Whole Foods Recalls Dipping Caramel for Undeclared Wheat

Whole Foods Market is voluntarily recalling Dipping Caramel from five stores in Colorado, Kansas, and Nebraska because the product may contain wheat, which is not declared on the product label.  The mislabeling issue was discovered by a store employee. No illnesses have been reported to date.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/whole-foods-market-issues-allergy-alert-dipping-caramel-sold-five-stores-colorado-kansas-and
Whole Foods Market Issues Allergy Alert for Dipping Caramel Sold in Five Stores in Colorado, Kansas and Nebraska
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  October 27, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  October 27, 2022
Product Type: Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared wheat
Company Name:  Whole Foods Market
Brand Name:  Whole Foods Market
Product Description:  Dipping caramel

FDA Updates on FSMA Inspections for FY22

FDA inspections are beginning to pick back up after a slow down during COVID pandemic.

Specialty Foods Association
https://www.specialtyfood.com/news/article/fda-reveals-fsma-experience-fspca-annual-conference/
10/26/2022

FDA Reveals FSMA Experience at Annual Conference

Author:  Ron Tanner

FDA Reveals FSMA Experience at Annual Conference

FDA has emerged from the pandemic with a renewed emphasis—and a new approach—to inspecting manufacturers for compliance with the Preventive Controls for Human Food regulations of the Food Safety Modernization Act and to inspecting importers to determine whether they are following the Foreign Supplier Verification Program.

“Our inspections are still ebbing and flowing but we are moving in the right direction,” said Glenn Bass, deputy director, human and animal food operations—west, Office of Regulatory Affairs, FDA, during last week's Food Safety Preventive Controls Alliance Annual Conference. “We continue to rethink our field activities based on what we learned during the pandemic.”

FDA Issue Warning Letter to Spice Repacker

FDA issued a Warning Letter to El Gordo Spices of Dallas TX,  where herbs, spice, and seafood are repacked and warehoused.  During our inspection, FDA investigators found serious violations of the Seafood Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) regulation - failure of a processor of fish or fishery products to have and implement a HACCP plan that complies with this section or otherwise operate in accordance with the requirements of Part 123, renders the fish or fishery products adulterated within the meaning of section 402(a)(4) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (the Act) [21 U.S.C. § 342(a)(4)]. Based on the inspectional findings, the shelf stable ready-to-eat (RTE) Whole Dried Shrimp and Ground Dried Shrimp were found to be adulterated, in that they have been prepared, packed, or held under insanitary conditions whereby they may have been rendered injurious to health.

Further, FDA reviewed labels of repacked products (Ground Dried Shrimp, Whole Dried Shrimp, Sesame Seeds, Textured Soybeans, Ground Cumin, and Whole Bay Leaves) and found serious violations of the Food Labeling regulation.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/el-gordo-spices-llc-639957-09302022
WARNING LETTER

El Gordo Spices, LLC
MARCS-CMS 639957 — SEPTEMBER 30, 2022

CA Firm Recalls Cookies for Undeclared Almonds and Hazelnuts

Daiso California LLC of La Mirada, CA is recalling its Tiramisu Twist Cookies (sku 4562138450820) because the product contains almonds and hazelnuts, ingredients that are not identified on the packaging.   The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the Tiramisu Twist Cookie packaging did not adequately disclose the presence of the nuts. Sale of the product has been suspended, and Daiso California has pulled the product from store shelves.  There has been one reported case of allergic reaction to this product.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/daiso-issues-allergy-alert-tiramisu-twist-cookies-almonds-and-hazelnuts-not-identified-ingredients
Daiso Issues Allergy Alert on Tiramisu Twist Cookies Almonds and Hazelnuts Not Identified as Ingredients on Packaging
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  October 27, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  October 28, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Bakery Product/Mix
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared almonds and hazelnuts
Company Name:  Daiso California LLC
Brand Name:  Daiso
Product Description:  Tiramisu Twist Cookies

TX Establishment Recalls Shepard's Pie for Foreign Material - Copper wire

Lone Star Bakery, Inc., a China Grove, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 5,740 pounds of beef shepherd’s pie products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically copper wire pieces.  The problem was discovered when the firm notified FSIS that they received consumer complaints reporting entwined copper wire embedded in beef shepherd’s pie products with a use by date of Sept. 23, 2023.  (Copper wire would indicate a maintenance related issue?)


https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/lone-star-bakery-inc--recalls-beef-shepherds-pie-products-due-possible-foreign
Lone Star Bakery, Inc. Recalls Beef Shepherd’s Pie Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
LONE STAR BAKERY, INC.

