FL Company Recalls Protein Bars for Foreign Material - Items from the Trash Can?

Doctors Scientific Organica, of Rivera Beach FL, is recalling their Burn Boot Camp Afterburn Grass-Fed Whey Protein Bars (60 grams) Triple Chocolate Almond flavor products due to the potential presence of foreign material, including disposable hairnet, shrink wrap and parchment paper. Foodborne foreign objects that are flexible and not sharp may cause minor injuries such as transient choking or gastrointestinal system injury.

Did someone mistake an ingredient box for a garbage can?  Perhaps.  If so, this is why it is so important to use food containers for only food.  Non-food items must never to into food containers.  It is too easy to use containers for food, whether that be ingredient boxes or pails, for utilitarian purposes in the food plant.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/doctors-scientific-organica-announces-voluntary-recall-limited-quantity-burn-boot-camp-afterburn
Doctors Scientific Organica Announces Voluntary Recall of Limited Quantity of Burn Boot Camp Afterburn Grass-Fed Whey Protein Bars (60 grams) Due to Potential Presence of Foreign Material
Summary
Company Announcement Date:November 28, 2023FDA Publish Date:November 29, 2023Product Type:Food & BeveragesReason for Announcement:
Potential presence of foreign materialCompany Name:Doctors Scientific OrganicaBrand Name:
Burn Boot CampProduct Description:
Triple Chocolate Almond Flavored Whey Protein Bars

PA Ag Issues Food Safety Warning for Small Processor's Cheese Potentially Contaminated with Listeria

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture warns that consumers should discard "Hilltop Meadow Farm" brand '60 Day Aged Pepper Jack Raw Milk Cheese' with sell by dates of 9/21/2023 or earlier. Testing of this cheese confirmed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes bacteria.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/agriculture-department-warns-consumers-discard-hilltop-meadow-farm-brand-contaminated-60-day-aged
Agriculture Department Warns Consumers To Discard “Hilltop Meadow Farm” Brand Contaminated ‘60 Day Aged Pepper Jack Raw Milk Cheese’
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 22, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 28, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Cheese/Cheese Product
Reason for Announcement:  Presence of Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Hilltop Meadow Farm
Brand Name:  Hilltop Meadow Farm
Product Description:  Pepper Jack Raw Milk Cheese

Convenience Store Chain Recalls Fruit Cups Linked to Recalled Cantaloupe With Salmonella Potential

Kwik Trip, Inc. has initiated a voluntary recall of three varieties of fresh-cut fruit cup and tray products listed below because they contain cantaloupe from TruFresh which has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.  Products were distributed to Kwik Trip, Kwik Star, Stop-N-Go, Tobacco Outlet Plus Grocery, and Tobacco Outlet Plus convenience stores in the states of Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Michigan, Illinois, and South Dakota.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/kwik-trip-inc-recalls-specific-fruit-cups-and-trays-due-potential-salmonella-contamination
Kwik Trip, Inc. Recalls Specific Fruit Cups and Trays Due to Potential Salmonella Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 27, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 28, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
Company Name:  Kwik Trip, Inc.
Brand Name:  Kwik Trip
Product Description:  Fruit cups and trays containing cantaloupe.

Credit Cards Used to Track Customers Exposed to Botulinum Toxin Tainted Sardines in France

In a report on a 2023 botulism outbreak in France that was linked to improperly processed home canned sardines, investigators discuss the importance of credit card information in tracking additional people who may have eaten the food made with the tainted sardines.  The importance of this was that many people who ate at the restaurant had traveled into the city as part of an international event, the Rugby World Cup.   Investigators used credit card information to identify 29 people who may have been exposed.  "Between 11 and 17 September 2023, 15 suspected cases of botulism among 29 exposed individuals were identified from seven countries: UK (n = 4), Canada (n =3), Ireland (n =3), the United States (US) (n =2), France (n =1), Germany (n =1) and Greece (n =1). All cases reported consuming preserved sardines marinated in oil and herbs at Restaurant A. Several cases reported a bad taste or bad smell from this dish."  "Of the 15 cases, .......13 were hospitalised with six requiring invasive mechanical ventilation. All except for the deceased case received heptavalent ABCDEFG botulinum antitoxin [2]."

"In this outbreak investigation, rapid identification of customers exposed to the implicated food was possible through interrogation of credit card payments and retrieval of personal contact information via the credit card companies. Given the severity of botulism, the credit card companies fully cooperated with the health authorities and contacted the identified customers for approval before forwarding the contact details. This enabled contacting and urgently referring three symptomatic British citizens unaware of their illness to an emergency unit for prompt administration of botulism antitoxin."

As for the sardines, "The inspectors did not identify any deviations in food storage but noted incorrect sterilisation techniques in the preparation of canned food."

Eurosurveillance
https://www.eurosurveillance.org/content/10.2807/1560-7917.ES.2023.28.47.2300624?
Foodborne botulism outbreak involving different nationalities during the Rugby World Cup: critical role of credit card data and rapid international cooperation, France, September 2023

Turkey Gravy Recalled for Undeclared Soy Due to Mislabeling of Beef Gravy

Seneca Foods Corporation is announcing a voluntary recall of mislabeled Hy-Vee Turkey gravy in glass jars that actually contains beef gravy. This product could potentially contain a soy allergen which is not declared on the label. Seneca is now retrieving improperly labeled Hy-Vee Turkey Gravy from its distribution system. This recall only affects Hy-Vee Turkey Gravy product sold by Hy-Vee. 

