CDC MMWR - 2019 Multistate Outbreak of Escherichia coli O26 Infections Linked to Raw Flour

CDC released a report in MMWR on the 2019 E. coil O26 outbreak linked to raw flour.

"Twenty-one cases were reported from nine states. The median age of patients was 24 years (range = 7–86 years); 71% were female. Three patients were hospitalized, and none died. Among 13 patients asked about flour exposures, six reported eating, licking, or tasting raw homemade dough or batter during the week before illness onset. Three patients reported eating raw dough or batter made with the same grocery store brand of all-purpose flour, including a patient who reported eating raw dough at a bakery in Rhode Island. Overall, of 18 patients with store information, 11 reported shopping at this same grocery store chain."

"Flour is increasingly recognized as a cause of STEC outbreaks (1–5). Raw flour is not a ready-to-eat product, and this outbreak highlights the continuing risk for illness associated with consumption of flour and raw dough or batter."

https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/70/wr/mm7016a4.htm
Notes from the Field: Multistate Outbreak of Escherichia coli O26 Infections Linked to Raw Flour — United States, 2019
Weekly / April 23, 2021 / 70(16);600–601
Michael Vasser, MPH1,2; Jonathan Barkley, MPH3,4; Adam Miller, MS3,5; Ellen Gee6; Katherine Purcell7; Morgan N. Schroeder, MPH1; Colin Basler, DVM1; Karen P. Neil, MD1 (View author affiliations)

Ohio Establishment Recalls Meat Broth Products for Potential Hydraulic Oil After Discovery of Equipment Issue

More Than Gourmet, Inc., an Akron, Ohio establishment, is recalling approximately 6,896 pounds of ready-to-eat beef and veal broth and stock products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically hydraulic oil.  The problem was discovered by the establishment after identifying a malfunction in a piece of processing equipment.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/more-gourmet-inc.-recalls-beef-and-veal-broth-and-stock-products-due-possible
More Than Gourmet, Inc. Recalls Beef And Veal Broth And Stock Products Due To Possible Foreign Matter Contamination

Ohio Food Company Recalls Caramel Rice Cakes for Undeclared Milk

Basic Grain Products, Inc. in Coldwater, Ohio, is voluntarily recalling 6.56-ounce bags of Kroger and Stop & Shop brand’s Caramel Rice Cakes because they may contain undeclared milk. The undeclared milk was discovered by internal control systems. This recall is being carried out with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/basic-grain-products-inc-issues-allergen-alert-undeclared-milk-caramel-rice-cakes
Basic Grain Products, Inc. Issues Allergen Alert on Undeclared Milk in Caramel Rice Cakes
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 28, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  April 28, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk
Company Name:  Basic Grains Products, Inc.
Brand Name:  Kroger and Stop & Shop
Product Description:  Caramel Rice Cakes

Ohio Ice Cream Company Recalls Ice Cream After Internal Tests Find Presence of Listeria

Velvet Ice Cream of Utica, Ohio has announced it is voluntarily recalling all of its ice cream and sherbet products made on or after March 24, 2021 as a precaution because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes,  No illness or injury has been associated with the recalled products, which are being recalled in cooperation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The issue was identified as a result of the company’s routine testing.  The products were distributed to Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia through various drug stores, convenience stores and supermarkets

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/velvet-ice-cream-recalls-various-products-due-possible-listeria-risk
Velvet Ice Cream Recalls Various Products Due to Possible Listeria Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 26, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  April 27, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination.
Company Name:  Velvet Ice Cream
Brand Name:  Multiple brand names
Product Description:  Ice Cream

Ohio Nut Company Recalls Crunchy Roasted Cheddar and Jalapeno Flavored Nuts for Undeclared Milk

Wolfies Roasted Nut Co. in Findlay, Ohio is voluntarily recalling its Crunchy Cheddar & Jalapeno Nuts due to an undeclared milk allergen. This recall has been initiated due to the ingredient label not stating a milk allergen. The issue was discovered during a routine inspection conducted by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA)

On the Wolfies company website, it looks as though milk is listed in the ingredient statement

