Fruit Pies Recalled Due to Undeclared Allergens on Print-and-Apply Label

Whole Foods Market is voluntarily recalling select whole and sliced Apple and Cherry Pies from five stores in the Mid-Atlantic Region because they contain undeclared milk and egg.  All affected product has been removed from store shelves and no allergic reactions have been reported to date. The mislabeling issue was discovered by a Whole Foods Market team member after inspecting the ingredients on the scale label.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/allergy-alert-issued-undeclared-milk-and-egg-apple-and-cherry-pies-sold-five-whole-foods-market
Allergy Alert Issued for Undeclared Milk and Egg in Apple and Cherry Pies Sold at Five Whole Foods Market Stores in Mid-Atlantic Region
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  September 24, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  September 24, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk and eggs

Company Name: Whole Foods Market
Brand Name:  Whole Foods Market
Product Description:  Apple Pie and Cherry Pie

Nut Mix Product Recalled for Glass, Believed to be Supplier Related

SunTree Snack Foods LLC, of Phoenix, AZ, is recalling specific items of Happy Belly, Prince & Spring, Harris Teeter, and HEB brand names that contain specific lots of cashews due to the potential presence of glass pieces. No injuries have been reported to date. Although our investigation is ongoing, we believe the source of the glass is cashews that were an ingredient common to the products subject to this recall. SunTree Snack Foods, LLC is taking this action out of an abundance of caution.  The recall was initiated after a customer notified the firm that the product contained glass pieces.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/suntree-snack-foods-llc-issues-voluntary-recall-roasted-salted-cashew-halves-pieces-and-trail-mix
Suntree Snack Foods, LLC. Issues Voluntary Recall of Roasted Salted Cashew Halves & Pieces and Trail Mix Containing Roasted Salted Cashews Due to Potential Presence of Glass Pieces

Pizza Packed in Wrong Box Results in Allergen Recall

Nestle USA Inc., a firm in Schaumburg, Ill., is recalling approximately 27,872 pounds of frozen DiGiorno Crispy Pan Crust pepperoni pizza due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the product contains textured soy protein, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label. The frozen pepperoni pizza product carton may actually contain frozen three meat pizza, which contains textured soy protein. The pizza products were produced on June 30, 2021. 

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/nestle-usa-inc.-recalls-frozen-digiorno-crispy-pan-crust-pepperoni-pizza-due
Nestlé USA Inc. Recalls Frozen DiGiorno Crispy Pan Crust Pepperoni Pizza Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Sept. 26, 2021 – Nestle USA Inc., a firm in Schaumburg, Ill., is recalling approximately 27,872 pounds of frozen DiGiorno Crispy Pan Crust pepperoni pizza due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product contains textured soy protein, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.

CA Establishment Recalls Frozen Potstickers After Consumer Complaints Reported For Clear Flexible and Hard Plastic

Ajinomoto Foods North America Inc., a Hayward, Calif. establishment, is recalling approximately 33,567 pounds of raw, frozen chicken and vegetable potsticker products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically clear flexible and hard plastic.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/ajinomoto-foods-north-america-inc-recalls-raw-frozen-chicken-and-vegetable
Ajinomoto Foods North America Inc Recalls Raw, Frozen Chicken and Vegetable Potsticker Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2021 – Ajinomoto Foods North America Inc., a Hayward, Calif. establishment, is recalling approximately 33,567 pounds of raw, frozen chicken and vegetable potsticker products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically clear flexible and hard plastic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

CDC Investigation - Source Still Unknown for Ongoing Salmonella Outbreak

CDC and public health and regulatory officials in several states are investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Oranienburg infections. The investigation has not yet identified a food linked to illness.

