Food Safety Humor

FSPCA - Food Safety Preventive Controls Alliance

Friday, August 26, 2022

MD Company Recalls Lots of Pepperoni Pizza For Not Having USDA Inspection

Pizza John’s, an Essex, Md. firm, is recalling approximately 156,498 pounds of pepperoni pizza products that were produced without the benefit of federal (USDA) inspection.  While Pizza John's is a retail facility, they were distributing packaged product for sale.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/pizza-johns-recalls-pepperoni-pizza-products-produced-without-benefit-inspection
Pizza John’s Recalls Pepperoni Pizza Products Produced Without Benefit of Inspection

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, August 25, 2022 – Pizza John’s, an Essex, Md. firm, is recalling approximately 156,498 pounds of pepperoni pizza products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

Cookies in a Bear Shaped Container Recalled After Metal Wire Found in Cookie

D. F. Stauffer Biscuit Co., Inc. is voluntarily recalling 44 oz Market Pantry White Fudge Animal Cookies because they may contain metal. The product comes in a clear plastic jug formed to a bear shape.  The recall was initiated when metal (wire) was found inside a portion of the cookies. Foodborne foreign objects that are hard, sharp, and large are more likely to cause serious injury or dental injury. Foodborne foreign objects that are flexible, not sharp, and smaller in length are more likely to cause minor injuries such as transient choking or small lacerations in the gastrointestinal system.




https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/df-stauffer-biscuit-co-inc-issues-voluntary-recall-market-pantry-white-fudge-animal-cookies-best
D.F. Stauffer Biscuit Co., Inc. Issues a Voluntary Recall on Market Pantry White Fudge Animal Cookies with a Best By Date of 21FEB2023 Due to Possible Foreign Object Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 24, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  August 25, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Foodborne Foreign Object
Company Name:  D. F. Stauffer Biscuit Co.
Brand Name:  Market Pantry
Product Description:  White Fudge Animal Cookies

Bakery Items Recalled Due to Use of Recalled Ingredient

Piantedosi Baking Company, Inc. is voluntarily recalling select dinner rolls, sandwich rolls and bun products listed below that were used in limited products made between March 21,2022 and April 25, 2022, following the expanded Lyons Magnus recall dated August 10, 2022 recall of a raw material 

Piantedosi Baking Company, Inc. Issues Voluntary Recall Due to the Recall of a Raw Material from Lyons Magnus
Summary
Company Announcement Date:August 25, 2022
FDA Publish Date:August 25, 2022
Product Type:Food & Beverages  Bakery Product/Mix
Reason for Announcement: Cronobacter sakazakii and/or Clostridium botulinum
Company Name: Piantedosi Baking Company, Inc.
Brand Name: Piantedosi 
Product Description:  Various Dinner rolls, sandwich rolls and bun products

FDA Provides Investigation Update into Illnesses Related to French Lentil & Leek Crumbles, Exact Cause Not Yet Identified

Close to two months have passed since Daily Harvest French Lentil & Leek Crumbles were linked to complaints of gastrointestinal illness and abnormal liver function. At this point, there have been an estimated 369 cases with 125 resulting in hospitalizations.

One ingredient, Tara Flour, had been indented as the source, but how it caused the illness has not yet been detailed.


https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/investigation-adverse-event-reports-french-lentil-leek-crumbles-june-2022
Investigation of Adverse Event Reports: French Lentil & Leek Crumbles (June 2022)

Do not eat, sell, or serve recalled French Lentil & Leek Crumbles from Daily Harvest. FDA’s investigation is ongoing.