Crunchy Roasted Cheddar & Jalapeno

NUTRITIONAL FACTS
Ingredients: Peanuts, water, flour, sugar, soy sauce, cayenne pepper, jalapeno pepper, salt,
onion, garlic. Cheddar Cheese (milk, salt, cheese cultures, enzymes), whey, partially hydrogentated
soybean oil, maltodextrin, reduced lactose whey, disodium phosphate, Blue Cheese (milk, salt,
cheese cultures, enyzmes), nonfat dry milk, citric acid, artificial color (yellow #5, yellow #6). No preservatives

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/wolfies-roasted-nut-co-issues-voluntary-recall-its-crunchy-cheddar-jalapeno-nuts
Wolfies Roasted Nut Co. Issues Voluntary Recall of its Crunchy Cheddar & Jalapeno Nuts
Summary
Company Announcement Date: April 23, 2021
FDA Publish Date: April 23, 2021
Product Type: Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement: Undeclared milk allergen
Company Name: Wolfies Roasted Nut Co.
Brand Name: Wolfies Roasted Nut Co.
Product Description: Crunchy Cheddar & Jalapeno Nuts

Cans of Beans Recalled for Faulty Seals That Could Result in Leakage and Contamination

Faribault Foods, Inc. is voluntarily recalling 15 ounce cans of certain varieties of Organic Black Beans and chili beans because the cans may have a compromised hermetic seal. The compromised hermetic seal may affect can integrity and may cause the cans to leak, bloat or allow bacteria to grow inside the product which could lead to serious illness. Clostridium botulinum poisoning in humans can begin from six hours to two weeks after eating food that contains the toxin. The recall was initiated after the firm had received consumer and customer complaints regarding failure of the hermetic seal. The problem related to the hermetic seal failure was corrected and no other product is affected.

The hermetic seal is formed when the top lid is placed upon the body of the can (which had been filled with beans) and this is pressed together by the equipment to form what is termed a double seam.

The closing equipment must be precisely set to ensure the proper folds are made. Closing machines are often operating at 200 to 500 (or higher) cans per minute with the machine having numerous sealing heads.  If one head is misaligned even slightly, an imperfect seal may be formed.  Cans from each sealing head are tested throughout the day by tearing the seal about and measuring the amount of overlap within the fold and thickness of the fold. 

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/faribault-foods-inc-announces-voluntary-recall-limited-quantity-sw-brand-organic-black-beans-and-o
Faribault Foods, Inc. Announces Voluntary Recall of a Limited Quantity of S&W Brand Organic Black Beans, and O Organic Brand Black Beans and O Organic Brand Chili Beans Due to Compromised Hermetic Seal
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 21, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  April 22, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Organic Food / Home Grown  
Reason for Announcement:  Potential for Clostridium Botulinum
Company Name:  Faribault Foods, Inc
Brand Name:  S&W and O Organic
Product Description:  Organic Black Beans and Organic Chili Beans

Biden Signs FASTER Legislation that Requires Sesame Allergen Declaration on Food, Opens Doors for Other Food Allergens

President Biden signed the FASTER (Food Allergy Safety, Treatment, Education and Research Act ) that makes sesame the ninth allergen that requires label declaration.  

In the Washington Post article;

"According to Lisa Gable, chief executive of FARE, 1.6 million Americans have sesame allergies. This law will require foods containing sesame to be clearly labeled by January 2023. But perhaps more significant, the legislation says the Department of Health and Human Services must prioritize regular reviews of promising food allergy treatments and research."

While this will require those who use sesame to highlight it on the label..Contains Sesame, the bigger issue for manufacturers is that it opens the door for continued addition of allergens through a simpler review process through more simply changing regulation rather than passing new legistlation.

“The other big piece of this legislation is it will establish a risk-based scientific process and framework for establishing additional allergens,” Gable said.

This will have an impact on costs in that the need for label changes can come at an increased rate.  With over 160 food allergens, that Contains Statement could get pretty long.

The Legislation also puts additional resources into research and education on food allergens.

Washington Post
https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2021/04/23/biden-faster-act-allergy/
Biden signs law that makes sesame the ninth major food allergen
The Faster Act will also step up allergy research
By
Laura Reiley
April 23, 2021 at 7:26 p.m. EDT

FAO Releases Document on Food Safety Perspectives for Edible Insects

 FAO released a document titled, "Looking at Edible Insects from a Food Safety Perspective".  The document overviews food safety hazards associated with edible insects.   Most issues are related to the inputs, specifically the food that is fed to the insects and the environment in which the insects are raised.  A good resource to bookmark for your file....'when I forced to eat bugs'.

