Two Die From Fungal Infection After Handling Bat Poop to Be Used for Cannabis Fertilizer

Two men from Rochester, New York, who grew their own cannabis died from pneumonia after being exposed to a harmful fungus in bat poop they'd used as fertilizer for growing cannabis.  There are many articles online that call "bat guano a "natural superfood" for cannabis plants due to its high concentration of nitrogen and phosphorus"

Both men were around 60 years old and had pre-existing conditions that may have made them more prone to infection.  "Histoplasmosis is a type of pneumonia caused by breathing in spores of H. capsulatum, a fungus found in soil and bird and bat droppings. In the lungs, H. capsulatum spores transform into mature yeast that can spread to other regions of the body via the bloodstream. However, the disease cannot spread between people or between people and their pets."


https://www.livescience.com/health/viruses-infections-disease/bat-poop-used-to-grow-cannabis-kills-2-in-new-york-in-unusual-cases
Bat poop used to grow cannabis kills 2 in New York in unusual cases

News
By Emily Cooke 

12/16/24

CA Firm Recalls Various Snacks Due to Lack of Allergen Declarations on Labels

Cal Yee Farm LLC of Suisun Valley, California is recalling snack products including chocolate and yogurt covered products (Dark Chocolate Walnuts, Dark Chocolate Raisins, Dark Chocolate Almonds, Yogurt Coated Almonds and Dark Chocolate Apricots [sold under Cal Yee’s or Cal Yee Farm brands]), Tropical Trail Mix, Butter Toffee due to undeclared allergens.  The recall was initiated after an FDA inspection of our facility where it was discovered that products containing milk, soy, wheat, sesame, FD&C #6 and almonds were distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of milk, soy, wheat, sesame, FD&C #6 and almonds.

(photo credit - Tripadvisor Link)


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/cal-yee-farm-llc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-milk-soy-wheat-sesame-fdc-6-and-almonds-snack
Cal Yee Farm LLC Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk, Soy, Wheat, Sesame, FD&C #6 and Almonds in Snack Products
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 12, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  December 14, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential or Undeclared Allergen – almond, milk, soy, wheat, sesame, and FD&C #6
Company Name:  Cal Yee Farm LLC
Brand Name:  Cal Yee's, Cal Yee Farm, Boa Vista Orchards
Product Description:  Nut and snack products

Wisconsin Firm Recalls Frozen Pizza Due to Potential for Plastic

Palermo Villa, Inc.of Milwaukee, WI is issuing a recall of 1,728 Connie’s Thin Crust Cheese Frozen Pizzas because of a possible plastic foreign contaminant.  This recall alert, which is being conducted under the full cooperation of the FDA, is being issued out of an abundance of caution in the event that a product remains in a consumer’s freezer. The pizzas are no longer available for purchase. Consumers who have purchased these Pizzas are urged not to consume them. 

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/palermo-villa-inc-issues-recall-1728-connies-thin-crust-cheese-frozen-pizzas-due-possible-plastic
Palermo Villa, Inc. Issues Recall for 1,728 Connie’s Thin Crust Cheese Frozen Pizzas Due to Possible Plastic Contaminant
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 13, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  December 13, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Metal or Chemical Contaminant
Company Name:  Palermo Villa, Inc
Brand Name:  Connie’s
Product Description:  Thin crust cheese frozen pizza, 20.36oz

NY Firm Recalls Bloody Mary Mix for Undeclared Allergens - Fish and Soy

Borsari Food Co of Jamestown, NY is recalling all of its Bloody Mary Mix due to undeclared allergens. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to fish (anchovy), or soy that are not declared on the label.  The issue was discovered in the context of a New York State Department of Agriculture inspection. Current in-house inventory, as well as future product, will clearly declare these ingredients (i.e., fish (anchovy) and soy) on the label.

Looking at the company website, the Bloody Mary Mix has these ingredients listed:

Ingredients: Tomato juice, corn syrup, non-fat milk solids, orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, cayenne pepper, vinegar, salt, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, prepared horseradish, malic acid, sodium and potassium benzoate, yellow 5 & 6.

So no surprise, it was missing the allergens in the Worcestershire sauce.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/borsari-food-co-recalls-bloody-mary-mix-due-possible-health-risk

Borsari Food Co. Recalls – Bloody Mary Mix – Due to Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 09, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  December 10, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Allergens
Reason for Announcement:  Potential or Undeclared Allergen – Soy, Fish
Company Name:  Borsari Food Co
Brand Name:  Borsari
Product Description:  Bloody Mary Mix

Granola Bars Recalled Due to Potential for Metal

Riverside Natural Foods Inc. is voluntarily recalling certain batches of MadeGood granola bars due to the potential presence of a piece of metal in the product.  This recall is being initiated as a precautionary measure; no injuries have been reported.  "Riverside has conducted an extensive investigation where the recalled products were manufactured and has identified the source of the issue in the manufacturing process. The company has remediated the issue and tested the new processes to ensure that any future risk is fully mitigated."

The recall is extensive, so it appears that the equipment was potentially generating metal over a long period of time.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/riverside-natural-foods-inc-issues-voluntary-recall-select-madegood-granola-bar-products-over
Riverside Natural Foods Inc. Issues Voluntary Recall of Select MadeGood Granola Bar Products Over Potential Presence of a Piece of Metal
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 09, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  December 10, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Metal Contaminant
Company Name:  Riverside Natural Foods Inc.
Brand Name:  MadeGood
Product Description:  Granola bars

Shocker - Another Recall of Imported Enoki Mushrooms for Listeria

New Age International Inc of Brooklyn, NY 11206 is recalling its 200g packaged of Daily Veggies Enoki Mushroom, Product to Korea because they maybe contaminated with Listeria Monocytogenes

The contamination was discovered after samples were collected from a store in Baltimore, Maryland and subsequent analysis by State of Maryland Department of Health Laboratories Administration revealed the presence of Listeria Monocytogenes in some 200g packages of Daily Veggies Enoki Mushroom form Korea. Remaining products in the warehouse had been destroyed.  No Illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/new-age-international-recalls-enoki-mushrooms-due-potential-health-risk
New Age International Recalls ‘Enoki Mushrooms’ Due to Potential Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 11, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  December 12, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.
Company Name:  New Age International Inc
Brand Name:  Daily Veggies
Product Description:  Enoki Mushrooms

IFSAC Releases 2024 Report on Foodborne Illness Source Attribution Estimates – United States, 2022

IFSAC released their 2024 report that looks at data through 2022.  This is a distillation of that report to show the highlights.  I think that the charts were the most informative part of this report.

IFSAC, an interagency group with CDC, FDA, and USDA-FSIS, estimates foodborne illness source attribution and provides timely estimates of the food sources of four priority foodborne pathogens: Salmonella, Escherichia coli O157 (E. coli), Listeria monocytogenes (Listeria), and Campylobacter. IFSAC considers these four pathogens to be priorities because of the frequency and severity of illness they cause, and because targeted interventions can significantly reduce these illnesses. Data come from 48,735 illnesses linked to 1,355 foodborne disease outbreaks that occurred from 1998 through 2022 The method relies most heavily on the last five years of outbreak data (2018–2022).

Each year in the United States an estimated 9 million people get sick, 56,000 are hospitalized, and 1,300 die of a foodborne disease caused by known pathogens.

Overall - Key results [per the report]

• The results are based on 1,010 outbreaks caused or suspected to be caused by Salmonella, 281 by E. coli O157, and 64 by Listeria.
• Estimated Salmonella illnesses were more evenly distributed across food categories than illnesses from E. coli O157, and Listeria; most of the illnesses for the latter pathogens were attributed to one or two food categories.
• The credibility intervals overlap for the Salmonella and Listeria categories with the highest attribution percentages, indicating no statistically significant difference between them.Salmonella

Salmonella

Key results

• Over 75% of illnesses were attributed to seven food categories: chicken, fruits, seeded vegetables (such as tomatoes), pork, other produce (such as nuts), beef, and turkey.
• The credibility intervals for each of the seven food categories that account for 79.7% of all illnesses overlap with the intervals of other categories.

E. coli O157

Key results

• Over 85% of E. coli O157 illnesses were attributed to vegetable row crops (such as leafy greens) and beef.
• Vegetable row crops had a significantly higher estimated attribution percentage than all other categories.
• Beef had a significantly higher estimated attribution percentage than all categories other than vegetable row crops.
• No illnesses were attributed to eggs or oils-sugars.

Listeria monocytogenes

Key results

• Over 75% of illnesses were attributed to dairy, vegetable row crops, and fruits.
• The credibility intervals for the dairy, vegetable row crops, fruits, and other produce categories were wide, partly due to the small total number of outbreaks (64).
• No illnesses were attributed to other meat/poultry, game, other seafood, grains-beans, oils-sugars, and seeded vegetables.

Campylobacter
Attribution estimates for Campylobacter are not presented in this year's report. Evidence suggests the sources of Campylobacter outbreaks likely differ considerably from the sources of non-outbreak-associated illnesses caused by this pathogen.


https://www.cdc.gov/ifsac/php/data-research/annual-report-2022.html
Foodborne Illness Source Attribution Estimates – United States, 2022

At a glance

1. This report presents annual estimates of the percentages of foodborne illness attributed to 17 food categories for Salmonella, Escherichia coli O157, and Listeria monocytogenes.
2. These estimates can inform food safety decision-making and provide pathogen-specific direction for reducing foodborne illness.
3. Data come from 48,735 illnesses linked to 1,355 foodborne disease outbreaks that occurred from 1998 through 2022.