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Oct. 27, 2022 – Lone Star Bakery, Inc., a China Grove, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 5,740 pounds of beef shepherd’s pie products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically copper wire pieces, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

MI Company Recalls Gelato for Undeclared Egg Allergen Due to Formulation Change

Zingerman’s Creamery of Ann Arbor, MI is recalling 173 pints of Paw Paw Gelato, 50 quarts of Paw Paw Gelato, 58 pints of Harvest Pumpkin Gelato, 10 quarts of Harvest Pumpkin Gelato that are currently out in commerce because it may contain undeclared Egg allergen.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that Paw Paw and Harvest Pumpkin Gelato containing ‘Egg’ was distributed in packaging that ‘Egg’ was included on the “made in facility” allergens but not included on the ingredients and allergen declaration. Earlier this year, Zingerman's Creamery made some recipe changes to our gelato bases to include egg yolk, to improve the overall quality. All of our gelato labels were updated to reflect the egg yolk change as well. However, our seasonal flavors (Paw Paw and Harvest Pumpkin) were accidentally overlooked. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by human error of mislabeling.  (This is a label redesign oversight).


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/zingermans-creamery-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-egg-paw-paw-and-harvest-pumpkin-gelato
Zingerman’s Creamery Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Egg in Paw Paw and Harvest Pumpkin Gelato
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  October 26, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  October 27, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared eggs
Company Name:  Zingerman’s Creamery
Brand Name:  Zingerman’s
Product Description:  Harvest Pumpkin gelato and Paw Paw gelato

FL Company Recalls Burger Patties After Distributor Repackages Them Without Inspection

New Universal Nourishment LLC, a Miami Beach, Fla. firm, is recalling approximately 368 pounds of beef burger patty products that were repackaged, relabeled and distributed without the benefit of federal [USDA] inspection.  The problem was discovered when FSIS received a complaint reporting product in commerce labeled with the mark of inspection for Est. 451B bearing labels that were not applied by the originating company. FSIS determined that the distributor repackaged and/or relabeled the beef patty products without the benefit of federal inspection and used the mark of inspection from an establishment without proper authorization.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/new-universal-nourishment-llc-recalls-beef-burger-patty-products-produced-without
New Universal Nourishment LLC Recalls Beef Burger Patty Products Produced Without Benefit of Inspection
FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Oct. 26, 2022 – New Universal Nourishment LLC, a Miami Beach, Fla. firm, is recalling approximately 368 pounds of beef burger patty products that were repackaged, relabeled and distributed without the benefit of federal inspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

FL Company Recalls Biscotti for Undeclared Walnut Due to Mislabeling Issue

Sotto I Trulli INC/DBA Bombolo Biscotti, is recalling its Assorted Italian Cookies, because it contains Italian Wedding Cookies with undeclared walnut ingredient.  The recall was initiated after one of the store employees discovered that Italian Wedding Cookies were incorrectly labeled as Assorted Italian Cookies in packaging that did not reveal the presence of the walnut allergen. 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/sotto-i-trulli-inc-dba-bombolo-biscotti-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-walnut-product
Sotto I Trulli, Inc. DBA Bombolo Biscotti Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Walnut in Product
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  October 24, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  October 25, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Bakery Product/Mix  
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared walnuts
Company Name:  Sotto i Trulli Inc. DBA Bombolo Biscotti
Brand Name:  Bombolo Biscotti
Product Description:  Assorted Italian Cookies

Sausage Products Recalled Due to Thin Blue Rubber Pieces

Bob Evans Farms Foods, Inc., a Xenia, Ohio establishment, is recalling approximately 7,560 pounds of Italian pork sausage products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically thin blue rubber.  The problem was discovered after the firm notified FSIS it had received consumer complaints reporting thin blue pieces of rubber in the product.  (A glove perhaps?)

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/bob-evans-farms-foods-inc--recalls-italian-pork-sausage-products-due-possible
Bob Evans Farms Foods, Inc., Recalls Italian Pork Sausage Products due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Oct. 21, 2022 – Bob Evans Farms Foods, Inc., a Xenia, Ohio establishment, is recalling approximately 7,560 pounds of Italian pork sausage products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically thin blue rubber, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

CO Company Recalls Sauce Made with Tamari Due to Undeclared Soy Allergen

Seed Ranch Flavor Co. of Boulder, CO, is voluntarily recalling its 5 fl ounce bottles of "Umami Everyday Sauce" and “Everything But The Sushi & Dumplings” sauce because they contain undeclared soy.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the soy-containing product was distributed in packaging that did not explicitly reveal the presence of soy. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company's production and packaging processes during a label redesign. Production of the products with incorrect labels have been suspended and allergen information clearly disclosed on corrected labels.

The product contains tamari...which is a fermented soybean product.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/seed-ranch-flavor-co-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-soy-umami-everyday-sauce-and-everything-sushi
Seed Ranch Flavor Co Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Soy in "Umami Everyday Sauce" and “Everything But The Sushi & Dumplings” Sauce
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  October 23, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  October 24, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared soy
Company Name:  Seed Ranch Flavor Co.
Brand Name:  Seed Ranch Flavor Co.
Product Description:  Various sauces

Vegan Drumsticks and Nuggets Recalled for Undeclared Egg Due to Wrong Ingredient Addition

Da Cheng Vegetarian Food Inc. of El Monte, CA, is expanding its recall of Da Cheng Vegan Drumsticks and Vegan Golden Nuggets because it was found to contain the undeclared allergen of egg.

The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the egg-containing product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of egg. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by manufacturer’s negligence on the production assembly line. Their employee used the wrong ingredient when mixing the materials together that caused this issue. The employee is no longer with the manufacturer’s company anymore.  One case of an allergic reaction to egg was reported.

