FDA Warning Letter - FL Catering Company with History of Listeria

FDA issued a Warning Letter to Wise Spice Catering Company, of Hialeah, Florida, a facility producing ready-to-eat (RTE)  products including sandwiches and meals.

Listeria in facility and in product

• FDA "found that nineteen (19) swabs were confirmed positive for L. monocytogenes. Of the positive findings, one (1) swab was collected from the food-contact surface of a prep table in the (b)(4) Room used in the assembling of your RTE closed faced sandwiches, and one (1) swab was collected from the food-contact surface of a black milk crate holding raw tomatoes and onion used in RTE closed faced sandwiches and salads. This was not the first time L. monocytogenes was found in environmental samples collected in your facilities building. In 2020, FDA detected L. monocytogenes in six (6) environmental swabs; in 2018, FDA detected L. monocytogenes in nine (9) environmental swabs; and in 2017 FDA detected L. monocytogenes in eighteen (18) environmental swabs."
• "Based on the results of the WGS analysis, these isolates represent eighteen (18) different strains of L. monocytogenes. The WGS analysis identified multiple strains of L. monocytogenes isolated over multiple years which is indicative of the presence of resident pathogens or harborage sites in your facility."
• Many of these strains were found in different product samples tested since 2015.

GMP issues

• Ineffective measures to exclude pests from  packing and holding areas with sightings of cockroaches and flies.
• Drip / condensate falling from from fixtures, ducts and pipes 
• Improper cleaning including the use of unclean utensils
• Inadequate temperatures control

As of this issuance, the company looks to be be permanently closed.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/wise-spice-catering-company-640715-03082023
FDA Warning Letter - Wise Spice Catering Company

Mammoth Meatballs...Potential for the Real Deal Paleo Diet

An Australian company created mammoth meatballs from meat grown from cells with "DNA sequence from mammoth myoglobin, a key muscle protein in giving meat its flavour, and filled in the few gaps using elephant DNA."  "This sequence was placed in myoblast stem cells from a sheep, which replicated to grow to the 20bn cells subsequently used by the company to grow the mammoth meat."

"No one has yet tasted the mammoth meatball. “We haven’t seen this protein for thousands of years,” said Wolvetang. “So we have no idea how our immune system would react when we eat it. But if we did it again, we could certainly do it in a way that would make it more palatable to regulatory bodies.”"


The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/mar/28/meatball-mammoth-created-cultivated-meat-firm
Meatball from long-extinct mammoth created by food firm

Exclusive: Australian company resurrects flesh of lost species to demonstrate potential of meat grown from cells

A mammoth meatball has been created by a cultivated meat company, resurrecting the flesh of the long-extinct animals.

FDA Proposed Rule to Allow Salt Substitutes in Standards of Identity

FDA is proposing a new rule that would allow salt substitutes in a products Standards of Identity.  "The amendments would permit the use of safe and suitable salt substitutes to replace some or all of the salt used in the manufacture of standardized foods. The proposed rule would not list specific salt substitutes; instead, the proposed rule would cover ingredients or combinations of ingredients used as salt substitutes by food manufacturers currently or in the future. If finalized, the proposed rule would support efforts to reduce sodium content in standardized foods and may help to improve consumer dietary patterns by reducing sodium consumption."

"The FDA began establishing Standards of Identity (SOI) in 1939, and since then, the agency has established more than 250 SOIs. Products like milk, milk chocolate, various breads, peanut butter, and ketchup have a SOI. SOIs often describe in detail what a food must contain and what is optional and sometimes describe the amount or proportion of ingredients or components. Many SOIs also prescribe a method of production or formulation."

Use of Salt Substitutes to Reduce the Sodium Content in Standardized Foods

https://www.fda.gov/media/166473/download

Co-op Grocery Stores - A Shopping Solution for Rural Areas

Many rural counties in teh United States have no grocery store.  To solve this, communities have come together to have co-op stores, or have found other innovative ways.

"The Rural Grocery Initiative was created in 2006 to help establish and sustain grocery stores in rural communities throughout Kansas."  

"Carver said innovation can help keep stores in small towns.  “We've seen success with communities kind of becoming engaged through cooperatives, through public-private partnerships,” Carver said. “We've even seen nonprofits and school-run grocery stores, as well as municipally-run stores in communities.”"


High Plains Public Radio
https://www.hppr.org/hppr-news/2023-03-24/rural-grocery-stores-are-dying-off-heres-what-some-communities-are-doing-to-save-them
Rural areas are losing grocery stores to consolidation faster than their urban counterparts — but some communities have come up with innovative solutions.

Packing in Cans vs Bottles....For Beer Quality

Which stays better longer...beer in a can or in a bottle.  The answer, "researchers report in ACS Food Science & Technology that the answer is, well, complicated, and depends on the type of beer. An amber ale stayed fresher in bottles, whereas container choice made much less difference to the stability of an India Pale Ale (IPA)."