• On September 2, 2021, CDC identified an outbreak of 20 Salmonella Oranienburg infections. Since then, the outbreak has grown rapidly.
• As of September 21, 2021, 279 people infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Oranienburg have been reported from 29 states (see map). Illnesses started on dates ranging from August 3, 2021 to September 13, 2021 (see timeline).
• Sick people range in age from less than 1 year to 89 years, with a median age of 35, and 59% are female. Of 86 people with information available, 26 have been hospitalized and no deaths have been reported.

https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/oranienburg-09-21/index.html

Salmonella Outbreak with Unknown Food Source
Posted September 23, 2021

Fast Facts
Illnesses: 279 (152 new)
Hospitalizations: 26 (8 new)
Deaths: 0
States: 29 (4 new)
Recall: No
Investigation status: Active

Investigation Details
Posted September 23, 2021
September 23, 2021

Shipping Salad with Caesar Dressing Instead of Ranch Dressing Results in Allergen-related Recall Due to Undeclared Anchovies

Ready Pac Foods, Inc.’s establishments in Swedesboro, NJ and Jackson, GA, are recalling approximately 222,915 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) salad products with meat and poultry because the products contain Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulated salad dressing that has been recalled by the producer, Litehouse Inc., due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen - the salad dressing component contains anchovies, which is not declared on the salad product label. The problem was discovered when the firm was notified by their salad dressing supplier that a shipment of ranch salad dressing was inadvertently misbranded and may contain Caesar dressing with anchovies.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/ready-pac-foods-inc.-recalls-ready-eat-salad-products-containing-meat-and-poultry
Ready Pac Foods, Inc. Recalls Ready to Eat Salad Products Containing Meat and Poultry Due to Misbranding and an Undeclared Allergen

OH Dairy Recalls Chocolate Milk That Was Improperly Pasteurized

Green Field Farms Dairy of Fredericksburg, Ohio announces a voluntary recall of its Whole Chocolate Milk product, with a code date of 9/29/21, due to a laboratory analysis that indicated this product was not effectively pasteurized.  The issue was discovered during routine product testing conducted by the Ohio Department of Agriculture. There have been no reports of illness involving products addressed in this recall.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/green-field-farms-dairy-issues-voluntary-recall-whole-chocolate-milk
Green Field Farms Dairy Issues Voluntary Recall of Whole Chocolate Milk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  September 17, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  September 20, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Product was not effectively pasteurized.
Company Name:  Green Field Farms Dairy
Brand Name:  Green Field Farms
Product Description:  Whole chocolate milk

NY Firm Recalls Coriander Chutney After FDA Inspection Finds Undeclared Sulfites, Coconut, and Yellow #5

Joy Gourmet Foods Inc. of Maspeth, NY is recalling its Joy Brand.  Coriander chutney because it contains undeclared sulfites. coconut. FD&C YELLOW#5 .  The recall was initiated after a routine inspection by a United States of America Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Food Inspector, which revealed that the product contained sulfites, coconut, and FD&C yellow#5 and were distributed in packages that did not declare their presence.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/joy-gourmet-foods-llc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-sulfites-coconut-and-fdc-yellow5
Joy Gourmet Foods LLC Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Sulfites, Coconut and FD&C Yellow#5
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  September 18, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  September 18, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Sulfites, Coconut, FD&C Yellow #5
Company Name:  Joy Gourmet Foods Inc.
 Brand Name:  Joy
Product Description:  Coriander Chutney

CDC Article - Novel Outbreak-Associated Food Vehicles, United States

An article in the October 2021 issue of Emerging Infectious Diseases, titled Novel Outbreak-Associated Food Vehicles, United States, discusses foods that were responsible for foodborne outbreak, where the food had not been implicated in outbreaks in the past. Of course, we know poultry or leafy greens as vehicles, but from time to time, there are 'novel' foods found be involved.

The article lists several ways in which outbreaks from novel foods differ from outbreaks associated with others.  The study covers the years 2007-2016.

Outbreaks associated with novel food vehicles differed from other outbreaks (i.e., those not associated with a novel food vehicle) in several ways (Table 2). First, 61.1% of outbreaks associated with a novel food vehicle involved exposure in multiple states, compared with 5.7% of other outbreaks (p<0.001). Second, 48.6% of outbreaks associated with a novel food vehicle resulted in a food recall, compared with 5.2% of other outbreaks (p<0.001). Third, the mean numbers of reported primary cases, hospitalizations, and deaths were greater among outbreaks linked to novel food vehicles than among other outbreaks (p = 0.04, p<0.001, and p<0.001, respectively). Fourth, the percentage of cases that resulted in hospitalization and the percentage of cases that resulted in death were significantly greater among outbreaks linked to novel food vehicles than among other outbreaks. Last, outbreaks associated with a novel food vehicle were more likely than other outbreaks to be caused by Salmonella contamination (p<0.001). Two potential confounding effects were a disproportionate number of Salmonella outbreaks linked to novel foods and potential effects of contamination from ill food workers (sensitivity analyses in Table 2).

