Popcorn Mix Recalled for Undeclared Wheat Allergens as Part of the Pretzels

AMB Food Inc. in Brooklyn NY is recalling 8 oz bags of Pop a Nosh Mix Munch Regular and Honey BBQ snacks because it contains pretzels, but does not list Wheat as an allergen.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the pretzels included in both snack mixes contain wheat and both flavors were distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of wheat. The firm continues to investigate and make appropriate corrections.

The product is in a prelabeled bag, so the allergen listing was missed when designing the label.


AMB Food Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Wheat in Product
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 23, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 24, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared allergen - wheat
Company Name:  AMB Food Inc
Brand Name:  Pop a Nosh
Product Description:  Mixed Munch Regular and Honey BBQ

NC Seafood Company Recalls Crab Cakes for Undeclared Egg Contained in the Mayo

County Road Seafood, LLC., of Belhaven, NC – May 21, 2024, is voluntarily recalling County Road Seafood Crab Cake 2 Pack 4 Ounce package because this product contains undeclared egg.  
On 5/15/24 the firm was notified by the North Carolina Depart of Agriculture and Consumer Services that the product does not list egg on the label. The product contains mayonnaise which is made from eggs and utilizes whole eggs as a binder.

County Road Seafood Issues Allergy Alert of Undeclared Egg in 4 Oz Packages of County Road Seafood Crab Cake
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 21, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 22, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential or Undeclared Allergen - Egg
Company Name:  County Road Seafood Inc.
Brand Name:  County Road Seafood
Product Description:  Crab Cake 2 Pack

CDC - Outbreak of Trichinellosis from Eating Bear Meat 2022

Trichinellosis is a parasitic disease transmitted through the consumption of meat from animals infected with Trichinella spp. nematodes.  It is rare to see such cases, and when there are such cases in recent years, it is often associated with eating undercooked bear meat.  This is the case reported in CDC MMWR where a group of family member gathering and ate bear kabobs.

"The and eight extended family members from three states (Arizona, Minnesota, and South Dakota) had gathered for several days in South Dakota and shared a meal that included kabobs made from the meat of a black bear (Ursus americanus), which had been harvested by one of the family members in northern Saskatchewan, Canada in May 2022. The hunting outfitter had recommended freezing the meat to kill parasites. The meat was frozen in a household freezer* for 45 days until being thawed and grilled with vegetables. The meat was initially inadvertently served rare, reportedly because the meat was dark in color, and it was difficult for the family members to visually ascertain the level of doneness. After some of the family members began eating the meat and noticed that it was undercooked, the meat was recooked before being served again. The family reunion concluded before onset of illness in the index patient."

So can we rely on freezing to eliminate the Trichinella parasite?  More difficult with those strains found in cold regions.  Plus, freezing conditions can also impact reduction (article below).

"Although freezing kills Trichinella species commonly implicated in pork-associated outbreaks, freeze-resistant Trichinella species, including T. nativa and the T6 genotype (9), predominate in Arctic and sub-Arctic regions (6). Larval motility was observed in bear meat that had been frozen for nearly 4 months (110 days). Persons who consume game meat, especially that harvested in northern latitudes, should be informed that adequate cooking is the only reliable way to kill Trichinella parasites. Cooking wild game meat to an internal temperature of ≥165°F (≥74°C) is recommended by public health authorities**; temperatures should be verified with a meat thermometer. As demonstrated in this outbreak, the color of meat is not a good indicator of cooking adequacy. Safe handling of raw meat (i.e., separating raw or undercooked meat and its juices from other foods) is recommended to prevent trichinellosis; this investigation and previous investigations suggest that Trichinella-infected meat can cross-contaminate other foods"

What symptoms were exhibited?

