NJ Company Recalls Deli Meat After CDC Links Product to Salmonella Outbreak

Fratelli Beretta USA, Inc., a Mount Olive, N.J. establishment, is recalling approximately 862,000 pounds of uncured antipasto products after CDC linked that product to an outbreak of Salmonella from two strains - Salmonella Infantis and/or Salmonella Typhimurium,

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fratelli-beretta-usa-inc.-recalls-ready-eat-uncured-antipasto-meat-products-due
Fratelli Beretta USA, Inc. Recalls Ready-to-Eat Uncured Antipasto Meat Products Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination

FRATELLI BERETTA USA, INC.

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Aug. 27, 2021 – Fratelli Beretta USA, Inc., a Mount Olive, N.J. establishment, is recalling approximately 862,000 pounds of uncured antipasto products that may be contaminated with Salmonella Infantis and/or Salmonella Typhimurium, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

UK - Intentional Contamination - Man Arrested After Injecting Food At London Markets

A 37 year old man was arrested after he was found to have been injecting food items using a hypodermic needle. The contents of the needle are reported to be blood.    The man is reported to be a lawyer / solicitor.

"Following the incident, Hammersmith and Fulham Council advised shoppers to throw away anything bought from the three shops late on Wednesday."  

Blimey, what if you had purchased a delicious steak?  Am I supposed to just throw it away?  No refund?  (Blimey - English term used to express surprise, alarm and even excitement.)

https://www.mylondon.news/news/local-news/fulham-man-leoaai-elghareeb-37-21413947
Fulham man Leoaai Elghareeb, 37, charged with contaminating food in West London supermarkets
He is due before Westminster Magistrates’ Court today
ByAlexander Britton & Chay Quinn, PADavid FlettMax Channon
01:10, 27 AUG 2021

FDA Issues Warning for Products From WA Fish Processor After Listeria Positive Environmental Samples

FDA issued a Public Health Alert on fish products manufactured by Felix Custom Smoking of Monroe, Washington.  Felix Custom Smoking is the company that manufactured Loki Smoked Salmon which was recalled earlier in the week.  "The FDA is advising consumers not to eat any of Felix’s products or products processed by Felix and to discard any remaining products they may have purchased in the past due to possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination."

The Listeria issue was identified when environmental samples collected during an FDA inspection were determined to be positive for Listeria monocytogenes.  Some of positive environmental samples were from food contact surfaces. "The FDA detected the pathogen Listeria monocytogenes and other strains of Listeria during an inspection at Felix Custom Smoking that began on July 19, 2021 and is still ongoing. As part of the inspection, on July 19, 2021, the FDA collected environmental samples from the firm which consisted of 104 samples from direct food contact surfaces and areas near direct food contact surfaces. Laboratory analysis shows that of the 104 samples collected, 19 tested positive for the pathogen Listeria monocytogenes and four tested positive for other strains of Listeria. Of the 19 samples that were positive for Listeria monocytogenes, five were collected from food contact surfaces."


https://www.fda.gov/food/alerts-advisories-safety-information/public-health-alert-concerning-possible-listeria-contamination-felix-custom-smoking-seafood-products
Public Health Alert Concerning Possible Listeria Contamination of Felix Custom Smoking Seafood Products
August 27, 2021

Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Fratelli Beretta Uncured Antipasto Trays

CDC has linked the Salmonella outbreak to Fratelli Beretta brand of prepackaged Uncured Antipasto trays.  The outbreak, fist reported by CDC on 8/24/21, has caused 36 cases of illness with 12 hospitalizations.

https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/italian-style-meat-08-21/index.html
Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Italian-Style Meats
Posted August 26, 2021

Fast Facts
Illnesses: 36
Hospitalizations: 12
Deaths: 0
States: 17
Recall: No
Investigation status: Active
Cold smoked meat plate with pork chops, prosciutto, salami and bread sticks

Raw Pet Food Recalled Due to Detection of Listeria and Salmonella

Top Quality Dog Food of Hyattsville, MD is recalling “Beef HVM” 1-pound packages due to the potential of Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes.  The contamination was noted after a state surveillance sample revealed the presence of Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, in some 1-pound. packages of Beef HVM. The remaining “Beef HVM” batch in our possession has been quarantined and we have discontinued the distribution of this batch while FDA and our company continue their investigation as to the source of the contamination.  No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with the “Beef HVM” 1-pound packages in question.