While these foods may be novel, none are surprising.  For those that are a type of meat or fish (Bison, Carp, frog, lionfish, swai), they have the same issues associated with similar protein types.  Most of the other items are items grown in nature and eaten with minimal to no processing.  Thus Salmonella tends to be a leading cause of illness associated with these products, as well as other hazards often associated wtih field contamination (STEC, Cyclopora), or basic handling (Listeria, Hepatitis A).

The importance of this is that when conducting the Hazard Analysis, one can't simply see if a food had been involved in past outbreaks.  One must consider where the product comes from and how it had been handled in relation to how it will be further processed (if any) and then consumed.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 

https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/27/10/20-4080_article

Emerging Infectious Diseases Journal
Volume 27, Number 10—October 2021
Synopsis
Novel Outbreak-Associated Food Vehicles, United States

Bagged Kale Recalled After Testing Finds Listeria

Baker Farms is recalling their Baker Farms, Kroger & SEG Grocers brand names of Kale, 1 lb plastic bags with BEST BY 09-18-2021 107020-21832 due to contamination of Listeria monocytogenes.  The Kroger Co. followed suite and recalled 16-ounce Kroger bagged kale product, produced by Baker Farms.  On 9-15-2021 Baker Farms was notified by a customer that the product test positive for Listeria monocytogenes.  (The reports do not tell who actually conducted the testing).

There have been no reported illnesses.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/baker-farms-recalls-various-brand-name-kale-due-listeria-monocytogenes-contamination
Baker Farms Recalls Various Brand Name of Kale Due to Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  September 16, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  September 17, 2021
Product Type: Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement: Potential of Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name: Baker Farms
Brand Name: Baker Farms, Kroger & SEG Grocers
Product Description: Bagged Kale

Poppy Seed Dressing Recalled as pH Issues Raise Concern for Clostridium botulinum Growth

Drew’s Organics, LLC of Chester, VT is voluntarily recalling one lot code of Aldi Simply Nature Organic Poppy Seed Dressing due to a processing issue that could allow for microbial growth.  The recall was initiated after Drew’s Organics, LLC observed a color difference in the Simply Nature Organic Poppy Seed Dressing after manufacturing. Investigation revealed out of spec pH with the potential for microbial growth, including Clostridium botulinum, rendering it unsafe for consumption.

As we know, the pH of these types of products has a limit of 4.6 to prevent the growth of Clostridium botulinum, the causative agent of botulism.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/drews-organics-llc-issues-voluntary-recall-aldi-simply-nature-organic-poppy-seed-dressing-potential
Drew’s Organics, LLC Issues Voluntary Recall of Aldi Simply Nature Organic Poppy Seed Dressing for Potential Clostridium botulinum Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  September 16, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  September 16, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential for microbial growth
Company Name:  Drew’s Organics, LLC
Brand Name:  Simply Nature
Product Description:  Organic Poppy Seed Dressing

Fresh Parsley Recalled After State Testing Finds STEC (Pathogenic E. coli)

Buurma Farms Inc. of Willard, OH, is voluntarily recalling 320 boxes of its Plain Parsley after testing showed possible contamination with Shiga-toxin producing E.coli.  The product being recalled is Buurma Plain (flat leaf) Parsley with a harvest date of August 30, 2021 from their Gregory, Michigan location. A random, routine regulatory sample collected on 9/7/21 at a customer’s distribution center by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) tested positive for non-O157 STEC (Shiga-toxin producing E. Coli) and reported 9/13/21.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/buurma-farms-inc-recalls-plain-flat-parsley-due-possible-health-risks
Buurma Farms Inc. Recalls Plain (Flat) Parsley Due to Possible Health Risks
Summary
Company Announcement Date: September 14, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  September 15, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  May contain Shiga-toxin producing E.coli
Company Name:  Buurma Farms Inc.
Brand Name:  Buurma
Product Description:  Plain (Flat Leaf) Parsley