Case Counts
Total Adverse Illness Events: 369*
Hospitalizations: 125*
Deaths: 0
Last illness onset: August 9, 2022*
States with Adverse Illness Events: AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, IA, KS, MD, MA, MN, MS, MI, MO, MT, NV, NH, NJ, NY, NC, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VT, VA, WA, WI
Product Distribution: Nationwide
*Estimate based on Consumer Complaint and CAERs reports received by the FDA

Thursday, August 25, 2022

Tamales Recalled for Undeclared Milk Allergen in Corn Starch Ingredient

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for poultry and meat products containing a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulated corn starch that has been recalled due to an undeclared allergen, specifically milk. While this public health alert focuses on chicken and pork tamale products, FSIS believes it is likely that additional meat and poultry products will be affected by the FDA-regulated corn starch.


https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-poultry-and-meat-products-containing-fda-regulated
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Poultry and Meat Products Containing FDA-Regulated Corn Starch That Has Been Recalled Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, August 24, 2022 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for poultry and meat products containing a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulated corn starch that has been recalled due to an undeclared allergen, specifically milk. FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers are aware that these products should not be consumed. This situation is currently evolving, which means additional products may be added. Please continue to check back for possible updates.

Packs of Walnuts Containing Pecans Recalled

South Georgia Pecan Co. is recalling Great Value Walnut Chopped 4oz. Pouches Lot #29329 Best If Used By April 29, 2023 due to pouches containing pecan pieces instead of walnuts. This recall has been initiated due to mislabeling issue where a packaging run of pecans was labeled as Chopped Walnuts. 

On 8/16/2022 the firm was notified by retailer that Great Value 4oz. Walnut Chopped Pouches contained pecan pieces. The product was distributed between August 8, 2022 – August 16, 2022. This product was packaged in resealable pouches and shipped to select Walmart retail stores located in the States of: Florida, North Carolina, and South Carolina.

South Georgia Pecan Co. Recalls Great Value 4oz. Walnut Chopped Pouches Due to Pouch Containing Pecan Pieces
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 23, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  August 23, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Mislabeling
Company Name:  South Georgia Pecan Co.
Brand Name:  Great Value
Product Description:  Walnut Chopped Pouches

Organic Tahini Recalled After State Lab Informs Company of Positive Salmonella Sample

Rushdi Food Industries, an Israeli based manufacturer, is voluntarily recalling their Mighty Sesame 10.9 Oz Organic Tahini (Squeezable) with the specific expiration date of 3/28/23 due to potential Salmonella contamination.    This recall was initiated when the company received a notification by the FDA and the West Virginia Department of Health of the potential presence of Salmonella in this specific lot. The company has received no reports of illness or injury to date.

According to the report, the company reviewed cleaning procedures, Environmental Monitoring Program Results, Process Flow and possible Root of Contamination without any positive findings.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/rushdi-foods-issues-voluntary-recall-one-lot-their-mighty-sesame-organic-tahini-109-oz-squeeze
Rushdi Foods Issues a Voluntary Recall on One Lot of their Mighty Sesame Organic Tahini 10.9 oz Squeeze Bottle
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 23, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  August 23, 2022
Product Type:   Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Salmonella
Company Name:  Rushdi Food Industries
Brand Name:  Mighty Sesame
Product Description:  Organic Tahini (Squeezable)

Wednesday, August 24, 2022

USDA Issues Health Alert for Breaded Chicken Breast Tenders After Complaint for Plastic

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for Perdue’s frozen ready-to-eat (RTE) chicken breast tenders “gluten free” that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically small pieces of clear plastic and blue dye. A recall was not requested because the product is no longer available for purchase.  The problem was discovered when the establishment reported to FSIS that it received a complaint from a consumer reporting a chicken tender had a small piece of clear plastic and blue dye inside it.  

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-perdue-frozen-ready-eat-chicken-tender-products-due
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Perdue Frozen Ready-To-Eat Chicken Tender Products Due to Foreign Material Contamination

PERDUE FOODS LLC

WASHINGTON, August 23, 2022 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for Perdue’s frozen ready-to-eat (RTE) chicken breast tenders “gluten free” that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically small pieces of clear plastic and blue dye. A recall was not requested because the product is no longer available for purchase.