Having the responsible employee leave does not mean the issue is fixed.  An Allergen Preventive Control must be implemented to prevent the issue from occurring.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/da-cheng-vegetarian-food-inc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-egg-protein-vegan-drumsticks-expansion
Da Cheng Vegetarian Food Inc Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Egg Protein in Vegan Drumsticks Expansion
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  October 19, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  October 22, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Egg Protein
Company Name:  Da Cheng Vegetarian Food Inc.
Brand Name:  Da Cheng
Product Description:  Vegan Drumsticks and Vegan Golden Nuggets

Chicken Salad Products Recalled for Missing Allergen on Label

Albertsons Companies has voluntarily recalled ReadyMeals Chicken Salad Quad and Chicken Salad Sandwich Club Tray products prepared in store at certain Albertsons and Safeway stores, due to an undeclared allergen not listed on the ingredient statement. The products contain tree nuts (cashews), which are known allergens. The issue was discovered after a customer reported having an adverse reaction.

This is a print-and-apply label, where we can guess that someone incorrectly input the information.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/albertsons-companies-voluntarily-recalls-chicken-salad-products-due-undeclared-allergen
Albertsons Companies Voluntarily Recalls Chicken Salad Products Due to an Undeclared Allergen
Summary
Company Announcement Date:October 18, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  October 19, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Prepared Food
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Tree Nuts (Cashews)
Company Name:  Albertsons Companies
Brand Name:  Ready Meals and Safeway Inc.
Product Description:  Chicken Salad Quad & Chicken Salad Sandwich Club Tray

Misleading News - Deli Meat as the Leading Agent for Listeria Infection

A recent news article "Study finds deli meat is connected to more than 90 percent of U.S. listeria cases" states that "90 percent of listeriosis cases in the U.S. come from deli meat, followed by ready-to-eat (RTE) salads at just less than 5 percent."  This article was based on a recently published research publication, "Quantitative risk assessment model to investigate the public health impact of varying Listeria monocytogenes allowable levels in different food commodities: A retrospective analysis". (,International Journal of Food Microbiology, 2022).

What is not clear in this new article is that the research that serves as the basis looks at 30 years of data using metanalysis.  Has control of Listeria improved dramatically in the last 30 years?  Absolutely.  Even the research publication mentions this.  Yes, deli meats are a risk, but there have been far less cases over the past decade with the last notable case in 2020 .  But there are items like salads and cheese that stand out.  

Doing a metanalysis over the past 30 years does not take into account the factor of time and improvement that has occurred in that period.  Secondly, the technology for identification (WGS) and tracking has improved dramatically. 

Looking that the CDC website for the listed outbreaks over the past decade:

2022

Brie and Camembert Cheese – Listeriosis

Ice Cream – Listeriosis

2021

Dole Packaged Salads – Listeriosis

Fresh Express Packaged Salads – Listeriosis

Fully Cooked Chicken – Listeriosis

Queso Fresco – Listeriosis

2020

Deli Meats – Listeriosis

Enoki Mushrooms – Listeriosis

2019

Hard-boiled Eggs – Listeriosis

Not Identified - Listeria monocytogenes Infections

Deli-Sliced Meats and Cheeses – Listeriosis

2018

Pork Products – Listeriosis

Deli Ham – Listeriosis

2017

Vulto Creamery Soft Raw Milk Cheese – Listeriosis

2016

Frozen Vegetables – Listeriosis

Raw Milk – Listeriosis

Packaged Salads – Listeriosis

2015

Soft Cheeses – Listeriosis

Ice Cream – Listeriosis

2014

Commercially Produced, Prepackaged Caramel Apples – Listeriosis

Bean Sprouts – Listeriosis

Cheese – Listeriosis

Dairy Products – Listeriosis

2013

Cheese – Listeriosis

2012

Ricotta Salata Cheese – Listeriosis

2011

Cantaloupes – Listeriosis

International Journal of Food Microbiology

Volume 383, 16 December 2022, 109932

Quantitative risk assessment model to investigate the public health impact of varying Listeria monocytogenes allowable levels in different food commodities: A retrospective analysis

Abstract

Invasive listeriosis is a potentially fatal foodborne disease that according to this study may affect up to 32.9 % of the US population considered as increased risk and including people with underlying conditions and co-morbidities. Listeria monocytogenes has been scrutinized in research and surveillance programs worldwide in Ready-to-Eat (RTE) food commodities (RTE salads, deli meats, soft/semi-soft cheese, seafood) and frozen vegetables in the last 30 years with an estimated overall prevalence of 1.4–9.9 % worldwide (WD) and 0.5–3.8 % in the United States (US). Current L. monocytogenes control efforts have led to a prevalence reduction in the last 5 years of 4.9–62.9 % (WD) and 12.4–92.7 % (US). A quantitative risk assessment model was developed, estimating the probability of infection in the US susceptible population to be 10–10,000× higher than general population and the total number of estimated cases in the US was 1044 and 2089 cases by using the FAO/WHO and Pouillot dose-response models. Most cases were attributed to deli meats (>90 % of cases) followed by RTE salads (3.9–4.5 %), soft and semi-soft cheese and RTE seafood (0.5–1.0 %) and frozen vegetables (0.2–0.3 %). Cases attributed to the increased risk population corresponded to 96.6–98.0 % of the total cases with the highly susceptible population responsible for 46.9–80.1 % of the cases. Removing product lots with a concentration higher than 1 CFU/g reduced the prevalence of contamination by 15.7–88.3 % and number of cases by 55.9–100 %. Introducing lot-by-lot testing and defining allowable quantitative regulatory limits for low-risk RTE commodities may reduce the public health impact of L. monocytogenes and improve the availability of enumeration data.

