the extrinsic maturation period of C. cayetanensis. This should include awareness of events and activities in the field at least 1 to 2 weeks before harvest, or at the time of harvest with regard to water, equipment, or environmental materials that were contaminated 1 to 2 weeks earlier."

The report also provides a summary of why control measures for STEC (pathogenic E. coli are different than for Cyclospora.

"Although industry-wide efforts to prevent contamination of romaine lettuce by pathogenic bacteria focus on the use of agricultural water, several key features of C. cayetanensis differ from STEC and need to be addressed in preventing Cyclospora transmission.

• Cyclospora is more resistant to routine chemical disinfection processes than STEC. Thus, water testing and treatment targeted to control STEC may not be adequate to control C. cayetanensis
• Water source protection is focused on animal reservoirs, primarily cattle, whereas C. cayetanensis is not known to have an animal reservoir hosts. Though animals may ingest C. cayetanensis oocysts and mechanically spread them through their feces, they are not known to become infected or to amplify the number of oocysts. Thus, prevention of human fecal contamination appears to be the primary need for water source protection.
• C. cayetanensis appears to require at least 1 to 2 weeks under favorable environmental conditions to become infectious. This lengthy extrinsic maturation period must be taken into account when considering the possibility and plausibility of fresh produce becoming contaminated through various means and for the oocysts (if not already infective when the produce becomes contaminated) to have sufficient time, under favorable conditions, to become infective by the time that the contaminated produce is consumed."

There were additional recommendations made on surveillance and testing.

https://www.freshexpress.com/sites/default/files/brp_interim_report_6.5.19-final.2_2.pdf
Interim Report:
Blue-Ribbon Panel on the Prevention of Foodborne Cyclospora Outbreaks
June 5, 2019

From the Stupid File - Man-Who-Eats-Expired-Food-For-A-Year Becomes Poster Child for the Eating Foods Past Code Date

An article in the Washington Post discusses shelf-life stating with the example of a guy who ate expired food for a year.  We hear this all the time -  foods beyond a Best-By Dates are safe to eat....well mostly safe.  There can be some issues once some foods get beyond the stated best-by date, depending upon the type of food product.

• Listeria risk does increase if there is presence of the organism on certain foods.  Manufacturers go to great lengths to control Listeria, but if a single organism gets onto the product, like a sliced deli meat, that risk increases the longer the product is held.
• Mold - the risk of mold growth increases in products that are drier in nature, breads or cheeses for example, as well as produce.  Many molds produce mycotoxins, which can be really harmful.  And people can have allergic reactions to food with mold present.
• Acid foods in cans can leach tin into the food - as acid foods go beyond the stated date, that  will eventually deteriorate the can and with that, tin can leach into the product.  High levels of tin are not healthy.  Further, that acid will eventually cause the container to leak.
• Oxidized fat - In foods with fats/oils, such as potato chips, the oils will go rancid as product gets beyond the stated shelf-life..that is really the limiting factor that determine shelf-life.  Oil breakdown products due to rancidity are extremely unhealthy over the long term (Link). If the level of rancidity is high, it can cause gastro-intestinal distress (link)
• And high levels of spoilage bacteria are going to produce a number of byproducts that can cause gastrointestinal distress.  Much of that is determined by not only the number of organisms but the type or organisms present.  In milk for example, homofermentive lactic acid bacteria with lactic acid as the primary byproduct is one thing, but if spoilage is due to gram-negative spoilage organisms, this is a different thing.  We do not have control over what organism decides to spoil our food.

We are all for standardized terminology for shelf-life, but the manufacturer has the right to set that date and should expect people to eat that food before it hits that date...because that is when the product will be at its best.  If people eat the food beyond that date, it will not be as tasty and that will not increase the chance that the person buys that product again.  As consumers, we should be focused on eating food in its prime.

Unfortunately, for many reading this article, the main takeaway will be that they can and probably should eat expired food regardless of what it is or how far past the date it is.  The need to for standardized terminology and understanding that terminology gets lost with narrative of someone eating expired food for a year.

Our focus should be on using food when it is at its best....that means consumers should, in some cases, buy less.  In other cases, rotate their inventory.  Eating expired foods is not really a good idea.
Unfortunately we are going to hear...go ahead and eat it, that goof ate expired foods for a year and was fine, you can just wash off that spoiled slice of bologna...are you kidding me?  (And Jared ate subs for a year and look what happened to him....just kidding.)