Raspberry Fudge Cordial Ice Cream Recalled Due to Undeclared Peanuts Traced to Third Party Manufacturer

Velvet Ice Cream has issued a voluntary recall of its 56oz Raspberry Fudge Cordial Ice Cream because it may contain undeclared peanuts.  Velvet was notified of the issue by a single customer and has since learned that the cause of the error has been traced to a third-party manufacturer packaging error. One carton has been affected at the time of this release.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/velvet-ice-cream-voluntarily-recalls-raspberry-fudge-cordial-ice-cream-due-undeclared-peanuts
Velvet Ice Cream Voluntarily Recalls Raspberry Fudge Cordial Ice Cream Due to Undeclared Peanuts
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  September 13, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  September 14, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  May contain undeclared peanuts
Company Name:  Velvet Ice Cream
Brand Name:  Velvet
Product Description:  Raspberry Fudge Cordial Ice Cream

Stuffed Shells Recalled After Complaints of Foreign Material in the Form of Metal

Seviroli Foods of Bellmawr, NJ is recalling H-E-B Jumbo Stuffed Shells - 22 oz due to potential presence of foreign material in product (Metal).  The issue was discovered on September 09, 2021, after H-E-B was notified of four customer complaints. All product related to this recall has been removed from H-E-B store shelves.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/seviroli-foods-voluntarily-issues-recall-h-e-b-jumbo-stuffed-shells-22-oz-due-potential-presence
Seviroli Foods Voluntarily Issues a Recall of H-E-B Jumbo Stuffed Shells - 22 Oz Due to Potential Presence of Foreign Material
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  September 14, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  September 14, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:   Presence of foreign material (metal)
Company Name:  SEVIROLI FOODS, INC.
Brand Name:  H-E-B
Product Description:  Jumbo Stuffed Shells

RTE Breadsticks Recalled for Undeclared Sesame After Comingling Issue Identified

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for ready-to-eat (RTE) breadsticks, meat and cheese products containing Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulated breadsticks that have been recalled by the producer, Jag Specialty Foods, due to concerns that the products may have comingled with sesame breadsticks and sesame seeds. Sesame is not declared on the product label.  The problem was discovered when Daniele International observed that breadsticks received from Jag Specialty Foods that do not contain sesame were comingled with sesame breadsticks and sesame seeds and notified their supplier and FSIS.

As we know, sesame was added to the list of allergens that must be declared on labels.  This law does no go into place until 2023.

FSIS Announcement
https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-meat-snack-products-containing-fda-regulated
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert For Meat Snack Products Containing FDA-Regulated Breadstick Products That Have Been Recalled Due To Misbranding And An Undeclared Ingredient

Illinois Establishment Recalls Uninspected Meat Products After Anonymous Tip

AS Foods Enterprises Inc., an Elk Grove Village, Ill., establishment, is recalling approximately 3,768 pounds of beef and chicken empanada products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection and bearing a label with a false USDA mark of inspection.   The problem was discovered after FSIS received an anonymous tip and initiated an investigation.

If the inspectors don't catch you initially, you can always count on your competitors turning you in.  Not saying that is what happened in this case, but that would be my bet.


FSIS Announcement
https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/sas-foods-enterprises-inc.-recalls-frozen-fully-cooked-beef-and-chicken-empanada
SAS Foods Enterprises INC. Recalls Frozen, Fully Cooked Beef and Chicken Empanada Products Packaged without Benefit of Inspection

WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2021 – SAS Foods Enterprises Inc., an Elk Grove Village, Ill., establishment, is recalling approximately 3,768 pounds of beef and chicken empanada products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection and bearing a label with a false USDA mark of inspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

Nutty Buddy Cookie Bites Sandwich Cookies Recalled for Undeclared Peanuts Due to Co-Packer Error

McKee Foods of Collegedale, Tenn., is recalling 25 cases of Little Debbie® Mini Nutty Buddy Cookie Bites Sandwich Cookies, because they may contain undeclared pecans.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product containing pecans was included in packaging that did not reveal the presence of tree nuts. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the production processes of the contract manufacturer that makes and packages the product for McKee Foods.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/mckee-foods-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-pecans-little-debbier-mini-nutty-buddy-cookie-bites
McKee Foods Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Pecans in Little Debbie® Mini Nutty Buddy Cookie Bites Sandwich Cookies
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  September 10, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  September 11, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Snack Food Item
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared pecans
Company Name:  McKee Foods
Brand Name:  Little Debbie®
Product Description:  Mini Nutty Buddy Cookie Bites Sandwich Cookies