"Cans and brown bottles of amber ale and IPA were chilled for a month and then kept at room temperature for five months to mimic typical storage conditions. Every two weeks, the researchers analyzed the metabolites in newly opened containers. Throughout this time, the concentration of certain metabolites in amber ale — including some amino acids and esters — differed significantly depending on whether it was packaged in a bottle or can. IPA, however, was much less sensitive to packaging type, possibly because of its higher concentration of polyphenols from hops. These compounds not only prevent oxidation but also bind to amino acids, thus retaining them in the beer rather than allowing them to get stuck to the inside of a container."

https://www.acs.org/pressroom/presspacs/2023/march/cans-or-bottles-whats-better-for-a-fresh-stable-beer.html
Cans or bottles: What’s better for a fresh, stable beer?
PressPacs March 20, 2023 8:00 AM EDT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ACS Food Science & Technology

The flavor of beer begins to change as soon as it’s packaged, prompting a debate among afficionados: Does the beverage stay fresher in a bottle or a can? Now, researchers report in ACS Food Science & Technology that the answer is, well, complicated, and depends on the type of beer. An amber ale stayed fresher in bottles, whereas container choice made much less difference to the stability of an India Pale Ale (IPA).

KS Establishment Recalls Boneless Beef Chuck After FSIS Testing Finds E. coli O103 (STEC)

Elkhorn Valley Packing, a Harper, Kan. establishment, is recalling approximately 3,436 pounds of boneless beef chuck product that may be contaminated with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) O103.  The problem was discovered when FSIS was conducting routine FSIS testing of ground beef derived from this product and the sample confirmed positive for STEC O103. There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products.

These items were shipped to distributors, federal establishments, retail locations, and wholesale locations, which includes hotels, restaurants, and institutions, in Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.

There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products.  Many clinical laboratories do not test for non-O157 STEC, such as O103, because it is harder to identify than STEC O157:H7. People can become ill from STECs 2–8 days (average of 3–4 days) after consuming the organism.  Most people infected with STEC O103 develop diarrhea (often bloody) and vomiting. Some illnesses last longer and can be more severe. Infection is usually diagnosed by testing of a stool sample.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/elkhorn-valley-packing-recalls-boneless-beef-chuck-product-due-possible-e--coli-o103
Elkhorn Valley Packing Recalls Boneless Beef Chuck Product Due to Possible E. coli O103 Contamination

ELKHORN VALLEY PACKING LLC

WASHINGTON, March 24, 2023 – Elkhorn Valley Packing, a Harper, Kan. establishment, is recalling approximately 3,436 pounds of boneless beef chuck product that may be contaminated with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) O103, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

Ala Establishment Recalls Jalapeno Rope Sausage For Allergens After Mislabeling Issue

Kelley Foods, an Elba, Ala. establishment, is recalling approximately 1,455 pounds of smoked baby rope sausage due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen, the product contains cheese, thereby milk, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.  The problem was discovered when the firm notified FSIS that a grocery store manager found that the Kelley Foods Jalapeño Pepper Baby Rope Sausage appeared to contain cheddar cheese, which was not listed as an ingredient on the product label. Upon further investigation, the firm confirmed that its jalapeño and cheddar baby rope sausage product contained the wrong label.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/kelley-foods-recalls-smoked-baby-rope-sausage-product-due-misbranding-and-undeclared
Kelley Foods Recalls Smoked Baby Rope Sausage Product Due to Misbranding and an Undeclared Allergen

KELLEY FOODS, A DIVISION OF BEN E. KEITH

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, March 23, 2023 – Kelley Foods, an Elba, Ala. establishment, is recalling approximately 1,455 pounds of smoked baby rope sausage due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product contains cheese, thereby milk, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.

Gluten-free Brownie Bites Recalled for Undeclared Wheat Caused by Co-Manufacturer

Second Nature Brands of Madison Heights, MI, is recalling its 4-ounce packages of Gluten Free Reese’s Pieces Brownie Brittle because they may contain undeclared wheat.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the gluten-containing product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of wheat. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by cross-contamination at a co-manufacturer, resulting in undeclared wheat in the product.

One illness has been reported to date in connection with this problem, to date.

This is just another issue we have seen where a co-manufacturer has been responsible for allergen-related recalls.  Also, we have a co-branded product here, where a well-known brand is linked to recall.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/second-nature-brands-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-wheat-gluten-free-reeses-pieces-brownie-brittle
Second Nature Brands Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Wheat in Gluten Free Reese’s Pieces Brownie Brittle
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 23, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  March 23, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Wheat
Company Name:  Second Nature Brands
Brand Name:  Sheila G’s
Product Description:  Gluten Free Reese’s Pieces Brownie Brittle