Abdominal pain, diarrhea, myalgias (muscle pain), fever, eosinophilia (high white blood cell count) and periorbital edema (swelling around the eyes)

https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/wr/mm7320a2.htm

Outbreak of Human Trichinellosis — Arizona, Minnesota, and South Dakota, 2022
Weekly / May 23, 2024 / 73(20);456–459
Shama Cash-Goldwasser, MD1; Dustin Ortbahn, MPH2; Muthu Narayan, DO3; Conor Fitzgerald, MPH4; Keila Maldonado5; James Currie, MD6; Anne Straily, DVM7; Sarah Sapp, PhD7; Henry S. Bishop7; Billy Watson, PhD7; Margaret Neja7; Yvonne Qvarnstrom, PhD7; David M. Berman, DO8; Sarah Y. Park, MD8; Kirk Smith, DVM, PhD9; Stacy Holzbauer, DVM9,10 (VIEW AUTHOR AFFILIATIONS)

Summary
What is already known about this topic?
Human trichinellosis cases in the United States are rare and are usually acquired through consumption of wild game.

What is added by this report?
Among eight persons who shared a meal that included the meat of a black bear harvested in Canada and frozen for 45 days, six trichinellosis cases were identified. The meat was grilled with vegetables and served rare; two cases occurred in persons who ate only the vegetables. Motile freeze-resistant Trichinella nativa larvae were identified in remaining meat frozen for >15 weeks.

What are the implications for public health practice?
Cooking meat to an internal temperature of ≥165°F (≥74°C) is necessary to kill Trichinella spp. parasites. Trichinella-infected meat can cross-contaminate other foods, and raw meat should be kept and prepared separate from other foods to prevent cross-contamination.

HPAI, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza - What Do We Know About Risk from Milk and Eggs

HPAI or Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza is a hot topic after it was found to have infected dairy cows in multiple states (as of today, 58 dairy herds in nine states).  Remnants of the virus were found in milk which raised questions of risk.

Research released today in New England Journal of Medicine (link below) stated that milk, if not pasteurized, can be potentially infectious.  The study also looked at reduction of virus at pasteurization temperatures ( 181 degrees Fahrenheit, for 15 or 20 seconds) and determined that there was log reduction, but not complete elimination.

Researchers summarized, "HPAI H5–positive milk poses a risk when consumed untreated, but heat inactivation under the laboratory conditions used here reduces HPAI H5 virus titers by more than 4.5 log units. However, bench-top experiments do not recapitulate commercial pasteurization processes."

“But, we emphasize that the conditions used in our laboratory study are not identical to the large-scale industrial treatment of raw milk,” senior study author Dr. Yoshihiro Kawaoka, a virologist who specializes in the study of flu and Ebola, said in an email."

Added to this is that milk from cows found to be infected is diverted.  The question is whether all infected cows are detected.

FDA released results of their market survey of milk samples tested for the virus.  FDA "collected 297 samples at retail locations in 17 states between April 18-22, but the retail samples represented products made at 132 processing locations in 38 states."   "The FDA had said on May 10 that no live virus was found in retail milk samples. It has also said that pasteurized milk is safe to drink but has cautioned against consuming raw milk."

What about eggs?  Are eggs in the retail market safe to eat?

From the FDA

Yes. The likelihood that eggs from infected poultry are found in the retail market is low and proper storage and preparation further reduce the risk. In 2010, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) participated in a joint risk assessment with the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) to examine the human health impact of HPAI in poultry, shell eggs, and egg products. The risk assessment determined that the risk of humans becoming infected with HPAI through the consumption of contaminated shell eggs is low. For instance, when a case of HPAI is detected in the US, the chance of infected poultry or eggs entering the food chain is low because of the rapid onset of symptoms in poultry as well as the safeguards in place, which include testing of flocks and federal inspection programs.

Additionally, when food is properly prepared and stored, the risk of consumers becoming infected with HPAI is reduced even further. For more information of HPAI and human health visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

What about infecting humans?

From the CDC

• Although avian (bird) influenza (flu) A viruses usually do not infect people, there have been some rare cases of human infection with these viruses. 
• In late March 2024, a human case of influenza A(H5N1) virus infection was identified after exposure to dairy cows presumably infected with bird flu. On May 22, CDC reported a second human case in a person who had exposure to infected dairy cows in Michigan. Some bird flu infections of people have been identified in which the source of infection was unknown.
• The spread of bird flu viruses from one infected person to a close contact is very rare, and when it has happened, it has only spread to a few people. However, because of the possibility that bird flu viruses could change and gain the ability to spread easily between people, monitoring for human infection and person-to-person spread is extremely important for public health.