Leaf Parsley Recalled After State Sampling Finds Pathogenic E. coli

Dole Fresh Vegetables, Inc. is voluntarily recalling a limited number of cases of conventional Curly Leaf Parsley. The product being recalled is Dole® Curly Leaf Parsley, with harvest dates of August 18, 2021, and August 19, 2021. A random, routine regulatory sample collected in Michigan tested positive for non-O157 STEC (Shigatoxin-producing E. coli).   This precautionary recall is being initiated due to a positive non-O157 STEC result found on a single sample collected by the Michigan Department of Agriculture during routine random sampling.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/dole-fresh-vegetables-announces-precautionary-limited-recall-curly-leaf-parsley-due-possible
Dole Fresh Vegetables Announces Precautionary Limited Recall of Curly Leaf Parsley Due to Possible Contamination with Non-O157 Shiga-Toxin Producing E. coli
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  September 10, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  September 10, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Produce
Reason for Announcement:  Non-O157 Shiga-toxin producing E. coli
Company Name:  Dole Fresh Vegetables, Inc.
Brand Name:  Dole
Product Description:  Curly leaf parsley

Review Article - Processing Environment Monitoring in Low Moisture Food Production Facilities

In the recent edition of International Journal of Food Microbiology, there is a review article on environmental sampling in low moisture processing environments.  The "current paper aims to summarize and evaluate existing scientific information on outbreaks, relevant pathogens in low moisture foods, and knowledge on indicators, including their contribution to a “clean” environment capable of limiting the spread of pathogens in dry production environments. This paper also outlines the essential elements of a processing environment monitoring [PEM] program thereby supporting the design and implementation of better programs focusing on the relevant microorganisms.'

This paper can provide document support for your PEM program or help with the design a program.  There are many factors used in determining the PEM program including facility design, the process, and the product, so there is no cookie-cutter approach.  This paper discusses how these factors will influence sampling plans.

An important point is made with Listeria sampling in these dry processing environments for low moisture foods (LMF).  "Because the LMF category represents a very low risk for listeriosis, it is generally considered that the use of an environmental monitoring program for Listeria species, is not really a good use of food safety resources (GMA, 2014). Rather, the use of the Enterobacteriaceae as an indicator of the ingress of water, as well as hygiene and sanitation in the post-processing environment, is recommended. Furthermore, with regards to the control of L. monocytogenes in LMF manufacturing facilities, in relation to HACCP, L. monocytogenes in LMF would be considered a very low risk because it does not grow in LMF (Beuchat et al., 2013)."  

Too often we see these types of facilities add Listeria to their sampling regime.  While there are some instances where this could be a factor, perhaps in cases where the ingredient is added to a RTE high moisture food as a post process addition, there should always be careful consideration for what will be tested.

(If you have a problem accessing this paper, please contact me - mwb124@psu.edu)

International Journal of Food Microbiology
Volume 356, 16 October 2021, 109351
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S016816052100310X
Review
Processing environment monitoring in low moisture food production facilities: Are we looking for the right microorganisms?
Authors François Bourdichonab Roy Bettsc Christophe Dufourd Séamus Fanninge Jeffrey Farberf Peter McCluregDespoina Angeliki Stavropoulouh Ellen Wemmenhovei Marcel H.Zwieteringj Anett Winkle

Abstract

Processing environment monitoring is gaining increasing importance in the context of food safety management plans/HACCP programs, since past outbreaks have shown the relevance of the environment as contamination pathway, therefore requiring to ensure the safety of products. However, there are still many open questions and a lack of clarity on how to set up a meaningful program, which would provide early warnings of potential product contamination. Therefore, the current paper aims to summarize and evaluate existing scientific information on outbreaks, relevant pathogens in low moisture foods, and knowledge on indicators, including their contribution to a “clean” environment capable of limiting the spread of pathogens in dry production environments. This paper also outlines the essential elements of a processing environment monitoring program thereby supporting the design and implementation of better programs focusing on the relevant microorganisms. This guidance document is intended to help industry and regulators focus and set up targeted processing environment monitoring programs depending on their purpose, and therefore provide the essential elements needed to improve food safety.