Executive summary

Each year in the United States an estimated 9 million people get sick, 56,000 are hospitalized, and 1,300 die of a foodborne disease caused by known pathogens. These estimates help highlight the scope of this public health problem. However, to develop effective prevention measures, food safety agencies and partners need to understand the types of foods contributing to the problem.

FDA Issues Warning Letter to Texas Pet Food Company for Inability to Combat Salmonella Contamination

FDA issued a Warning Letter to Mid America Pet Food LLC, a pet food manufacturing facility located in Mount Pleasant, Texas.  This was a reinspection of the facility that was responsible for a 2023 outbreak of Salmonella after a product recall had been issued.  (Initially Salmonella was found in product.  A multi-state foodborne illness outbreak of Salmonella Kiambu implicated in human illnesses through epidemiological traceback.1 A total of seven people from seven states were infected with the outbreak strain from January 14, 2023 to August 19, 2023, and one person was hospitalized. Six of the affected people were children under one year of age).  

"FDA collected environmental samples (i.e., swabs) from surfaces in [the] manufacturing facility during this inspection and a subsequent inspection, conducted from January 23, 2024, through February 9, 2024, in response to a consumer complaint. Analysis of these samples using whole genome sequencing revealed that three of the Salmonella-positive environmental swabs collected in the post-process area of [the] facility during the 2024 inspection are closely related to seven Salmonella-positive environmental swabs collected in the pre-process areas of your facility during the 2023 inspection, indicating that [the] facility may have three resident strains of Salmonella: Salmonella Rissen, Salmonella Minnesota, and Salmonella Mbandaka."

• FDA Investigators observed visible debris on food-contact surfaces of equipment such as brushes, brooms, and squeegees after cleaning and sanitizing of equipment was performed by your third-party sanitation service.
• Did not document (b)(4) cleaning for the discharge hoppers located in the packaging area for the entire month of December 2023.  In addition, there were multiple instances of other equipment and areas where [employees] did not document sanitation activities in accordance with your Master Cleaning Schedule
•  FDA Investigators observed rainwater entering your facility through the roof while  manufacturing multiple lots of dog food. FDA Investigators observed standing water and soaked absorbent pads in staging, production, and finished product areas, including in post-process areas such as the dryer room and packaging areas. The manufacturing facility must be constructed in a manner such does not become a source of potential contamination to your animal food.
• Did not document the (b)(4) process control applied to the chicken fat prior to January 13, 2024, which demonstrates the company did not effectively implement your process control.
• Did not take appropriate corrective action when a preventive control, combination of preventive controls, or the food safety plan as a whole was found to be ineffective, specifically in handling situations were positive samples were detected.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/mid-america-pet-food-llc-681516-11222024
WARNING LETTER
Mid America Pet Food LLC
MARCS-CMS 681516 — November 22, 2024

Michigan Bakery Cited by FDA for Issues with Food Safety Plan and Its Implementation

FDA issued a Warning Letter to Knickerbocker 365 Inc, a processor of ready-to-eat (RTE) breads, rolls, and buns manufacturing facility located in Madison Heights, MI.

This points out many of the same issues identified in bakery operations.

The hazard analysis did not identify and evaluate a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard to determine whether it requires a preventive control.  

• The company did not consider recontamination with environmental pathogens, such as Salmonella, at steps where your RTE breads, rolls, and buns are exposed to the environment. The RTE breads, rolls, and buns are exposed to the environment at post-baking steps (including “Cooling,” “De-panning,” “Slicing,” and “Packaging”) where they could be contaminated with environmental pathogens such as Salmonella, and do not receive a lethal treatment or otherwise include a control measure (such as formulation lethal to the pathogen) that would significantly minimize pathogens.
• The RTE breads, rolls, and buns come into direct contact with post-baking equipment, such as the “(b)(4) slicer” “the (b)(4) Slicer,” and the “(b)(4) Slicer.” However, The FDA noted that written sanitation procedures, documented on the “(b)(4) Cleaning Checklist,” for equipment used post-baking do not indicate sanitizer concentration or how to clean utensils and clean out-of-place (COP) equipment (e.g., pieces of equipment (i.e., blades) from the (b)(4) slicing machine) that are cleaned and sanitized in the (b)(4) sink.
• In addition, the  facility’s environmental testing document is not clear on the frequency of collecting environmental samples for pathogens, including Salmonella. In the “Purpose” section, the document states that “Testing is to occur at the (b)(4) procedures at (b)(4).” However, in the “Background” section, the document indicates that (b)(4) for “Salmonella sp.” will be “collected quarterly.” The “Limit and Testing occurrences” in the “Procedures” section notes testing for Salmonella “at least annually.” Furthermore, the procedure does not indicate the analytical method that will be used.
• The company did not identify and implement a supply-chain preventive control to ensure control of ingredient-related pathogens.The hazard analysis for RTE breads, rolls, and buns, “21.0 HACCP Last Revision 3/2024,” identified at receiving steps for wheat flour, whey (b)(4), egg, and walnut ingredients, pathogens as a hazard associated with these ingredients used in your RTE products. The hazard analysis further identified a supply-chain control to control the pathogen hazard. However, The company did not have a written supply-chain program covering the pathogen hazard in the referenced ingredient.
• The written allergen preventive control did not include procedures, practices, and processes for ensuring protection of food from allergen cross-contact, including during storage, handling, and use, and for food labeling to ensure the food is not misbranded

The food safety plan was not prepared, nor was its preparation overseen, by one or more preventive controls qualified individual(s), as required by 21 CFR 117.126(a)(2). The hazard analysis indicates that it was approved by the President/Owner (Sandra Sokana) who is not a PCQI, and there is no PCQI trained individuals or individuals who are qualified through experience to develop and apply a food safety system.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/knickerbocker-365-inc-687624-09302024
WARNING LETTER
Knickerbocker 365 Inc.
MARCS-CMS 687624 — September 30, 2024

Additional Products Recalled After Linked to Cucumber Recall for Salmonella

Four companies are issuing recalls for cucumbers and cucumber products that after it was determined that the cucumbers they used are included in the recalled cucumbers which had been linked to the  Salmonella outbreak.

• Select lots of Gyro Family Kits were recalled from Sprouts stores on 12/06/2024 after being alerted by their supplier Reser’s Fine Foods, Inc. of potential Salmonella contamination of the cucumbers within the tzatziki sauce.
• Dairyland Produce, LLC, dba Hardie’s Fresh Foods of Houston, TX and Dallas, TX are recalling CUCUMBER SELECT 6 CT, because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella
• F&S Fresh Foods, Riverside, CA is recalling Mediterranean Inspired Party Tray 22 oz. The recall was initiated after F&S Fresh Foods was notified that Grecian Delight Tzatziki sauce supplied to F&S Fresh Foods may be contaminated with Salmonella
• Baloian Farms of Arizona Co. (Baloian) has initiated a recall of cucumbers due to possible health risks due to salmonella. As a result, Fresh Creative Foods is voluntarily recalling one product that contains cucumbers in the tzatziki sauce included in the kit.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/resers-fine-foods-inc-recalls-select-lots-sprouts-farmers-market-gyro-family-kits-due-potential
Reser’s Fine Foods, Inc. Recalls Select Lots of Sprouts Farmers Market Gyro Family Kits Due to Potential Salmonella Contamination

Summary

Company Announcement Date:  December 09, 2024

FDA Publish Date:  December 10, 2024

Product Type:  Food & Beverages

Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness - Salmonella

Company Name:  Reser’s Fine Foods, Inc

Brand Name:  Sprouts Farmers Market

Product Description:  Gyro Family Kit

FDA Issues Warning Letter to GA Egg Facility After Many Salmonella Positive Environmental Samples

FDA issued a Warning Letter to Rise N’ Shine Farm, Inc., a shell egg farm and egg processing facility, where eggs are washed and packed, located in Calhoun, Georgia

FDA conducted environmental sampling and found "19 isolates from the three samples represent two strains of Salmonella enterica. The first strain includes 17 isolates derived from swabs collected from your poultry house (FDA Sample 1231486) that match 57 clinical isolates and demonstrates that this strain is capable of causing human illness. This strain also matches an isolate obtained from a chicken sample collected in Georgia in 2021. The second strain consisted of two environmental isolates derived from swabs collected from your poultry house (FDA Sample 1231467) and your egg processing environment (FDA Sample 1240106) that match 23 clinical isolates, demonstrating that this strain is also capable of causing human illness. This strain also matches five isolates obtained from chicken samples collected in Georgia and Illinois in 2023. We advised you of the importance of these WGS results on November 20, 2023."