Urgent – Food Recall Because of Potential Undeclared Allergen Due to Mislabel
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 21, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 22, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared soy
Company Name:  Seneca Foods Corporation
Brand Name:  Hy-Vee
Product Description:  Turkey Gravy

Gift Baskets Recalled for Undeclared Nut Allergens After Discovery of Incorrect Labeling of Hazelnut Cookies

Wine Country Gift Baskets is taking precautionary measures of voluntarily recalling all gift baskets produced with Acorn Baking Company raspberry crème filled cookies. During production, it was discovered that some packages of the raspberry crème filled cookies contained hazelnut crème filled cookies. 

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/urgent-food-recall-raspberry-creme-filled-cookie
Urgent Food Recall— Raspberry Crème Filled Cookie
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 24, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 24, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Hazelnuts
Company Name:  Wine Country Gift Baskets
Brand Name:  Acorn Baking Company
Product Description:  Raspberry crème filled cookies

CDC Provides Update on Salmonella Outbreak Associated with Cantaloupes, Now Close to 100 Infected

CDC provided an update on cases of Salmonella infection associated with cantaloupes. In the November 24th update, CDC states that there are now 99 cases of Salmonella infection with 2 deaths. This is 56 more cases than reported on November 20th. A recall of the cantaloupes from Sofia Produce of Arizona was first announced on November 9th, and then expanded on November 19th.  Additional recalls were posted on November 22nd and on November 24 for whole cantaloupes and cut cantaloups in trays (see below).

There are now 32 states with cases.



CDC Food Safety Alert
https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/sundsvall-11-23/index.html
Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Cantaloupes
Fast Facts
Illnesses: 99 (56 new)
Hospitalizations: 45 (28 new)
Deaths: 2 (2 new)
States: 32 (17 new)
Recall: Yes
Investigation status: Active (first posted on November 17, 2023)

MA Firm Recalls Brownies After Improper Labeling Results in Undeclared Peanuts

Dianne's Fine Desserts of Newburyport, MA 01950 is voluntarily recalling 512 cases (2048 trays) of Gordon Food Service (GFS) Sienna Bakery® Chocolate Decadent Brownies (GFS#226240) and Sienna Bakery® Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies (GFS#226260) due to inadvertent mislabeling of the inner tray of brownies, resulting in undeclared peanuts.  The voluntary recall was initiated after a customer complaint noting that product containing peanuts was distributed in packaging that did not have the presence of peanuts called out on the label.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/diannes-fine-desserts-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-peanut-allergen-sienna-bakeryr-chocolate
Dianne's Fine Desserts Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Peanut Allergen in Sienna Bakery® Chocolate Decadent Brownies
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 21, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 22, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Peanut
Company Name:  Dianne's Fine Desserts
Brand Name:  Sienna Bakery
Product Description:  Chocolate Decadent Brownies

Florida Retailer Recalls Egg Custard Pie for Mislabeled Allergens Because May Contain Coconut Custard Pies

Publix Super Markets, Inc. has initiated a voluntary recall on specific batches of private label Egg Custard Pie purchased Publix stores in Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward or Palm Beach counties between Octo. 20, 2023, and Nov. 16, 2023, that may contain an undeclared coconut allergen:
The Egg Custard Pie package may contain a coconut pie.

Probably an easy mistake to make, so tight controls are needed during the packaging process.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/publix-voluntarily-recalls-private-label-egg-custard-pie-may-contain-coconut-pie
Publix Voluntarily Recalls Private Label Egg Custard Pie That May Contain Coconut Pie
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 21, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 21, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Coconut
Company Name:  Publix Supermarkets Inc.
Brand Name:  Publix Supermarkets, Inc.
Product Description:  Egg Custard Pie

FDA Issues Warning Letter to Noodle Company

FDA issued a Warning Letter to Wan-Gee Foods of St. Louis MO. The company manufacturers not-ready-to-eat noodle products (i.e., wonton wrappers, egg roll wrappers, and noodles) .

Hazard Analysis and Preventive Controls

• Did not identify Staphylococcus aureus as a hazard of concern which can be an issue if noodle dough is temperature abused.
• "Did not identify and evaluate the hazard of bacterial growth and/or toxin formation {of Staphylococcus aureus] due to lack of time/temperature control as a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard to determine whether it requires a preventive control for your canton noodles during finished product storage. The canton noodles are treated as shelf stable, stored at ambient temperatures, and are not labeled to be kept refrigerated or frozen. You do not know the water activity of the finished product canton noodles, including whether it is above 0.85."
• "did not identify and evaluate the hazard of mycotoxins as a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard to determine whether they require a preventive control for your noodle products. The noodles contain wheat flour, which has been associated with mycotoxins such as deoxynivalenol (DON). Therefore, contamination with mycotoxins is a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard to be considered for these products."
• "did not implement your preventive controls procedures to significantly minimize or prevent contamination with the hazard of metal in your nRTE noodle products. Our investigators observed damage and missing pieces to your metal cutting blades used to shorten the dried noodles after the drying room step. The investigators requested monitoring records associated with the metal detector, but you did not provide them during the inspection."
• "written allergen preventive control does not include procedures, practices, and processes employed for labeling to ensure that all food allergens required to be stated are included on the label for your nRTE noodle products"  "procedure does not ensure all finished product labels declare all allergens present in the finished food to ensure finished food is not misbranded under section 403(w) of the Act (21 CFR 117.135(c)(2) because you do not document your review of finished product labels to ensure all allergens are properly declared."
• "do not maintain any monitoring or corrective action records of your review of your product labels to ensure the allergen ingredients are listed on the label for each batch produced. The only record you maintain for production is your mixing log and it does not include are view of the allergen ingredients in the finished food against the packaging label."