I personally have begun to farm meal worms...not for my consumption but for Bluebirds.  I thought I would be churning out loads of meal worms and thus would have become a popular stop on the Bluebird circuit.  Months into the process and I am still working with my initial generation.  At this rate, I am finding it difficult to feed a few Bluebirds let alone the human population.

Imported Frozen Beef From Australia Recalled for E. coli O157:H7

JBS USA Food Company, a Greeley, Colo. firm and Importer of Record, is recalling approximately 4,860 pounds of imported boneless beef products after FSIS collected a routine product sample that confirmed positive for the presence of E. coli O157:H7.  The raw, frozen, boneless beef products were imported from Australia on or around Nov. 10, 2020 and distributed for further processing

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/jbs-usa-food-company-recalls-imported-boneless-beef-products-due-possible-e.-coli
JBS USA Food Company Recalls Imported Boneless Beef Products Due to Possible E. coli O157:H7 Contamination
FSIS Announcement
WASHINGTON, April 16, 2021 – JBS USA Food Company, a Greeley, Colo. firm and Importer of Record, is recalling approximately 4,860 pounds of imported boneless beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

Outbreak Investigation of Salmonella Outbreak Possibly Linked to Fake Cheese from CA, Recall Issued

The FDA. CDC. and State partners are investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Duisburg infections linked to the consumption of Jule’s Cashew Brie, a vegan, or plant-based cheese alternative [fake cheese].   CDC identified an outbreak of five Salmonella Duisburg illnesses, which is considered a rare Salmonella serotype.  Three of five people interviewed recalled eating this [fake] cheese. 

Jule’s Foods of Carlsbad, CA has issued a recall for all Jule’s Foods products, 

These products are often made from raw cashews (unroasted), so there needs to be some Salmonella reduction step.  

Calling this Brie Cheese?  This product is made from cashews, so probably should have been called squishy nut loaf or something similar rather than besmirching real cheese.  Seriously though, when you read the title on the Investigation Notice, are you not thinking it is Brie cheese with cashews sprinkled on top.  Sounds lovely, served warm with some sliced French Bread and paired with a glass of Chablis.  No, it is squishy cashew loaf.  Not even sure what you pair that with...Zima?

https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-salmonella-duisburg-jules-cashew-brie-april-2021
Outbreak Investigation of Salmonella Duisburg: Jule's Cashew Brie (April 2021)
Ongoing investigation of illnesses linked to Jule’s Cashew Brie; Do not purchase, eat, sell, or serve
Content current as of:
04/23/2021

USDA-ERS Releases Report on Economic Cost of Major Foodborne Illness in the US 2018

The USDA-ERS (Economic Research Service) released their report on the Economic Cost of Major Foodborne Illness in the US. Based upon 2018 data, they estimate that the economic impact is $17.6 billion, up $2 billion from the last report in 2013. One can access the impact of each of the major food-related pathogens and how the values were calculated for each.

These estimates are based upon other estimates and so you can take these number with a grain of salt. They are more useful in justifying government expenditures than applying it to a company. However, one fact I think is interesting is this, "ERS approximated the value of each life saved in the United States at $8.7 million in 2013 dollars, which increased to $9.7 million in 2018 dollars when adjusted for inflation and income growth." Basically, if you save a life or two by preventing something, you just saved $9.7 million. Catching that labeling issue that would have allowed undeclared peanut getting into commerce.....probably at a minimum, you saved $9.7 million.  That would be something to be proud of.

USDA -ERS
https://www.ers.usda.gov/amber-waves/2021/april/economic-cost-of-major-foodborne-illnesses-increased-2-billion-from-2013-to-2018/
Economic Cost of Major Foodborne Illnesses Increased $2 Billion From 2013 to 2018
by Sandra Hoffmann and Jae-Wan Ahn

Vitamin Gummies Recalled After Two Foreign Object Complaints for Metallic Mesh

Church & Dwight Co., Inc. (NYSE:CHD) today initiated a voluntary recall of select vitafusion gummy products after the Company’s investigation of two consumer reports identified the possible presence of a metallic mesh material in product lots manufactured in a four-day period between October 29 and November 3, 2020.  Nope, can't claim this as extra iron.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/church-dwight-initiates-voluntary-recall-select-vitamins-due-isolated-manufacturing-issue
Church & Dwight Initiates Voluntary Recall of Select Vitamins Due to Isolated Manufacturing Issue
Summary
Company Announcement Date: April 20, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  April 20, 2021
Product Type:  Dietary Supplements  Vitamins
Reason for Announcement:  May contain metallic mesh material
Company Name:  Church & Dwight Co., Inc.
Brand Name:  Vitafusion
Product Description:  Gummy vitamin products