It is raw meat-based product with no HPP (high pressure processing) or heat process.  So yes, pathogens are going to be present.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/top-quality-dog-food-recalls-batch-beef-hvm-1-pound-packages-lot-number-071521-because-possible
Top Quality Dog Food Recalls Batch Of “Beef HVM” 1-Pound Packages with Lot Number 071521, Because of Possible Salmonella, Listeria Monocytogenes Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 26, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 26, 2021
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Salmonella & Listeria monocytogenes contamination
Company Name:  Top Quality Dog Food
Brand Name:  Top Quality Dog Food.com
Product Description:  Beef HVM

Bloody Mary Mix Recalled Due to Missing Allergens Contained in the Worcestershire Powder

Jimbo’s Kitchen, DBA New England Cupboard is recalling Jimbo’s Bloody Mary Mix because it contains undeclared soy, wheat and sulfites.  On the back label of the finished product, the ingredients list for Worcestershire Powder did not have all the sub-ingredients listed (e.g., corn syrup solids, salt, caramel color, garlic, sugar, spices, soy sauce solids (naturally fermented wheat and soybeans, salt, maltodextrin, caramel color), palm oil, tamarind, natural flavors, sulfiting agents).

How many times has Worcestershire Sauce (in this case powder) led to an allergen recall because somebody does not call out the allergens included in that ingredient.  In this particular Worcestershire ingredient, there is no fish (anchovies), however, there is soy, wheat, and sulfites.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/jimbos-kitchen-dba-new-england-cupboard-issues-allergy-alert-jimbos-bloody-mary-mix
Jimbo’s Kitchen, DBA New England Cupboard Issues Allergy Alert on Jimbo’s Bloody Mary Mix
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 24, 2021
FDA Publish Date:   August 25, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Soy, Wheat, & Sulfites
Company Name:  Jimbo’s
Brand Name:  Jimbo’s Kitchen dba New England Cupboard
Product Description:  Bloody Mary Mix

Smoked Salmon Product Recalled After FDA Testing Detects Listeria

Loki Fish Company of Seattle, Washington is recalling 4 oz. packages of Keta Salmon Lox (UPC code 92103 00111) after FDA testing detected Listeria monocytogenes in a sample(s).   "The possibility of contamination was discovered during the FDA inspection at our co-packer Felix Custom Smoking, of Monroe, Washington in July 2021. Loki submitted samples of the Keta Lox to Micro-Chem Laboratories for testing. Loki has ceased production, sales, and distribution of keta lox immediately and Loki will continue the investigation as to what caused the problem."

Listeria is a risk in packaged of refrigerated RTE smoked salmon due to post process contamination.  That is, after the smoking process, the filets are often sliced and then packaged.  If the post process environment is not cleaned to a point where Listeria is under control, Listeria can contaminate the product, especially if there is additional handling and preparation such as slicing.

This product was packed by another company under a co-packing arrangement, so it is important for the brand owner to ensure that the co-packer has tight Listeria controls.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/loki-fish-company-recalls-keta-salmon-lox-because-possible-health-risk
Loki Fish Company Recalls Keta Salmon Lox Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 23, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 23, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Loki Fish Company
Brand Name:  Loki Fish Co.
Product Description:  Keta Salmon Lox

CDC Investigating Two Salmonella Outbreaks That May Be Linked to Italian-Style Deli Meats

The CDC is investigating two multistate outbreaks of Salmonella infections—one involving Salmonella Typhimurium infections and one with Salmonella Infantis infections, with the likely sources of both outbreaks being Italian-style meats.  As of August 24, 2021, a total of 36 people are reported as being infected with either Salmonella outbreak strain - 23 people with Salmonella Typhimurium  and 13 people with Salmonella Infantis.