Will Non-Chicken Chicken Nuggets Win the Day?

Impossible Chicken Nuggets (chicken nuggets without the chicken) were launched this week. These plant based products were said to be preferred by consumers (7 out of 10).  According to an article in Food Dive, "The nuggets are soy-based with sunflower oil, and do not use any of Impossible Foods' plant-based heme — the company's signature ingredient that gives meat its distinctive taste. They also do not use titanium dioxide, a controversial and common whitening ingredient. Impossible Chicken Nuggets have 40% less saturated fat and 25% less sodium than animal-based chicken nuggets, the company says."

But of course, one can bread and fry most anything and make it taste good, including egg plant and squid.

Buisnesswire
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210907005327/en/Impossible-Foods-Surpasses-Animal-Meat-With-Impossible%E2%84%A2-Chicken-Nuggets-Made-From-Plants/
Impossible Foods Surpasses Animal Meat With Impossible™ Chicken Nuggets Made From Plants

Who Knew? The Film the Forms on the Surface of Hot Tea

Have you ever made a cup of hot tea and observed a film form on the surface?  I always thought it was just some waxy material from the tea leaves.  No.  It has to do with calcium carbonate from the hard water used to make the tea reacting with components of the tea.  What a great conversational item during your tea break.    Lift you pinkie and do your best Cliff Clavin impression.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PQS2q1328M

Tea Time Gets Flavor Boost from Thin Film, Impure Water - AIP Publishing LLC
Tea Time Gets Flavor Boost from Thin Film, Impure Water
SEPTEMBER 7, 2021
PHYSICS OF FLUIDSNEWS
SHARE:
From the Journal: Physics of Fluids
Link to article: Black tea interfacial rheology and calcium carbonate
DOI: 10.1063/5.0059760

FDA Warning Letter - Food Companies Failing to Comply with FSVP for Imported Food Products

Two food importers were issued Warning Letters for failure to implement FSVP for the products these companies were importing.  The FSVP regulation requires that importers perform certain risk-based activities (a hazard analysis and appropriate approval and verification activities) to verify that human and/or animal food they import into the United States has been produced in a manner that meets applicable U.S. food safety standards.

As we often see, importers and companies who purchase importers are often unaware of these requirements.  Penn State and other trainers provide FSPCA's FSVP training, a two day event that covers the requirements of the regulation.

Akshar Sales, LLC, of Fremont, CA

While the foreign supplier provided a hazard analysis obtained for imported Chai Biscuits and Fruit Biscuits and Vermicelli, the importer did not provide documentation that these were reviewed and assessed  2) The company did not approve foreign suppliers on the basis of an evaluation of the foreign supplier’s performance and the risk posed by the food 3) The company did have not established written procedures for approving foreign suppliers for any of your imported foods.4) the importer did not document a determination or performance of appropriate supplier verification activities, did not establish written procedures for ensuring that appropriate supplier verification activities,  did not document the determination of the appropriate supplier verification activity, and did not document (or obtain documentation of) performance of one or more of the supplier verification activities

Garden Fresh Market of Buffalo Grove, IL 
The company did not develop, maintain, and follow an FSVP as required for imported pickled tomatoes, pickled tomatoes and cucumbers, and half sour pickles.  The company indicated that they were not planning to import any further product.


FDA Warning Letter
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/akshar-sales-llc-615274-08162021
Akshar Sales LLC
MARCS-CMS 615274 — AUGUST 16, 2021

Carrot Cake Recalled for Undeclared Allergens

The Baking Institute Bakery Co. of Northbrook, Illinois is recalling “Carrot Cake” because it may contain undeclared walnuts, coconut, and milk.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product containing walnuts, coconut and milk was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of walnut, coconut and milk. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company's production and packaging processes.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/baking-institute-bakery-co-issues-allergen-alert-undeclared-walnuts-coconuts-and-milk-carrot-cake
The Baking Institute Bakery Co. Issues Allergen Alert on Undeclared Walnuts, Coconuts and Milk in “Carrot Cake”
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  September 02, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  September 02, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Bakery Product/Mix
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared walnuts, coconuts and milk
Company Name:  Nicotine Nirvana
Brand Name:  The Baking Institute Bakery Co.
Product Description:  Carrot Cake