Current Investigation of Salmonella Outbreak Associated with Salmon Used in Sushi Type Foods

The FDA, along with CDC and state and local partners, is investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Litchfield infections linked to fresh, raw salmon supplied to restaurants in California and Arizona by Mariscos Bahia, Inc.  To this point, there have been 33 total illnesses with 13 hospitalizations.

"...FDA collected an environmental sample that included multiple swabs at Mariscos Bahia, Inc. (Pico Rivera, CA). Multiple environmental swabs collected at the facility are positive for Salmonella and subsequent Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) analysis is ongoing. The WGS completed to date indicates the Salmonella detected in at least one of the swabs from the facility matches the outbreak strain. While epidemiological evidence indicates that ill people consumed fresh, raw salmon processed at this firm, the presence of Salmonella in the processing environment indicates that additional types of fish processed in the same area of the facility could also be contaminated which includes fresh, raw halibut, Chilean seabass, tuna, and swordfish. Salmon, halibut, Chilean seabass, tuna, and swordfish processed in Marisco Bahia Inc.’s Pico Rivera, CA, facility could have also been sent to the Mariscos Bahia, Inc. facilities in Phoenix, AZ and then sent to restaurants."

https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-salmonella-seafood-october-2022
Outbreak Investigation of Salmonella: Seafood (October 2022)
Restaurants should not sell, or serve multiple types of seafood from Mariscos Bahia, Inc. FDA's investigation is ongoing.

Case Counts
Total Illnesses: 33
Hospitalizations: 13
Deaths: 0
Last illness onset: September 18, 2022
States with Cases: AZ (11), CA (21), IL (1)
Product Distribution*: AZ, CA

Cross Contamination in the Kitchen - Remember to Clean the Spice Containers

A study published in Journal of Food Protection tackles the question, can spice containers be the source of cross contamination. Yep, as you probably could have guessed, the spice containers can be the source of cross contamination.  The study looked at a number of surfaces, and these surfaces all could be the source of cross contamination, but the spice containers where found to be more likely a source.  A good reminder to clean as you prepare meals, including washing hands after handling raw product and before touching items like spice containers, and then to sanitize surfaces of spice containers.

https://meridian.allenpress.com/jfp/article-abstract/doi/10.4315/JFP-22-060/486035/Cross-Contamination-to-Surfaces-in-Consumer?redirectedFrom=fulltext
Cross-Contamination to Surfaces in Consumer Kitchens Using MS2 as a Tracer Organism in Ground Turkey Patties
Margaret Kirchner; Rebecca Goulter; Savana Everhart; Lindsey Doring; Caitlin Smits; Jeremy Faircloth; Minh Duong; Lydia Goodson; Lisa Shelley; Ellen Thomas Shumaker; Sheryl Cates; Christopher Bernstein; Aaron Lavallee; Lee-Ann Jaykus; Benjamin Chapman; Don Schaffner
J Food Prot (2022)
https://doi.org/10.4315/JFP-22-060

CO Candy Company Recalls Salted Caramel Cookie Product After Incorrect Packaging of Peanut Containing Cookies

Hammond’s Candies of Denver, CO is recalling 5-ounce boxes of Hammond’s Salted Caramel Cookies, because they may contain undeclared peanuts. The recall was initiated after a routine product check revealed that peanut-containing product had been packed and distributed in incorrect packaging, which did not declare the presence of peanuts. Further investigation has determined the root cause to be a temporary failure of the manufacturer’s packing and product release process.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/hammonds-candies-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-peanut-salted-caramel-cookies
Hammond’s Candies Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Peanut in Salted Caramel Cookies
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  October 17, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  October 17, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Peanuts
Company Name:  Hammond’s Candies
Brand Name:  Hammond’s
 Product Description:  Salted Caramel Cookies

Nestle Recalls Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough After Complaints Involving Small White Plastic

Nestlé USA is initiating a voluntary recall of ready-to-bake refrigerated NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® STUFFED Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough with Fudge Filling products due to the potential presence of white plastic pieces.  The company took the recall action out of an abundance of caution after a small number of consumers contacted Nestlé USA about this issue.  This voluntary recall is isolated to NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® STUFFED Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough with Fudge Filling products that were produced between June and September 2022. 