"CDC is advising people at higher risk for severe Salmonella illness to heat Italian-style meats to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot before eating."

Salmonella Outbreaks Linked to Italian-Style Meats
https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/italian-style-meat-08-21/details.html
Investigation Details

Posted August 24, 2021

Fast Facts

Illnesses: 36

Hospitalizations: 12

Deaths: 0

States: 17

Recall: No

Investigation status: Active

What to Know About Food Products Labeled as Containing Wild Mushrooms

Research out of Utah found that products claiming to contain 'wild mushrooms' often contain cultivated mushrooms.

Researchers used "DNA barcoding techniques to test what mushroom species made up 16 food products that listed “wild mushrooms” on their labels." "They found 28 species of mushrooms across all 16 food products. Almost all products that claimed to have wild mushrooms consisted of cultivated species, including oyster, shiitake, or portabella mushrooms. Only five products had contents that were accurately described on the label, and some included species that likely have yet to be described in academic literature."

"One packet of dried wild mushrooms from the online retailer contained a species from a group of fungi that includes the “Death Cap,” a notoriously poisonous mushroom known to cause renal failure in humans..... The authors contacted the online retailer to inform them of the potential dangers of the product. As of the paper’s publication, the dried mushrooms are still for sale. " Question - why didn't the researchers contact the FDA????

Regulating the practice of harvesting wild mushrooms is not easy. Much depends on the harvester being able to identify safe edible mushrooms from those that are dangerous, and even deadly.  In the end, much is left to the regulatory authority to determine.

From the US Food Code (2017)
3-201.16 Wild Mushrooms.
(A) Except as specified in ¶ (B) of this section, mushroom species picked in the wild shall not be offered for sale or service by a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT unless the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT has been APPROVED to do so.
(B) This section does not apply to: 
(1) Cultivated wild mushroom species that are grown, harvested, and processed in an operation that is regulated by the FOOD regulatory agency that has jurisdiction over the operation; or
(2) Wild mushroom species if they are in packaged form and are the product of a FOOD PROCESSING PLANT that is regulated by the FOOD regulatory agency that has jurisdiction over the plant.

Chicken Salad and Dip Products Recalled After A Complaint of Foreign Piece of Hard White Plastic

Willow Tree Poultry Farm, an Attleboro, Mass. establishment, is recalling approximately 52,022 pounds of various chicken salads and dip products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically hard white plastic.  The problem was discovered after the company received a consumer complaint and notified FSIS

That is a lot of product to recall, 26 tons, for a complaint of hard white plastic.  To me, this may be a little over the top, unless the company recognized that there was a bigger issue underlying the complaint.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/willow-tree-poultry-farm-recalls-chicken-salad-and-dip-products-due-possible-foreign
Willow Tree Poultry Farm Recalls Chicken Salad and Dip Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination

WASHINGTON, Aug. 24, 2021 – Willow Tree Poultry Farm, an Attleboro, Mass. establishment, is recalling approximately 52,022 pounds of various chicken salads and dip products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically hard white plastic the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

25 Years of HACCP Regulation for Meat and Poultry Operations

USDA issued the Pathogen Reduction/Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (PR/HACCP) in 1995,  25 years ago this summer.  While HACCP systems were in use by larger companies, a large foodborne illness outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 associated with Jack-in-the-Box restaurants served as the impetus for USDA to issue regulations requiring mandatory HACCP for all meat and poultry operations.