Imported Chinese and Korean Enoki Mushrooms Recalled After Sampling by MI Dept of Ag Finds Listeria

Guan’s Mushroom Co of Commerce, CA and is recalling all cases of its 200g/7.05-ounce packages of Enoki Mushroom (Product of China) and Golden Medal Mushroom Inc. of Los Angeles, CA is recalling all cases of its 200g/7.05-ounce packages of Enoki Mushrooms (Product of Korea) because  they have  the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes,  The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing by Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in 200g package of Enoki.  The distribution of the product has been suspended.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/guans-mushroom-co-recalls-enoki-because-possible-health-risk-0
Guan’s Mushroom Co Recalls Enoki Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 20, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  April 20, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential for Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Guan’s Mushroom Co.
Brand Name:  Guan's
 Product Description: Enoki Mushroom

Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips Recalled for Undeclared Milk

Shearer’s Foods LLC of Massillon, OH is voluntarily recalling two lots of 9.5 ounce bags of “Raley’s Salt & Vinegar Flavored Potato Chips,” because they may contain undeclared milk.   Product was packed and sold for Riley's retail stores in CA.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/shearers-foods-llc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-milk-raleys-salt-vinegar-flavored-potato-chips
Shearer’s Foods LLC Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in Raley’s Salt & Vinegar Flavored Potato Chips
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 19, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  April 19, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  May Contain Undeclared Milk
Company Name:  Shearer’s Foods LLC
Brand Name:  Raley’s
Product Description:  Salt & Vinegar Flavored Potato Chips

Coffee-like Product Recalled for Allergens After 20 Years of Distribution....Yeah, That Natural Flavoring Can Contain Allergens

Creative Foods Inc. of Prineville, Oregon is recalling two products, Bueno Coffee Substitute Creamy Hazelnut and Bueno Coffee Substitute Pecan Praline. They both may contain undeclared peanut, hazelnut, and/or barley (gluten).   The recall was initiated after it was discovered that Coffee Substitute Gluten-Free products containing hazelnut, peanut and barley (gluten containing grain) were distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of these allergens.  

So the company did not look into what was included in the natural flavoring...not realizing perhaps that nut flavor comes from nuts?  The notice states that they have been distributing product nationally for 20 years.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/creative-foods-inc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-hazelnut-peanut-and-barley-gluten-two-coffee
Creative Foods Inc Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Hazelnut, Peanut And Barley (Gluten) In Two Coffee Substitute Gluten-Free Products
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 17, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  April 17, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared peanut, hazelnut, and/or barley (gluten)
Company Name:  Creative Foods Inc.
Brand Name:  Bueno
Product Description:  Coffee substitute

Lobster Bisque Recalled for Undeclared Egg Allergens

Blount Fine Foods announced that, in partnership with the FDA, it is voluntarily recalling a limited amount (a single lot—2,987 cases total) of 16 oz. Panera at Home Lobster Bisque due to potential contamination with an undeclared egg allergen.  No illnesses have been reported.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/blount-fine-foods-voluntarily-recalls-limited-amount-single-lot-lobster-bisque-due-possible
Blount Fine Foods Voluntarily Recalls a Limited Amount (a Single Lot) of Lobster Bisque Due to Possible Undeclared Egg Allergen
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 14, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  April 15, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared egg
Company Name:  Blount Fine Foods
Brand Name:  Panera
Product Description:  Lobster Bisque

The Mr. Goodtime Chocolate Bunny May Be Harboring an Undeclared Almond

Lake Champlain Chocolates (LCC) is issuing a public alert and a voluntary recall on a mis-labeled Mr. Goodtime Bunny with a Best By date of 11/20/21 that may have been purchased between 2/22/21-3/25/21. LCC is issuing this recall after a consumer reported that the product contained almonds, which were not declared on the label.  The Country Bunny Basket may contain the affected bunny.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/lake-champlain-chocolates-voluntarily-recalls-mr-goodtime-bunny-best-date-11202021-undeclared
Lake Champlain Chocolates Voluntarily Recalls Mr. Goodtime Bunny With Best By Date 11/20/2021 for Undeclared Almonds
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 15, 2021
 FDA Publish Date:  April 15, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared almonds
Company Name:  Lake Champlain Chocolates
Brand Name:  Mr. Goodtime Bunny
Product Description:  Chocolate candy