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/nestle-usa-announces-voluntary-recall-nestler-toll-houser-stuffed-chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-fudge
Nestlé USA Announces Voluntary Recall of NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® STUFFED Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough with Fudge Filling Products Due to Potential Presence of Foreign Material
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  October 13, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  October 17, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Foreign Object
Company Name:  Nestle USA
Brand Name:  NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE®
Product Description:  STUFFED Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough with Fudge Filling

FDA Warning Letters Issued to Food Importers for Lack of FSVP - Oct 2022

DF Global, Inc. of Commerce, CA not in compliance with the requirements of 21 CFR part 1, subpart L for the following imported foods: Honey Hallabong Tea, Agave Ginger Lemon Tea, and Walnut Almond Adlay Tea
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/df-global-inc-633242-08012022

C. Liberatore LLC, of Hartford, CT did not develop, maintain, and follow an FSVP for any of the imported foods ; Peppers imported from (b)(4), located in (b)(4), Peppers imported from (b)(4), located in (b)(4) and Tomato on the Vine imported from (b)(4), located in (b)(4)
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/c-liberatore-llc-634519-09122022

Vero USA Corporation located at 90 Dayton Ave Ste 14, Passaic, NJ did not develop an FSVP for any of thier imported foods:  Paprika Chips from (b)(4), located in (b)(4). Snacks (Corn Puffs) from (b)(4), located in (b)(4) and Pasteurized White Cheese- Feta from (b)(4), located in (b)(4)
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/vero-usa-corporation-639180-09262022

Mena Produce LLC, of McAllen, TX did not develop, maintain, and follow an FSVP for any of their imported  foods including each of the following: Anaheim peppers imported from (b)(4), located in (b)(4) ; Tomatillos imported from (b)(4), located in (b)(4); and Poblano peppers imported from (b)(4), located in (b)(4)
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/mena-produce-llc-637641-09202022

El Salvador Products Inc. of Sugarland, TX  did not develop an FSVP for any foods their imported foods:  Salsa & Queso Chips and Sweet Bread imported from (b)(4), located in (b)(4), and Pineapple Pastry imported from foreign supplier (b)(4), located in (b)(4).
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/el-salvador-products-inc-640532-09022022

OK Establishment Recalls Pork Fritter Product After Receiving Complaints for Hard Plastic

AdvancePierre Foods Inc., an Enid, Okla. establishment, is recalling approximately 4,137 pounds of pork loin steak fritter product that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically hard pieces of plastic.  The problem was discovered after the firm notified FSIS that it had received two complaints from restaurant staff reporting they found hard pieces of plastic in the product.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/advancepierre-foods-inc--recalls-pork-fritter-product-due-possible-foreign-matter
AdvancePierre Foods Inc. Recalls Pork Fritter Product Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
ADVANCEPIERRE FOODS, INC.

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Oct. 16, 2022 – AdvancePierre Foods Inc., an Enid, Okla. establishment, is recalling approximately 4,137 pounds of pork loin steak fritter product that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically hard pieces of plastic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

USDA Issues Health Alert for WY Produced Ground Beef with Pathogenic E. coli

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert due to concerns that a specific ground beef product may be contaminated with E. coli O103. A recall was not requested because the products are no longer available for purchase.  The raw ground beef items were produced at FBS Hudson in WY on October 4, 2022  in 1-lb. plastic vacuum-packed packages containing “FRANK’S BUTCHER.  The problem was discovered when FBS Hudson alerted FSIS that its routine microbial testing results found Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) O103 in a sample of the ground beef. There have been no confirmed reports of illness due to consumption of these products.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-ground-beef-due-possible-e--coli-o103-contamination
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Ground Beef Due to Possible E. Coli O103 Contamination

Abbott Recalls RTF (ready-to-feed) Liquid Products for Infants After Cap Sealing Issue

Abbott is initiating a proactive, voluntary recall of certain lots of 2 fluid ounce/59 milliliter bottles of Ready-to-Feed liquid products for infants and children. The products included in the recall were manufactured at our Columbus, Ohio, manufacturing facility.  These products are being recalled because a small percentage of bottles (less than 1%) in the recalled lots have bottle caps that may not have sealed completely, which could result in spoilage. If spoiled product is consumed, gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting may occur.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/abbott-voluntarily-recalls-certain-lots-2-fl-oz59-ml-bottles-ready-feed-liquid-products-recall-not

Abbott Voluntarily Recalls Certain Lots of 2 Fl. Oz./59 mL Bottles of Ready-to-Feed Liquid Products; Recall Is Not Expected to Impact U.S. Infant Formula Supply
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  October 14, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  October 14, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages Infant Formula & Foods  

Reason for Announcement:  Potential for spoilage
Company Name:  Abbott
Brand Name:  Multiple brand names
Product Description:  Ready-to-feed liquid products for infants and children

MI Firm Recalls Pasta Due to Supplier's Supplier-related Issue of Undeclared Allergens