• Did not have and implement a written Salmonella Enteritidis prevention plan (SE plan) that was specific to your farm and includes the minimum SE prevention measures
• Did not conduct environmental testing of the pullet environment at 14-16 weeks of age, as required 
• id not conduct environmental testing for SE in your poultry house when each group of laying hens were 40 to 45 weeks of age
• Did not prevent stray poultry, wild birds, cats, and other animals from entering poultry houses, as required by 21 CFR 118.4(b)(4). Specifically, during the inspection three dogs were observed inside your poultry house, where they also had access to the pasture area outside the poultry house.
• did not register your farm as shell egg producer, as required per 21 CFR 118.11(a). At the initiation of the inspection, your farm had 3,000 or more laying hens, was producing shell eggs for the table market, and was not selling all the eggs directly to consumers.
• Eggs were prepared, packed, or held under insanitary conditions whereby they may have become contaminated with filth or rendered injurious to health within the meaning of section 402(a)(4) of the FD&C Act. Specifically, during the inspection, our investigators observed the following conditions and practices at your farm during the processing of shell eggs:
• Leftover product grime was observed on the egg candling line before processing.
• Rust observed on areas adjacent to food contact surface points on your processing line.
• Egg line brushes used to clean eggs were observed with an apparent substance after cleaning.
• Porous wood was used as a brace on a portion of the processing line.
• Duct tape was used as a repair on the egg packing line in areas that come into direct contact with shell eggs.

FSIS Issues Warning for Illegally Imported Yummy Dino Buddies Holiday Chicken Nuggets (from Canada)

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for ready-to-eat (RTE) frozen chicken products that did not receive the benefit of import reinspection.  The problem was discovered by FSIS inspection personnel who determined that the products were not presented for FSIS import reinspection.

 A recall was not requested because the products are no longer available for purchase.  And the products were shipped to only one location.  "The products bear the Canadian establishment seal “348.” These items were shipped to one Costco retail location at 7095 Marketplace Dr, Goleta, California, 93117"

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-ready-eat-frozen-chicken-products-imported-without-0
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Ready-To-Eat Frozen Chicken Products Imported Without The Benefit Of Import Reinspection

WASHINGTON, Dec. 4, 2024 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for ready-to-eat (RTE) frozen chicken products that did not receive the benefit of import reinspection. A recall was not requested because the products are no longer available for purchase.

NC Firm Recalls Hushpuppies Due to Missing Milk Allergen Declaration

Atkinson Milling Company is recalling a variety of Hushpuppies due to undeclared milk allergen.  On November 29, 2024, during an internal review of the label, the firm discovered that they did not have milk listed in the “ingredients” or “contains” sections. Upon this discovery, and out of an abundance of caution, the firm decided to report this labeling error to North Carolina Department of Agriculture and the Food & Drug Administration.

So this would be an issue with improper label design.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/atkinson-milling-company-recalls-frozen-1-lb-bag-frozen-hushpuppies-onions-2-lb-8oz-bag-frozen
Atkinson Milling Company Recalls Frozen 1 Lb Bag Frozen Hushpuppies with Onions, 2 Lb 8oz Bag Frozen Hushpuppies With Onions and 2 Lb 8oz Bag Frozen Hushpuppies Without Onions Due to Undeclared Milk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 05, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  December 05, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential or Undeclared Allergen - Milk
Company Name:  Atkinson Milling Company
Brand Name:  Atkinson’s
Product Description:  Hushpuppies with Onions, Hushpuppies

Update on Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Imported Cucumbers; Additional Distributors Recall Cucumbers

FDA, CDC, and state partners continue to investigate a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium infections linked to cucumbers.  FDA is working closely with implicated firms to determine whether additional recalls of American/slicer cucumbers, processed recalled cucumbers, and products made with recalled cucumbers may be necessary. On December 3, 2024, Walmart recalled Marketside Fresh Cut Cucumber Slices sold at stores in TX. On December 4, 2024, JFE, Supreme Produce, and Yummi Sushi initiated recalls of food products containing recalled cucumbers at Kroger stores in AZ, CO, LA, TX, and WY, and King Soopers stores in CO.

There have been no additional cases since reported on November 29, 2024.

Case Counts
Total Illnesses: 68
Hospitalizations: 18
Deaths: 0
Last Illness Onset: November 16, 2024
States with Cases: AK, CA, CO, IA, IL, MA, MT, NE, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, SD, TX, UT, WA, WI and WY
Product Distribution*: AK, AZ, AR, CA, CO, CT, FL, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, LA, MD, MA, MI, MN, MO, MT, NE, NV, NJ, NY, NC, ND, OK, OR, PA, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WI, and WY
*Distribution has been confirmed for states listed, but product could have been distributed further, reaching additional states


FDA Outbreak Investigation
https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-salmonella-cucumbers-november-2024
Outbreak Investigation of Salmonella: Cucumbers (November 2024)
Do not eat, sell, or serve recalled cucumbers or products containing recalled cucumbers. Multiple companies issue recalls.
Content current as of:
12/05/2024

Current Update
December 5, 2024

FDA Cites Bakery for Preventive Control and GMP Issues

FDA issued a Warning Letter to Mena Food Group, Fort Lauderdale, FL, after inspecting the facility which manufactures ready-to eat (RTE) bakery products including breads, cakes, and pastries.   The issues seen here are things that have been previously cited with other bakery operations, as well as other operations producing RTE foods.

Environmental pathogens considered a hazard requiring a preventive controls - The facility did not identify and evaluate recontamination with environmental pathogens as a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard to determine whether it requires a preventive control. The RTE bakery products are exposed to the environment at post-baking steps at the (b)(4) steps where they can be contaminated with environmental pathogens such as Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes. The packaged bakery products do not receive a lethal treatment or otherwise include a control measure (such as a formulation lethal to the pathogen) that would significantly minimize pathogens. Therefore, contamination with environmental pathogens is a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard

Environmental monitoring is required - In addition, note that environmental monitoring is required if contamination of an RTE food with an environmental pathogen is a hazard requiring a preventive control (see 21 CFR 117.165(a)(3)). Your facility is not monitoring the environment for an environmental pathogen, or for an appropriate indicator organism, to verify the effectiveness of your sanitation controls.

Need to consider mycotoxins as a hazard in the hazard analysis - The facility did not identify and evaluate mycotoxins as a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard to determine whether they require a preventive control. The facility manufactures RTE bakery products (e.g., breads) containing high protein wheat flour, which has been associated with mycotoxins such as deoxynivalenol (DON). Therefore, mycotoxins are a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard. A knowledgeable person manufacturing/processing food in your circumstances would identify mycotoxins as a hazard requiring a preventive control in this ingredient. Further, a facility that identifies raw materials and other ingredients that require a supply-chain-applied control, such as mycotoxins, must establish and implement a risk-based supply-chain program for those raw materials and ingredients (see 21 CFR 117.405(a)(1)). The supply-chain program must include using approved suppliers and conducting supplier verification activities (see 21 CFR 117.410). This program was not in place.

Allergen labeling is required - The facility’s written hazard analysis considered undeclared allergens; however, the company determined this to be the responsibility of the customer and the consumer. The  facility manufactures finished products that contain allergens such as wheat, milk, egg, soy (soybean lecithin), coconut, walnuts, and sesame. They are distributed to restaurants, hotels, nursing homes, hospitals, and distributors/wholesalers with labeling that does not include an ingredient statement and allergen declaration.  Examples - the challah burger buns, challah knot rolls, and sesame challah burger buns were staged for distribution in the staging area. They were packaged in pre-printed plastic bags without the wheat, soy, and sesame allergens declared.  The 12-inch hoagie rolls were staged for distribution in the staging area. They were packaged in clear plastic bags that did not declare wheat and soy allergens.

Allergen controls for cleaning to prevent cross contact - Allergen controls procedures for nuts do not ensure protection of food from allergen cross-contact from walnuts, as required by 21 CFR 117.135(c)(2)(i). Specifically, the hazard analysis for various RTE breads, cakes, and pastries identified the hazard of allergen cross-contact at the (b)(4) steps. At these steps, they use shared food-contact equipment and utensils to manufacture bakery products containing different allergen profiles on the same day.

The written allergen preventive control procedure states that “(b)(4)”. However, this procedure was not followed. On October 30, 2023, the rotating round turntable and utensils used by the  employee were not cleaned after handling the RTE pina colada cake (containing wheat, soy, eggs, milk and coconut) and before handling the RTE mocha cake (containing wheat, soy, eggs, and milk but not coconut).