Ohio Company Recalls Salsa After State Determines Undeclared Anchovy Allergen

Jose Madrid Salsa in Zanesville, Ohio is voluntarily recalling its Strawberry Mild salsa, packaged in 13oz glass jars, due to an undeclared anchovy allergen. The issue was discovered during a routine inspection conducted by the Ohio Department of Agriculture. There have been no reports of illness involving the product addressed in this recall, however, people who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to anchovy run the risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product. Individuals exhibiting signs or symptoms of foodborne illness or allergies should contact a physician immediately.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/jose-madrid-salsa-issues-voluntary-recall-due-undeclared-anchovy-allergen
Jose Madrid Salsa Issues a Voluntary Recall Due to an Undeclared Anchovy Allergen
Summary
Company Announcement Date: April 14, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  April 15, 2021
Product Type:Food & Beverages Gravy/Sauces
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared anchovy
Company Name:  Jose Madrid Salsa
Brand Name:  Jose Madrid Salsa
Product Description:  Strawberry Mild Salsa

Trader Joe's Supplier Issues Recall for Undeclared Milk Allergens in Tortilla Chips

Snak King Corporation of City of Industry, CA is voluntarily recalling 9 ounce packages of “Trader Joe’s Restaurant Style White Corn Tortilla Chips” with a sell by date of 08/09/21 and 08/10/21 due to a potential of an undeclared milk allergen.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/snak-king-corporation-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-milk-allergen-trader-joes-restaurant-style
Snak King Corporation Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk Allergen in Trader Joe’s Restaurant Style White Corn Tortilla Chips - Expanded to Include 8/11/21 Code Date
Summary
Company Announcement Date: April 13, 2021
FDA Publish Date: April 14, 2021
Product Type: Food & Beverages   Sanck Food Item
Reason for Announcement:  Product may contain undeclared milk
Company Name:  Snak King Corporation
Brand Name:  Trader Joe’s
Product Description:  Restaurant Style White Corn Tortilla Chips

Recall of Dark Chocolate Walnuts Labeled as Dark Chocolate Espresso Beans

Torn & Glasser of Los Angeles, CA is recalling 7464 units of dark chocolate espresso beans due to an undeclared walnut allergen. The dark chocolate walnuts were mislabeled as “dark chocolate espresso beans”.   The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product containing walnuts was packaged in a container that the top label listed Dark Chocolate Espresso Beans and the bottom label listed Dark Chocolate Walnuts. Subsequent investigation indicates that the wrong label was used by Production personnel.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/urgent-torn-glasser-recalls-dark-chocolate-espresso-beans-because-undeclared-walnut-allergen
Urgent: Torn & Glasser Recalls Dark Chocolate Espresso Beans Because of Undeclared Walnut Allergen
Summary
Company Announcement Date: April 13, 2021
FDA Publish Date: April 13, 2021
Product Type: Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared walnuts
Company Name:  Torn & Glasser
Brand Name:  Torn & Glasser
Product Description:  Dark chocolate espresso beans

Canadian Establishment Recalls RTE Ham Products After FSIS Sampling Finds Salmonella

Olymel S.E.C./L.P., a Quebec, Canada establishment, is recalling approximately 6,804 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) ham products that may be contaminated with Salmonella enteritidis. The problem was discovered when FSIS collected a routine product import sample that confirmed positive for the presence of Salmonella enteritidis­­­. The product subject to recall was determined by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) to be associated with the FSIS positive sample result.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/olymel-s.e.c.l.p.-recalls-ready-eat-ham-products-due-possible-salmonella-enteritidis
Olymel S.E.C./L.P. Recalls Ready-to-Eat Ham Products Due to Possible Salmonella Enteritidis Contamination

WASHINGTON, APRIL 15, 2021 – Olymel S.E.C./L.P., a Quebec, Canada establishment, is recalling approximately 6,804 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) ham products that may be contaminated with Salmonella Enteritidis, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

Dry Cat Food Recall Due to Potential Presence of Salmonella

The J. M. Smucker Co. today announced a limited, voluntary recall of two lots of Meow Mix® Original Choice Dry Cat Food (30LB bag) due to potential salmonella contamination. The Company has received no reports of pet illness or adverse reaction and has issued this recall out of an abundance of caution. The impacted products were sold at select Walmart stores in IL, MO, NE, NM, OK, UT, WI and WY.