At that time, I was the microbiology manager for one of the more notable food laboratories / consulting companies that supported a large number of meat processors.  In this role, we supported companies as they transitioned to HACCP based systems.   What struck me at the time was the number of companies that were more bent on fighting the regulation rather than adopting this risk-based tool that provided a systematic way of identifying and controlling hazards.  Sure there was documentation requirements, but those requirements were never as burdensome as some believed them to be...at least not if they were smart about how it was all managed.  The costs of implementing these systems were often recovered through savings in having better control systems.  But as we see know, the biggest advantage was a drop in foodborne illness cases.  And we probably don't know the real reduction since our capability of seeing all the cases of illness at that time is nowhere near what it is today.

Still we have room for improvement, no doubt, but the industry has done a tremendous job in reducing foodborne illness levels.   We need to recognize those that work hard each day carrying out their tasks to support their HACCP requirements...including sanitation, processing, quality, and laboratory.


https://www.fsis.usda.gov/news-events/news-press-releases/reflecting-25-years-haccp
Reflecting on 25 Years of HACCP

JACK CONNOLLY, DIGITAL AND EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS STAFF

This year marks 25 years since FSIS issued its landmark final rule, “Pathogen Reduction/Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (PR/HACCP),” issued in the summer of 1996.

“Food safety is an ever-evolving process,” said FSIS Administrator Paul Kiecker, who began his Agency career as an inspector in a food processing establishment. “HACCP marked a dramatic change in food safety and how FSIS approached its mission of keeping food safe and role of inspecting processing establishments,” said Kiecker.

FDA Issues Warning Letter To Pet Food Company Associated with Over 100 Pet Deaths

FDA issued a corporate-wide Warning Letter for numerous issues identified during inspection.  The "manufacturing plants revealed evidence of violations, which were shared across multiple plants and were associated with the illness or death of hundreds of pets who had eaten the company’s dry dog food. Samples of dog food were found to contain high levels of aflatoxin"

• Samples of SPORTMiX were later found to contain levels of aflatoxin as high as 558 parts per billion (ppb). The FDA considers pet food to be adulterated if it contains more than 20 ppb of aflatoxin.
• In March, Midwestern recalled several brands of pet food manufactured at its Monmouth, Illinois plant after samples tested positive for Salmonella. The FDA found that Midwestern’s food safety program appears inadequate to significantly minimize or prevent Salmonella in its pet food. 
• After inspecting Midwestern’s Chickasha plant, the FDA also inspected the company’s three other manufacturing plants. These inspections revealed evidence of significant violations of the Current Good Manufacturing Practice, Hazard Analysis, and Risk-Based Preventive Controls for Food for Animals regulation

https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-brief-fda-issues-corporate-wide-warning-letter-company-associated-contaminated-pet-food-hundreds

FDA In Brief: FDA Issues a Corporate-Wide Warning Letter to Company Associated with Contaminated Pet Food, Hundreds of Adverse Events

For Immediate Release:

August 17, 2021

The following quote is attributed to Steven M. Solomon, M.P.H., D.V.M., director of the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine

Buns Recalled After Co-Packer Has Posiive Environmental Samples

Hostess Brands, LLC (“Hostess Brands”) is voluntarily recalling certain Hostess® Soft White Hamburger Buns and Soft White Hot Dog Buns due to the potential for the products to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella. Hostess Brands is recalling the impacted products out of an abundance of caution after becoming aware of this issue from its co-manufacturer, Best Harvest Bakeries, through Best Harvest Bakeries’ environmental monitoring program.

Hard to tell what exactly transpired with this copacker and their environmental sampling program.  Being that the recall was for both Salmonella and Listeria, one may think it was a rapid methodology that may give just a positive result?  This is where it is important to understand the suppliers environmental sampling program...is it accurate with ample verification.  Are third party audits digging deep enough into these testing programs?