GMP Issues

• A pastry area employee walked outside the firm to her car wearing her hairnet and plastic work apron. She returned to the pastry area without washing her hands or replacing her hairnet and plastic apron.
• A cake room employee wearing a hairnet, gloves, and plastic apron was observed preparing raw chocolate cigars. He exited the cake room door leading to the outside. A few moments later he returned through the same exterior door wearing a hairnet, gloves, apron, and the facemask. He immediately returned to preparing raw chocolate cigars without washing his hands and changing his hairnet, gloves, and plastic apron.
• A bearded pastry area employee mixing RTE frosting/icing was using his gloved hand to transfer the frosting to another bowl. While he was transferring the frosting, part of his bare arm/arm hair came in direct contact with the frosting. Also, this employee was wearing a beard cover; however, it was pulled down under his chin during the transferring of the frosting.
• In your pastry room and cake room, employees did not wash their hands or gloves after touching their face.
• Open beverage bottles were observed 1) In the bread processing area, under the preparation tables, while the employees were manipulating raw dough; 2) In the pastry area, under preparation tables, while the employees were manipulating in-process products; 3) Inside the pastry area reach-in freezer, where ingredients, in-process, and finished products are stored.
• In the cake room, your facility has a black multi-drawer toolbox where utensils (e.g., spatulas, knives, cake cutting wire) are stored after they are cleaned. These utensils are taken from the toolbox and immediately used to decorate and cut RTE cake room products. The toolbox contained personal items such as glasses, keys, and opened beverage bottles.
• The plant was not maintained  in a clean and sanitary condition and in adequate repair, as required by 21 CFR 117.35(a). Specifically: a. the fluorescent light located directly above the processing tables appeared to have a black mold-like substance on the light diffusers. Adjacent ceiling tiles were also observed with an apparent similar substance, and b. On  two large fans in the cutting and packing room were observed to have excessive filth and debris on the metal wire fan guard.  The fans were observed blowing onto RTE uncovered cupcakes on a pan rack cart.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/mena-food-group-llc-673814-08082024
Mena Food Group, LLC
MARCS-CMS 673814 — August 08, 2024

FDA Issues Warning Letter to Produce Packer for Noncompliance In Providing Toilet Facilities in the Fields

FDA conducted a domestic investigation at your papaya packing and holding operation.  FDA issued a Warning Letter to the company for not providing personnel with adequate, readily accessible toilet facilities, including toilet facilities readily accessible to growing areas during harvesting activities,
FDA investigators observed inaccessible toilets. During this inspection, the person stated that the toilet facility, located approximately 0.30 miles away from the picking location, was too far. He also stated that harvest employees urinate in the bush area adjacent to the papaya field because the toilets are too far away. (b)(4) noted that the toilet facility is provided and maintained by the packer.

The packer in this case contracts the farms, and with that, the company stated they "have committed to not only provide all of your contracted growers and harvesters with adequate, readily accessible toilet facilities, but also to provide the supplies and maintenance for those facilities."

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/calavo-growers-inc-687785-10252024
Calavo Growers, Inc.
MARCS-CMS 687785 — October 25, 2024

USDA FSIS Issues Health Alert for Pork Products Imported from Ineligible Country, Ecudador

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for frozen ready-to-eat pork mortadella products that may have been illegally imported from Ecuador, a country ineligible to export meat and poultry products to the United States. 

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-ineligible-pork-products-imported-ecuador
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Ineligible Pork Products Imported From Ecuador
FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Dec. 2, 2024 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for frozen ready-to-eat pork mortadella products that may have been illegally imported from Ecuador, a country ineligible to export meat and poultry products to the United States. FSIS is continuing to investigate the origins of this product, and there may be additional products affected.

Georgia Facility Recalls Mustard Greens After State Lab Testing Finds Listeria

Baker Farms, Norman Park, GA, is recalling their Baker Farms Curly Mustard, 16 oz. plastic bags with BEST BY 11-21-2024, UPC: 8 13098 02018 4, Lot Code: bak144-6806 due to contamination of Listeria monocytogenes.  On 11-29-2024 the firm was notified by the Texas Department of State Health Services that the product tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes. The product was packed on 11/4/2024 and distributed between 11/5/2024 – 11/9/2024. This product was packaged in clear plastic bags and sold to distribution centers located in the states of: AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, TN & TX.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/baker-farms-recalls-baker-brand-curly-mustard-due-listeria-monocytogenes-contamination
Baker Farms Recalls Baker Brand Curly Mustard Due to Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date: December 02, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  December 02, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Produce  
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness – Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Baker Farms
Brand Name:  Baker Farms
Product Description:  Curly Mustard Greens

Producer of Raw Pet Food Issues Product Recall Due to Salmonella..Again

Blue Ridge Beef of Statesville, NC is recalling 9,60lb of their 2 lb log Puppy Mix Lot #08/06/N25 & 08/16/N25 UPC 854298001696 due to a contamination of Salmonella.  The problem was discovered when a customers litter of puppies became ill and reported the issue to VDACS.  On 11/27/24 the firm was notified by the FDA that these products tested positive for Salmonella.

Blue Ridge Beef has issued previous recalls for Salmonella contamination.  In December of 2023, a state lab found Salmonella / Listeria in the product for which the company issued a recall (which was expanded in Jan of 2024).  The company issued a recall in October of 2023 after the dog food tested positive for Salmonella.  There was also a recall in 2018.

Summary

Company Announcement Date:  December 02, 2024

FDA Publish Date:  December 04, 2024

Product Type: Animal & Veterinary Pet Food

Reason for Announcement: Potential Foodborne Illness - Salmonella

Company Name: Blue Ridge Beef

Brand Name: Blue Ridge Beef

Product Description: Puppy Mix

Company Announcement

STATESVILLE, NC – December 2, 2024 – Blue Ridge Beef is recalling 9,600 lbs. of their 2 lb log Puppy Mix Lot #08/06/N25 & 08/16/N25 UPC 854298001696 due to a contamination of Salmonella. (Lot numbers are stamped in the clips on the end of the chubs/bags)

Additional Companies Recall Cucumber Products Due to Shared Supplier

Baloian Farms of Arizona Co., Inc. (Baloian) is recalling all sizes of whole fresh American cucumbers packaged in bulk cardboard containers labeled with the “Pamela” brand, a generic white box with a sticker that provides the implicated grower’s name, “Agrotato, S.A. de C.V.,” or a clear PamPak branded bag of 6 individual cucumbers with the UPC 8 2540107010 6 (photos below). The recalled cucumbers were sold between October 12, 2024, through November 26, 2024, and are being recalled because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. initiated this recall after learning from SunFed Produce, LLC, that its supplier of American cucumbers, “Agrotato, S.A. de C.V.,” may be associated with reported salmonellosis illnesses between October 12 – and November 15, 2024. Discussions with the US Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) confirmed this.

Russ Davis Wholesale of Wadena, MN, is recalling multiple products out of an abundance of caution because they contain recalled cucumbers from Baloian Farms which have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/baloian-farms-arizona-co-recalls-whole-fresh-american-cucumbers-because-possible-health-risks-due
Baloian Farms of Arizona Co., Recalls Whole Fresh American Cucumbers Because of Possible Health Risks Due to Salmonella

Summary

Company Announcement Date:  November 29, 2024

FDA Publish Date: December 02, 2024 

Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Produce

Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness - Salmonella

Company Name:  Baloian Farms of Arizonia Co., Inc.

Brand Name:  PAM PAK 

Product Description:  Whole Fresh American Cucumbers

Recall of Fresh Vegetable Packs Containing Recalled Carrots

4Earth Farms of Commerce, California, is recalling multiple brands of Organic Vegetable Medley, Conventional Vegetable Medley, and Organic Whole Carrots because it may be contaminated with Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (E. coli) O121:H19.  The recall was initiated after 4Earth Farms was notified by Grimmway Farms, Inc. that carrots used in the Vegetable Medleys and Whole Organic Carrots may have been contaminated with E. coli O121:H19.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/4earth-farms-llc-recalls-organic-and-conventional-vegetable-medleys-and-organic-whole-carrots
4Earth Farms, LLC. Recalls Organic and Conventional Vegetable Medleys and Organic Whole Carrots, Containing Grimmway Farms Carrots, Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 27, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  November 29, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness - Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (E. coli) O121:H19
Company Name:  4Earth Farms
Brand Name:  Multiple brand names
Product Description:  Vegetable Medleys and Whole Organic Carrots

CT Firm Recalls RTE Fruit and Vegetable Products After Enviromental Sampling Finds Listeria

Gracie’s Kitchens of New Haven, CT is recalling all ready-to-eat fruit and vegetable products manufactured at the facility from 11/4-11/13/24, because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. This recall is being initiated after sampling indicated that Listeria monocytogenes was found in the environment. The firm is working with the FDA.

The recalled products were distributed to various grocery stores located in Connecticut and New York. Products will have sell by dates located on the labels with range of 11/9/24-11/24/24.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/gracies-kitchens-inc-recalls-read-eat-products-manufactured-between-114-and-111324-because-possible
Gracie’s Kitchen’s Inc. Recalls Read-To-Eat Products Manufactured Between 11/4 and 11/13/24 Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 28, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  November 28, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness/Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Gracie’s Kitchens Inc.
Brand Name:  Gracie’s Kitchens, King Kullen, Wild By Nature
Product Description:  RTE fruit and vegetables

Salmonella Outbreak Due to Whole Cucumbers; Product Recalled

CDC, FDA, and state partners are investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium infections that has linked to cucumbers. Epidemiologic and traceback data show that cucumbers grown by Agrotato, S.A. de C.V. in Sonora, Mexico, including recalled cucumbers from SunFed Produce, LLC. may be contaminated with Salmonella and may be making people sick.

As of November 26, 2024, a total of 68 people infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella have been reported from 19 states. Illnesses started on dates ranging from October 12, 2024, to November 16, 2024. Of the 50 people for whom information is available, 18 have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported.