Monday, August 22, 2022

350,000 Pounds of Almonds Recalled After Positive Salmonella Test

Sacramento-based Blue Diamond Growers is recalling 347,650 pounds of Whole Brown Almonds (bulk) after the company's internal sampling found a positive salmonella result on the implicated lots of products.

https://abc7news.com/fda-almond-recall-blue-diamond-growers-almonds-salmonella/12147671/
Blue Diamond recalling nearly 350,000 pounds of almonds after testing for salmonella, FDA says
Saturday, August 20, 2022 8:29PM


SACRAMENTO (KGO) -- Thousands of pounds of almonds are being recalled after a recent test found salmonella, the Food and Drug Administration said.

Sacramento-based Blue Diamond Growers is recalling 347,650 pounds of Whole Brown Almonds (bulk) due to potential salmonella contamination.

E. coli Outbreak Investigation Leads to Precautionary Action by Wendy's Restaurants

CDC is investigating an outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli in four states, with 37 people infected and 10 hospitalized.  Wendy's restaurants have been associated with this outbreak and the company has taken actions to remove the romaine lettuce being used in sandwiches from restaurants in this region.  Cases include Ohio (19 cases), Michigan (15) Pennsylvania (2) and Indiana (1).

https://www.cnn.com/2022/08/20/health/wendys-e-coli-outbreak/index.html
Wendy's restaurants associated with E. coli outbreak that sickened 37 people in four states, CDC says
By John Bonifield, CNN
Updated 9:23 AM ET, Sat August 20, 2022

(CNN)Wendy's restaurants have been associated with an E. coli outbreak reported in four states, with 37 people infected and 10 hospitalized, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Friday.

No deaths have been reported.

Retailer Recalls Finishing Butter After Supplier's Supplier Has Positive Listeria Finding

Epicurean Butter LLC of Thornton, CO, is recalling its 3.5-ounce tubs of " Wegmans Lemon Dill Finishing Butter" food due to a recall from our frozen dill supplier, SupHerb Farms, because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.  Epicurean Butter LLC received notice from its herb supplier that certain lots of frozen dill could potentially be contaminated with listeria based upon a test from one of the supplier’s food manufacturing customers in Canada that used the ingredient in one of their finished products.

Here is another instance when a supplier's supplier has an issue that leads to a recall.  In evaluating a supplier's food safety program, it is important to assess how good their supplier control program is.  As part of Preventive Controls regulation, the supplier should have identifies hazards of incoming materials.  In this case, where a dill product is added to the butter as a post-process addition (in essence, a RTE ingredient), that dill supplier must have adequate controls in place.  The finishing butter processor establishing the verifications activities that they will perform to assure the safety of that dill.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/epicurean-butter-recalls-wegmans-lemon-dill-finishing-butter-because-possible-health-risk
Epicurean Butter Recalls “Wegmans Lemon Dill Finishing Butter” Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 19, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  August 19, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Epicurean Butter LLC
Brand Name:  Wegmans
Product Description:  Lemon Dill Finishing Butter

Capri Sun Recalled After Complaints of Cleaning Solution Remaining in Processing System

Kraft Heinz is announcing a voluntary recall of approximately 5,760 cases of Capri Sun Wild Cherry Flavored Juice Drink Blend beverages.  The voluntary recall comes after diluted cleaning solution, which is used on food processing equipment, was inadvertently introduced into a production line at one of our factories.  The issue was discovered after we received several consumer complaints about the taste of the affected product. The Company is actively working with retail partners and distributors to remove potentially impacted product from circulation.

Residual sanitizer / cleaner is often a point of discussion when conducting the hazard analysis.  Here is an example of where it became an issue.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/kraft-heinz-announcing-voluntary-recall-capri-sun-wild-cherry-flavored-juice-drink-blend-beverages
Kraft Heinz is announcing a voluntary recall of Capri Sun Wild Cherry Flavored Juice Drink Blend Beverages Due to Potential for Chemical Contaminants
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 12, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  August 16, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential for Clean-In-Place (CIP) solution to have entered the product stream
Company Name:  Kraft Heinz
Brand Name:  Kraft Heinz
Product Description:  Capri Sun Wild Cherry Flavored Juice Drink Blend beverages

Allergenic Reaction to Cashew in Mislabeled Coconut Bites Leads to Recall

The Gluten Free Bar of Grand Rapids, MI is issuing a voluntary recall on The GFB 1.2 oz Dark Chocolate Coconut Bites because it may contain a potential undeclared allergen, cashew.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the product potentially contained cashews from an isolated incident and was distributed in packaging that did not declare cashews. To date, one allergic reaction has been reported.   