Voluntary Recall of Hostess® Hamburger Buns & Hot Dog Buns Due to Possible Health Risks
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 13, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 16, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella
Company Name:  Hostess Brands, LLC
Brand Name:  Hostess
Product Description:  Hamburger and Hot Dog Buns

Tuna Salad Recalled After Mislabeling Results in Undeclared Allergen for Tuna

RMH Foods, LLC in Morton IL is voluntarily recalling 583 cases of Gordon Choice® Deli Style Tuna and Chicken Salads packed in 4lb rigid tubs because of undeclared wheat and tuna allergens.   The recalled product contains tuna salad, but it has two labels. The bottom container states Deli Style Chicken Salad, while the top lid label states Deli Style Tuna Salad.  The chicken salad labeling does not declare the wheat and Tuna allergens that are in the tuna salad. The product is in a white plastic 4lb tub.
The recall was initiated after discovering the incorrect bottom container had been used with the product. This error was confined to one specific product, and one specific lot. Five hundred and eighty-three (583) cases of the product were made. This recall is being made with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

This is a pretty simple error to prevent.  An Allergen Preventive Control would include a regular check of both top and bottom labels.   583 cases at 4lbs per tub would certainly be a few hours to a whole shift of production where nobody was looking at these labels.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/rmh-foods-llc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-wheat-and-tuna-gordon-choicer-deli-style-tuna-and
RMH Foods, LLC Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Wheat and Tuna in Gordon Choice® Deli Style Tuna and Chicken Salads
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 13, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 16, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared tuna and wheat
Company Name:  RMH Foods, LLC
Brand Name:  Gordon Choice
Product Description:  Deli Style Tuna and Chicken Salads

Company Expands Recall of Shrimp Due to Salmonella, Further Processors Using Recalled Shirmp Issue Recalls

Avanti Frozen Foods is expanding its June 2021 recall of frozen shrimp  after discussions with CDC and FDA.  With the expansion of this recall, additional recalls were posted by a company where this shrimp was used as part of RTE foods (sushi and sushi rolls).

This is where following recalls is important, especially where one is using ingredient from a company that just issued a recall.  Until the situation is resolved, it may be in the purchasing company's interest to change suppliers.  In this case, the company making sushi could have switched suppliers until it was clear that the contamination event was identified, clearing other product the ingredient supplier sold.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/avanti-frozen-foods-expands-recall-frozen-cooked-shrimp-because-possible-health-risk
Avanti Frozen Foods Expands Recall of Frozen Cooked Shrimp Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date: August 13, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 13, 2021
Product Type:Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:Potential to be contaminated with Salmonella
Company Name:  Avanti Frozen Foods Pvt. Ltd
Brand Name:  Various: Big River, 365, Seacove, Ahold, Censea, First Street, Meijer and others
Product Description:  Frozen cooked, peeled and deveined, tail on shrimp

Pet Food Company Recalls Product with Elevated Vitamin D Due to Supplier Misformulation

Wet Noses Natural Dog Treat Company of Monroe, Washington is recalling approximately 51,000 packages of Simply Nourish frozen dog food, due to it containing elevated levels of Vitamin D.  The recall was initiated after a routine nutrition test confirmed elevated Vitamin D levels on certain Simply Nourish frozen food products. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem arose as a result of the vitamin mix dosage being significantly reduced by the vitamin mix manufacturer, and this change was not detected or properly communicated. As a result, the dosage was not reduced. 

So it appears the supplier of the vitamin premix did not dilute the Vitamin D properly, so the level was too high.   For pet food manufacturers, a supply chain preventive control should be in place for vitamin premix with a focus on Vitamin D.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/wet-noses-natural-dog-treat-companyr-voluntarily-recalls-simply-nourish-brand-frozen-dog-food-due
Wet Noses Natural Dog Treat Company® Voluntarily Recalls Simply Nourish Brand Frozen Dog Food Due to Elevated Levels of Vitamin D