IN Bakery Recalls Buns Due to Undeclared Sesame

Perfection Bakeries D/B/A Aunt Millie’s of Fort Wayne, IN. is recalling 8 ct. packages of Our Family® White Hot Dog Buns because they may contain undeclared sesame.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered the sesame-containing product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of sesame. Production of the product has been suspended until the FDA and Aunt Millie’s complete their investigation and are certain the market has been cleared of any incorrect packaging.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/perfection-bakeries-dba-aunt-millies-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-sesame-our-family-hot-dog-buns
Perfection Bakeries, d/b/a/ Aunt Millie’s Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Sesame in “Our Family Hot Dog Buns 8 Ct.”
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 21, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  March 22, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Bakery Product/Mix
Reason for Announcement:  Potential or Undeclared Allergen/Sesame
Company Name:  Perfection Bakeries D/B/A Aunt Millie’s
Brand Name:  Our Family
Product Description:  White Hot Dog Enriched Buns

Bird Seed Recalled for Elevated Aflatoxin Levels

Kaytee Products Inc. is voluntarily recalling one lot of Kaytee® Wild Bird Food Birders’ Blend, 8 lb. bag, UPC 0 71859 02711 1, Lot Number PennPak1 102022 933, best buy date of 041224, due to potentially elevated levels of Aflatoxin above the acceptable limit.  On March 13, 2023, the Georgia Department of Agriculture notified Kaytee Products Inc. that after conducting a routine laboratory analysis of the product, Lot PennPak1 102022 933 located on the bottom right corner of the front of the 8 lb. bags of Kaytee® Wild Bird Food Birder’s Blend was found to contain elevated levels of Aflatoxin.

The affected wild bird product was packaged in clear plastic bags and shipped to ACE Hardware Distribution Centers in AL, FL, and GA.

Aflatoxin is a naturally occurring by-product from the growth of Aspergillus flavus and can be harmful to wild birds if consumed in significant quantities.




(White-breasted Nuthatch is disgusted).


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/voluntary-recall-one-lot-kayteer-wild-bird-food-birders-blend-8-lb-bag-due-elevated-levels-aflatoxinVoluntary Recall of One Lot of Kaytee® Wild Bird Food Birders Blend, 8 Lb Bag, Due to Elevated Levels of Aflatoxin
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 18, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  March 20, 2023
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary  Pet Food
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Elevated Levels of Aflatoxin
Company Name:  Kaytee Products Inc.
Brand Name:  Kaytee
Product Description:  Wild Bird Food Birders’ Blend

Sauces Recalled for Undeclared Soy in Derived Ingredient

Mutual Trading Co., Inc. of El Monte, CA is recalling 60 fl oz of Kagome Worcester Sauce, 10 fl oz of Kagome Chuno sauce, and 8g of Kagome Take out Tonkatsu Sauce because the package labels contain undeclared soy allergen.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the product containing soy was distributed in packaging that did not declare the presence of soy.  Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by missing to indicate soy from a 2nd derived ingredient.

The most likely item would be the protein hydrolysate, with the protein source being soy.




https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/mutual-trading-co-inc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-soy-sauces

MA Company Recalls Cereal Bars Contaminated with Tobacco Bettles

Given Imaging Ltd. of Mansfield, MA is recalling Given Imaging SmartBar Cereal Bar due ot the potential for contamination with tobacco beetles (also known as cigarette beetles). These are a common pest to the tobacco products. They will also infest other stored products such as paprika, dry dog food, beans, biscuits, cottonseed, dried fruits and vegetables as well as dried flowers, grains, herbs, peanuts, rice, yeast and even furniture stuffing.  They are not harmful, but can cause damage to the products.

Enforcement Report (fda.gov)

Infant Formula Recalled for Potential Cronobacter sakazaki Contamination

Perrigo Company plc is issuing a voluntary recall of certain lots of Gerber® Good Start® SootheProTM Powdered Infant Formula in the U.S., that were manufactured at the Company’s Gateway Eau Claire, Wisconsin manufacturing facility from January 02, 2023 to January 18, 2023 due  to the potential presence of Cronobacter sakazakii.

The company stated, "Importantly, no distributed product has tested positive for the presence of this bacteria, no adverse events have been reported and no other products manufactured at this facility or any other of Perrigo’s facilities are affected by this recall."

On November 1, 2022, Perrigo acquired Nestlé's Gateway Eau Claire, Wisconsin, plant, along with the U.S. and Canadian rights to the Good Start® infant formula brand. Perrigo operates the Good Start® infant formula brand in the United States and Canada while Nestlé operates the Good Start® infant formula brand for Women Infants and Children (WIC) contracts.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/perrigo-announces-voluntary-recall-limited-quantity-gerberr-good-startr-sootheprotm-powdered-infant
Perrigo Announces Voluntary Recall of Limited Quantity of Gerber® Good Start® SootheProTM Powdered Infant Formula
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 17, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  March 17, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Cronobacter sakazakii contamination
Company Name:  Perrigo Company plc
Brand Name:  Gerber Good Start
Product Description:  Powdered Infant formula

Imported Frozen Strawberries Linked to Hepatitis A Outbreak, Product Recalled in HI and CA