No reason was stated for the recall, so it could be through product testing either by the company or by another entity.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/j-m-smucker-co-issues-limited-voluntary-recall-two-lots-meow-mixr-original-choice-dry-cat-food
The J. M. Smucker Co. Issues Limited, Voluntary Recall of Two Lots of Meow Mix® Original Choice Dry Cat Food for Potential Salmonella Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 09, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  April 12, 2021
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary  Pet Food  
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Salmonella Contamination
Company Name:  J. M. Smucker Co.
Brand Name:  Meow Mix®
Product Description:  Meow Mix® Original Choice Dry Cat Food

SnoBalls In Wrong Packaging Leads to Recall for Coconut

OH NO....SnoBalls in Chocolate CupCake packaging means that there is undeclared coconut.    

"Hostess Brands, LLC (”Hostess Brands“) has become aware that certain Hostess® SnoBalls® were inadvertently manufactured in the packaging for Hostess® Chocolate CupCakes and the packaging does not list ”coconut“, an ingredient in SnoBalls®, as an allergen. Hostess Brands is voluntarily recalling the following SnoBalls® manufactured on March 13, 2021."

Hopefully one would recognize the coconut through the clear packaging, but of course we can't count on that.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/voluntary-recall-hostessr-snoballsr-due-undeclared-allergen
Voluntary Recall of Hostess® SnoBalls® Due to Undeclared Allergen
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 10, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  April 10, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared coconut
Company Name:  Hostess Brands LLC
Brand Name:  Hostess
Product Description:  SnoBalls

FDA Releases Investigation Report of 2020 E. coli O157:H7 Outbreak Linked to California Leafy Greens

Here are the bullet points from that report.  In a nutshell, cattle in close proximity are the issue and it will take more than the FDA to fix the issue.

• FDA has found that in this and past foodborne illness outbreak investigations "suggest that a likely contributing factor for contamination of leafy greens has been the proximity of cattle." 
• FDA "recommends that all growers be aware of and consider adjacent land use practices, especially as it relates to the presence of livestock, and the interface between farmland, rangeland and other agricultural areas, and conduct appropriate risk assessments and implement risk mitigation strategies, where appropriate."
• "The 2020 E. coli O157:H7 outbreak associated with leafy greens represents the latest in a repeated series of outbreaks associated with leafy greens that originated in the Central Coast of California (encompassing Salinas Valley and Santa Maria) growing region."
• FDA "recommends that growers of leafy greens in the California Central Coast Growing Region consider this reoccurring E. coli strain a reasonably foreseeable hazard, and specifically of concern in the South Monterey County area of the Salinas Valley."
• FDA "also recommends that the agricultural community in the California Central Coast growing region work to identify where this reoccurring strain of pathogenic E. coli is persisting and the likely routes of leafy green contamination with STEC."
• FDA "alone cannot fix this issue. Industry leadership and collaboration among growers, processors, retailers, state partners and the broader agricultural community is critical to reducing foodborne illnesses. "

Associated Documents

FDA Investigation Report: Factors Factors Potentially Contributing to the Contamination of Leafy Greens Implicated in the Fall 2020 Outbreak of E. coli  O157:H7
FDA Leafy Greens STEC Action Plan

https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-releases-investigation-report-following-fall-2020-outbreak-e-coli-o157h7-illnesses-linked-leafy
FDA Releases Investigation Report Following Fall 2020 Outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 Illnesses Linked to Leafy Greens
Agency affirms need for new collaborative actions to build on accomplishments in its Leafy Greens Shiga Toxin-Producing E. coli (STEC) Action Plan

FDA Proposes an Action Plan to Determine Action Levels for Toxic Elements in Baby Food

FDA issued a Statement regarding toxic elements, (primarily lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury) in baby foods  FDA's goal is "reducing exposure to toxic elements in foods commonly eaten by babies and young children to the lowest possible levels."  This comes after a Congressional Subcommittee issued a report on toxic levels of chemicals in baby food (link).