Fast Facts

Cases: 68

Hospitalizations: 18

Deaths: 0

States: 19

SunFed Produce, LLC (SunFed) is recalling all sizes of whole fresh American cucumbers packaged in bulk cardboard containers labeled with the “SunFed” label or in a generic white box or black plastic crate with a sticker that provides the implicated grower’s name, “Agrotato, S.A. de C.V.,” (photos below). The recalled cucumbers were sold between October 12, 2024, thru November 26, 2024, and are being recalled because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. SunFed initiated this recall after the US Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) notified SunFed that the cucumbers described above were associated with reported salmonellosis illnesses between October 12 – November 15, 2024.

The whole fresh American cucumbers were sold by SunFed and other importers and shipped to customers located in the states of Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington & Wisconsin and the Canadian provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, Calgary, Saskatchewan, & Ontario. The cucumbers would have reached consumers through foodservice and retail outlets that may be located in states other than those listed above.

CDC Food safety alert
https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/outbreaks/cucumbers-11-24/index.html
Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Cucumbers

Organic Eggs Recalled Due to Potential Salmonella After Inadvertent Distribution

Handsome Brook Farms is voluntarily recalling 10,800 retail units of the Organic Pasture Raised 24-Count Eggs sold under the Kirkland Signature brand name (Costco) because these eggs have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.  The recall was initiated after the company determined that eggs not intended for retail distribution were instead packaged and distributed in retail packaging. Additional supply chain controls and retraining are being put in place to prevent recurrence.

Eggs were distributed into 25 Costco stores in the States of Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee beginning November 22, 2024.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/handsome-brook-farms-issues-recall-kirkland-signature-organic-pasture-raised-24-count-eggs-because
Handsome Brook Farms Issues Recall of Kirkland Signature Organic Pasture Raised 24-Count Eggs Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 27, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  November 27, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Egg/Egg Product
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness/Salmonella
Company Name:  Handsome Brook Farms
Brand Name:  Kirkland Signature
Product Description:  Organic eggs

CFIA Lab Determines Incorrect Testing Result On Green Onions - Recall Rescinded

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency, CFIA, determined that a testing result that resulted in a recall was green onions was wrong.  The Salmonella found was due to cross contamination in the laboratory and not the green onions.  From the notice:

• "On October 18, 2024 Church Brothers Farms voluntarily recalled 1271 cases of Green Onions due to the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. This action was based on information received from the CFIA that a single product sample had tested positive for its presence."
• "Following the positive Salmonella result, the CFIA completed the whole genome sequencing (WGS) analysis of the Salmonella isolate, the results of which indicated that the sample could have been cross-contaminated with the laboratory’s positive control strain."
• "After further internal review, the CFIA conclusively determined that cross-contamination had indeed occurred. The CFIA also confirmed that the cross-contamination was an isolated event, and no other samples were affected."

It would be interesting to get more insight on this, especially that this comes more than a month after the initial recall.  Laboratories are not without risk of internal cross-contamination, and safeguards must be in place to ensure the accuracy of results.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/correction-notice-canadian-food-inspection-agency-laboratory-error-incorrectly-resulted-recall
Correction Notice: Canadian Food Inspection Agency Laboratory Error Incorrectly Resulted in Recall of Church Brothers Farms Green Onions – Recall Rescinded-..
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 25, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  November 25, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Recall Cancellation Due to False Positive
Company Name:  Church Brothers
Brand Name:  Multiple Brand Names
Product Description:  Green Onions

Four Produce Importers Issued Warning Letters for FSVP Failures

Four produce importers were issued Warning Letters from FDA for issues with the FSVP.

Future Best Trading Inc. of Temple City, CA
Did not develop an FSVP for any of the foods you import, including each of the following foods:
Enoki Mushroom imported from (b)(4);
King Oyster Mushroom imported from (b)(4);
Enoki Mushroom imported from (b)(4).

Paso Real Produce LLC of Pharr, TX

Did not develop an FSVP for any of the foods you import, including each of the following:

Avocados imported from (b)(4) located in (b)(4)

Limes imported from (b)(4) located in (b)(4)

Limes imported from (b)(4) located in (b)(4)

Limes imported from (b)(4) located in (b)(4)

JC Finest Produce Inc of Mesquite, TX

did not develop an FSVP for any of the foods that you import, including each of the following foods:

Persian limes imported from (b)(4), located in (b)(4)

Rambutan imported from (b)(4), located in (b)(4)

Thai banana imported from (b)(4), located in (b)(4)

Green Day Produce, Inc. of Vernon, CA 

did not evaluate your foreign suppliers of covered produce for compliance with the Produce Safety Rule (PSR), 21 CFR part 112. During our inspection, you provided FSVPs for your seafood mushrooms and oyster mushrooms imported from (b)(4) and for your (b)(4) mangos imported from (b)(4). Seafood mushrooms, oyster mushrooms, and mangos are “covered produce” as defined in 21 CFR 112.3, and therefore must comply with FDA’s Standards for Growing, Harvesting, Packing and Holding of Produce for Human Consumption (Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule) regulation. 

Items noted

Seafood Mushrooms imported from (b)(4)

Oyster Mushrooms imported from (b)(4)

Taiwanese Mangos imported from (b)(4)

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/future-best-trading-inc-689940-10102024
Future Best Trading Inc.
MARCS-CMS 689940 — October 10, 2024

Public Health Alert for Beef Tallow illegally Imported into the USA

USDA FSIS is issuing a public health alert for beef tallow products that were illegally imported from Mexico and are ineligible for entry into the United States. The products were not certified for export to the U.S. by the government of Mexico as being produced under equivalent inspection, they do not identify a certified establishment number on their packaging, and they were not presented to FSIS for import reinspection as required. These factors make the products ineligible to import into the U.S. and unfit for human consumption. FSIS is continuing to investigate how these products entered the country.


https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-ineligible-beef-tallow-products-imported-mexico
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Ineligible Beef Tallow Products Imported From Mexico

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Nov. 22, 2024 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for beef tallow products that were illegally imported from Mexico and are ineligible for entry into the United States. The products were not certified for export to the U.S. by the government of Mexico as being produced under equivalent inspection, they do not identify a certified establishment number on their packaging, and they were not presented to FSIS for import reinspection as required. These factors make the products ineligible to import into the U.S. and unfit for human consumption. FSIS is continuing to investigate how these products entered the country.

Tortilla Strips Recalled After Mispackaging Results in Undeclared Wheat Allergen

Sugar Foods, a company headquartered in California, is recalling 3.5 ounce pouches of Fresh Gourmet Tortilla Strips Santa Fe Style with UPC Code 7 87359 17504 6 and Best By Date June 20, 2025 due to a contamination of undeclared wheat allergen.  On November 19, 2024, the firm was contacted by a consumer stating the pouches contained Crispy Onions instead of the Tortilla Strips. The Crispy Onion Strips contains wheat which is not listed on the label for the Tortilla Strips. 

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/sugar-foods-recalls-fresh-gourmet-tortilla-strips-santa-fe-style-35-ounce-pouch-due-undeclared-wheat
Sugar Foods Recalls Fresh Gourmet Tortilla Strips Santa Fe Style 3.5 Ounce Pouch Due to Undeclared Wheat
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 22, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  November 22, 2024
Product Type: Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Wheat
Company Name:  Sugar Foods
Brand Name:  Fresh Gourmet
Product Description:  Fresh Gourmet Tortilla Strips Santa Fe Style

Two Pet Food Distributors Recall Chicken Chip Dog Treats Due to Potential Salmonella

Two pet food distributors are recalling chicken chip treats due to potential Salmonella contamination. Gaines Pet Treats LLC, of Birmingham, AL is voluntarily recalling 204, 5-ounce bags of "Gaines Family Farmstead Chicken Chips" treats for dogs and Carolina Prime Pet, Inc. of Lenoir, NC, is recalling 400 16-ounce bags of "Hollywood Feed Carolina Made Chicken Chips" treats for dogs.  The potential for contamination was noted after testing performed by a third-party laboratory identified contamination in a related yet commercially unreleased lot of the same product.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/gaines-pet-treats-llc-voluntarily-recalls-gaines-family-farmstead-chicken-chips-dogs-due-possible
Gaines Pet Treats LLC Voluntarily Recalls “Gaines Family Farmstead Chicken Chips for Dogs” Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 22, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  November 22, 2024
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary  Pet Food
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Salmonella Contamination
Company Name:  Gaines Pet Treats LLC
Brand Name:  Gaines Family Farmstead
Product Description:  Chicken Chips Dog Treats

Michigan Company Recalls Ground Beef Linked to E. coli Outbreak in Minnesota

Wolverine Packing Co., a Detroit, Mich. establishment, is recalling approximately 167,277 pounds of ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7.  The problem was discovered when FSIS was notified by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture of a group of ill persons who had reported that they consumed ground beef prior to their illness.  

This is a food service product, so not an issue for consumers purchasing from the grocery store, although it is a reminder that it is always important to cook ground meat burgers to the proper temperature....and the way to verify that is using a thermometer.