Washington Post
https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2019/06/17/this-man-ate-expired-food-year-heres-why-expiration-dates-are-practically-meaningless/?utm_term=.2d9486350125
Business
This man ate ‘expired’ food for a year. Here’s why expiration dates are practically meaningless.

Breakfast Wraps Recalled After Complaints of Rocks....ROCKS?

Ruiz Foods Products Inc., a Denison, Texas, establishment, is recalling approximately 246,514 pounds of frozen, not ready-to-eat (NRTE) breakfast wrap products  (frozen egg, potato, bacon and cheese wraps) because the bacon may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically small rocks....ROCKS????   The problem was discovered on June 14, 2019, when Ruiz Foods advised FSIS of three consumer complaints regarding foreign material in the wrap products.   The company received a report of a potential injury associated with the consumption of this product.

The firm continues to investigate the source of the foreign material.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2019/recall-069-2019-release
Ruiz Foods Products Inc. Recalls Bacon Breakfast Wrap Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Class I Recall 069-2019
Health Risk: High
Jun 14, 2019

More Flour Recalled Due to Potential E. coli Contamination

Two specific lot codes of its Pillsbury® Best 5 lb. Bread Flour  were recalled due to a potential presence of pathogenic E. coli. The product was manufactured by ADM Milling Co., at the company’s mill in Buffalo, NY.  :Approximately 4,620 cases of impacted Pillsbury® Best 5 lb. Bread Flour were distributed to a limited number of retailers and distributors across the following 10 states: Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Virginia."

ADM flour with potential E.coli contamination was also involved in recent recalls under brands foe Aldi and King Author Flour.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/cooperation-adm-milling-co-hometown-food-company-issues-voluntary-recall-specific-lot-codes
In Cooperation with ADM Milling Co., Hometown Food Company Issues Voluntary Recall of Specific Lot Codes Pillsbury® Best Bread Flour Due to Possible Health Risk

Summary

Company Announcement Date: June 14, 2019

FDA Publish Date: June 14, 2019

Product Type: Food & Beverages 

Bakery Product/Mix

Reason for Announcement: E.coli

Company Name: Hometown Food Company

Brand Name: Pillsbury BEST

Product Description: Flour

Frozen Red Raspberries Recalled for Potential Norovirus Contamination

An Idaho company, WinCo Foods, LLC. is recalling 12 oz bags of Frozen Red Raspberries because it has the potential to be contaminated with Norovirus.   The produce was manufactured in Washington state.

While this recall is not connected to the frozen black raspberry recall from last week - that one was for Hepatitis A and this one is for Norovirus.   This appears to be part of the FDA sampling protocol for viruses in frozen RTE produce.   For both to have become contaminated, someone handling the product during production or processing had the virus.  And since there is a high likely the berries will be eaten with minimal processing, the virus if present can be passed onto the consumer.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/winco-foods-llc-recalls-frozen-red-raspberries-because-possible-health-risk
Winco Foods, LLC. Recalls Frozen Red Raspberries Because of Possible Health Risk

Summary

Company Announcement Date: June 14, 2019

FDA Publish Date: June 14, 2019

Product Type: Food & Beverages  Fruit/Fruit Product

Reason for Announcement: Norovirus

Company Name: WinCo Foods, LLC

Brand Name: WinCo Foods

Product Description: Frozen Red Raspberries

This Week in Mislabeled Product for Week Ending June 15, 2019

Labels Misses Eggs in Quiche..Can You Have a Quiche Without Eggs? - Taylor Farms Illinois, Inc., a Chicago, Ill. establishment, is recalling approximately 51 pounds of cheese and bacon quiche products due to the product containing eggs, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.   The problem was discovered on June 8, 2019 when Taylor Farms Illinois, Inc. notified FSIS that the incorrect bottom package label had been applied to the product.


https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2019/recall-067-2019-release
Taylor Farms Illinois, Inc. Recalls Bacon Quiche Products due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens
Class I Recall
067-2019
Health Risk: High
Jun 9, 2019

It Is Important to Get the Food Safety Communication Right

Update - the incorrect temperature posted has been corrected.