California Splendor, Inc. of San Diego, California is recalling certain lots of 4-lb. bags of Kirkland Signature Frozen Organic Strawberries that were sold at Costco stores in Los Angeles, Hawaii and two San Diego business centers, due to an outbreak of Hepatitis A illnesses. The outbreak of hepatitis A linked to frozen organic strawberries imported from certain farms located in Baja California, Mexico, by a common supplier.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/updated-scenic-fruit-company-recalls-frozen-organic-strawberries-and-frozen-organic-tropical-blend

Updated - Scenic Fruit Company Recalls Frozen Organic Strawberries and Frozen Organic Tropical Blend Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 16, 2023
FDA Publish Date: March 17, 2023
Product Type: Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement: Hepatitis A
Company Name: Scenic Fruit Company
Brand Name: Simply Nature, Vital Choice and others
Product Description: Frozen Organic Strawberries and fruit blend

Beef Sambusa Recalled After Metal Wire Pieces Detected in Product

Hoyo, SBC, a Bloomington, Minn. establishment, is recalling approximately 1,046 pounds of ready-to-eat beef sambusa products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically thin, wire-like metal.  The frozen, ready-to-eat beef sambusa items were produced on Dec. 30, 2022, and Feb. 21, 2023. The following product is subject to recall.  The problem was discovered when the firm notified FSIS that it received a report from a school that food handlers found thin, wire-like metal on the outside of the product during preparation. The material was not reported to be embedded in the product.

A sambusa - it is a fried (or baked) triangular dough product stuffed with meat, potato and spice.  It is a finger food that originates in the Arabian subcontinent.  

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/hoyo-sbc-recalls-frozen-ready-eat-beef-sambusa-product-due-possible-foreign-matter
Hoyo, SBC Recalls Frozen, Ready-To-Eat Beef Sambusa Product Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
HOYO, SBC

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, March 17, 2023 – Hoyo, SBC, a Bloomington, Minn. establishment, is recalling approximately 1,046 pounds of ready-to-eat beef sambusa products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically thin, wire-like metal, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

Meat-containing Sfihas Products Recalled For Not Being Produced under USDA Inspection

WOW Frozen Food LLC, a Plantation, Fla. establishment, is recalling approximately 488 pounds of meat and poultry sfihas products that were produced without the benefit of USDA federal inspection.  The problem was discovered during routine FSIS surveillance activities when various frozen sfihas meat and poultry products that did not have the USDA mark of inspection were observed at a retail location. Upon further investigation, FSIS determined that the products were not produced in an FSIS-inspected establishment.

From Wikipedia - Sfiha or sfeeha (Arabic: صفيحة, romanized: ṣafīḥa) is a dish consisting of flatbread cooked with a minced meat topping, often lamb flavored with onion, tomato, pine nuts, and spices. It is traditionally found in the countries of the Levant,[1] and is closely related to manakish and lahmacun.[2]  Sfiha has become popular in Brazil and Argentina, where it is known as esfiha or esfirra in Brazil or as sfija in Argentina, after being introduced by immigrants from Syria,Armenia and Lebanon.[3][4]

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/wow-frozen-food-llc-recalls-frozen-meat-and-poultry-sfihas-products-produced-without
WOW Frozen Food LLC Recalls Frozen Meat and Poultry Sfihas Products Produced Without Benefit of Inspection

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, March 17, 2023 – WOW Frozen Food LLC, a Plantation, Fla. establishment, is recalling approximately 488 pounds of meat and poultry sfihas 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.

Pesto Pasta Sauce Recalled for Undeclared Pine Nuts

BC Gourmet USA, Inc. of Lynn, Massachusetts is recalling 906 units of Scarpetta Brand Pink Pesto, because it contains undeclared pine nut allergen.  The recall was initiated after the firm discovered that product containing tree nuts were distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of pine nuts. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a document-control deviation.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/bc-gourmet-usa-inc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-pine-nuts-scarpetta-brand-pink-pesto
BC Gourmet USA, Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Pine Nuts in Scarpetta Brand Pink Pesto
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 16, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  March 16, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Pine Nuts
Company Name:  BC Gourmet USA, Inc.
Brand Name:  Scarpetta
Product Description:  Pink pesto pasta sauce

Yogurt Parfait Bars Recalled After Co-Manufacturer Finds Listeria In Facility

Clio Snacks of Piscataway, N.J. is voluntarily recalling 581 cases of its Strawberry Granola & Greek Yogurt Parfait Bar due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.  This potential limited exposure was found at a third-party manufacturer’s facility where Parfait Bars are produced. The third-party manufacturer does not manufacture any other Clio products. Clio does not manufacture Parfait bars at its own facility.  The recall was the result of a routine testing program by the company which revealed that affected Strawberry Parfait product produced by Clio’s contract manufacturer may contain Listeria monocytogenes. The third-party manufacturer has ceased production and Clio has ceased distribution of the affected product while the FDA and the company continue their investigation into what caused the problem.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/regional-recall-clio-snacks-voluntarily-recalls-strawberry-granola-greek-yogurt-parfait-bars-select
Regional Recall: Clio Snacks Voluntarily Recalls Strawberry Granola & Greek Yogurt Parfait Bars from Select Walmart Stores Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 14, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  March 15, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Clio Snacks
Brand Name:  Clio
Product Description:  Strawberry Granola & Greek Yogurt Parfait Bar