Crab Cake Meal Recalled for Undeclared Milk

Weis Markets is recalling its in-store $7 Crab Cake Meal for undeclared milk allergen on its label. The issue was discovered during a routine inspection.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/weis-markets-issues-allergy-alert-7-crab-cake-meal-due-undeclared-milk-allergen
Weis Markets Issues an Allergy Alert for $7 Crab Cake Meal Due to Undeclared Milk Allergen
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  September 02, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  September 02, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages Shellfish
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk
Company Name:  Weis Markets
Brand Name:  Weis Markets
Product Description:  Crab Cake Meal

Allergen Free Tiger Nut Flour Gains Popularity as Wheat Flour Alternative

Tiger nut flour is gaining popularity as an gluten-free alternative to wheat flour. Actually, it is not a nut either, so it is allergen free. So what is tiger nut flour?

Tiger nut or chufa is a tuber from the plant Cyperus esculentus. This tuber is ground and sifted to produce a flour said to have favorable characteristics. Chufa is an ancient food source originating in the Eastern Hemisphere, primarily Africa. In the Western Hemisphere, it has been considered an invasive weed in certain areas.

"Tiger nut flour is rich in calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, iron and zinc, vitamins C and E and folic acid, as well as unsaturated fats and proteins. It is low in carbohydrates, which makes it ideal for Paleo and Ketogenic diets, and is high in fiber and antioxidants."

"Tiger nut flour is ideal for gluten-free, grain-free, nut-free, vegan, keto and paleo diets and can be cooked, baked or fried. While the moist, chewy texture is ideal for a number of applications and recipes, the milky sugary taste is perfect for baked goods as well as sweet breads and tart shells and can be used to add ‘bulk’ to no-bake treats."

And you can even make beer from Chufa.

Forbes
https://www.forbes.com/sites/daphneewingchow/2021/08/31/five-reasons-why-tiger-nut-flour-is-the-trendiest-alternative-flour/
Five Reasons Why Tiger Nut Flour Is The Trendiest Alternative Flour

Tiger nut (or chufa nut) flour, which is ground from tubers that grow on the yellow nutsedge plant, is gaining popularity globally as the perfect substitute for wheat flour, given its gluten-free properties, its status as a super food and its natural sweet taste. The flour, which is made by grinding tiger nut tubers and sieving the powder through a fine screen, acts like almond flour, adding moisture and chewiness but with a sweeter taste.

Orange Biscuits Recalled After NY State Ag Detects Undeclared Milk Allergen

KBF Inc. of Astoria, NY, is recalling its 8.11 ounce packages of “Banoful Top Orange Biscuit” food treats because they may contain undeclared milk allergens.  The recall was initiated after routine sampling by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors and subsequent analysis by Food Laboratory personnel revealed the presence of undeclared milk allergens in the 8.11 ounce packages of “Banoful Top Orange Biscuit” which did not declare a milk ingredient on the label.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/kbf-inc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-milk-allergens-banoful-top-orange-biscuit
KBF Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk Allergens in Banoful Top Orange Biscuit
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 25, 2021
FDA Publish Date: August 31, 2021
Product Type: Food & Beverages Snack Food Item
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk
Company Name:  KBF Inc.
Brand Name:Banoful
Product Description: Banoful Top Orange Biscuit

Cherry Butter Product Recalled for Undeclared Milk Allergen

Rocky Top Farms of Ellsworth, MI, is recalling its 10-ounce jars of "Cherry Butter" fruit butter because they may contain undeclared milk.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the milk containing product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of milk.  (Wrong label on product?)  Production of the product has been suspended until FDA and the company are certain that the problem has been corrected.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/rocky-top-farms-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-milk-cherry-butter
Rocky Top Farms Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in “Cherry Butter”
Summary
Company Announcement Date:   August 26, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 30, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Fruit/Fruit Product
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk
Company Name:  Rocky Top Farms
Brand Name:  Rocky Top Farms
Product Description: Cherry Butter