The Gluten Free Bar Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Cashew in The GFB 1.2oz Dark Chocolate Coconut Bites
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 16, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  August 16, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared cashews
Company Name:  The Gluten Free Bar
Brand Name:  The GFB
Product Description:  Dark Chocolate coconut bites

Tuesday, August 16, 2022

Illinois Establishment Recalls Pizza After Consumer Complaint of Metal Pieces

Home Run Inn Frozen Foods, a Woodridge, Ill. establishment, is recalling approximately 13,099 pounds of frozen meat pizza product that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically metal.  The frozen meat pizzas were produced on June 6, 2022.  There was no indication of the source of the metal.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/home-run-inn-frozen-foods-recalls-frozen-meat-pizza-due-possible-foreign-matter

Home Run Inn Frozen Foods Recalls Frozen Meat Pizza due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination

HOME RUN INN FROZEN FOODS

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, August 14, 2022 – Home Run Inn Frozen Foods, a Woodridge, Ill. establishment, is recalling approximately 13,099 pounds of frozen meat pizza product that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically metal, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

Salad Kits Recalled For Unlabeled Allergens After Wrong Dressing Packet Used

Fifth Season announced today that it is issuing a voluntary recall for a limited amount of its branded Crunchy Sesame Salad Kits due to the possible inclusion of an ingredient not listed on the product label. The Salad kit may contain a dressing packet that contains milk and egg, which is not declared on the label.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/fifth-season-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-dairy-and-eggs-crunchy-sesame-salad-kit
Fifth Season Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Dairy and Eggs in Crunchy Sesame Salad Kit
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 14, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  August 14, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared eggs and milk
Company Name:  Fifth Season
Brand Name:  Fifth Season
Product Description:  Crunchy sesame salad kit

Sushi Recalled Due to Unlabeled Allergens

Sushi sold at Geissler’s Supermarkets in Connecticut  is being recalled for not listing the appropriate allergens.   From the store's website, it  appears that these packages utilize print-and-apply labels, so this would mean that the label was improperly loaded into the label printing system.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/consumer-protection-issues-food-safety-warning-ez-noble-sushi-ez-noble-sushi-voluntarily-recalling
Consumer Protection Issues Food Safety Warning for EZ Noble Sushi EZ Noble Sushi is voluntarily recalling the products, which contained unlabeled allergens
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 11, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  August 12, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Unlabeled eggs, milk and wheat
Company Name:  EZ Noble Sushi
Brand Name:  EZ Noble Sushi
Product Description:  Sushi products

CA Firm Expands Recall of Nutritional and Beverage Products That May Contain Hazardous Microbes

Lyons Magnus LLC (“Lyons Magnus” or the “Company”)  is expanding its July 28, 2022 recall.  A potential for microbial contamination, including from the organisms Cronobacter sakazakii and Clostridium botulinum, after it was determined the product did not meet specification for commercial sterility.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/lyons-magnus-expands-voluntary-recall-include-additional-nutritional-and-beverage-products-due
Lyons Magnus Expands Voluntary Recall to Include Additional Nutritional and Beverage Products Due to the Potential for Microbial Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 10, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  August 10, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Meal Replacements
Reason for Announcement:  Due to the potential for microbial contamination, including Cronobacter sakazakii and Clostridium botulinum
Company Name:  Lyons Magnus LLC
Brand Name:  Lyons, Barista, Ready Care, various
Product Description:  Nutritional and beverage products

Sunday, August 7, 2022

Virtual Audits - Understanding the Issue of Video Capture

 At the IAFP Annual Meeting this past week, an interesting session was held on remote or virtual audits.  While there is agreement that virtual audits are here to stay, at least for certain aspects of an audit, the presenters discussed the limitations of such an audit.  One of the most important was that an auditor will not have true view of the situation within a facility.  But for the company being audited, one important issue is video capture, or taking a video of an operation and sending it to the auditor.  This is what they term video capture.