GMPs

• Black mold - "Apparent black mold formed on the ceiling directly over a drying canton noodle product in several locations throughout the room. The apparent mold covered approximately 30 percent of the ceiling. Further, the fans used to blow heated air ((b)(4) degrees Fahrenheit) directly onto the product to dry it were covered in approximately ¼ inch of apparent filth. In addition, the concrete floor along the walls in multiple locations throughout the drying room had what appeared to be white and greenish colored mold. The walls had apparent black mold in several different locations throughout the drying room."
• Product on floor - "Employee hanging noodles on racks (b)(4). During our inspection, our investigators observed the two bins separate, causing an approximate 2-to-3-in. gap in between. This resulted in the bottom quarter of the noodles coming into contact with the floor."
• Condensation - "heavily beaded condensation formed over and falling onto boxed wonton wrappers, lot number 05021168, in the blast storage freezer. Our investigators also observed condensation falling onto packaged finished product. Although the product is wrapped in wax paper, the packaging is made of thin cardboard that is not sealed and the product is susceptible to contamination while it is held overnight in the blast freezer. Our investigators observed ice formed in several other locations in the freezer, including the floor, freezer units, and walls."
• Facility issues / potential foreign objects - "brittle plastic in several areas on the tray was broken and/or frayed. (b)(4) trays being used in production were in similar condition.. Foam was present on the underside of the (b)(4) that comes indirect contact with the top layer of the wrappers during cutting. The foam is porous and not easily cleanable. Our investigators observed deteriorating foam on (b)(4) blade presses ((b)(4) egg roll and (b)(4) wonton), and parts of the foam were missing in several areas around the edges."
• Personal hygiene issues - did not take reasonable measures and precautions to ensure all persons working in direct contact with food, food-contact surfaces, and food-packaging materials conform to hygienic practices while on duty to the extent necessary to protect again contamination of food, as required by 21 CFR 117.10(b). Specifically, on May 2, 2023, five out of ten employees were observed in street clothes covered in apparent filth while handling dough used to manufacture wonton wrappers

Wan-Gee Foods, Inc.
MARCS-CMS 660360 — NOVEMBER 09, 2023
Recipient:
Samson Wang
CEO/President
Wan-Gee Foods, Inc.
10849 Midwest Industrial Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63132
United States

USDA Issues Public Health Alert for TX Establishment's Jerky Products for Undeclared Soy

USDA-FSIS issued a public health alert for meat and poultry jerky products produced by PRUSKI'S MARKET, INC. of Adkins, TX due to misbranding and undeclared allergen, soy, which is not declared on the product label.  A recall was not requested because the product is no longer available for purchase.  The problem was discovered by FSIS inspection personnel during a verification task where they discovered that soy was not included on the label.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-meat-and-poultry-jerky-products-due-misbranding-and
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Meat and Poultry Jerky Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergen

Illinois Establishment Recalls Ground Beef Due to Complaint for Foreign Material

Skyline Provisions, Inc., a Harvey, Ill. establishment, is recalling approximately 5,620 pounds of raw ground beef products that may be contaminated with a foreign object.  The problem was discovered after FSIS received a customer complaint reporting that a foreign object was found during food preparation.

No word on identity of the foreign object.  And it seems that it was one complaint that triggered the recall.


https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/skyline-provisions-inc--recalls-raw-ground-beef-products-due-possible-foreign-matter
Skyline Provisions, Inc. Recalls Raw Ground Beef Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination

SKYLINE PROVISIONS

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Nov. 19, 2023 – Skyline Provisions, Inc., a Harvey, Ill. establishment, is recalling approximately 5,620 pounds of raw ground beef products that may be contaminated with a foreign object, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

FTC Cracks Down on Non-disclousre by Influencers on Social Media Discussing Nutrition Claims

Influencers, appearing on popular social media sites such as Instagram and TikTok. have become a important source of information for too many Americans (unfortunately).  FTC is beginning to crack down on paid endorsements where disclosures are not made, in this case, where industry associations paid for endorsements by influencers where disclosure of that payment was not made known by those influencers.

“It’s irresponsible for any trade group to hire influencers to tout its members’ products and fail to ensure that the influencers come clean about that relationship,” said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “That’s certainly true for health and safety claims about sugar and aspartame, especially when made by registered dieticians and others upon whom people rely for advice about what to eat and drink.”

https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2023/11/ftc-warns-two-trade-associations-dozen-influencers-about-social-media-posts-promoting-consumption
FTC Warns Two Trade Associations and a Dozen Influencers About Social Media Posts Promoting Consumption of Aspartame or Sugar
Letters say influencers failed to adequately disclose that they were paid by industry
November 15, 2023

CDC Report on Salmonella Outbreak Associated with Cantaloupes

CDC is reporting on illness associated with contaminated cantaloupes that as of "November 17, 43 people infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella have been reported from 15 states . Illnesses started on dates ranging from October 17, 2023, to November 6, 2023 (see timeline). Of 30 people with information available, 17 have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported."

Posted November 17, 2023
Fast Facts
Illnesses: 43
Hospitalizations: 17
Deaths: 0
States: 15
Recall: Yes
Investigation status: Active

Recalls have issued on product.