A food safety news release by a news channel in Virginia quotes a nutritionist at medical hospital.  While the RD gets most things right, the news article does state an incorrect internal temperature for cooking pork...she states 140F and this should be 145F.  Perhaps instead, they should have spoken with our friends at Virginia Extension.  (Someone may have already contacted the author regarding the correction and provided a link to Virginia Extension).

https://www.whsv.com/content/news/Dietitian-reminds-of-food-safety-amid-cookout-season-511241412.html
Dietitian says to keep food safety in mind during cookout season

Thu 2:17 PM, Jun 13, 2019  | 

Updated: Thu 7:33 PM, Jun 13, 2019

Difficulties in Developing a Vaccine Against Norovirus

Norovirus is considered the leading cause of foodborne illness in the US.  The main reasons for this is how easily it spreads (acute onset vomiting), low infectious dose, and ability to remain active in the environment.  Another key is that the body does not easily become immune to the virus, and with that, there are no available vaccines.

The reason for this is the changing complexity of the outer capsid structure.  This shell changes structure significantly from strain to strain.  And of course this structure is what antibodies find and lock onto in order to eliminate from the body.

Technology Networks
https://www.technologynetworks.com/biopharma/news/steps-towards-a-food-poisoning-vaccine-320589
Norovirus Structure Far More Complex Than First Thought 
News   Jun 13, 2019 |

Are Nitrates in Water A Cancer Risk?

A peer reviewed study published by the Environmental Working Group proposes that nitrate pollution of U.S. drinking water may cause from 2300 to 12,594 cases of cancer per year.  Most of these cases are in the rural farmland area where agronomic inputs, septic systems and home lawns becomes the source of this contamination.  Currently, the EPA acceptable level is 10ppm, but the EWG wants to see a lower level, about 0.14 ppm.

These statistical studies make a lot of inferences based on diverse data, so it is important to recognize the limit of this.

Jeff Stoltzfus, Penn State's Farm Food Safety Educator, was kind enough to provide some facts.  First, the baseline level, or background level, found in undisturbed aquifers is 1ppm and as high as 3ppm.  Vegetables and meat also contribute significant amounts of nitrates to our diet.  Finally, there are many, many activities we engage in each day that represent a higher risk than this.

Environmental Research, online 11 June 2019, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envres.2019.04.009

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S001393511930218X?via%3Dihub
Exposure-based assessment and economic valuation of adverse birth outcomes and cancer risk due to nitrate in United States drinking water.
 Alexis Temkin a, Sydney Evans a, Tatiana Manidis b, Chris Campbell a, Olga V. Naidenko a
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envres.2019.04.009

Highlights

• First of its kind national analysis assessing nitrate exposure from drinking water for the entire U.S. population.
• 2,300 to 12,594 nitrate-attributable cancer cases annually in the U.S., of which 54-82% are colorectal cancer (CRC) cases.
• Up to $1.5 and $6.5 billion in medical and indirect costs may be associated with annual nitrate-attributable cancer cases.
• Meta-analysis of eight studies assessing nitrate in drinking water and CRC supports a health benchmark of 0.14 mg/L

Chicken Fritters Recalled After 3 Complaints of Foreign Material Contamination in the Form of Hard Plastic

Tyson Foods, Inc., a New Holland, Pa. establishment, recalled approximately 190,757 pounds of ready-to-eat chicken fritter products due to potential contamination with hard plastic foreign objects. "FSIS was notified of the problem on June 5, 2019, when Tyson Foods, Inc. advised FSIS of three consumer complaints from schools of foreign material in the breaded chicken fritter product. Tyson Foods, Inc. distributed the product to institutions, including schools. While the product was distributed to schools, it resulted from a commercial sale and was not part of food provided by the USDA for the National School Lunch Program."