The issue with video capture is that once it is sent out, the processor loses control of that video and that it can exist forever on someone else's file.   One downside of this is that the audit may never end.  That is, some can review a video again and again, studying it to a much higher degree than possible during an in-person audit.

Before a virtual audit, it is important to review best practice for audits. (Food Safety Magazine, May 21)  One of these is to insist on only using live video with no recording.  Along with this, all shared documents should state 'confidential commercial information'.

Milk in Dark Chocolate? CA Firm Recalls Dark Chocolate Truffles Due to Residual Milk Protein

That’s it Nutrition, LLC of Los Angeles, Calif., is issuing a voluntary recall of its 3.5, 5.0, 16.0 ounce and 12-count packages of Dark Chocolate Truffles because they may contain trace amounts of milk proteins.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the product contained trace amounts of milk proteins and was distributed in packaging that did not disclose the potential presence of milk. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by cross contamination on shared lines with milk chocolate by the chocolate supplier. All That’s it. Dark Chocolate Truffle product produced as of August 1, 2022 has been lab verified and validated by the manufacturer and an independent third-party as being free from all milk proteins.

This is evidently a big issue, dark chocolate product containing residual milk.  Some manufacturers declare milk as an allergen on their dark chocolate product to avoid this type of issue.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/thats-it-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-milk-proteins-dark-chocolate-truffles-various-flavors
That’s It Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk Proteins in Dark Chocolate Truffles (Various Flavors)
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 05, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  August 05, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Chocolate/Cocoa Product
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk
Company Name:  That’s it Nutrition, LLC
Brand Name:  That’s it
Product Description:  Dark Chocolate Truffles

Colorado Dairy Recalls Chocolate Milk After Egg Allergen Cross Contact In Filling Operation

Royal Crest Dairy, of Longmont Colorado, is voluntarily recalling Farmer’s 2% Reduced Fat Chocolate Milk Pints with the code date of AUG-22 because it has the potential to be contaminated with an undeclared egg.  The company stated that the "allergen control procedures were not followed after an egg containing product was run through the filler. Once this mistake was discovered, a recall was initiated and customers who had already received the product were contacted. Preventative actions have been taken including better labeling of the product tanks to prevent human error and additional employee allergen training."

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/royal-crest-dairy-voluntarily-recalls-2-chocolate-milk-due-undeclared-egg
Royal Crest Dairy Voluntarily Recalls 2% Chocolate Milk Due to Undeclared Egg
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 05, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  August 05, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Product has the potential to be contaminated with undeclared egg.
Company Name:  Royal Crest Dairy
Brand Name:  Farmer’s
Product Description:  2% Reduced Fat Chocolate Milk

Friday, August 5, 2022

Outbreak Case Counts Increase for Daily Harvest's Lentil and Leek Crumbles, Tara Flour Identified as Cause

As last reported by FDA on 7/28/22 on a disease outbreak associated with Daily Harvest's Lentil and Leeks Crumble, there have been 329 illness events with 113 hospitalized.  The cause of the outbreak has been identified as the Tara Flour, but there is little more information than that.

Case Counts
Total Adverse Illness Events: 329*
Hospitalizations: 113*
Deaths: 0
Last illness onset: July 16, 2022*
States with Adverse Illness Events: AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, IA, MD, MA, MN, MS, MI, MO, MT, NV, NH, NJ, NY, NC, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VT, VA, WA, WI
Product Distribution: Nationwide
*Estimate based on Consumer Complaint and CAERs reports received by the FDA


https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/investigation-adverse-event-reports-french-lentil-leek-crumbles-june-2022?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery#contact
Investigation of Adverse Event Reports: French Lentil & Leek Crumbles (June 2022)

FDA Issues Warning Letters to a Host of Food Importers for Not Having FSVP in Place for Imported Foods

Over the past few weeks, FDA issued warning letters to a good number of importers for not having FSVP programs. 