Summary

Company Announcement Date:  August 13, 2021

FDA Publish Date: August 13, 2021

Product Type: Animal & Veterinary  Food & Beverages  Pet Food

Reason for Announcement:  Due to elevated levels of Vitamin D

Company Name: Wet Noses Natural Dog Treat Company

Brand Name:Simply Nourish

Product Description: Frozen dog food

NJ Company Recalls Cookie Cake For Undeclared Peanut After Mislabeling Issue

Jimmy’s Cookies LLC of Clifton NJ is recalling LOT# 1133 Marketside Chocolate Candy Cookie Cake from certain Walmart stores, because it may contain undeclared peanuts.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the product containing peanuts 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 processes.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/jimmys-cookies-llc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-peanuts-marketside-chocolate-candy-cookie-cake
Jimmy’s Cookies LLC Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Peanuts in Marketside Chocolate Candy Cookie Cake Lot# 1133
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 12, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 12, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Bakery Product/Mix
Reason for Announcement:  May contain undeclared peanuts
Company Name:  Jimmy’s Cookies LLC
Brand Name:  Marketside
Product Description:  Chocolate Candy Cookie Cake

Potato Chips Recalled for Undeclared Milk Allergen After Customer Contact

Frito-Lay today issued a voluntary recall of a limited number – 31 bags – of 7 3/4 oz. Wavy Lay’s Original Potato Chips as they may contain undeclared milk ingredients. The recall is the result of an investigation following a consumer contact.

Frito-Lay has faced a number of allergen-related recall issues in the past few years.  

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/frito-lay-issues-limited-voluntary-recall-undeclared-milk-wavy-lays-original-potato-chips
Frito-Lay Issues Limited Voluntary Recall on Undeclared Milk in Wavy Lay’s Original Potato Chips Distributed in North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 11, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 11, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk
Company Name:  Frito-Lay
Brand Name:  Lay’s
Product Description:  Wavy Lay’s Original Potato Chips

Ohio Company Recalls BBQ Potato Chips After Supplier Detects Salmonella in Thier Spice Ingredient

Ballreich Snack Food Co. Tiffin, Ohio, is recalling its 1.5oz, 2.75oz, and 7oz packages of BAR-B-Q Potato Chips due to a potential contamination with Salmonella.  The potential for contamination was discovered after routine testing conducting by the seasoning provider.  The production of the product has been suspended while the FDA and the seasoning company continues to investigate the source of the problem.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/ballreich-snack-food-company-recalls-bar-b-q-seasoned-potato-chips-because-possible-health-risk
Ballreich Snack Food Company Recalls Bar-B-Q Seasoned Potato Chips Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 10, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 10, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Salmonella
Company Name:  Ballreich Snack Food Co.
Brand Name:  Ballreich’s
Product Description:  BAR-B-Q Potato Chips 

Hepatitis A Issues in Canada (Frozen Mangoes) and Australia (Dates)

There have been two recent reports of Hepatis A.  One report is from Canada where there have been 3 cases of Hepatitis A linked to frozen mangoes (as of July 31, 2021).  The suspect product has been recalled.

The other outbreak is from Australia where 3 cases of Hepatitis A have been linked to Medjool dates imported from Jordan.

https://healthycanadians.gc.ca/recall-alert-rappel-avis/inspection/2021/76139r-eng.php
Food Recall Warning - Various frozen mangoes recalled due to Hepatitis A
From: Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Recall date: July 30, 2021
Reason for recall:  Microbiological - Other
Hazard classification:  Class 1
Company / Firm:  Nature's Touch Frozen Food Inc.
Distribution:  Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Possibly National, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan

Breaded Chicken Product Recalled After Linked to Salmonella Outbreak

Serenade Foods, a Milford, Ind. establishment, is recalling approximately 59,251 pounds of frozen, raw, breaded and pre-browned stuffed chicken products after being linked to an outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis infection.   The frozen, raw, breaded and pre-browned, stuffed chicken items were produced on February 24, 2021 and February 25, 2021.  The issue as we have seen before is that these types of product are often not cooked properly.  They are raw products, but because of the way they are prepared by the manufacturer (par-cooking to set the dough), they appear to be cooked.  With that, consumers may be likely to heat the product enough to get hot, often through heating in the microwave (even though the package says not to do that), but not to a point of fully cooking the product (reaching 165F).  Salmonella, if present on the raw product, will surivive the lower heat used and then be able to cause infection during consumption of the product.