"FSIS was notified of illnesses on November 13, 2024, and working in conjunction with Minnesota Departments of Agriculture and Health, FSIS determined that there was a link between the ground beef products from Wolverine Packing Co. and this illness cluster. On November 20, 2024, a ground beef sample collected by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture as part of an outbreak investigation tested positive for E. coli O157. To date, 15 case-patients have been identified in one state with illness onset dates ranging from November 2, 2024, to November 10, 2024"

"The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has identified 10 cases of E. coli O157 infection in people who had eaten burgers at multiple locations of Red Cow, a table-service restaurant chain with locations in Hennepin, Ramsey and Olmsted counties. One additional case reported dining at Hen House Eatery in Minneapolis, which received the same ground beef product suspected in this investigation."

https://www.health.state.mn.us/news/pressrel/2024/ecoli111524.html

Minnesota Department of Health News Release

Nov. 15, 2024

E. coli O157 infections linked to consumption of burgers from Twin Cities restaurants

Health officials urge people with gastrointestinal illness, especially bloody diarrhea, to contact their health care provider

Health officials are urging people to contact their health care provider if they ate a hamburger, especially if undercooked, at a table-service restaurant since Oct. 31 and then developed diarrhea, particularly bloody diarrhea, in the following week.  

Listeria Outbreak Linked by FSIS Testing to RTE Pork Product Produced by SC Company

A Listeria outbreak has 11 people infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria from four states, reported as of Nov 22, 2024.  "Sick people's samples were collected from October 24, 2021, to July 31, 2024. Of 11 people with information available, nine have been hospitalized. In California, one pregnant person and their twins were sick and both infants died. Listeria was found in a sample from the mother and from one of the twin infants, but it could not be found in a sample from the other infant. "

"On October 21, 2024, FSIS conducted routine testing and follow-up activities of finished product by Yu Shang Food, Inc. Testing confirmed that the product was contaminated with Listeria. WGS showed that the Listeria in the pork snout product is closely related to bacteria from sick people. This means that people likely got sick from eating foods produced by Yu Shang Food, Inc."

Yushang Food Inc., of Spartanburg, SC issued an initial recall on Nov 9, 2024, and then expanded on Nov 21, 2024 to include approximately 72,240 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) meat and poultry products within their shelf life that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes. The

The problem was discovered after FSIS performed routine testing and follow-up activities of finished product produced by Yu Shang Food, Inc. on October 21, 2024, that confirmed the product was positive for Listeria monocytogenes. Additional testing has confirmed that Listeria monocytogenes was detected in product and in environmental samples collected by FSIS. Whole genome sequencing was conducted determine if these samples match the outbreak strain.  Working in conjunction with public health partners, FSIS determined that there is a link between the RTE meat and poultry products from Yu Shang Food, Inc. and an illness cluster.

https://www.cdc.gov/listeria/outbreaks/investigation-update-meat-and-poultry-11-24.html

Investigation Update: Listeria Outbreak, Meat and Poultry Products, 2024

November 22, 2024

CDC, public health and regulatory officials in several states, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) are collecting different types of data to investigate a multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections.

Wisconsin University Expands Recall of Mislabeled Ice Cream After Determining Issue Occurred on Other Lot

Babcock Dairy of Madison, Wisconsin, is expanding its November 7, 2024 recall for Orange Custard Chocolate Chip ice cream that may be labeled as Chocolate Peanut Butter.  The products were produced on Sept. 17 and 30, 2024. The issue with the first lot  (Lot for Sept 17) was discovered on the evening of Nov. 4, 2024, when a customer reported the mislabeling. The second lot (Lot for Sept 30) was added to the recall notice after discovery on Nov. 18, 2024. There have been no reports of illness associated with consumption of these products.

This reminds one to check other lots of the same product when first discovering there was an issue on the first lot. 

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/babcock-dairy-expands-recall-orange-custard-chocolate-chip-and-chocolate-peanut-butter-due
Babcock Dairy Expands Recall on Orange Custard Chocolate Chip and Chocolate Peanut Butter Due to Undeclared Egg
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 19, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  November 19, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Egg
Company Name:  Babcock Dairy
Brand Name:  Babcock Dairy
Product Description:  Orange Custard Chocolate Chip ice cream

Another Cinnamon Powder Recall After State Lab Finds Lead Contamination

IHA Beverage of Commerce, CA is recalling Super Cinnamon Powder 4oz, because it has the potential to be contaminated with elevated levels of lead.  Product was distributed mostly through California retail stores and a few stores across the US.  This recall is being initiated as a result of routine sampling by the Arkansas Department of Health which revealed that the finished products contained elevated levels of lead. The company has ceased the distribution of the product as they continue their investigation as to what caused the problem.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/iha-beverage-issues-voluntary-recall-super-cinnamon-powder-4oz-because-lead-contamination
IHA Beverage Issues a Voluntary Recall of Super Cinnamon Powder 4oz Because of Lead Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 18, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  November 18, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Metal Contaminant - Lead
Company Name:  IHA Beverage
Brand Name: SUPER BRAND
Product Description:  Cinnamon Powder
Company Announcement  

Organic Carrots Linked to E. coli Outbreak with 39 Reported Illness; Product Recalled

The FDA and CDC, in collaboration with state and local partners, are investigating a multistate outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli O121:H19 infections linked to organic whole and baby carrots supplied by Grimmway Farms of Bakersfield, California.  To this point(11/22/24), there are 39 reported illnesses with 15 of those hospitalized and one death.  

Case Count
Total Illnesses: 39
Hospitalizations: 15
Deaths: 1
Last Illness Onset: October 28, 2024
States with Cases: AR, CA, CO, MA, MI, MN, MO, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, SC, TX, VA, WA, WY
Product Distribution: Nationwide
International Distribution: Canada, Colombia, Hong Kong, and the United Arab Emirates

The firm, Grimmway Farms, initiated a voluntary recall of multiple quantities and brands of bagged, organic whole and baby carrots and contacted their distributing customers. Recalled products were shipped directly to retail distribution centers nationwide in the United States and Puerto Rico. These products should no longer be in grocery stores but may be in consumers' refrigerators or freezers.

https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-e-coli-o121h19-organic-carrots-november-2024
Outbreak Investigation of E. coli O121:H19: Organic Carrots (November 2024)
11/22/2024
Do not eat or serve multiple brands of recalled bagged organic whole and baby carrots supplied by Grimmway Farms. FDA’s investigation is ongoing.

Canada - Report of Limited Outbreak of Typhoid Fever

We don't see cases of typhoid fever often, but here is a report of a case in Canada that involves an asymptomatic carrier (think Typhoid Mary from late 1800s).  Typhoid fever is a life-threatening infection caused by the bacterium Salmonella Typhi. It is usually spread through contaminated food or water, originating with a person having the illness. Unlike the typical Salmonella that are primarily limited to infection of the intestinal tract, once Salmonella Typhi bacteria are ingested, they multiply and spread into the bloodstream leading to prolonged high fever, fatigue, headache, nausea, abdominal pain, and constipation or diarrhea.  

Canadian health officials published a report about seven cases of typhoid fever over four years (from 2018 to 2022) that were linked to an asymptomatic chronic S. Typhi carrier who worked irregularly as a food handler at various locations of a grocery store chain. Transmission occurred through food handling, shared workspaces and social and household networks. Although the outbreak was relatively small, six of seven cases were hospitalized with significant morbidity.

https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/reports-publications/canada-communicable-disease-report-ccdr/monthly-issue/2024-50/issue-11-november-2024/locally-acquired-typhoid-fever-outbreak-linked-chronic-carriage-ottawa.html
Outbreak Report
Locally acquired typhoid fever outbreak linked to chronic carriage in Ottawa, Canada, 2018–2022
Janice Zhang1,2, Ann Jolly2, Tram Nguyen2, Monir Taha2, Christina Lee3, Antoine Corbeil3, Esther Dapaah2, Jeff Walker2, Curtis Cooper4, Jacqueline Willmore2

Abstract

Background: In Canada, Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi infections are uncommon and typically travel-related. In November 2021, Ottawa Public Health identified a link between two typhoid fever cases, with no recent history of international travel, to the same grocery store ready-to-eat counter

Lawsuit Over No Preservative Claim

This is an interesting case where a lawsuit was filed against Kraft Heinz on 'no preservative claim'.  Being scientifically right may not be good enough.

https://nypost.com/2024/11/14/business/kraft-heinz-ordered-to-face-mac-cheese-lawsuit-judge-rules/
Kraft Heinz ordered to face Mac & Cheese lawsuit over ‘no preservatives’ label
By Reuters
Published Nov. 14, 2024, 2:26 p.m. ET

FDA Provides Update on E. coli STEC Outbreak Associated with Onions

FDA provided an update on the E.coli STEC linked to onions served on fast food chain hamburgers.  There are now 104 cases with 34 hospitalizations and one death.  That is over 15 more cases from the last update on October 30.

FDA provided this about the investigation - "At this time, one FDA sample of recalled onions has tested positive for E. coli, but it is a non-O157:H7 Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) and does not match the outbreak strain or any other clinical illnesses. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) analysis determined that the sample is positive for E. coli O168:H8 and contains the Shiga toxin gene stx2a. Additional sample results are pending. More information will be provided in this update as it becomes available."

Case Count
Total Illnesses: 104
Hospitalizations: 34
Deaths: 1
Last Illness Onset: October 21, 2024
States with Cases: CO, IA, KS, MI, MO, MT, NE, NM, NC, OR, UT, WA, WI, and WY
Recalled Onion Distribution*: CO, IA, ID, KS, MO, MT, NE, NM, NV, OK, UT, and WY
*Distribution has been confirmed for states listed, but product could have been distributed further, reaching additional states.


https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-e-coli-o157h7-onions-october-2024
Outbreak Investigation of E. coli O157:H7: Onions (October 2024)
FDA’s investigation and sample analysis are ongoing.