CNN

https://www.cnn.com/2024/05/24/health/new-experiments-milk-h5n1-infected-cows-raise-questions-flash-pasteurization/index.html
New tests confirm milk from flu-infected cows can make other animals sick — and raise questions about flash pasteurization
By Brenda Goodman, CNN

FDA Warning Letter Focuses on Allergen Control in Mislabeling Error by Salad Dressing Company

FDA issued a Warning Letter to Simple Truths for misbranding product after a mislabeling issue resulted in a allergen related recall.  In this case, Ranch dressing containers were filled with Caesar Dressing in which case the label did not declare soy as an allergen.  The issue stated by the company occurred "because the work in progress bulk containers used to produce the recalled Plant Based Ranch Dressing were mislabeled."

FDA also found issue in the corrective action provided by the company to FDA.  In the Warning Letter, FDA states that the company's corrective action documentation indicates "that [the company] updated task instructions and will improve (b)(4) communication, limit formulation operators to pumping out (b)(4), require employees to (b)(4), and (b)(4) on the new task instructions. [The company] did not provide updated procedures, task instructions, or training records. [FDA} will verify implementation of any corrective actions during FDA’s next inspection of [the] facility."

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/litehouse-inc-662949-11292023

WARNING LETTER
Litehouse, Inc.
MARCS-CMS 662949 — NOVEMBER 29, 2023

Warning Letter to Cookie Dough Processor Highlights FDA's Attention to Allergens and Supplier Controls

In this Warning Letter issued to a cookie dough manufacturing company, it is important to see the approach FDA is taking with regard to allergens and supplier-controlled hazards.

 Cookies-n-Milk, LLC, a processor of ready-to-eat (RTE) cookie dough located in McKinney, TX received an inspection.  The inspection was in response to using incorrect packaging, which resulted in undeclared peanut allergen in the product, as containers of Chocolate Chip Edible Cookie Dough which do not declare the allergen peanuts were filled with Peanut Butter Edible Cookie Dough which contain peanuts.  Basically, the company put peanut butter dough into chocolate chip dough containers.

First on the lack of allergen preventive controls at the labeling step.  As part of the hazard analysis, the company did not identify and determine that undeclared allergens due to incorrect labeling as a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard that requires a preventive control at the packaging/labeling step.  With that, the company did not monitor or verify that these preprinted labels are applied to the correct product during production (such as at the packaging/labeling step). The firm’s own investigation indicated that a lack of packaging controls resulted in containers of “Chocolate Chip Edible Cookie Dough,” which do not declare the allergen peanuts on the product label, being filled with Peanut Butter Edible Cookie Dough which contain peanuts

The next issue noted, and an item seen in recent Warning Letters, was the company did not identify and evaluate mycotoxins  in the incoming peanut butter as a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard to determine whether they require a preventive control. The "facility manufactures RTE edible cookie dough products containing peanut butter, which has been associated with mycotoxins such as aflatoxin. A knowledgeable person manufacturing/ processing food in your circumstances would identify mycotoxins as a hazard requiring a preventive control in peanut butter and peanut butter-containing ingredients.  With not identifying mycotoxins as a hazard requiring a preventive control, the company did not conduct supplier verification activities for mycotoxins in peanut butter and peanut butter-containing ingredients.

FDA then cited the lack of supporting documentation for corrective action as written in the company's  response to the inspection  In a response letter, the company indicated that the "dough hazard analysis will be revised to identify undeclared allergens due to mislabeling/packaging as a potential hazard with controls at packaging implemented with monitoring and verification procedures defined” and “The Edible Cookie Dough hazard analysis will be revised to identify Mycotoxins as a potential hazard for Wheat Flour and Peanut Butter with controls at the supplier level implemented with monitoring and verification procedures defined.” FDA responded, "However, the response did not contain sufficient supporting documentation for FDA to adequately evaluate your corrective actions. In addition, the response did not include a complete updated hazard analysis (to identify mycotoxins as a hazard requiring a preventive control for peanut butter and peanut butter-containing ingredients, and to identify undeclared allergens as a hazard requiring a preventive control at the packaging/labeling step) or revised food safety procedures."