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2019/recall-066-2019-release
Tyson Foods, Inc. Recalls Ready-To-Eat Chicken Fritter Products due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Class I Recall
066-2019
Health Risk: High
Jun 7, 2019

More Flour Recalled After Notified Product May Be Linked to Ongoing E.coli Outbreak

King Arthur Flour, Inc. of Norwich, VT is voluntarily recalling 14,218 cases of 5 lb. Unbleached All-Purpose Flour after being informed by ADM Milling Co. that certain wheat used to make these lots of King Arthur flour has been linked to an ongoing outbreak of E. coli infections that was issued on May 24th.  No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with King Arthur flour.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/association-adm-milling-co-king-arthur-flour-inc-voluntarily-recalls-limited-quantity-unbleached-all
In Association with ADM Milling Co, King Arthur Flour, Inc. Voluntarily Recalls Limited Quantity of Unbleached All-Purpose Flour (5 Lb.) Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  June 13, 2019
FDA Publish Date:  June 13, 2019

Frozen Blackberries Recalled Due to Potential for Hepatitis A

FDA issued a consumer alert for frozen blackberries potentially contaminated with hepatitis A virus (HAV).    The notice states, "At this time, the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are not aware of any cases of hepatitis A linked to the consumption of Kroger Private Selection brand frozen blackberries."  Although nothing was stated, this indicates that someone who handled the product in the up-stream supplier chain had been diagnosed with Hepatitis A.

Kroger issued a recall for the frozen blackberries and the Triple Berry Medley.  The product was sold at Kroger stores.  Costco also recalled product that was shipped to 5 states.

The concern is that if the infected person contaminated the berries when handling the product, even a small amount on the frozen berries could make someone ill.   Of course, many of the berries would be eaten in the raw form.

https://www.fda.gov/food/alerts-advisories-safety-information/public-health-alert-concerning-hepatitis-virus-contamination-kroger-brand-frozen-blackberries
Public Health Alert Concerning Hepatitis A Virus Contamination of Kroger Brand Frozen Blackberries
June 7, 2019

New Third Party Audit Parameter - Food Safety Culture Assessment

It seems like there is always something new that can be added to the third-party audit....and now there is the Food Safety Culture Assessment.  A number of companies including Ecolab and Culture Excellence have developed tools "to help measure and advance food safety behaviors and the overall food safety culture within food retail organizations."

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/ecolab-launches-food-safety-culture-123000672.html
Ecolab Launches Food Safety Culture Assessment to Help Improve Food Safety Behavior
Business WireJune 7, 2019
ST. PAUL, Minn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Fake Food Safety Video Reaches Close to 100 Million People in Two Days

An article in NewStatesman discusses how a video with questionable food safety claims regarding food products was seen by 90 million people in two days.  In the video, the 'artists' show how manufacturers use fake food to fool consumers (you can watch the video from the link below)

Being released by a US entity, it is easy for many to assume that the cases were from US companies.  But that was not the case - "When asked about the research that went into making the video, First Media provided a list of links for each clip. Eleven of the 16 were from a mix of Indian sources relating to alleged food scandals in the country; from the urbane Instagram influencers of New Delhi to national newspapers and rural TV channels. One, relating to red dye on sweet potatoes, came from the official food standards authority in India. "

While the author's claim good intent in increasing awareness, it does show how fast fake news can be distributed, and if well produced, it can be quite convincing.

NewStatesman
https://www.newstatesman.com/science-tech/social-media/2019/06/how-spurious-food-safety-claims-reached-audience-almost-90-million
How spurious food safety claims reached an audience of almost 90 million in a few days

Prevalence of Salmonella and Pathogenic E. coli in Raw Wheat and the Need for Control

In a recently published study, the research shows that Salmonella and pathogenic E. coli is found in raw wheat, and with that, can be found in raw flour.   A total of 5,176 wheat samples were tested for enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC), Salmonella spp., Listeria spp., and L. monocytogenes.

• Salmonella was in 1.23% of the samples (average level of 0.110 MPN/g), 
• EHECs occurred in 0.44% of the samples (0.039 MPN/g), 
• Listeria spp. occurred in 0.08% of samples (0.020 MPN/g), but L. monocytogenes was not detected.

A few important discussion points:

• "Contamination sources are diverse and vary with several conditions, including weather, temperature, precipitation, time of flowering, and time of harvest."   So there is no silver bullet in eliminating this contamination from getting on the raw product.
• "There are two main pathways in which the presence of pathogens in wheat flour can cause human illness: (i) by the consumption of raw dough and (ii) through cross-contamination. The widespread use of wheat products in foods and the occurrence of outbreaks associated with wheat products confirm that eating raw wheat products poses a risk for foodborne illnesses."  As processors as well as consumers, these vegetative pathogens must be considered as being potentially present, and with that, we need to have a process to eliminate the organism (baking) and procedures against cross contamination with the raw flour (cleaning).