Transworld International Trading Corp of .New York, NY did not develop, maintain, and follow an FSVP for some of the imported foods including each the following food products: chocolate imported from (b)(4) located in (b)(4) and chocolate imported from (b)(4), located in (b)(4).  Where a program was in place, the company did not meet requirements for verification as part of the company's FSVP plan for puffed snacks botanas (tortilla chips) in that the program was not functional.
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/transworld-international-trading-corp-629674-07052022

Bolive, Inc. of Upland, CA did not develop an FSVP for the foods imported from the foreign suppliers indicated in the attached list and for: Halva and Tahini imported from foreign supplier (b)(4) in (b)(4) and Black Olives imported from foreign supplier (b)(4) in (b)(4)
Bolive, Inc. - 634004 - 07/05/2022 | FDA

Everyday Import & Export, Inc. dba Everyday Group LLC, of  Brooklyn, NY  did not develop an FSVP for any of the imported food products , including each of the following foods: (b)(4) imported from (b)(4) located in (b)(4), (b)(4) imported from (b)(4) located in (b)(4). and (b)(4) Chocolate Strawberry Flavor imported from (b)(4) located in (b)(4)
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/everyday-import-export-inc-dba-everyday-group-llc-628633-05262022


Greenfield Produce Imports, of St., Los Angeles, CA did not develop, maintain, and follow an FSVP for any of their imported foods including: Perishable and frozen cassava imported from (b)(4);
Fresh young coconut without green husk imported from (b)(4); and Fresh turmeric imported from (b)(4).
"During our inspection you provided documents you obtained from your foreign suppliers, including audit reports (which are not in English), a HACCP certificate, and a food safety certificate. However, the documents that are relevant to an FSVP are incomplete, and you did not provide a record of your review of the relevant documents or explain how they would apply to your FSVP program. Thus, these documents do not constitute an FSVP as required"
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/greenfield-produce-imports-629152-05102022

Dara Food LLC of Fairfield, NJ did not develop, maintain, and follow an FSVP as required by Section 805 of the FD&C Act and 21 CFR 1.502(a). Specifically, you did not develop, maintain, and follow an FSVP for any imported foods including: Confections (chocolate candy bar) imported from (b)(4)
Sheep’s milk cheese imported from (b)(4)  and Baklava imported from (b)(4)
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/dara-food-llc-631229-05312022

Flores Produce, Inc. of Chula Vista, CA did not develop, maintain, and follow an FSVP for your papayas imported from (b)(4).
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/flores-produce-inc-632024-06242022

North30 LLC,of Bellevue, WAdid not develop an FSVP for any of the imported foods including each of the following food products: Passion Fruit Sauce, imported from (b)(4), located in (b)(4)
Taro, imported from (b)(4) located in (b)(4)  Mesona Extract, imported from (b)(4), located in (b)(4)
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/north30-llc-633737-06242022

Jap Inc. dba Intercontinental Foods of Bellingham, WA did not develop, maintain, and follow an FSVP for any of the foods that you import, including: Brooke Bond Taj Mahal 450G imported from (b)(4), located in (b)(4) Brooke Bond Red Label Tea 1800G imported from (b)(4), located in (b)(4)
Lipton Yellow Label Tea 450G imported form (b)(4), located in (b)(4) Chilli Powder imported from (b)(4), located in (b)(4) 
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/jap-inc-dba-intercontinental-foods-630247-05242022

Regino Produce, LLC of, Houston, TXdid not develop an FSVP for 85 of the 88 foods the company  imported, including: Fried Read-to-Eat Corn Chips imported from (b)(4), located in (b)(4)
Fresh Raw Serrano Peppers imported from (b)(4), located in (b)(4) Fresh Raw Lettuce imported from (b)(4), located in (b)(4) 
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/regino-produce-llc-632384-06272022


USDA Plans to Declare Salmonella an Adulterant in Breaded Stuffed Raw Chicken Products - Big Deal or Not a Big Deal

USDA released a statement that they will declare Salmonella an adulterant in breaded raw chicken products.  The reason is that these types of products have been involved in many Salmonella outbreaks where people tend to undercook them.  This occurs because they are partially cooked, or par-cooked, in order to set the breaded coating on the outside, and this leads consumers to think that they are fully cooked.  