WARNING LETTER
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/cookies-n-milk-llc-672621-04222024
Cookies-n-Milk, LLC
MARCS-CMS 672621 — APRIL 22, 2024

Alabama Seafood Processor Recalls Crabmeat Product After Positive Listeria Testing Results

Irvington Seafood of Irvington, AL, is recalling its 1 lb. packages of "Crabmeat: Jumbo, Lump, Finger, and Claw meat" because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes,  From the report, "Kevin Sakprasit received Finish Product Testing results on May 17, 2024, at 4:31pm Central from EMSL Analytical, Inc. Crabmeat was processed on May 12, 2024, Batch #133 tested positive for L. monocytogenes. 94 samples were taken on May 13, 2024: 23 samples of Jumbo, 24 samples of Lump, 24 samples of Fingers, and 23 samples of Claw meat. Based on the lab report, 12 samples of Claw meat, and 2 samples of Fingers that were taken came back positive. "

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/irvington-seafood-recalls-crabmeat-jumbo-lump-finger-and-claw-meat-because-possible-health-risk-0
Irvington Seafood Recalls "Crabmeat: Jumbo, Lump, Finger, and Claw Meat" Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 17, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 20, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Shellfish
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness - Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  ISF, Inc. Dba Irvington Seafood
Brand Name:  Irving Seafood
Product Description:  1 lb. packages of Crabmeat: Jumbo, Lump, Finger, and Claw meat

FDA Cites Detroit Tortilla Baker for Inadequate Controls

FDA issued a Warning Letter to Hacienda Mexican Foods, a Detroit MI processor of ready-to-eat (RTE) soft wheat flour tortilla products.  Like so many Warning Letters recently issued, the hazard analysis  did not properly identify or evaluate all known or reasonably foreseeable hazards.  

The company "did not identify and evaluate recontamination with environmental pathogens, such as Salmonella, to determine whether it is a hazard requiring a preventive control in [the] RTE soft flour tortillas, as required by 21 CFR 117.130(a)(1). Specifically, [the] firm’s written hazard analysis did not consider the hazard of recontamination with environmental pathogens at the “(b)(4)” and “(b)(4) steps."

With that, there were inadequate sanitation controls in the post-processing environment.

Also, FDA felt that mycotoxins in incoming flour was not addressed as well as survival of pathogens in baking.

The last item is interesting.  FDA states "your food safety plan does not include written baking procedures or established parameters for baking time and/or temperature. Your firm’s Food Safety Assistant informed our investigators that your firm does not have a documented established critical limit for baking time and temperature or any validation for the adequacy of the baking process."

It did not help the firm with this statement, "you do not have controls in place to address the hazard of survival of bacterial pathogens such as Salmonella and E. coli in the baking process. While our investigators observed production of RTE soft flour tortillas, they noted that the digital temperature display for the oven did not appear to be functioning. Your firm management confirmed that it was not functioning, and it could not provide a temperature readout. Your firm’s Production Manager indicated that the digital temperature display has not functioned at any point while he had worked at your firm, which is approximately 20 years."

Finally, there are issues with the allergen preventive controls as well as a host of GMP violations.


Warning Letter
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/hacienda-mexican-foods-llc-663221-04042024
Hacienda Mexican Foods, LLC
MARCS-CMS 663221 — APRIL 04, 2024

FDA Cites California Seafood Processor After Inspection Yields Listeria Positive Environmental Samples

FDA issued a Warning Letter to a California seafood processor who makes ready-to-eat (RTE) salmon and tuna.  As part of the inspection, FDA conducted sampling and analysis of the environmental samples (1195789 and 1239088) confirmed that thirty-four (34) of one hundred (100) environmental swabs were positive for pathogenic L. monocytogenes.

Further, "The analysis of the WGS data of the referenced samples showed three (3) strains of L. monocytogenes are present in your facility. Most notably, one of these strains was identified in twenty-eight (28) isolates and matched four (4) clinical isolates (2017, 2018, 2019, and 2023), indicating that this strain is known to cause human illness, however, no epidemiological data was available to link the clinical isolate to your facility."