Journal of Food Protection
https://jfoodprotection.org/doi/full/10.4315/0362-028X.JFP-18-345
Occurrence and Levels of Salmonella, Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli, and Listeria in Raw Wheat
Volume 82, Issue 6 (June 2019) 

This Week in Mislabeled Product for Week Ending June 8, 2019

Nuts in the Pesto Sauce - Whole Foods Market stores in the North Atlantic region are voluntarily recalling the retailer’s specialty made-in-house basil pesto and specialty made-in-house sundried tomato pesto because the products may contain undeclared milk and tree nuts.   The issue was discovered after a customer alerted the store.

Sulfite Testing Discovers They're Missing on the Label - Deep Foods Inc. of Union, NJ is recalling Deep Golden Raisin 7oz., 14oz. and 28oz. Because they contained undeclared sulfites.  The recall was initiated after routing sampling by Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer services and subsequent analysis by Food Laboratory personnel revealed the presence of sulfites in the 7 oz. Package of Deep "Golden Raisin" which were not declared on label. The same raisins were packed in 14 oz. And 28 oz. And are included in this recall.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/allergy-alert-issued-undeclared-milk-pine-nuts-and-walnuts-two-specialty-pesto-products-sold-north
Allergy Alert Issued for Undeclared Milk, Pine Nuts and Walnuts in Two Specialty Pesto Products Sold in North Atlantic Whole Foods Market Stores
Summary
Company Announcement Date: June 05, 2019
FDA Publish Date:June 06, 2019

Sausage Pizza Recalled Because it Wasn't Produced Under USDA Inspection

A Brooklyn N.Y. firm is recalling approximately 649 pounds of frozen pizza products that contain pork that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection.  The problem was discovered on June 4, 2019, when the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets contacted FSIS inquiring as to whether the plant was operating under a USDA Grant of Inspection.  [I guess they weren't....yeah, that 3% or more meat added just never seems like enough to bother somebody].

https://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2019/06/06/table-87-frozen-pizza-recall/
KOKA CBS 2
USDA Recalls Nearly 650 Pounds Of Table 87 Frozen Pizza Products
June 6, 2019 at 8:50 pm

Europe - Cold Smoked Fish Linked to 18 Cases of Listeria, 5 deaths

In Europe, cold-smoked trout and salmon produced in Estonia has been identified as the source of a Listeria monocytogenes outbreak which has affected 22 people in five countries since 2014.

Food Safety Magazine
https://www.foodsafetymagazine.com/news/cold-smoked-fish-to-blame-for-multi-country-listeria-outbreak/
News | June 4, 2019
Cold-Smoked Fish to Blame for Multi-Country Listeria Outbreak

Brazil - Atypical Case of BSE in Cow Impacts International Trade

A case of BSE, bovine spongiform encephalopathy or mad cow disease, was detected in a 17-year-old cow.  While no meat from this cow entered commerce, several countries immediately banned beef imports from Brazil.

In the US, there are specific regulations for handling SRMs, or specified risk materials, that pose the greatest risk of containing the BSE agent.  The vertebral column and spinal cord of cattle 30 months of age and older are considered to be SRMs.

Reuters
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-brazil-livestock-madcow/brazil-reports-atypical-case-of-mad-cow-disease-ministry-idUSKCN1T12M0
World News
May 31, 2019 / 5:37 PM / 6 days ago
Brazil reports atypical case of mad cow disease: ministry

Two Recalls Issued for Foreign Material - Sausage Product and Chicken Product

Two companies issued recalls for foreign material.

Johnsonville, LLC., a Sheboygan Falls, Wis. establishment, is recalling approximately 95,393 pounds of its ready-to-eat jalapeño cheddar smoked sausage products that may be contaminated with extraneous material, specifically hard green plastic.  The problem was discovered when the company notified FSIS that they received a consumer complaint regarding green hard plastic in the product.

Perdue Foods LLC., a Bridgewater, Va. establishment, is recalling approximately 31,703 pounds of ready-to-eat chicken products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically pieces of bone material.  The problem was discovered after FSIS and the company received consumer complaints.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2019/recall-063-2019-release
Johnsonville, LLC. Recalls Ready-To-Eat Jalapeño Cheddar Smoked Sausage Links Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination 
Class I
Recall  063-2019 
Health Risk: High 
May 31, 2019