"FSIS has been working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and public health partners to investigate a multistate outbreak of 28 Salmonella Enteritidis illnesses in 8 states, with onset dates ranging from February 21 through June 28, 2021. Unopened intact packages of raw, frozen, breaded chicken stuffed with broccoli and cheese were collected from an ill person’s home and tested positive for the outbreak strain of Salmonella Enteritidis."

"The products of concern may appear to be ready-to-eat but are in fact raw and need to be fully cooked according to the manufacturer cooking instructions on the package before consumption. The labels for these products identify cooking instructions for preparation in an oven. The products should not be prepared in the microwave or air fryer. FSIS advises all consumers that particular attention needs to be taken to safely prepare and cook these frozen, raw poultry products to a temperature of 165 F. The only way to confirm raw poultry products are cooked to a temperature high enough to kill harmful bacteria is to use a food thermometer that measures internal temperature, as indicated in this chart. Additionally, FSIS advises all consumers to keep raw poultry away from other food that will not be cooked. Use one cutting board for raw poultry and a separate one for fresh produce and cooked foods."

USDA - FSIS Announcement

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/serenade-foods-recalls-frozen-raw-breaded-stuffed-chicken-products-due-possible
Serenade Foods Recalls Frozen Raw Breaded Stuffed Chicken Products due to Possible Salmonella Enteritidis Contamination

WASHINGTON, Aug. 9, 2021 – Serenade Foods, a Milford, Ind. establishment, is recalling approximately 59,251 pounds of frozen, raw, breaded and pre-browned stuffed chicken products that may be contaminated with Salmonella Enteritidis, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. FSIS issued a public health alert on June 2, 2021 related to these products.

Chicken Tortilla Soup Recalled After Complaints for Foreign Material - Pieces of Plastic Glove

Blount Fine Foods, a McKinney, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 6,384 pounds of Panera branded chicken tortilla soup products that may be contaminated with extraneous material, specifically pieces of gray nitrile glove.  The problem was discovered after the company notified FSIS that they received several consumer complaints reporting pieces of gray nitrile glove in the product.

Do you think someone realized they dropped a glove?

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/blount-fine-foods-corp.-recalls-chicken-soup-products-due-possible-foreign-matter
Blount Fine Foods Corp. Recalls Chicken Soup Products Due To Possible Foreign Matter Contamination

WASHINGTON, Aug. 5, 2021 – Blount Fine Foods, a McKinney, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 6,384 pounds of chicken tortilla soup products that may be contaminated with extraneous material, specifically pieces of gray nitrile glove, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

Imported Infant Formula, Sold Online, Recalled for Not Meeting FDA Requirements

Able Groupe recalling certain products used as infant formulas because they did not receive pre-approval from FDA and were below the required level for iron.  These products were imported from Europe and distributed to consumers in the U.S. via mail services through the 'little-bundle' website (tagline - "The formulas your baby deserves."  Really?)

The recalled products are infant formulas (i.e., products intended as a complete or partial substitute for human milk for children 12 months old and younger), but the required pre-market notifications for these new infant formulas have not been submitted to the FDA. In addition, the HiPP Comfort Milk Formula, HiPP Dutch Stage 1 Combiotic Infant Milk Formula, HiPP HA Germany Hypoallergenic Stage PRE Combiotic Infant Milk Formula, HiPP German Stage 1 Combiotic Infant Milk Formula, Holle Bio Stage 1 Organic Infant Milk Formula, Holle Bio Stage PRE Organic Infant Milk Formula, Lebenswert Anfangsmilch Stage 1 Organic Infant Milk Formula, and HiPP UK Stage 1 Combiotic First Infant Milk Formula products contain less than 1 milligram of iron per 100 Calories and may not provide adequate iron for some infants, particularly infants born prematurely or with a low birth weight, those who had low iron levels at birth, or those who are at risk for becoming iron deficient due to illness. Inadequate intake of iron during infancy may lead to iron deficiency anemia, which, if untreated, has irreversible cognitive and functional development outcomes. Infant formula products that contain less than 1 milligram of iron per 100 Calories are required to include a statement on the label indicating that additional iron may be necessary.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/able-groupe-recalling-products-labeled-infant-formula-formulas-have-insufficient-iron-levels
Able Groupe Recalling Products Labeled as Infant Formula Formulas Have Insufficient Iron Levels as Per Requirements for Infant Formula in The U.S., and Products Do Not Meet Other FDA Requirements