FDA Warning Letter
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/ocean-group-inc-675713-04172024

Ocean Group Inc.
MARCS-CMS 675713 — APRIL 17, 2024

California Bread Company Cited for Inadequate Allergen Controls

FDA issued a Warning Letter to a California bread company after the company had a recall for undeclared allergens.   In the inspection, FDA found inadequate allergen controls. 

"Your hazard analysis for your various bread products (part of your HACCP Plan dated November 2, 2023) identified allergens as a significant hazard requiring a Critical Control Point (CCP) at the packaging/labeling step. However, your Allergens Management Program did not specifically identify the milk allergen in your sweet whey ingredient. You did not declare the milk allergen on your label for La Torta (Telera) bread products, lot # TAN NOV15, on November 2, 2023"

There were also issues with the use of Yellow No. 5.

",...the listing regulation for FD&C Yellow No. 5 requires that this certified color additive be listed as “FD&C Yellow No. 5” in the ingredient list on the labels of foods for human use that contain FD&C Yellow No. 5 [21 CFR 74.705(d)(2)]. Your Egg Bread product is manufactured with (b)(4) Egg Shade which contains FD&C Yellow No. 5; however, the label for this product fails to declare FD&C Yellow No. 5 in the ingredient statement."

There were also label misbranding issues.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/california-bread-co-674283-04252024
WARNING LETTER

California Bread Co.
MARCS-CMS 674283 — APRIL 25, 2024

Colorado Noodle Company Receives FDA Warning Letter

FDA issued a Warning Letter to a Colorado based RTE noodle company for not have a food safety plan in place, and with that any of the controls needed as part of that plan.  As you may know, FDA also published another Warning Letter in this same week for a Missouri noodle company Warning Letter in this same week for a Missouri noodle company with many similar issues.  Hopefully other noodle companies are noting the coming attention and are prepared with a well written Food Safety Plan.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/ng-zheng-inc-dba-kwan-sang-noodle-company-672206-04232024
Ng Zheng Inc. DBA Kwan Sang Noodle Company

FDA Issues Warning Letter to Missouri RTE Noodle Company for Many Issues

FDA issued a Warning Letter to  JX Restaurants, Inc  located in Maryland Heights, MO a manufacturer of ready-to-eat (RTE) rice and noodle-based meals and RTE rice and noodle-based under USDA jurisdiction.

This is a lengthy Warning Letter, but here are the highlights:

1. The firm did not identify and with that, have preventive controls in place for environmental pathogens including Listeria.  And as proof to this point, FDA conducted swabbing and found Listiera.

"FDA laboratory analysis of environmental sample 1216621 collected on August 9, 2023, from various areas in your processing facility during production found that eight (8) out of 111 swabs were confirmed positive for L. monocytogenes. These positive swabs were recovered in all areas of your facility including where the RTE meals are packaged, exposed to the environment, and (b)(4) by employees. Specifically, L. monocytogenes was found on a surface above your (b)(4) sink used to store utensils near the noodle and rice (b)(4) in the production area, on the wheels of multiple carts and racks located in the production area and packaging room, and the floor in the production area."

Interesting is that USDA testing had found Listeria.

"In addition, this is not the first time L. monocytogenes had been found in your facility. L. monocytogenes has also been recovered in samples collected by USDA FSIS, as follows:
May 18, 2023, your finished product, RTE Chicken Lo Mein. This product was held and not distributed to the public.
August 30, 2023, non-food contact environmental swabs collected from your facility."

This is an important point that a Preventive Controls approach forces the firm to do more in terms of controlling environmental pathogens.

2. The firm did not identify allergens as a hazard requiring a Preventive Control even though there were plenty areas for cross contact and did not follow thier own procedures for preventing allergen cross contact.

3. The firm did not recognize vegetative pathogens such as Salmonella in the raw materials, and with that, did not establish cooking as a kill step (although in making the product, they probably well exceeded the needed level.  Also, did not identify mycotoxins in wheat and peanuts.

4. Did not control chilling step.

"Your practice for chilling RTE fried rice is to spread cooked rice on a tray, which is then placed into a rolling rack. You continue to cook batches, fill trays, and load trays onto the rack to cool. Throughout the inspection, the investigator noted the ambient air temperature of the production room to be (b)(4)°F or higher."