VT Ice Cream Company Recalls All Products After State Lab Finds Listeria Positive Sample

Wilcox Ice Cream of East Arlington, VT is recalling all flavors of Wilcox brand ice cream, yogurt, and ice cream bars, as well as Leonardo’s brand gelato after being notified by the Vermont Department of Agriculture on 11/14/23 that one lot of the Super Premium Mint Chip manufactured that day may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.  The company stated in the report, "We were notified by the Vermont Department of Agriculture, who was notified by the New Hampshire Department of Health on 11/14/23 that a routine sample collected by that agency of our Super Premium Mint Chocolate Chip manufactured on 9/15/23 tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes. As part of our investigation, we determined that preliminary testing showed that the ice cream mix purchased to make our products may contain Listeria monocytogenes."

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/wilcox-ice-cream-recalls-multiple-ice-cream-products-because-possible-health-risk
Wilcox Ice Cream Recalls Multiple Ice Cream Products Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 18, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 18, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Wilcox Ice Cream
Brand Name:  Multiple brands
Product Description:  Ice Cream, Yogurt, Ice Cream Bars and Gelato in a Variety of Flavors

Stone Fruit Recalled After Linked to Listeria Outbreak with 11 cases

The HMC Group Marketing, Inc., based in Kinsburg, CA, which does business as HMC Farms, is voluntarily recalling peaches, plums and nectarines sold in retail stores between May 1 and November 15, 2022 and between May 1 and November 15, 2023. The fruit is being recalled because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.  The recalled peaches have been linked to an outbreak of Listeriosis that has resulted in eleven illnesses.  There has been one reported death.

The age range  is from 30 to 80 years    Median age of 69    73% are 65 years or older

The source of Listeria in these cases is likely to be the facility in which the product is packed.  Product in these packages will often be washed and dried prior to filling in the bag.  These washing / drying systems are areas where investigators will likely focus sampling.



https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/hmc-farms-voluntarily-recalls-whole-peaches-plums-and-nectarines-sold-retail-stores-2022-and-2023
HMC Farms Voluntarily Recalls Whole Peaches, Plums and Nectarines Sold at Retail Stores in 2022 and 2023 Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 17, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 17, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Fruit/Fruit Product
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  The HMC Group Marketing, Inc.
Brand Name:  Multiple brands
Product Description:  Whole Peaches, Plums, and Nectarines

MA Seafood Company Recalls Salmon Burgers for Undeclared Sesame and Milk

Raw SeaFoods, Inc. of Fall River, MA is recalling Farm Raised Lightly Seasoned Atlantic Salmon Burgers due to undeclared sesame and milk allergens.   The recalled product was sold in the seafood department of Whole Foods Market stores nationwide from August 25, 2023 through November 15, 2023.  The problem was discovered after a vendor reported visible sesame seeds present on the product. An investigation is currently under way to discover the cause. No illnesses have been reported to date.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/raw-seafoods-inc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-sesame-and-milk-farm-raised-lightly-seasoned
Raw SeaFoods, Inc. Issues Allergy Alert for Undeclared Sesame and Milk in Farm Raised Lightly Seasoned Atlantic Salmon Burgers
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 16, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 16, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Sesame and Milk
Company Name:  Raw SeaFoods, Inc.
Brand Name:  Raw SeaFoods
Product Description:  Farm Raised Lightly Seasoned Atlantic Salmon Burgers

TX Pet Food Manufacturer Expands Recall to All Products Due to Salmonella

TFP Nutrition is expanding their voluntary recall that was initiated to include all dry dog, dry cat, and catfish formulas manufactured in their Nacogdoches, Texas, facility. The recall of these production codes is being conducted due to the potential for Salmonella contamination.  The recall, initially posted on October 30, 2023 and then expanded on November 13, 2023.

As indicated earlier, expansions of these recalls can occur when it is determined that the facility could not demonstrate that they had control of the pathogen over time.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/tfp-nutrition-expands-voluntary-recall-dry-dog-dry-cat-and-catfish-food-due-potential-salmonella
TFP Nutrition Expands Voluntary Recall of Dry Dog, Dry Cat, and Catfish Food Due to Potential Salmonella Health Risk. Recall Includes Dry Dog, Dry Cat, and Catfish Foods Manufactured in Nacogdoches, TX Facility
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 16, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 16, 2023
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary  Food & Beverages  Pet Food
Reason for Announcement:   Potential Salmonella contamination
Company Name:  TFP Nutrition
Brand Name:  Multiple brands
Product Description:  Dry Dog, Dry Cat, and Catfish Food

Additional Recalls Issued After AZ Company's Recall for Cantaloupe Due to Salmonella

 SOFIA PRODUCE, LLC, of Nogales, Arizona which does business under the name “Trufresh” (“Trufresh”) has expanded its recall of all sizes of fresh cantaloupes packaged in cardboard containers labeled with the “Malichita” label, to include the following additional sales order numbers distributed between October 16, 2023 and October 23, 2023 because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella

Vinyard Fruit and Vegetable Company, located in Oklahoma City, OK, has initiated a voluntary recall of all fresh-cut cantaloupe products due to the potential for contamination with Salmonella.  This comes in response to the 11/8/2023 recall of fresh, whole cantaloupes by Sophia Foods, LLC (DBA Trufresh) of Nogales, AZ, which was triggered by testing conducted by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency which found the potential contamination with Salmonella, Vinyard Fruit and Vegetable Company is issuing this recall. Cantaloupes recalled by Sophia Foods LLC were used as a raw material in Vinyard cantaloupe products listed below.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/sofia-produce-llc-dba-trufresh-expands-recall-include-additional-order-numbers-fresh-cantaloupe
Sofia Produce, LLC dba Trufresh Expands Recall to Include Additional Order Numbers of Fresh Cantaloupe Because of Possible Health Risk Due to Salmonella
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 15, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 16, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Salmonella contamination
Company Name:  Sofia Produce, LLC dba Trufresh
Brand Name: Malichita
Product Description: Fresh Cantaloupe