South Carolina Establishment Recalled RTE Meat Products After Positive Test

Yu Shang Food, Inc, a Spartanburg, SC, establishment, is recalling approximately 4,589 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) meat and poultry products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes. The ready-to-eat meat and poultry items were produced from October 21 to October 27, 2024. These products have “used by” dates ranging from 21-AUG-2025 through 27-AUG-2025.  The problem was discovered after FSIS performed routine testing and follow-up activities of finished product produced by Yu Shang Food, Inc. on October 21, 2024, that confirmed the product was positive for Listeria monocytogenes.

Products include: Yushang Brand Cooked Chicken 20 oz;  Seasoned Pork Hock Vacuum Pack;  Japanese Chashu Pork Belly 20 oz  16 oz;  Braised Pork Belly in Brown Sauce Vacuum Pack;  Yushang Brand Cooked Pork Hock 16 oz  1.4 lbs;  Chinese Brand Spicy Chicken Feet;  Bazhen Seasoned Whole Chicken 8 oz  20 oz ;  Braised Beef Shank;  Seasoned Pork Tongues 16 oz  12 oz.  

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/yu-shang-food-inc--recalls-ready-eat-meat-and-poultry-products-due-possible-listeria
Yu Shang Food Inc. Recalls Ready-to-Eat Meat and Poultry Products Due to Possible Listeria Contamination
Yushang Food Inc.

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Nov. 9, 2024 – Yu Shang Food, Inc, a Spartanburg, SC, establishment, is recalling approximately 4,589 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) meat and poultry products out of an abundance of caution. These products may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).

Issues with Botulism in Europe May Be Due to Improper Home Canning

A recent articles points out the high number of botulism cases in Europe.  You may remember the recent botulism outbreak associated with pesto served by a restaurant in France where 5 people were affected.  According to the article, "In 2023, 112 cases of botulism were reported in Europe, with Italy registering the highest number, followed by France, Spain, Romania, and Germany. Most North European countries reported no cases."

An expert there gave three factors, however the one that provides the best insight is that "cultural factors play a role. Traditional home canning is still prevalent in some countries, but methods may not always adhere to rigorous safety standards. Italy, where home canning has old roots, is the European country with the highest number of reported cases each year. In 2023, Italy reported 36 cases of botulism, half of which were caused by improper home canning. It was followed by France with 15 cases and Romania and Spain with 14 cases each. “Italy, Spain, France, Poland, Romania, all have a strong tradition in [home] preserving and canning food."


Medscape Medical News

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/botulism-outbreaks-europe-raise-food-safety-concerns-2024a1000kf5
Botulism Outbreaks in Europe Raise Food Safety Concerns
Manuela Callari
November 08, 2024

Sandwich Survey - How Many Per Week and Favorite

An article reposted on Morning Clips discusses sandwiches are part of the American diet.  First off, this may not be a highly scientific study, so take it with a grain of salt.  The survey was completed by 2000 people who were willing to share their sandwich eating habits.  I probably would not participate in this study unless well compensated.  But will share some of my thoughts.  So how do you compare?

According to the results, 

• Americans’ favorite sandwiches are: Grilled cheese (42%), chicken (40%), turkey (30%) ham (27%) tuna (24%), egg (21%), PB&J (21%) and meatball sandwiches (19%).  My response - I like grilled cheese with tomato soup, but certainly not my favorite. All things being equal, I am going meatball, but eat far more PB&J (peanut butter and jelly for those from somewhere else).
• Americans eat, on average, six sandwiches per week.  My response - probably 2.
• It takes people 10 minutes, on average, to assemble the perfect sub.  Not sure why this matters.
• Fifty-eight percent of respondents said they’re “sandwich pragmatists,“ and care more about making a sandwich quickly than making it “just right versus sandwich chefs who like to take their time crafting the perfect sandwich.  My response - I just don't care that much.
• Thirty-two percent cut their sandwiches into rectangles, 35% cut them into triangles and 33% prefer their sandwiches whole and uncut.  My response - Whether it is cut or not depends on the type of sandwich and whether I am dipping it into soup.

There are other items, but I just don't care that much.

Morning Clips
https://www.morningagclips.com/are-you-average-study-reveals-americans-weekly-sandwich-count/
Are You Average? Study Reveals Americans’ Weekly Sandwich Count
A new survey found that sandwiches make up 30% of Americans’ diets, on average

80,000 Pounds of Butter Recalled for Not Declaring Milk Allergen on Label

Costco is recalling close to 80,000 lbs of butter due to the fact it does not state 'Contains Milk' on the label.

You will notice that this is listed on the Enforcement Report, but a public recall notice was not published. "All recalls monitored by FDA are included in the Enforcement Report once they are classified and may be listed prior to classification when FDA determines the firm’s removal or correction of a marketed product(s) meets the definition of a recall."  Not all recalls are announced in the media or on FDA’s Recalls press release page, only those viewed as having a health impact as they are classified according to the level of hazard involved.

Basically, someone with a dairy allergy is not likely to buy butter just because the statement is not on there.  However, there is still a violation of the regulation.

  

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/costco-butter-recall/
Here is why Costco recalled almost 80,000 pounds of butter

Costco recalled nearly 80,000 pounds of store-brand butter last month because the product's label was missing a key ingredient: milk. 

The wholesaler recalled 79,200 pounds of two varieties of butter — 46,800 pounds of its Kirkland Signature Unsalted Sweet Cream Butter, and 32,400 pounds of Kirkland Signature Salted Sweet Cream Butter because it omitted the allergen. 

Illinois Firm Recalls Onion Soup Mix After Complaint of Egg Allergen

Gilster-Mary Lee, 520 Old St. Mary’s Road, of Perryville, Missouri, is voluntarily recalling two lots of Bowl & Basket Onion Soup Mix, UPC 41190-08394 at the consumer level because it may contain undeclared egg.  Gilster-Mary Lee Corp. became aware of the mispackaging after receiving a customer complaint. No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this coating mix.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/gilster-mary-lee-corp-issues-recall-undeclared-egg-allergen-bowl-basket-onion-soup-mix
Gilster - Mary Lee Corp. Issues a Recall for Undeclared Egg Allergen in Bowl & Basket Onion Soup Mix
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 12, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  November 12, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared egg
Company Name:  Gilster Mary Lee Corporation
Brand Name:  Bowl & Basket
Product Description:  Onion Soup Mix

NY Retailer Recalls Salad Bowls for Undeclared Egg

Wegmans Food Markets is recalling  Large Asian Sesame Salad with Chicken due to undeclared egg allergen.  The label was a print-and-apply type label.  No indication was stated as the reason for the issue.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/wegmans-food-markets-inc-announces-voluntary-recall-large-asian-sesame-salad-chicken-due-presence
Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. Announces Voluntary Recall of Large Asian Sesame Salad with Chicken Due to Presence of Undeclared Egg Allergen
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 08, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  November 08, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential or Undeclared Allergen – Egg
Company Name:  Wegmans Food Markets
Brand Name:  Wegmans Food Markets
Product Description:  Asian Sesame Salad with Chicken & Asian Dressing

Indiana Firm Recalls Sandwiches Made with Recalled Soft Cheese

CIBUS Fresh, Noblesville, Indiana, is recalling CIBUS Fresh products containing Glenview Farms Spreadable Brie, 2/3lb due to supplier notification of a possible Listeria monocytogenes.  This cheese was recalled on 11/5/24 by Savencia Cheese.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/cibus-fresh-recalling-cibus-fresh-products-containing-glenview-farms-spreadable-brie-23lb-due
CIBUS Fresh, is Recalling CIBUS Fresh Products Containing Glenview Farms Spreadable Brie, 2/3lb Due to Supplier Notification of a Possible Listeria Monocytogenes
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 06, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  November 08, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness – Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  CIBUS Fresh
Brand Name:  CF, J&O and other
Product Description:  Autumn Turkey Sandwiches

Wisconsin University Recalls Ice Cream After Packaging Error

Babcock Dairy housed within UW-Madison’s College of Agricultural and Life Sciences in Madison, Wisconsin, is voluntarily recalling approximately 41 cases of Orange Custard Chocolate Chip ice cream that may be labeled as Chocolate Peanut Butter, resulting in undeclared allergen eggs and yellow #5.  Plus how disappointing to find Orange Custard when expecting to get Chocolate Peanut Butter.  According to the statement, "During production, a limited number of Chocolate Peanut Butter ice cream containers were inadvertently filled with Orange Custard Chocolate Chip ice cream, leading to products with incorrect allergen labeling."

  

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/babcock-dairy-recalls-orange-custard-chocolate-chip-and-chocolate-peanut-butter-due-undeclared-egg
Babcock Dairy Recalls Orange Custard Chocolate Chip and Chocolate Peanut Butter Due to Undeclared Egg
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 05, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  November 07, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential or Undeclared Allergen – Egg
Company Name:  Babcock Dairy
Brand Name:  Babcock Dairy
Product Description:  Orange Custard Chocolate Chip ice cream

Expansion of Recall for Soft Ripened Cheeses with Potential for Listeria

Savencia Cheese USA expanded its recall of select soft ripened cheeses manufactured in the Lena manufacturing facility after an environmental sample was found to be positive for Listeria monocytogenes.  "Through routine testing, it was identified that processing equipment at the site may have been contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. While finished product testing has not identified contaminated product, we have initiated a voluntary recall to retrieve the potentially affected product."