5.  Plenty of GMP issues including employees not washing hands, poor facility cleanliness, improper cleaning of utensils, and improper use of high pressure hoses (which is a huge issue when you have Listeria contamination in the plant).

6.  Misbranding - numerous issues.

7. Reportable Food Registry - Failure to report.

"Specifically, you informed our investigator that on April 3, 2023, your customer conducted a recall on LuLu Chinese Express brand Korean Noodles with Vegetables with a Sell By date of April 11, 2023, due to an undeclared major food allergen, egg. Therefore, you became aware that the affected batches of this food contained undeclared egg on or about April 3, 2023, but you have not submitted a report to the Reportable Food Registry as of March 13, 2024".

Warning Letter
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/jx-restaurants-inc-669669-03192024

Recall Expanded of White-Coated Confectionary Items

More than ten days after the initial recall of white confectionary products for potential Salmonella, Palmer expanded the recall to include additional products. Palmer Candy was notified by its liquid coating supplier that there was a potential for contamination with salmonella from an ingredient that was potentially contaminated from one of their suppliers.  

So a supplier's supplier issue.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/update-palmer-candy-company-recall-white-confectionary-products-because-possible-health-risk
Update to Palmer Candy Company Recall of White Confectionary Products Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 17, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 18, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Contamination with Salmonella
Company Name:  Palmer Candy Company
Brand Name:  Multiple brands
Product Description:  Various Confectionary Products

Dog Food Recalled for Potential Metal Pieces in Bag

Mars Petcare US is voluntarily recalling 315 bags of PEDIGREE® Adult Complete Nutrition Grilled Steak & Vegetable Flavor Dry Dog Food in the 44 lb. bag size only, due to the potential presence of loose metal pieces in the bag.  There have been no reports of pet injury or illness regarding the potentially impacted product.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/mars-petcare-us-inc-voluntarily-recalls-315-bags-pedigreer-adult-complete-nutrition-grilled-steak
Mars Petcare US, Inc. Voluntarily Recalls 315 Bags of PEDIGREE® Adult Complete Nutrition Grilled Steak & Vegetable Flavor Dry Dog Food, 44 lb. Bag Size
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 17, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 18, 2024
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Presence of Loose Metal Pieces
Company Name:  Mars Petcare US, Inc.
Brand Name:  Pedigree
Product Description:  Adult Complete Nutrition Grilled Steak & Vegetable Flavor Dry Dog Food

Macaroni Salad Recalled After Labeling Error Results in Undeclared Wheat Allergen

Reser’s Fine Foods is voluntarily recalling a single item with a specific use by date, produced at a regional facility and distributed to ALDI. The product is the Aldi Deli Macaroni Salad 32 oz, with a Use By Date of Jun/03/24 due to an incorrect label. The incorrect label does not include an allergen callout for wheat.

So in this case, the bottom ingredient label stated coleslaw, which did not match the macaroni product in the container of the top label.  What controls would you put in place to prevent this very simple error?

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/resers-fine-foods-announces-voluntary-recall-single-batch-aldi-macaroni-32-oz-salad-use-date-jun0324
Reser’s Fine Foods Announces Voluntary Recall of Single Batch of Aldi Macaroni 32 oz Salad with Use By Date of Jun/03/24 Due to Unlabeled Wheat Allergen
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 17, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 17, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Due to Unlabeled Wheat Allergen
Company Name:  Reser’s Fine Foods
Brand Name:  Aldi
Product Description:  Macaroni Salad

Hawaii Firm Recalls Noodle Cups After Missing Egg Contributed by an Ingredient

Sun Noodle, of Honolulu, HI, is recalling approximately 37,158 cases of S&S CUP SAIMIN manufactured from May 9, 2023 – May 8, 2024, because the product may contain undeclared egg white powder.  This frozen product is sold in ready-to-heat cups as noodles with a separate fish cake that contains the allergen in question.  During Sun Noodle’s routine quality checks, the validation of supplier ingredients showed the use of egg white powder not disclosed on the labeling of the final assembled product.  