Craftology, LLC dba Dutch Treat Foods of Zeeland, MI, is recalling its 14 ounce containers of “Craftology This Is My Happy Place Pasta Salad” because they may contain undeclared cashews.
This recall is not arising out of a food safety hazard caused by Craftology, LLC dba Dutch Treat Foods (“Company”). Company sources sunflower seeds from Lipari Foods Operating Company (“Lipari”), [which conducted its own recall of products] which sources that ingredient from Shah Trading Company Limited (“Shah Trading”). On October 5, 2022, Lipari, a distributor of Shah Trading products, initiated a recall of sunflower seeds that Company uses in the above referenced product due to an undeclared allergen, Cashew, which was discovered in a case of the Sunflower Seeds Oil RS bulk product produced by Shah Trading. Accordingly, Company is issuing a voluntary recall of product that contain the affected lot of the Shah Trading sunflower seeds. There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of Company’s product


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/craftology-llc-dba-dutch-treat-foods-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-cashews-craftology-my-happy
Craftology, LLC DBA Dutch Treat Foods Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Cashews in “Craftology This is My Happy Place Pasta Salad”
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  October 11, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  October 12, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Prepared Food  
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared cashews
Company Name:  Craftology, LLC dba Dutch Treat Foods
Brand Name:  Craftology
Product Description:  Pasta Salad

MI Firm Recalls Sesame Sticks Mix and Roasted and Salted Sunflower Meat Tub Products Due to Supplier-related Undeclared Cashews

 Lipari Foods of Warren, MI  has issued a voluntary recall of specific lots of sesame sticks mix and roasted and salted sunflower meat tub products packaged by sister company JLM due to an undeclared cashew (tree nut) allergen.  This was brought to our attention by our sister company, JLM after they discovered cashews (tree nuts) in the bulk Oil Roasted and Salted Sunflower Seeds product from their bulk supplier, Shah Trading Co. The bulk product was used to package the Sesame Sticks Mix and Roasted/Salted Sunflower Meat Tub products. Lipari Foods non-branded products are being recalled as they may contain an undeclared allergen. 

So basically, this company is repacking bulk nut mixes and the supplier of those mixed nuts did not have good controls to prevent incorrect mixing and/or poor line cleanout.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/lipari-foods-issues-voluntary-product-recall-specific-sesame-sticks-mix-and-roastedsalted-sunflower
Lipari Foods Issues Voluntary Product Recall of Specific Sesame Sticks Mix and Roasted/Salted Sunflower Meat Tubs Due to Undeclared Cashew Allergen
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  October 07, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  October 11, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared cashews
Company Name:  Lipari Foods
Brand Name:  JLM TUB
Product Description:  sesame sticks mix and roasted and salted sunflower meat tub products

USDA Proposes Changes to Poultry Processing Industry to Reduce Salmonella

USDA proposed changes to the poultry processing industry to reduce the level of Salmonella in birds, with a focus on 3 specific serotypes.  The proposed actions include:

• First "testing incoming flocks of chickens and turkeys for the bacterial disease that commonly affects the intestinal tract and affects 1.3 million people annually with symptoms that may include diarrhea, nausea and vomiting which could last for several days. Officials hope testing chickens and turkeys before they enter the slaughterhouse will encourage farmers to adopt practices that reduce the bacterial infection on the bird before they reach the point of meat processing."
• "A second measure would require enhanced monitoring for salmonella during processing by adopting sampling for the bacteria at multiple stages inside the processing facility."
• "The third major change would be to establish a maximum level of bacterial contamination allowed and possibly limiting the three specific types of salmonella that can make people sick. Meat that would exceed the limits or that would contain the types of salmonella prohibited could be withheld from the market."

This is not an easy get.  It will add costs to the system beyond that involved with testing.  First, it will need to push back control to the farmer where there will be costs of testing and potentially culling of birds or diversion of flocks to less attractive processing alternatives.  It may lead to supply chain issues  associated with the tight planning systems used in many farm-to-processor arrangements.

To this point, this appears to be primarily driven by consumer advocates.  It will take a cooperative effort with industry to make it work.

USDA’s FSIS wants to curtail salmonella cases by starting with the farmers that raise the birds
PUBLISHED ON OCTOBER 16, 2022
DAVID PITT Associated Press

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The U.S. Department of Agriculture on Friday proposed sweeping changes in the way chicken and turkey meat is processed that are intended to reduce illnesses from food contamination but could require meat companies to make extensive changes to their operations.

Mislabeled Tomato Basil Soup Results in Undeclared Milk Allergen

Bakkavor USA of Jessup, Pennsylvania, is initiating a proactive, voluntary recall of the 32-ounce Meal Simple Tomato Basil Soup as it has been mislabeled and may contain undeclared dairy.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the front label was mislabeled for the 32-ounce Meal Simple Tomato Basil Soup, produced on 9/15/2022 with best by date of 12/2/2022 and does not contain an allergen declaration of milk, which is found in the product. The root cause investigation is ongoing and there have been no known reports of adverse reactions.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/bakkavor-usa-issues-allergy-alert-32-ounce-meal-simple-tomato-basil-soup-mislabeling-and-undeclared
Bakkavor USA Issues Allergy Alert for 32 Ounce Meal Simple Tomato Basil Soup for Mislabeling and Undeclared Dairy
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  October 06, 2022
FDA Publish Date: October 07, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Soup
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Milk Allergen
Company Name: Bakkavor USA
Brand Name: H-E-B Meal Simple
Product Description: Tomato Basil Soup

Glazed Snack Pies Recalled for Undeclared Soy

Flowers Foods, Inc. is voluntarily recalling Tastykake® and Mrs. Freshley’s® glazed pies due to undeclared soy.   The recall was initiated after discovering that certain pies were made with an ingredient containing soy, which is not listed on the product label. No related illnesses or incidents have been reported to date.