Reducing Food Waste Through Thoughtful Utilization

In the Washington Post, an opinion piece discusses food waste from a position we have long taken...better utilization. From the time food is processed/prepared, it starts down a path of fading quality to the point where it is no longer edible. Depending on whether it is from a restaurant where that path is short, to retail food items where there is a longer time until it is no longer usable, food too often reaches that point where there it must be thrown out.

Certainly using it when it still has the quality we desire is best. So basically, using it well before the stated shelf-life is best. Best utilization also includes making food that will be eaten in a reasonable amount of time, or ordering only what we can eat in one setting .

But once the food quality changes, perhaps to the point where it is less than what we would want, the author opines that there are still avenues where this food can be utilized. He looks at this transition in the nature of the given food as just an opportunity to make something different that is not only edible, but perhaps desirable.

"By focusing on using food beyond the confines of our first imaginings, we’re granted access to a world of flavor — in soup that has tightened and melded overnight into a delicious sauce, or a dressing whose dregs improve a lunchtime sandwich. We also attain invaluable culinary intelligence, learning how flavor migrates from one ingredient to another, what happens to liquid and fat overnight, how acid and salt can soften what has hardened, how clever knife work can crisp what has sagged."

So okay for a chef to say, but what can we do?  Could groups like Extension, food banks, food pantries promote alternative uses?  This could be development and dissemination of  recipes that utilize items food pantries often have difficulty in moving.....or items that no longer have the same quality but still have nutrient value.  Could milk be made into kefir or yogurt?  What about brown bananas?  What can we utilize in making easy-to-make soups?

Washington Post

https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/03/13/food-waste-problem/
We’re thinking about food ‘waste’ all wrong
By Tamar Adler
March 13, 2023 at 7:00 a.m. EDT
Tamar Adler, a former professional cook, is the author of “An Everlasting Meal: Cooking With Economy and Grace,” “Something Old, Something New: Classic Recipes Revised” and, most recently, “The Everlasting Meal Cookbook: Leftovers A-Z.”

USDA Issues Public Health Alert for Chicken with Undeclared Cashews

USDA - FSIS is issuing a public health alert due to concerns that fully cooked, ready-to-eat (RTE) chicken salad product may contain cashews a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.  (A recall was not requested because the products are no longer available for purchase.)  The problem was discovered when the firm notified FSIS that it received a consumer complaint that cashews were found in the chicken salad product.  There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an illness should contact a healthcare provider.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-trader-joes-chicken-salad-due-misbranding-and
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Trader Joe’s Chicken Salad Due to Misbranding and an Undeclared Allergen

TAYLOR FARMS NORTHWEST LLC

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, March 10, 2023 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert due to concerns that fully cooked, ready-to-eat (RTE) chicken salad product may contain cashews a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label. FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers are aware that these products should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because the products are no longer available for purchase.

Company Expands Recall of Prescription Pet Foods with Elevated Vitamin D Levels

Nestlé Purina PetCare Company is expanding its voluntary recall of Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EL Elemental (PPVD EL) prescription dry dog food due to a supplier error resulting in potentially elevated levels of vitamin D in two additional product lots, which precede the production dates of the previously recalled lots (posted on February 8, 2023).  The expansion comes following an investigation prompted by Purina that uncovered new information about a production error from a U.S. supplier that was made only to this specific formula and resulted in potentially elevated levels of vitamin D.  The Purina product is only sold through veterinarians.

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for dogs; however, ingestion of elevated levels can lead to health issues depending on the level of vitamin D and the length of exposure. Vitamin D toxicity may include vomiting, loss of appetite, increased thirst, increased urination, and excessive drooling to renal (kidney) dysfunction.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/nestle-purina-petcare-company-expands-voluntary-recall-purina-pro-plan-veterinary-diets-el-elemental
Nestlé Purina Petcare Company Expands Voluntary Recall of Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets El Elemental Dry Dog Food in the U.S. Due to Potentially Elevated Vitamin D
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 10, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  March 10, 2023
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Elevated Ingredient Level
Company Name:  Nestle Purina PetCare Company
Brand Name:  Purina
Product Description:  Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EL Elemental (PPVD EL) prescription dry dog food