•  Although the FDA’s testing shows that children are not at an immediate health risk from exposure to toxic elements at the levels found in foods, we are starting the plan’s work immediately, with both short- and long-term goals for achieving continued improvements in reducing levels of toxic elements in these foods over time.
• FDA is "sensitive to the fact that requiring levels that are not currently feasible could result in significant reductions in the availability of nutritious, affordable foods that many families rely on for their children. "
• FDA will 1) Evaluate the scientific basis for action levels, 2) Propose Action Levels, 3) Consult with Stakeholder about these propsed action levels, and 4) Finalize the Action Levels.
• It’s important to note that the FDA’s testing shows that children are not at an immediate health risk from exposure to toxic elements at the levels found in foods.

https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-releases-action-plan-reducing-exposure-toxic-elements-foods-babies-young-children
FDA Releases Action Plan for Reducing Exposure to Toxic Elements from Foods for Babies, Young Children
For Immediate Release:
April 08, 2021

New York Importer Receives Warning Letter from FDA for FSVP Noncompliance

FDA issued a Warning Letter to IMAD International, LLC Bronx, New York after a remote Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP) inspection as well as an inspection on April 18, 2019.  FDA found that this firm was not in compliance with the Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP) regulations by not having a program for the suppliers in which product was purchased.


FDA Warning Letter
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/imad-international-llc-613268-03292021
IMAD International, LLC
MARCS-CMS 613268 — MARCH 29, 2021

USDA Issues Health Alert on Ground Turkey Which Might Be Linked to Salmonella Outbreak

USDA-FSIS is issuing a public health alert for approximately 211,406 pounds of raw ground turkey products, produced by Plainville Brands, LLC, a Pennsylvania establishment, due to concerns the products may have caused Salmonella Hadar illness. This come as as CDC investigates a multistate outbreak of 28 Salmonella Hadar illnesses in 12 states with onset dates ranging from December 28, 2020 through March 4, 2021. "The traceback investigation for one case patient identified the patient consumed ground turkey produced by Plainville Brands, LLC. An intact, unopened package of Plainville Brands’ ground turkey collected from this case-patient’s home tested positive for Salmonella Hadar and was closely related genetically to the sample from the patient. Evidence collected to date does not link all illnesses to this establishment."

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-raw-ground-turkey-products-linked-salmonella-hadar
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Raw Ground Turkey Products Linked to Salmonella Hadar Illness

WASHINGTON, APRIL 10, 2021 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for approximately 211,406 pounds of raw ground turkey products, produced by Plainville Brands, LLC, a Pennsylvania establishment, due to concerns the products may have caused Salmonella Hadar illness. A recall was not requested because it is believed that the products are no longer available for consumers to purchase.

Goji Berries and Chocolate Cookies Recalled After Traces of Milk in Cocoa Ingredient Discovered

Glutenull Bakery of Port Coquitlam, BC, Canada is recalling Goji Berries and Chocolate Cookies 11oz/320g, because it may contain undeclared milk.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that vegan chocolate used in the product Goji Berries and Chocolate Cookies had traces of milk proteins which occurred due to cross contamination at the chocolate supplier’s facility. The Goji Berries and Chocolate Cookies were distributed in packaging that did not include “may contain milk” statement.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/glutenull-bakery-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-milk-goji-berries-and-chocolate-cookies
Glutenull Bakery Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in Goji Berries and Chocolate Cookies
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 07, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  April 07, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Product may contain undeclared milk
Company Name:  Glutenull Bakery
Brand Name:  Glutenull
Product Description:  Goji Berries and Chocolate Cookies

The Bean Song....

 For your enjoyment... an ode to beans......

Salmonella Outbreak Investigation Leads to Wild Songbirds

CDC issued a report of an ongoing investigation into Salmonella associated with wild birds...not eating them of course, but handling feeders or even sick or dead birds.  So far there have been 19 Salmonella infections in 8 states (CA, KY, MS, NH, OK, OR, TN, WA) with eight of those people hospitalized.  The surprising thing here is that these states are on both sides of the nation, and generally birds do not cross the nation from east to west, although the bird at the center of the investigation, the Pine Siskin is a bit more sporadic in movement than other birds, something termed 'irruptive'.  They are similar to a goldfinch, especially a late season gold finch that no longer has the bright yellow colors.