Flowers Foods Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Soy in Certain TastyKake and Mrs. Freshley’s Glazed Pies | FDA
Flowers Foods Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Soy in Certain TastyKake and Mrs. Freshley’s Glazed Pies
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  October 07, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  October 07, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Snack Food Item
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Soy Allergen
Company Name:   Flowers Foods, Inc.
Brand Name:  Tastykake, Mrs. Freshleys
Product Description:  Glazed Pies

Fruit and Cheese Plates Recalled After Using Recalled Cheese

Cut Fruit Express of Inver Grove Heights, MN is recalling Caribou Coffee Fruit and Cheese Plate 6.2oz after their cheese supplier issued a recall due to potential Listeria contamination.  So this is linked to the Old Europe cheese recall.


Cut Fruit Express Recalls Caribou Coffee Fruit and Cheese Plate Because of Possible Health Risk | FDA
Cut Fruit Express Recalls Caribou Coffee Fruit and Cheese Plate Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  October 07, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  October 07, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Prepared Food   
Reason for Announcement:  Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Cut Fruit Express
Brand Name:  Caribou Coffee
Product Description:  Fruit and Cheese plate 6.2 oz

Outbreak of E. coli O121:H19 Infections Linked to Earth Grown Frozen Falafel

Cuisine Innovations Unlimited, LLC of Lakewood, NJ, is recalling its Earth Grown Vegan Traditional Falafel and Garlic & Herb Falafel due to the possible presence of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli.  This comes as FDA and CDC investigate a multistate outbreak of E. coli O121:H19 infections with 20 cases with 5 of those resulting in hospitalizations, in 6 different states.  The product was distributed by Aldi in 36 states and DC.

The preparation instructions listed on the label fall for fully cooking to 165F.  So as normal procedure by the manufacturer, this product may, or may not have been, fully cooked prior to frying and freezing because the customer is being asked to cook it fully.  In this case, we can guess it was not fully cooked, but cooked enough to set the product, but leaving the inside raw.  Then the consumer undercooked it allowing the pathogen to survive.  Undercooking by the manufacturer wouldn't be viewed as a huge risk like a meat product, but with chickpeas, onion, dill, cilantro, garlic and spices, the incidence of enteric pathogens like E. coli should be low.  However, there are a number of ingredients here that could carry it in if basic controls like GAPs or GMPs are not tight.

From Wikipedia, "Falafel (/fəˈlɑːfəl/; Arabic: فلافل, [fæˈlæːfɪl] (listen)) is a deep-fried ball or patty-shaped fritter in Middle Eastern cuisine (especially in Levantine and Egyptian cuisines) made from ground chickpeas, broad beans, or both. Nowadays, falafel is often served in a pita, which acts as a pocket, samoon, or wrapped in a flatbread known as taboon; "falafel" also frequently refers to a wrapped sandwich that is prepared in this way. The falafel balls may be topped with salads, pickled vegetables, hot sauce, and drizzled with tahini-based sauces. Falafel balls may also be eaten alone as a snack or served as part of a meze tray (assortment of appetizers)."

https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-e-coli-o121h19-frozen-falafel-october-2022
Outbreak Investigation of E. coli O121:H19 Frozen Falafel (October 2022)

Case Counts

Total Illnesses: 20

Hospitalizations: 5

Deaths: 0

Last illness onset: September 13, 2022

States with Cases: FL (2), IA (1), KS (1), MI (11), OH (1), WI (4)

Product Distribution*: AL, AZ, AR, CA, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, MN, MS, MO, NE, NH, NJ, NY, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV, WI

*Distribution has been confirmed for states listed, but product could have been distributed further, reaching additional states

RTE Chili Cheese Wieners Recalled After State Lab Finds Listeria in Sample

USDA FSIS is issuing a public health alert because Family Fare, a Chippewa Falls, Wisc. establishment, produced ready-to-eat chili cheese wieners that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. A recall was not requested because it is believed that the products are no longer in commerce.  The ready-to-eat chili cheese wieners were produced on Sept. 21, 2022.  The problem was discovered when the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture reported to FSIS that some product was found to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes during routine testing.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-ready-eat-chili-cheese-wieners-due-possible-listeria
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Ready-To-Eat Chili Cheese Wieners Due to Possible Listeria Contamination

Swiss American Recalls Cheese That is Part of Old Europe Cheese Recall

Swiss American is recalling St Louis Brie products after being alerted by the manufacturer Old Europe Cheese, Inc. that the products could be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. This is part of a voluntary broader recall by the manufacturer Old Europe.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/swiss-american-participates-manufacturer-old-europes-recall-brie-and-camembert
Swiss American Participates in Manufacturer Old Europe’s Recall of Brie and Camembert
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  October 04, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  October 04, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Cheese/Cheese Product
Reason for Announcement:  Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Old Europe Cheese, Inc
Brand Name:  Saint Louis
Product Description:  Brie wedges and variable weights

Whole Foods Market Recalls Zerto Fontal Cheese for Undeclared Egg

Whole Foods Market is voluntarily recalling Zerto Fontal cheese from fifty-four stores in Connecticut, New Jersey and New York because the product contains egg lysozyme, an egg white protein, which is not declared on the product label. 