FDA Investigation into Lead Contamination in Apple Cinnamon Product, Cinnamon Identified as Probably Source

The FDA investigation into the lead contamination in the apple cinnamon fruit pouches continues. The product, manufactured in Ecuador, has resulted in lead poisoning in 34 reported individuals, primarily children. The company initially issued a recall on October 30, 2023, and then expanded the recall on November 13, 2023 to include additional brands of product.

To this point in time, FDA has not found lead in non-cinnamon product, which leads them to believe that the cinnamon is the source of the lead.  The FDA has not been able to test the specific cinnamon used in the product.

The importer is responsible for the safety of product brought into the United States.  As part of FSMA, companies must have FSVP (Foreign Supplier Verification Programs) in place for each imported food item.  As part of that program, importers must conduct a hazard analysis and then develop and implement verification activities for any significant hazard identified.  Foreign manufacturers must be in compliance with Preventive Controls for Human Foods regulations.  As part of that, they must conduct a hazard analysis for their operation and utilize programs that ensure GMP standards are met.

Total Adverse Events: 34*
Report Date Ranges: October 17, 2023 – November 15, 2023
States with Adverse Illness Events: AL (1), AR (1), CA (1), CT (1), FL (1), IL (1), LA (3), MD (2), MI (1), MO (1), NC (5), NE (1), NH (1), NM (1), NY (4), OH (1), PA (1), SC (2), TN (1), TX (1), VA (1), WA (1), Unknown (1)
Product Distribution: Nationwide

https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/investigation-elevated-lead-levels-cinnamon-applesauce-pouches-november-2023
Investigation of Elevated Lead Levels: Cinnamon Applesauce Pouches (November 2023)
Do not eat, sell, or serve multiple brands of recalled apple cinnamon fruit pouches. FDA’s investigation is ongoing.

Current Update
November 16, 2023

FDA, along with CDC and state and local partners, is investigating reports of elevated blood lead levels in individuals with reported exposure to Apple Cinnamon Fruit Puree pouches manufactured in Ecuador and sold under WanaBana, Weis, and Schnucks brands.

MD Firm Recalls Cooked Chicken Dish for Mislabeling and Allergen Due to Sesame Oil

JX Restaurant, Inc., a Maryland Heights, Mo. establishment, is recalling approximately 621 pounds of fully-cooked chicken product (General Tso's Chicken) due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the product contains sesame oil, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.  The problem was discovered by FSIS inspection personnel during a verification task where they discovered that sesame oil was not included on the label.

Now we know that if oils are highly refined, like soybean oil, then allergenic proteins will be absent and then soybean, in this case, does not have to be declared.  However, this is not the case with sesame oil according to FARE - Food Allergy Research and Education.

On their website, they state "*Studies show that most people with specific food protein allergies can safely eat highly refined oils made from those foods (examples include highly refined peanut and soybean oil). However, sesame oil is not highly refined and should be avoided by people who are allergic to sesame."

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/jx-restaurant-inc--recalls-chicken-products-due-misbranding-and-undeclared-allergens
JX Restaurant, Inc. Recalls Chicken Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens
FSIS Announcement

Nov. 11, 2023, Editor’s Note: Details of this recall release were updated to reflect the change in the name of the recalling firm to their corporate name, JX Restaurants, Inc.

Recall Cancelled for Granola Product After Third Party Laboratory Error Falsely Identified Coconut

Grandy Organics of Hiram Maine cancelled their recall posted on October 5, 2023, after due determining the third-party laboratory provided faulty testing and false results. Grandy Organics Honey Oat Granola deemed safe for consumption.

From the report,

"Grandy Organics provided repacked samples of the product to the potential distributor who in turn had it tested at their labs for their own Quality Assurance records. Friday November 3rd the distributor informed Grandy Organics that traces of coconut were discovered at 6 parts per million in the Gluten Free Honey Oat sample they were given. Because coconut is a dangerous allergen, Grandy moved quickly.

“I immediately contacted the FDA for guidance, visited our facility to prepare for further testing- both in house and at a certified lab and quickly prepared to notify any sales customers who had received the affected product. We issued a press release, recalled the affected cases, and informed our Direct customers immediately. The thought that Grandy’s products, which we make with such pride, could harm anyone left me sleepless for days,” said Grandy’s owner and Chief Granola Officer, Aaron Anker.

Concurrently, Grandy sent two additional batches of product out for testing to confirm there was no further contamination. What they learned from the third-party lab was incredible: There are known cross-reactivity events with certain ingredients that can cause a false positive when testing for the coconut allergen. Lab technicians are, in fact, trained to use a different testing procedure when these ingredients are present. Once the correct procedures were run, Grandy was notified that all products sent for testing were, in fact, free of allergens, as is stated on Grandy’s packaging."