The initial recall was issued on November 4, and the expansion issued the following day to include an additional product -  Glenview Farms Spreadable Brie MFG Date 10/15/2024.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/savencia-cheese-usa-announces-expanded-voluntary-recall-select-soft-ripened-cheeses
Savencia Cheese USA Announces an Expanded Voluntary Recall of Select Soft Ripened Cheeses
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 04, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  November 05, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness – Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Savencia Cheese USA
Brand Name:  Aldi, La Bonne Vie and others
Product Description:  Soft ripened cheeses

Soft Ripened Cheeses Recalled after Environmental Sample Positive for Listeria

Savencia Cheese USA  is recalling select soft ripened cheeses manufactured in our Lena manufacturing facility because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.  Through routine testing, it was identified that processing equipment at the site may have been contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. While finished product testing has not identified contaminated product, the company initiated a voluntary recall to retrieve the potentially affected product.  At this time, there have been no confirmed reports of adverse health events due to consumption of these products.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/savencia-cheese-usa-announces-voluntary-recall-select-soft-ripened-cheeses
Savencia Cheese USA Announces Voluntary Recall of Select Soft Ripened Cheeses
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 02, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  November 04, 2024
Product Type:   Food & Beverages  Cheese/Cheese Product
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness – Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Savencia Cheese USA
Brand Name:  Aldi, La Bonne Vie and others
Product Description:  Soft ripened cheeses

FDA Issues Supplement to the 2022 Food Code - What Has Changed?

The FDA issued a supplement to the 2022 Food Code.  The changes of note by the FDA are listed here:

• Addressing food protection with new provisions that improve awareness of food defense measures;
• Updating testing requirements for reinstatement of food employees diagnosed with an illness from STEC, Shigella, or Nontyphoidal Salmonella to include culture-independent diagnostic tests; 
• Expanding and clarifying how and when containers can be refilled and reused in a food establishment;
• Adding new provisions addressing disinfection of food contact, nonfood-contact and equipment surfaces; 
• Building on the concept of Food Safety Management Systems and Active Managerial Control by defining the terms, including new provisions that speak to when a Food Safety Management System is required;
• Enhancing information regarding sushi rice acidification with a dedicated section in Annex 6 Food Processing Criteria addressing risks and controls.

A detailed listing of the changes are found on the FDA website

https://www.fda.gov/media/183271/download?attachment

I provided some detail on each of these changes.
First, some definitions were added.

Definitions Added or modified include:

“Active Managerial Control” means the purposeful incorporation of specific actions or procedures by industry management into the operation of their business to attain control over foodborne illness RISK factors. It embodies a preventive rather than reactive approach to FOOD safety through a continuous system of monitoring and verification.

“Disinfection” means the application of a substance, or mixture of substances, that destroys or irreversibly inactivates bacteria, fungi, and viruses, but not necessarily bacterial spores

“Food Defense” is the effort to protect FOOD from acts of intentional ADULTERATION or tampering

Food Safety Management System

(1) “FOOD SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM” means a specific set of actions taken by the EMPLOYEE to prevent the occurrence of foodborne illness RISK factors based on the type of operation, type of FOOD preparation, and FOODS prepared within the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT.

(2) “FOOD SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM” includes written procedures, training plans, and monitoring records to control specific operational steps in a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT that contribute to foodborne illness.

Reduced oxygen packaging” includes:

(d) Cook chill PACKAGING, in which cooked FOOD is hot filled into impermeable PACKAGING (such as a bag or film on trays) that is then sealed or crimped closed. The PACKAGED FOOD is rapidly chilled and refrigerated at temperatures that inhibit the growth of psychotropic pathogens;

Addressing food protection with new provisions that improve awareness of food defense measures;

2-103.11

Persons in Charge adding in component for Food Defense - first there is a focus to have the person in charge maintain active managerial control (see changes in 8.201 below) in their operation and then Food Defense was added to ensure that employees are trained on this topic.

Additional information on Food Defense is providing in Annex 2  4. FOOD DEFENSE GUIDANCE FROM FARM TO TABLE and Annex 3 1-201.10 and 2-103.11 Person in Charge.

Updating testing requirements for reinstatement of food employees diagnosed with an illness from STEC, Shigella, or Nontyphoidal Salmonella to include culture-independent diagnostic tests; 

2-201.13

Changes to exclusions and restriction of employees diagnosed with illness - specifically Shigella, STEC, nontyphoidal Salmonella with more specific conditions on which the person may be reinstated into the operation.

Expanding and clarifying how and when containers can be refilled and reused in a food establishment;

3-304.17

Reusable food containers - Expanding and clarifying how and when containers can be refilled and reused in a food establishment.

Explained in detail in Annex 3.  3-304.17

Adding new provisions addressing disinfection of food contact, nonfood-contact and equipment surfaces;

Disinfectants-  Adding new provisions addressing disinfection of food contact, nonfood-contact and equipment surfaces;  This is added to take care of situations like a potential norovirus contamination event. 

Disinfectants added into these sections.

4-302.14 Sanitizing and Disinfecting Solutions, Testing Devices. 

4-501.116 Warewashing Equipment, Determining Chemical Sanitizer or Disinfectant Concentration. 

4-1001.11 Food-Contact, nonFood-Contact Surfaces and Utensils EQUIPMENT, FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES, nonFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES, and UTENSILS shall be DISINFECTED when pathogens of concern are not controlled by available SANITIZERS.

4-1002 Frequency

4-1002.11 Disinfectant Use

When pathogens of concern are not controlled by available SANITIZERS, EQUIPMENT, FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES, nonFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES, and UTENSILS shall be DISINFECTED: 

(A) When contaminated with vomitus, fecal matter, blood, or any other bodily fluid that can lead to disease transmission; or 

(B) During a FOODBORNE DISEASE OUTBREAK or IMMINENT HEALTH HAZARD.

4-1003 Methods

4-1003.11 Chemical

(A) FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES and nonFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES shall be DISINFECTED in accordance with the EPA-registered label use directions.

(B) DISINFECTANTS applied to a FOOD-CONTACT SURFACE shall be rinsed with potable water, unless otherwise specified on the EPA-registered label use directions.

7-102.11 to add the term DISINFECTANTS

Building on the concept of Food Safety Management Systems and Active Managerial Control by defining the terms, including new provisions that speak to when a Food Safety Management System is required;

8.201

Food Safety Management System - replaces the term standard operating procedure

8-201.12 Contents of the Plans and Specifications. 

The plans and specifications for a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT, including a FOOD  ESTABLISHMENT specified under § 8-201.13, shall include, as required by the  REGULATORY AUTHORITY based on the type of operation, type of FOOD preparation, and FOODS prepared, the following information to demonstrate conformance with Code provisions: 

(E) Evidence that a FOOD SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM that ensures compliance with the 

requirements of this Code are developed or are being developed; and

8-201.15 When a Food Safety Management System is Required. 

(A) Within 4 years of the REGULATORY AUTHORITY’S adoption of this Code, a written FOOD 

SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM shall be:

(1) Developed and maintained to ensure compliance with requirements of this Code as specified in 2-103.11.

(2) Implemented in the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT during all hours of operation, and 

(3) Made available to the REGULATORY AUTHORITY upon request.

(B) This section does not apply to certain types of FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS deemed by the 

REGULATORY AUTHORITY to pose minimal RISK of causing, or contributing to, foodborne 

illness based on the nature of the operation and extent of the FOOD preparation.

Additional information on Food Safety Management Systems in Annex 2 - Amend 3 and Annex 3 1-201.10

Enhancing information regarding sushi rice acidification with a dedicated section in Annex 6 Food Processing Criteria addressing risks and controls.

 Annex 6 - 4 Acidification Sushi Rice

Cooked rice is a Time/temperature control for safety food (TCS) with known hazards  associated with it. For a TCS product to be stored without temperature control, there must be processes in place to assure that the rapid and progressive growth or toxin production of infectious or toxigenic microorganisms cannot occur. This is commonly done by modifying the pH of the cooked rice to a pH of <4.2 or below. Proper acidification and distribution of acid is essential to prevent bacterial growth, especially Bacillus cereus. 

Acidification of TCS foods with the intent of making them non-TCS is considered a special process in the Food Code. In the case of sushi rice, this process takes a TCS food (cooked rice) and adds acid (typically vinegar) to drop the pH and allow the cooked rice to be held without time or temperature controls. This acid addition needs to adjust the equilibrium pH to less than 4.2 to control the identified hazards. Addition of vinegar for flavor only, when pH is not monitored, is not considered a special process and rice must be temperature controlled just like any other TCS food.

https://www.fda.gov/food/hfp-constituent-updates/fda-releases-supplement-2022-food-code
Constituent Update
FDA Releases Supplement to the 2022 Food Code
November 4, 2024