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/whole-foods-market-issues-allergy-alert-zerto-fontal-cheese-sold-connecticut-new-jersey-and-new-york
Whole Foods Market Issues Allergy Alert for Zerto Fontal Cheese Sold in Connecticut, New Jersey, and New York
Company Announcement Date:September 30, 2022
FDA Publish Date:September 30, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Product labeling fails to declare eggs
Company Name:  Whole Foods
Brand Name:  Zerto Fontal
Product Description:  “Zerto Fontal”, Cheese

Chicago Company Recalls Chocolate Frozen Bananas After Discovery of Undeclared Peanuts in the Form of Peanut Butter

Diana’s Bananas, LLC of Chicago is announcing an allergy alert and voluntary recall of its 10.5-ounce packages of Milk Chocolate Banana Babies dipped frozen bananas that may contain undeclared peanuts.  The voluntary recall comes after it was discovered that the product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of peanut butter.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/dianas-bananas-issues-allergy-alert-undelcared-peanuts-milk-chocolate-banana-babies
Diana’s Bananas Issues Allergy Alert on Undelcared Peanuts in Milk Chocolate Banana Babies
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  September 29, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  September 30, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Peanut
Company Name:  Diana’s Bananas, LLC
Brand Name:  Diana’s
Product Description:  
Milk Chocolate Banana Babies, 10.5 oz

Bottles of Chai Concentrate Mix Recalled for Under-processing Issue

The Chai Box announced a recall of 16 oz glass bottles Chai Concentrate Mix, UPC 7 93611 81925 2 and 64 oz plastic bottles of Chai Concentrate Mix UPC 7 93611 81926 9 and 16 oz glass bottles Unsweetened Chai Concentrate Mix, UPC 793611819252 and 64 oz plastic bottles of Unsweetened Chai Concentrate Mix UPC 793611819269 due to potential under-processing which may lead to Clostridium botulinum contamination. These deviations were part of the commercial sterilization process and could result in contamination by spoilage organisms or pathogens, which could lead to life-threatening illness if consumed. 

"We were notified of the problem during a process review by the Georgia Department of Agriculture. The products were shipped nationwide to consumers, retailers and wholesalers. Some product was also shipped to two consumers in Canada. Product is available online and via retail and wholesale facilities."


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/chai-box-announces-voluntary-recall-chai-concentrate-mix-and-chai-concentrate-unsweetened-mix-due
The Chai Box Announces Voluntary Recall of Chai Concentrate Mix and Chai Concentrate Unsweetened Mix Due to Potential Clostridium Botulinum Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date: September 29, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  September 29, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential under-processing which may lead to Clostridium botulinum contamination.
Company Name:  The Chai Box
Brand Name:  The Chai Box
Product Description:  CHAI CONCENTRATE MIX AND CHAI CONCENTRATE UNSWEETENED MIX

Old Europe Cheese Expands Recall of Its Brie Cheeses Due Listeria

Old Europe Cheese, Inc. of Benton Harbor, MI is expanding its voluntary recall of Brie cheeses announced on September 30, 2022, because of potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, to include additional products, specifically baked brie cheeses

This action was triggered after a full environmental audit of 120 samples, both of products and of the company’s facilities. None of the products showed contamination, but one of the facility’s samples tested positive. The strain from that positive case has been linked to 6 cases of Listeriosis dating from 2017 to 2022. These cases were not previously linked to this company’s products, but Old Europe Cheese decided to issue this voluntary recall in order to avoid any risk to their customers

The Company has decided to voluntarily initiate the product recall based on these results and with a focus on their consumers’ health. The source of potential contamination has been identified and Old Europe Cheese is taking active measures to eliminate it. Production of these products has been stopped and will not restart until the Company has full confidence in the effectiveness of the applied measures


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/old-europe-cheese-inc-expands-voluntary-recall-its-brie-cheeses-due-possible-health-risk
Old Europe Cheese, Inc. Expands Voluntary Recall of Its Brie Cheeses Due to Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  October 05, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  October 05, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Cheese/Cheese Product
Reason for Announcement:  Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Old Europe Cheese, Inc.
Brand Name:  Multiple
Product Description:  Brie and Camembert Cheeses

OR Company Recalls Dark Chocolate Product After Determining Product Contains Milk

Momyer Distribution Inc of Salem, Oregon is recalling Dark Chocolate Almonds because they may contain undeclared milk.   The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of milk.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/momyer-distribution-inc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-milk-dark-chocolate-almonds
Momyer Distribution Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in Dark Chocolate Almonds
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  September 28, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  September 28, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Milk
Company Name:  Momyer Distribution Inc
Brand Name:  PRODUCE, Holly Hill
Product Description:  Dark Chocolate Almonds, 9.5 oz container