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/grandy-organics-cancels-recall-gluten-free-honey-oat-granola-third-party-laboratory-error-resulted

Grandy Organics Cancels Recall of Gluten Free Honey Oat Granola. Third Party Laboratory Error Resulted in Falsley Identifying Presence of Coconut
Summary
Company Announcement Date: November 09, 2023
FDA Publish Date: November 09, 2023
Product Type: Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement: CORRECTION
Company Name: Grandy Organics
Brand Name: Grandy Organics
Product Description: Gluten Free Honey Oat Granola

Improper Chip Filling Leads to Recall for Undeclared Allergens

Frito-Lay today issued a voluntary recall of 16,100 bags of 6 ¼ oz. Off The Eaten Path Chickpea Veggie Crisps that may contain undeclared milk ingredients due to the unintended presence of caramel seasoned crisps. The recall is the result of an investigation following a consumer complaint. 

So this appears to be a product filling/labeling issue where caramel chips went into the Chickpea Veggie Chip bag.  Not a first for Frito Lay (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, etc).  FDA issued the company a Warning Letter in 2020 for allergen mislabeling issues.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/frito-lay-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-milk-eaten-path-chickpea-veggie-crisps
Frito-Lay Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in Off The Eaten Path Chickpea Veggie Crisps
Summary
Company Announcement Date: November 09, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 09, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk
Company Name: Frito-Lay
Brand Name:  Off the Eaten Path
Product Description:  Chickpea Veggie Crisps

Arizona Company Recalls Cantaloupe After Canadian Food Inspection Agency Testing Finds Salmonella

SOFIA PRODUCE, LLC, of Nogales, Arizona which does business under the name “Trufresh” (“Trufresh”) is recalling all sizes of fresh cantaloupes packaged in cardboard containers labeled with the “Malichita” label, sold under the following sales order numbers between October 16, 2023 and October 23, 2023 because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. The Cantaloupes were distributed directly to the following States in the United States: Arizona, California. Maryland, New Jersey, Tennessee, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, Texas, Florida and Canada.

Trufresh is performing this recall after the Canadian Food Inspection Agency announced a similar recall of cantaloupes packaged with the same Malichita label and bearing the same PLU due to possible salmonella contamination for cantaloupes sold to Fruits et Légumes Gaétan Bono. That recall was triggered by Canadian Food Inspection Agency test results. investigation has revealed that the above-listed order numbers may have been associated with the cantaloupes sold to Fruits et Légumes Gaétan Bono.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/sofia-produce-llc-dba-trufresh-recalls-fresh-cantaloupe-because-possible-health-risk-due-salmonella
Sofia Produce, LLC DBA Trufresh Recalls Fresh Cantaloupe Because of Possible Health Risk Due to Salmonella
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 08, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 09, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Salmonella
Company Name:  Sofia Produce, LLC dba Trufresh
Brand Name:  Malichita
Product Description:  Fresh Cantaloupe

TX Firm Expands Recall of Pet Food After Additional Product Tests Positive for Salmonella

Mid America Pet Food, Mount Pleasant, Texas, is expanding its October 30, 2023, voluntary recall to include additional pet food products, with Best By Dates before 10/31/24, made at its Mount Pleasant facility, due to the products’ potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.  This expanded voluntary recall is being issued due to some of the product lots testing positive for Salmonella through random and targeted sampling of finished product, including by the firm and the South Carolina Department of Agriculture. As of November 1, 2023, seven people reported Salmonella infections.

The recall was initially posted on October 30, 2023, just over a week ago.  And as predicted at that time, 
(https://pennstatefoodsafety.blogspot.com/2023/10/tx-firm-recalls-dog-food-after-testing.html), the recall was expanded as investigators found additional products positive for Salmonella.  Clearly, proper control was not in place, and in this case, most likely post-process contamination. 

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/mid-america-pet-food-expands-voluntary-recall-include-additional-dog-and-cat-food-products-due
Mid America Pet Food Expands Voluntary Recall to Include Additional Dog and Cat Food Products Due to Possible Salmonella Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 09, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 09, 2023
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary  Food & Beverages    Pet Food
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
Company Name:  Mid America Pet Food
Brand Name:  Multiple brand names
Product Description:  Dog and Cat Food

Expansion of Fruit Puree Pouches Due to Elevated Lead Levels, Now 22 Reported Cases

FDA provided an investigation update on November 13, 2023 where they stated "As of November 13, 2023, there have been 22 reports of illness potentially linked to recalled product submitted to FDA."

CDC reports "As of November 7, 2023, there are 22 cases, in states including Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Washington, ages 1 to 3 years, with BLLs ranging from 4 to 29 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL). Cases experienced signs and symptoms including headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, change in activity level, and anemia."

While any levels of lead in the blood is bad,  CDC uses a blood lead reference value (BLRV) of 3.5 µg/dL to identify children with BLLs that are higher than most children’s levels.

WanaBana USA is expanding its recall to include all lots of WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Fruit Purée pouches due to reports of elevated levels of lead found in certain units of the product.