CA Company Recalls Chocolate Malt Balls After Customer Discovers Peanut Butter Balls

DSD Merchandisers, Inc. of Livermore, CA is recalling 252 individual 9 oz. Deli tubs of Dark Chocolate Malt Balls because it may contain undeclared Peanuts.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product containing Peanuts (peanut Butter) was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of Peanut. The problem was discovered when one customer reported purchasing Dark Chocolate Malt Balls found Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Malt Balls inside. Investigation is ongoing as to how the incident occurred.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/dsd-merchandisers-inc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-peanuts-dark-chocolate-malt-balls-9oz-tub
DSD Merchandisers, Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Peanuts in Dark Chocolate Malt Balls 9oz Tub
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 04, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 04, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared peanuts
Company Name:  DSD Merchandisers, Inc.
Brand Name:  DSD Merchandisers
Product Description:  Dark Chocolate Malt Balls

Meal Replacement Shake Recalled Due to Undeclared Milk

Nature’s Sunshine of Lehi, Utah is announcing that it initiated a voluntarily recall of certain lots of its Love & Peas product in April 2021 after being notified by an ingredient supplier that an ingredient used in the manufacturing of the affected product lots may contain milk. 

Nature’s Sunshine Issued Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in its "Love & Peas" Meal Replacement Shake | FDA
Nature’s Sunshine Issued Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in its "Love & Peas" Meal Replacement Shake
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 30, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 02, 2021
 Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk
Company Name:  Nature's Sunshine
Brand Name:  Nature's Sunshine
Product Description:  Love & Peas Protein Rich Meal Replacement

Bags of Dried Apricots Recalled Due to Undeclared Sulfites

Golden Natural Products, Inc. of Brooklyn, NY is recalling bags of dried apricot product because they contain undeclared sulfites.   "The recall was initiated after FDA sampling revealed that product containing sulfites was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of sulfites."

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/golden-natural-products-inc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-sulfites-two-dried-apricot-products
Golden Natural Products Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Sulfites in Two Dried Apricot Products
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 02, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 02, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared sulfites
Company Name: Golden Natural Product Inc.
Brand Name:  Golden Natural Product Inc.
Product Description:  Dried Apricot

CDC Investigate E. coli Outbreak Linked to Cake Mix

The CDC is investigating an outbreak of pathogenic E. coli, strain O121, that has been linked to cake mix. To this point, there have been 16 illness with 7 of those being hospitalized.  Sick people range in age from 2 to 73 years, with a median age of 13, and 100% are female. 

The key here....do not eat raw cookie dough.  Cookie dough must be cooked per directions.   Along with that, carefully clean up surfaces and equipment after use.  Remember that the raw flour on surfaces can be potentially contaminated.

E. coli infection is nothing to mess with.  It can lead to bloody diarrhea, high fever, and worse, can produce a toxin that is detrimental to the kidney.

CDC Investigation Notice
E. coli Outbreak Linked to Cake Mix | CDC
E. coli Outbreak Linked to Cake Mix
Posted July 28, 2021
Fast Facts
Illnesses: 16
Hospitalizations: 7
Deaths: 0
States: 12
Recall: No
Investigation status: Active

Investigation Details
July 28, 2021
CDC, public health and regulatory officials in several states, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are collecting different types of data to investigate a multistate outbreak of E. coli O121 infections linked to cake mix.