From the USDA, "Since 1998, breaded and stuffed raw chicken products have been associated with up to 14 outbreaks and approximately 200 illnesses. Products in this category are found in the freezer section and include some chicken cordon bleu or chicken Kiev products. These products appear cooked, but they are heat-treated only to set the batter or breading and the product contains raw poultry. Continual efforts to improve the product labeling have not been effective at reducing consumer illnesses."

There has been a pushback against the declaration of Salmonella in raw poultry products.  Salmonella has been part of a chicken's natural microflora for a few hundred thousand years, so to completely eliminate Salmonella is not easy, certainly without changing a fresh chicken into some overly processed 'fresh-like' chicken.  But with breaded chicken products, they have already started the process of cooking, so going a bit further in terms of cooking to eliminate Salmonella may not be a big deal (although quality can be an issue in that the consumer will now recook a fully cooked item versus a partially cooked one potentially resulting in a drier, chewier product).  But the big deal is that once we start down this road, there will be a greater push to declare Salmonella an adulterant in all raw poultry products.


USDA Announces Action to Declare Salmonella an Adulterant in Breaded Stuffed Raw Chicken Products | USDA
USDA Announces Action to Declare Salmonella an Adulterant in Breaded Stuffed Raw Chicken Products

WASHINGTON, August 1, 2022 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is announcing that it will be declaring Salmonella an adulterant in breaded and stuffed raw chicken products.

Thursday, August 4, 2022

A Mass Establishment Recalls RTE Meat and Poultry Wraps After USDA Testing Finds Listeria Positive Product Sample

Rachael’s Food Corporation, a Chicopee, Mass. establishment, is recalling approximately 2,246 pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry wrap products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes.  The problem was discovered by FSIS during follow-up procedures after a routine FSIS product sample confirmed positive for Listeria monocytogenes.  There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. 

Product was recalled from what looks to be a 5 day production window.  Based on coding, 22200 would indicate product was produced on July 19, 2022 and has a sell by of 8/3/22..a 14 or 15 day shelf-life depending on how you count the days.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/rachaels-food-corporation-recalls-ready-eat-meat-and-poultry-wrap-products-due
Rachael’s Food Corporation Recalls Ready-To-Eat Meat and Poultry Wrap Products Due to Possible Listeria Contamination
RACHAEL'S FOOD CORPORATION

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, July 30, 2022 – Rachael’s Food Corporation, a Chicopee, Mass. establishment, is recalling approximately 2,246 pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry wrap products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

Ark Establishment Recalls Beef and Broccoli Product Because Contains Orange Chicken Resulting in Undeclared Egg

Conagra Brands, Inc., a Russellville, Ark. establishment, is recalling approximately 119,581 pounds of frozen beef products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, specifically egg.  The products are labeled as beef and broccoli but contain orange chicken. These items were produced on May 26 and May 27, 2022. The following products are subject to recall [view labels]:

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/conagra-brands-inc--recalls-frozen-beef-products-due-misbranding-and-undeclared
Conagra Brands, Inc., Recalls Frozen Beef Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens
CONAGRA BRANDS, INC.

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, July 30, 2022 – Conagra Brands, Inc., a Russellville, Ark. establishment, is recalling approximately 119,581 pounds of frozen beef products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product contains egg, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.