Pet Food Supplement Recalled for Elevated Levels of Vitamin A

Stratford Care USA, Inc of Odessa, Florida is recalling multiple brands of Omega-3 Supplements for cats and dogs due to potentially elevated levels of Vitamin A. Vitamin A is an essential nutrient for dogs; however, ingestion of elevated levels can lead to health issues depending on the level of Vitamin A and the length of exposure. Vitamin A toxicity may include general malaise, anorexia, nausea, peeling skin, weakness, tremors, convulsions, paralysis, and death.  Stratford Care USA, Inc is taking this action after receiving a single Serious Adverse Event from a sole consumer regarding their dogs’ exhibiting signs of Vitamin A toxicity after consuming the supplement. This is the only Adverse Event to date. Currently Stratford Care USA, Inc is taking all necessary steps in collaboration with the FDA to remove all products with these lot numbers from the market.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/stratford-care-usa-inc-recalls-omega-3-supplements-cats-and-dogs-because-possible-elevated-levels
Stratford Care USA, Inc Recalls Omega-3 Supplements for Cats and Dogs Because of Possible Elevated Levels of Vitamin A
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 09, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  March 10, 2023
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary
Reason for Announcement:  Potential elevated levels of Vitamin A
Company Name:  Stratford Care USA, Inc
Brand Name:  Multiple brands
Product Description:  Omega-3 Supplements for cats and dogs

NJ Importer Recalls 100K Lbs of Goat Meat Due to No USDA Mark of Inspection

Dahlia Imports, LLC, a Newark, N.J. firm, is recalling approximately 96,624 pounds of raw bone-in goat products imported into the United States from Australia that were not presented for import reinspection and thus had no USDA mark of inspection.  The problem was discovered during routine FSIS surveillance activities of imported products at retail stores.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/dahlia-imports-llc-recalls-raw-bone-goat-products-imported-without-benefit-import
Dahlia Imports, LLC Recalls Raw Bone-in Goat Products Imported Without Benefit of Import Reinspection

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, March 6, 2023 – Dahlia Imports, LLC, a Newark, N.J. firm, is recalling approximately 96,624 pounds of raw bone-in goat products imported into the United States from Australia that were not presented for import reinspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today..

PSU News - Rising Incidence of Eating Disorders

An article in Penn State News on the increasing number of people suffering from eating disorders.  The article states, "The causes of eating disorders are “like pieces of a puzzle,” Ethridge said. Among the pieces is the constant drumbeat of ads and TV shows idealizing unattainable body types. Get fit. Lose weight. Sequester everyone with their TVs and cell phones, let anxiety and depression rise and mingle with other factors like heredity ― it’s little wonder eating disorders started to spread like wildfire."

And can we throw into this mix the constant messaging about the safety of food or the lack of safety...whether that be the widespread news coverage about foodborne illness cases.  Does an outbreak affecting people in Seattle affect someone in PA?  Or this title - Processed foods are making us sick: It’s time for the FDA and USDA to Step In ( March 6, 2023).  And then we have plastics, and heavy metals, PSAS in packaging,  acrylamide form cooking, etc.  No doubt that these issues have to be dealt with, but it could drive someone mad, or to stop eating, if you think too much about it.  Too much focus on what is wrong and not enough on real risks and what a person can do.

https://www.psu.edu/news/hershey/story/medical-minute-eating-disorders-rise/
Penn State News
The Medical Minute: Eating disorders on the rise

MARCH 9, 2023

HERSHEY, Pa. — Mental health issues clung to COVID-19 like remoras to a shark during the height of the pandemic. And among the most serious were eating disorders.

During 2020, eating disorders spiked among teenage girls, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Worldwide, the numbers had already been increasing steadily. Today, about 30 million people suffer from these particularly cruel conditions that can lead to death if left untreated.

USDA Proposes Rule for Meat Products Labeled 'Made in the USA'

USDA is proposing a new rule if a USDA regulated company wants to state "Product of USA" or "Made in the USA" on the label.   While this would be a voluntary label, it does require documentation to show that indeed, the product is sourced and processed in the US....outside of spices and flavorings.


Food Business News
https://www.foodbusinessnews.net/articles/23358-usda-proposes-new-rule-for-product-of-usa-label
USDA proposes new rule for ‘Product of USA’ label

03.07.2023By Rachael Oatman

WASHINGTON — The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) proposed a new rule for “Product of USA” label claims on March 6. The rule would require that animals be born, raised, slaughtered and processed in the United States in order for meat, poultry and egg products to bear the “Product of USA” or “Made in the USA” label claim.

FDA Issues Warning Letter to Cat Food Company for Salmonella Contamination and Unsupported Use of PAA

FDA issued a Warning Letter to Arrow Reliance of Tukwila, WA, a manufacturer of cat food including Darwin’s Natural Selections Antibiotic & Grain-Free Chicken Recipe for Cats and Darwin’s Natural Selections Antibiotic & Grain-Free Turkey Recipe for Cats.