Wild birds can carry various strains of Salmonella and some of those strains can make the birds sick.  More importantly, many of those strains can affect us.  Washing hands after handling feeders and keeping feeder clean is important.   CDC recommends a 9:1 mix of household bleach, which is a bit strong, so a really good rinse afterwards to remove any residual chlorine is important.  Personally, I feel this is a bit strong...the CDC uses this concentration for disinfecting surfaces for Ebola and such, but this is technically a food contact surface.   Plus, this concentration will be hard on your bird equipment.  If thoroughly clean, I would follow what Clorox recommends for your pets, which is a much weaker concentration.  https://www.clorox.com/how-to/disinfecting-sanitizing/disinfecting-with-bleach/pet-resource-tips/




Here is a picture of Pine Siskins mobbing my sunflowers.

7
CDC Investigation Notice: CDC investigating Salmonella outbreak linked to wild songbirds
Media Statement
For Immediate Release: Friday, April 1, 2021

Small Amount of Raw Ground Chorizo Sausage Recalled Due to Extraneous Materials

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for approximately 39 pounds of raw ground chorizo sausage products due to concerns that the products may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically hard pieces of crystalline material.  The fresh and frozen raw ground chorizo sausage items were produced on March 8, 2021 by Century Oak Packing Company, an establishment in Mt. Angel, Ore.  The problem was discovered when the firm received three consumer complaints reporting findings of hard pieces of crystalline material in the product.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-raw-ground-chorizo-sausage-products-due-possible
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Raw Ground Chorizo Sausage Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
FSIS Announcement

Chocolate Malt Balls and Chocolate Malted Milk Balls Recalled Due to an Undeclared Wheat Allergen

b.a. Sweetie Candy Co in Cleveland, Ohio is voluntarily recalling its Chocolate Malt Balls and Chocolate Malted Milk Balls due to an undeclared wheat allergen. This recall has been initiated due to the ingredient label not stating a wheat allergen. The issue was discovered during a routine inspection conducted by the Ohio Department of Agriculture. There have been no reports of illness involving products addressed in this recall; however, people who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to wheat run the risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/ba-sweeties-candy-co-issues-voluntary-recall-its-chocolate-malt-chocolate-malted-milk-ballsb.a. Sweeties Candy Co. Issues Voluntary Recall of its Chocolate Malt & Chocolate Malted Milk Balls

Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 26, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  March 31, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Due to undeclared wheat
Company Name:  b.a. Sweetie Candy Co
Brand Name:  Dave’s Supermarket
Product Description:  Chocolate Malt Balls and Chocolate Malted Milk Balls

Hummus Recalled After FDA Sampling Positive for Salmonella

Sabra Dipping Company, LLC announced that, in partnership with the FDA, it is recalling approximately 2,100 cases of 10 oz Classic Hummus because it was potentially contaminated with Salmonella, that was discovered by a routine screen of a single tub by the FDA.

It will be interesting to see if anything more comes of this.  No doubt there will be a lot more testing of product samples and the environment.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/sabra-dipping-company-issues-limited-voluntary-recall-single-sku-classic-hummus
Sabra Dipping Company Issues Limited Voluntary Recall of a Single SKU of Classic Hummus
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 29, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  March 29, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Salmonella Contamination
Company Name:  Sabra Dipping Company LLC
Brand Name:  Sabra
Product Description:  Classic Hummus

Retailer Recalls Cookies and Creme Cake Items After Supplier Notification of Undeclared Hazelnut

Harris Teeter and its supplier Rise Baking Company of York, PA is recalling certain Fresh Foods Market Cookies and Creme Cake items due to undeclared hazelnut. The recall was initiated after it was discovered the cakes were distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of Hazelnuts. Subsequent investigation indicates a change in raw material under previous production ownership that was not introduced into the company’s ingredient review process.

Rise Baking Company LLC Issues a Recall for Undeclared Hazelnut in Cakes
Summary
Company Announcement Date: March 31, 2021
FDA Publish Date: March 31, 2021
Product Type: Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement: Due to undeclared hazelnut
Company Name: Rise Baking Company LLC
Brand Name: Harris Teeter, Dawn Food Products
Product Description: Cookies and Cream Cake, Vanilla Bean Waterfall Cake