Florida Pizza Company Recalls Pizza with Meat Because They Failed to Have USDA Inspection

Danny’s Sub and Pizza, a Cape Coral, Fla. establishment doing business as Danny’s Cuban Pizza, is recalling approximately 19,275 pounds of frozen meat pizza products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection.  The problem was discovered during routine FSIS surveillance activities when it was determined that the meat pizza products were produced in an establishment that was not inspected by USDA.
If you are going to use meat on your pizza, it now become a USDA inspected product.


https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/dannys-sub-and-pizza-recalls-meat-pizza-products-produced-without-benefit-inspection
Danny’s Sub and Pizza Recalls Meat Pizza Products Produced Without Benefit of Inspection
FSIS Announcement


WASHINGTON, July 28, 2022 – Danny’s Sub and Pizza, a Cape Coral, Fla. establishment doing business as Danny’s Cuban Pizza, is recalling approximately 19,275 pounds of frozen meat pizza products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

HEB Recalls Ice Cream for Allergens After Packaging Error

H-E-B is voluntarily issuing an all-store recall for half gallon H-E-B Creamy Creations Light Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream due to an undeclared allergen, wheat.  The issue was discovered when H-E-B Creamy Creations Light Cookies & Cream Ice Cream was identified in some cartons labeled as H-E-B Creamy Creations Light Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream. H-E-B Creamy Creations Light Cookies & Cream Ice Cream contains wheat as an ingredient.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/h-e-b-issues-recall-h-e-b-creamy-creations-light-mint-chocolate-chip-ice-cream-due-mislabeling
H-E-B Issues Recall for H-E-B Creamy Creations Light Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Due to Mislabeling
Products contain wheat, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label

Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 01, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  August 01, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Wheat
Company Name:   H-E-B
Brand Name:  H-E-B
Product Description:   Creamy Creations Light Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

CA Company Recalls Nutritional Beverages Due to Processing Issues Resulting in Potential Bacterial Contaminants

 Lyons Magnus LLC (“Lyons Magnus” or the “Company”) today announced that it is voluntarily recalling nutritional and beverage products due to the potential for microbial contamination, including from the organism Cronobacter sakazakii. The list of recalled products does not include products intended for infants (i.e. under the age of one).  Preliminary root cause analysis shows that the products did not meet commercial sterility specifications.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/lyons-magnus-voluntarily-recalls-53-nutritional-and-beverage-products-due-potential-microbial
Lyons Magnus Voluntarily Recalls 53 Nutritional and Beverage Products Due To The Potential For Microbial Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 29, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  July 29, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Meal Replacements  
Reason for Announcement:  Due to the potential for microbial contamination, including Cronobacter sakazakii
Company Name:  Lyons Magnus LLC
Brand Name:  Lyons, Pirq, Glucerna, various
Product Description:  Nutritional and beverage products

Recall of Chocolate Covered Blueberries After Customer Finds Chocolate Covered Almonds in Package

Wilbur’s of Maine Chocolate Confections of Freeport, Maine is recalling its 8 oz resealable package of milk chocolate covered blueberries because they may contain undeclared chocolate covered almonds. The recall was initiated after a customer discovered chocolate covered almonds in a package (of milk chocolate covered blueberries). The blueberry packaging does not reveal the presence of almonds. Subsequent investigation indicates that the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company’s packaging process. The process has been corrected and the company has instituted additional safety checks and corrective actions. 

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/wilburs-maine-chocolate-confections-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-almonds-chocolate-covered
Wilbur’s of Maine Chocolate Confections Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Almonds in Chocolate Covered Blueberries
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 28, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  July 28, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Snack Food Item
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared almonds
Company Name:  Wilbur’s of Maine Chocolate Confections
Brand Name:  Milk chocolate covered blueberries
Product Description: Milk chocolate covered blueberries

Soup Base Recalled After Label Design Issue Results in Undeclared Allergens

Wismettac Asian Foods, Inc., Santa Fe Springs, CA is recalling 17.6 oz packages of Marutomo Dashi Soup Base because they may contain undeclared wheat and soy.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the product containing wheat and soybean was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of wheat and soybean. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a human error during product label checking process.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/wismettac-asian-foods-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-wheat-and-soy-dashi-soup-base
Wismettac Asian Foods Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Wheat and Soy in Dashi Soup Base
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 26, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  July 26, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Wheat and Soy
Company Name:  Wismettac Asian Foods, Inc.
Brand Name:  Marutomo
Product Description:  Dashi Soup Base