The inspection was " in response to a consumer complaint received about your products causing illness in the customer’s kittens. FDA laboratory analysis revealed these products to be contaminated with Salmonella. Further, during a follow-up inspection of [the] manufacturing facility, located at 350 Treck Drive, Tukwila, Washington, from August 23, 2022, through September 30, 2022, FDA collected an additional sample of your Natural Selections Antibiotic & Grain-Free Chicken Recipe for Cats. FDA laboratory analysis revealed this product was also contaminated with Salmonella."

The company tried to argue that Salmonella is not an issue in animal feed, but FDA responded, "The association between human illness or outbreaks of salmonellosis and Salmonella-contaminated pet foods is well established.6 Association with pet illness has also been shown.7 Thus, FDA considers a pet food to be adulterated if it is contaminated with Salmonella, regardless of the quantity or Salmonella serotype; however, Salmonella typhimurium is one of the most common serotypes that causes human infection."

The company was also spraying product with PAA (peroxyacetic acid) as a control, but this is not an approved application for this sanitizer. "FDA Investigators noted you continue to use PAA as a pathogen mitigation step and you have increased your PAA concentration from (b)(4) ppm to (b)(4) ppm on the advice of your PAA supplier and a third-party laboratory. There is no food additive regulation in 21 CFR Part 573 for the use of PAA in animal food, and PAA is not listed in 21 CFR Part 582 or 584 as a substance that is GRAS for the intended use. Furthermore, FDA is not aware of any data demonstrating that PAA is GRAS for any use in animal food."

The company was also not registered with FDA. They stated that they ship direct to consumers thorogh the use of third party warehouses...of course, this is distribution and not retail sales. The "Director of Quality informed FDA’s Investigators that the majority of your product (approximately (b)(4) percent) is shipped directly to consumers from third-party warehouses rather than from your facility. Thus, your manufacturing facility is not a retail food establishment as defined in 21 CFR 1.227."

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/arrow-reliance-inc-644947-02162023

Arrow Reliance Inc.
MARCS-CMS 644947 — FEBRUARY 16, 2023

OR Establishment Recalls Package Salad After Placing Incorrect Bottom Label On Package

GH Foods NW, LLC, of Clackamas Ore. establishment, is recalling approximately 106 pounds of ready-to-eat salad with chicken products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens,  he ready-to-eat lemon chicken & arugula salad products were produced February 28, 2023. The products are labeled with the correct top label but an incorrect bottom label. The incorrect bottom label contains the ingredient statement for a Broccoli Slaw and Kale Salad with White Chicken Meat product, which does not contain wheat.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/gh-foods-nw-llc-recalls-ready-eat-salad-chicken-products-due-misbranding-and
GH Foods NW, LLC Recalls Ready-to-Eat Salad with Chicken Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens

WASHINGTON, March 4, 2023 – GH Foods NW, LLC, a Clackamas, Ore. establishment, is recalling approximately 106 pounds of ready-to-eat salad with chicken 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 wheat, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.

CA Company Issues Sixth Recall for Undeclared Items on Imported Foods

Daiso California LLC of La Mirada, CA issued it's 6th recall recalling of snack items s due of undeclared allergen ingredients.  The items are imported.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/daiso-issues-allergy-alert-prepackaged-snack-items
Daiso Issues Allergy Alert for Prepackaged Snack Items

FDA Issues Public Health Alert on Oysters from Florida

FDA issued a health alert regarding oysters harvested from Cedar Key, FL harvested from December though February due to the potential for Salmonella contamination.  "To date, there have been 8 cases linked to this outbreak within Florida, Georgia, and Alabama." 

The issue of course, is when contaminated oysters are eaten raw or near-raw.  Oysters, as filter feeders,  are problematic when there are microbiological contaminants in the waters from where the oysters are harvested.  More often we see viral contaminants - such as Hepatitis A or Norovirus or the bacterial foodborne pathogen species Vibrio vulnificus or Vibrio parahaemolyticus. But Salmonella is also a concern, as seen in this case.

The notice states "The FDA is advising consumers not to eat, and restaurants and food retailers not to sell, and to dispose of recalled wild harvest oysters from FL-3012, Cedar Key, Florida, harvested between December 16, 2022, and February 24, 2023, due to possible Salmonella contamination. These oysters were sold in Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. "  "On February 24, 2023, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services issued an emergency closure order for wild harvest oysters from harvest area FL-3012 and initiated a recall."  That recall notice is posted below.

https://www.fda.gov/food/alerts-advisories-safety-information/fda-advises-restaurants-retailers-and-consumers-avoid-recalled-wild-harvest-oysters-harvest-area-fl
FDA Advises Restaurants, Retailers and Consumers to Avoid Recalled Wild Harvest Oysters from Harvest Area FL-3012, Cedar Key, Florida Potentially Contaminated with Salmonella

FDA Warning Letter - DE Facility with No Food Safety Plan for RTE Hummus

FDA issued a Warning Letter to M. Fierro & Sons, LLC, a manufacturer of ready-to-eat (RTE) hummus and cheese manufacturing facility located in Wilmington, DE.

The list of violations is long and quite scary considering they are making RTE products such as hummus and cheese. 