WanaBana trade channels include 

• Dollar Tree and Amazon. WanaBana USA is working to investigate the source of the contamination and is collaborating with the FDA in updating consumers with information related to this product recall.
• The product is also distributed independently in the US as private label brands under the names of Schnucks Apple Sauce 90g pouches with cinnamon. The affected Schnucks lots subject of the product recall were identified as 05023:19, 09023:22 and 09023:24. To date, there have been no injuries reported related to Schnucks products. Photos of the Schnuck product is attached.
• In addition, Weis Cinnamon Apple Sauce 90g, reported an affected lot number 05023:28, which is also included in the product recall. To date, there have been no injuries reported related to Weis products. Photos of the Weis brand is attached.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/wanabana-recalls-wanabana-weis-and-schnucks-apple-cinnamon-fruit-puree-pouches-cinnamon-apple-sauce

WanaBana Recalls WanaBana, Weis, and Schnucks Apple Cinnamon Fruit Purée Pouches & Cinnamon Apple Sauce Due to Elevated Lead Levels
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 09, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 09, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Elevated levels of lead
Company Name:  Wanabana LLC
Brand Name:  Wanabana, Schnucks, Weis
Product Description:  Apple Cinnamon Fruit Puree/Cinnamon Apple Sauce

Snake Pizza - Considerations for the Hazard Analysis

An news article on CNN discusses how Pizza Hut is teaming up with a century-old Hong Kong restaurant to put a modern spin on a traditional dishes, in this case, snake on a pizza.  "The new offering combines shredded snake meat, black mushrooms and Chinese dried ham – all indispensable ingredients of an authentic snake stew and part of the Hong Kong franchise’s marketing plot to generate buzz online."  "The company is also introducing a pizza made with Chinese preserved sausages featured in a claypot rice dish".

"It is not the first time Asian franchises of the original American brand have adopted a more adventurous gastronomical approach to celebrate local food culture.  In the past, Pizza Hut in Taiwan introduced pizzas made with durian, pig blood curds, and preserved eggs – ingredients that play a big role in the local culinary culture.  Meanwhile, Pizza Hut in Japan created a pizza topped with Tonkotsu ramen (pork bone soup ramen)."

As food companies look to integrate local flavors to build excitement in those markets, they will use ingredients where there may be less knowledge regarding hazards.  This can be a big challenge to food safety experts - determining risks of unique ingredients where there may be limited formal study.  Then, making sure sufficient controls are in place for hazards.

Hong Kong's Pizza Hut is partnering up with a local century-old restaurant to introduce a new snake-soup pizza.
Source - https://www.cnn.com/2023/11/08/travel/snake-pizza-in-hong-kong-intl-hnk/index.html

CNN
Pizza Hut selling snake pizza in Hong Kong
https://www.cnn.com/2023/11/08/travel/snake-pizza-in-hong-kong-intl-hnk/index.html
By Chris Lau, CNN
Updated 3:18 AM EST, Wed November 8, 2023

Investigation of 2020 Salmonella Outbreak in Restaurant Finds Drain Contamination as Likely Source for Ongoing Issues

An investigative report in the Journal of Food Protection provides the approach and findings related to a 2020 Salmonella outbreak which "identified a total of 67 cases between January 1, 2020, and August 13, 2021, 66% of which were directly linked to a restaurant in the area".   Regulatory officials conducted a intensive investigation, looking at many angles, but in the end, they believe the endemic contamination was linked to the kitchen drainage system.

"Explanatory hypothesis adopted. The most plausible explanation for the origin of this outbreak remains the contamination of the drains in Restaurant A. Indeed, most of the environmental samples positive for Salmonella were found in sinks or near them (sink sprayers, drains). The presence of contaminated biofilm (Mair-Jenkins et al., 2017) in the restaurant’s kitchen drainage system may have had a role to play in the extended duration of this outbreak."

A few takeaways:

• The importance of periodic drain cleaning. This occurs in food operations, but not really discussed to any degree for foodservice operations. Depending on the location of the drain relative to operational areas and the potential for the drains backing up, the risk of contamination from drains can vary. However, a periodic cleaning regiment can reduce this risk.
• During investigations,  much focus is placed on a given food item.  In this case, an environmental niche may have been the source to many food items via contaminated equipment or hands.  These out-of-site niche areas can foster resident or endemic contamination that can be difficult to identify if only looking at given food items.

Journal of Food Protection
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0362028X23068151?via%3Dihub
Research Paper
Investigation of a Salmonella Montevideo Outbreak Related to the Environmental Contamination of a Restaurant Kitchen Drainage System, Québec, Canada, 2020–2021

Animal Feed Premix Facility Issued Warning Letter for Improper Control of Vitamin D

FDA issued a Warning Letter to ADM Animal Nutrition and their  vitamin and mineral premix and preblend animal food manufacturing facility, located in Effingham, Illinois.  The inspection was done in response to the premix with high levels of Vitamin D.  Clearly a significant hazard, the chemical blending of Vitamin D was controlled through a basic prerequisite program rather than as a Preventive Control.

"Specifically, your firm manufactures a preblend that is subsequently used by other firms in the manufacture of animal food products, and your reliance on your prerequisite programs failed to reduce the probability that a vitamin D nutrient toxicity will occur in your animal food in the absence of a preventive control."

FDA Warning Letter

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/adm-animal-nutrition-657846-10232023

ADM Animal Nutrition
MARCS-CMS 657846 — OCTOBER 23, 2023

Chicken Patty Product Recalled After Complaints Received for Small Metal Pieces

Tyson Foods, Inc. a Berryville, Ark., establishment, is recalling approximately 29,819 pounds of fully cooked, breaded, shaped chicken patty product that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically metal pieces.  The problem was discovered after the firm notified FSIS that it had received consumer complaints reporting small metal pieces in the chicken patty product. There has been one reported minor oral injury associated with consumption of this product. FSIS has received no additional reports of injury or illness from consumption of these products.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/tyson-foods-inc--recalls-chicken-patty-product-due-possible-foreign-matter
Tyson Foods Inc. Recalls Chicken Patty Product Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination

WASHINGTON, Nov. 4, 2023 – Tyson Foods, Inc. a Berryville, Ark., establishment, is recalling approximately 29,819 pounds of fully cooked, breaded, shaped chicken patty product that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically metal pieces, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

MD Firm Recalls Sandwiches for Undeclared Allergens Due to Supplier Change Issue

Hearn Kirkwood of Jessup, Md., is issuing a voluntary recall of 5,895 clamshell containers of various Croissant Sandwiches because its labeling did not identify the following allergens in the product: soy and milk.  The recall was initiated after one of our firm’s ingredients suppliers failed to notify them the ingredient formulation had changed. This led to products being sent to customers without properly identifying the allergens of soy and milk.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/hearn-kirkwood-issues-safety-alert-undeclared-soy-and-milk-various-croissant-sandwiches
Hearn Kirkwood Issues Safety Alert on Undeclared Soy and Milk in Various Croissant Sandwiches
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 06, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 07, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared soy and milk.
Company Name:  Hearn Kirkwood
Brand Name:  Multiple brand names
Product Description:  Sandwiches

Maine Firm Recalls Granola Product After Discovering Undeclared Coconut

Update 11/9/23 - Recall Cancelled.  See https://pennstatefoodsafety.blogspot.com/2023/11/recall-cancelled-for-granola-product.html

Grandy Organics of Hiram, Maine is voluntarily recalling Gluten Free Honey Oat Granola with lot code 231017-03459-1 because it may contain undeclared Coconut.  After conducting a thorough tracing exercise, Grandy Organics discovered that the product potentially containing trace levels of coconut was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of coconut.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/grandy-organics-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-coconut-gluten-free-honey-oat-granola
Grandy Organics Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Coconut in Gluten Free Honey Oat Granola
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 05, 2023
FDA Publish Date: November 05, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Coconut
Company Name:  Grandy Organics
Brand Name:  Grandy Organics
Product Description:  Gluten Free Honey Oat Granola

Canada - Sliced Mushrooms Recalled Due to Potential Listeria Contamination

Loblaw Companies Ltd. is recalling President's Choice brand White Sliced Mushrooms after Canadian Food Inspection Agency tests detected Listeria monocytogenes.  There have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of this product.

https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/alert-recall/president-s-choice-brand-white-sliced-mushrooms-recalled-due-listeria-monocytogenes
Food recall warning
President's Choice brand White Sliced Mushrooms recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes

Pouches of Apple Fruit Puree with Cinnamon Recalled After 4 Children Suffer from Acute Lead Toxicity

The FDA issued a public health alert for WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree after the NC Dept of Health  identified the product as being the source of lead that caused elevated lead levels in 4 children.  "NCDHHS analyzed multiple lots of WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree, detecting extremely high concentrations of lead. The FDA has reviewed and supports NCDHHS’s analytical findings and found that analytical results at this level could result in acute toxicity."

"The FDA is advising parents and caregivers not to buy or feed WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches to children because the product may contain elevated levels of lead. Parents and caregivers of toddlers and young children who may have consumed WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches should contact their child’s healthcare provider about getting a blood test."

https://www.fda.gov/food/alerts-advisories-safety-information/fda-advises-parents-and-caregivers-not-buy-or-feed-wanabana-apple-cinnamon-fruit-puree-pouches
FDA Advises Parents and Caregivers Not to Buy or Feed WanaBana Apple Cinnamon Fruit Puree Pouches to Toddlers and Young Children Because of Elevated Lead Levels

Minn Establishment Recalls Frozen Spaghetti Due to Undeclared Egg Allergen Due to Supplier Change

Fairmont Foods, Inc., a Fairmont, Minn. establishment, is recalling approximately 147,132 pounds of frozen spaghetti loops with meat sauce entrée products due to misbranding and undeclared allergen -  the  product contains egg, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.  The problem was discovered by the producing establishment while conducting a routine ingredient label review. They notified FSIS that egg, a known allergen, was not declared on the finished product label. The problem occurred after a change in noodle formulation by the supplier.

While one would want the supplier to notify its industrial customers of formulation changes to the purchased ingredient, the manufacturing operation purchasing the product must also be checking labels of incoming ingredients.


https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fairmont-foods-inc--recalls-frozen-spaghetti-loops-meat-sauce-entree-products-due
Fairmont Foods, Inc., Recalls Frozen Spaghetti Loops With Meat Sauce Entree Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergen

FAIRMONT FOODS, INC.

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Nov. 2, 2023 – Fairmont Foods, Inc., a Fairmont, Minn. establishment, is recalling approximately 147,132 pounds of frozen spaghetti loops with meat sauce entrée products due to misbranding and undeclared allergen, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product contains egg, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.

FL Establishment Recalls RTE Empanada Products Produced Without USDA Inspection

Q’Delicia, a Jacksonville, Fla. establishment, is recalling approximately 639 pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry empanada products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection.  The problem was discovered during FSIS surveillance activities when it was determined that the empanada products did not have the USDA mark of inspection and were produced in a facility that was not inspected by USDA. The products were also distributed without a list of ingredients. As a result of not receiving inspection, FSIS is concerned these products may not be safe for human consumption.


https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/qdelicia-recalls-ready-eat-empanada-products-produced-without-benefit-inspection
Q’Delicia Recalls Ready-To-Eat Empanada Products Produced Without Benefit of Inspection

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Oct. 31, 2023 – Q’Delicia, a Jacksonville, Fla. establishment, is recalling approximately 639 pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry empanada 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.