• No Food Safety Plan - so specific pathogens were not identified nor were appropriate controls.
• Inadequate controls for cooking and cooling of product.
• No allergen controls
• No environmental controls and monitoring
• Improper cleaning and sanitizing.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/m-fierro-sons-llc-641400-01192023
M. Fierro & Sons, LLC
MARCS-CMS 641400 — JANUARY 19, 2023


Recipient:
Mr. William J. Meany
Owner
M. Fierro & Sons, LLC
1025 N. Union Street
Wilmington, DE 19805-2752
United States

Upstart (in US) Supermarket Chain Recalls Cocktail Shrimp After Testing Finds Listeria

Lidl US has announced a voluntary recall of ready-to-eat Tapas branded Cocktail Shrimp by Lidl, 7 oz., due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination.   The recall was issued as a result of routine testing, which revealed that the finished product contained the bacteria. Lidl performs this testing on an ongoing basis to help ensure safe and quality products for our customers. Lidl US has ceased the production and distribution of the product as we continue our investigation in conjunction with the FDA to resolve the issue. Lidl US has received no reports or complaints of illness related to this product to date.

The product was distributed to all Lidl US store locations. Lidl US has store locations in Delaware, District of Columbia, Georgia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Virginia.

Lidl is a German discount supermarket chain which launched stores in the US in 2017.  After its first stores in VA and NC, it now has more than 150 stores on the East Coast.  It has a similar approach as Aldi, another German food store, but has been described as a bit more upscale.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/lidl-voluntarily-recalls-7-oz-tapas-branded-cocktail-shrimp-lidl-due-possible-health-risk
Lidl Voluntarily Recalls 7 oz Tapas Branded Cocktail Shrimp by Lidl Due to Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 01, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  March 01, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Lidl US
Brand Name:  Tapas
Product Description:  Cocktail Shrimp

Candy Company Recalls Chocolate Product For Undeclared Allergens After Packaging Error by Co-packer

Russell Stover Chocolates of Kansas City, Missouri, is voluntarily recalling two (2) Best Before Dates of its Sugar Free Peanut Butter Cups in 2.4 oz packaging due to the potential for undeclared pecans. The recalled Sugar Free Peanut Butter Cups may contain Sugar Free Pecan Delights.  The recall was initiated following consumer contacts regarding the wrong product inside the outer packaging for Sugar Free Peanut Butter Cups product. Russell Stover has received no reports of any illness or allergic reactions related to this issue to date.  An error by the firm’s 3rd party co-packing company resulted in individually-wrapped Sugar Free Pecan Delight products being placed in the outer packaging for Sugar Free Peanut Butter Cups. The inner packaging correctly identifies the products as Sugar Free Pecan Delights and the physical Sugar Free Pecan Delight product appears distinct from the Sugar Free Peanut Butter Cup product.

Co-packing is very common today with an estimated 25% of branded product co-packed or co-manufactured.  Brand owners have to ensure that their co-packing partners have tight systems for managing quality and food safety.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/russell-stover-chocolates-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-pecan-sugar-free-peanut-butter-cups
Russell Stover Chocolates Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Pecan in Sugar Free Peanut Butter Cups
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  February 28, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  February 28, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Pecan
Company Name:  Russell Stover Chocolates
Brand Name:  Russell Stover
Product Description:  Sugar Free Peanut Butter Cups

WA Firm Recalls Distributed Seafood Products That Had No Allergen Labeling

Lemonland Food Corp of Kent, Washington initiated a recall of seasoned fisheries and seasoned vegetable products because it may contain undeclared soy, wheat, sesame, peanut, walnut, milk, crab, shrimp, and fish.  The firm distributed un-labeled plastic containers in 6oz, 8oz, 12oz, and 16 oz to H-mart, G-mart and M2M retail stores in Washington between 2/16/23 and 2/23/23. Those containers were labeled with H-mart, G-mart or M2M white adhesive labels and the allergens may have not been declared properly.  The allergens mis-labeling issue was discovered during the inspection by the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) on February 22, 2023. The firm has stopped producing, re-packing, and distributing since February 23, 2023, and will resume operation when the new labels are available.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/lemonland-food-corp-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-soy-wheat-sesame-peanut-walnut-milk-crab-shrimp
Lemonland Food Corp Issues Allergy Alert On Undeclared Soy, Wheat, Sesame, Peanut, Walnut, Milk, Crab, Shrimp, Fish (Anchovy, Big Eye Herring, Golden Threadfin Bream, Hairtail, Lizard Fish, Sardine, Pollock) In Multiple Products
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  February 28, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  February 28, 2023
Product Type: Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential or Undeclared Allergen/ Crustacean Shellfish, Fish, Milk, Peanuts, Soybean, Tree Nuts Wheat
Company Name:  Lemonland Food Corp
Brand Name:  No Brand name Listed on Package
Product Description:  Seasoned fisheries and seasoned vegetable products