As part of the Allergen Control, it is critical to evaluate supplied ingredients for allergens and then ensure the design of the label includes those allergens.  In this case, it sounds as though the company did not design the cup labels with clear knowledge of what was in the purchased ingredients.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/sun-noodle-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-egg-ss-frozen-cup-saimin
Sun Noodle Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Egg in S&S Frozen Cup Saimin
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 16, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 17, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  May contain undeclared egg white powder
Company Name:  Sun Noodle
Brand Name:  S&S Cup
Product Description:   Saimin Noodles with Soup & Garnishes

Additional Recall Associated with White Confectionary with Potential Salmonella

United Supermarkets is advising guests about a recall by its supplier Palmer Candy of its white coated confectionary items due to possible Salmonella contamination. Palmer Candy was notified by its liquid coating supplier that there was a potential for contamination with Salmonella from an ingredient that was potentially contaminated from one of their suppliers. 

The Palmer recall was published on May 6, 2024.  So here is a delay of 10 days from that until this recall.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/united-supermarkets-advises-guests-new-mexico-and-texas-palmer-candys-voluntary-recall-white-coated
United Supermarkets Advises Guests in New Mexico and Texas of Palmer Candy’s Voluntary Recall of White Coated Confectionary Items Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 17, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 17, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Possible Salmonella contamination.
Company Name:  United Supermarkets
Brand Name:  United Supermarkets
Product Description:  Chocolate Caramel Corn and Candy Tray

Imported Organic Chia Seeds Recalled Due to Potential Salmonella

Natural Sourcing International is recalling of one lot of imported Great Value Organic Black Chia Seeds 32 oz. due to the potential presence of Salmonella that may be in some of the finished products. The product was imported from Uganda.

There are no reported illness and from the statement, it would seem to follow that the recall was due to testing.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/voluntary-recall-select-great-value-organic-black-chia-seeds-due-possible-presence-salmonella
Voluntary Recall of Select Great Value Organic Black Chia Seeds Due to The Possible Presence of Salmonella
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 10, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 13, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Presence of Salmonella
Company Name:  Natural Sourcing International
Brand Name:  Great Value
Product Description:  Organic Chia Seeds

NIH Study - CWD Prions From Infected Deer Not Likely Transmitted to Humans

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in deer has been a huge concern for those who consume venison.  A recently released study found that the prions associated with CWD in deer did not transfer to humans in laboratory studies.

"In the new CWD study, the bulk of which was done in 2022 and 2023, the research team validated the study model by successfully infecting human cerebral organoids with human CJD prions (positive control). Then, using the same laboratory conditions, they directly exposed healthy human cerebral organoids for seven days with high concentrations of CWD prions from white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk, and normal brain matter (negative control). The researchers then observed the organoids for up to six months, and none became infected with CWD."

"This indicates that even following direct exposure of human central nervous system tissues to CWD prions there is a substantial resistance or barrier to the propagation of infection, according to researchers. The authors acknowledge the limitations of their research, including the possibility that a small number of people may have genetic susceptibility that was not accounted for, and that emergence of new strains with a lesser barrier to infection remains possible. They are optimistic that the inference of these current data is that humans are extremely unlikely to contract a prion disease because of inadvertently eating CWD-infected cervid meat."

"Prion diseases are degenerative diseases found in some mammals. These diseases primarily involve deterioration of the brain but also can affect the eyes and other organs. Disease and death occur when abnormal proteins fold, clump together, recruit other prion proteins to do the same, and eventually destroy the central nervous system. Currently, there are no preventive or therapeutic treatments for prion diseases."

https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-study-shows-chronic-wasting-disease-unlikely-move-animals-people
NIH study shows chronic wasting disease unlikely to move from animals to people
Study of cerebral organoids reinforces evidence for substantial species barrier

Friday, May 17, 2024

Beethoven's Deafness May Be Result of Lead Poisoning

A study provided insight on how Beethoven may have lost his hearing and suffered other ailments.  A study found high levels of lead as well as high levels of arsenic and mercury through analysis of his hair and this could have accounted for his health conditions.  "For example, one lock contained 380 micrograms of lead per gram of hair, while the second had 258 micrograms per gram of hair. (Normal levels today would be closer to 4 micrograms or less.) His hair also contained 13 times the normal level of arsenic and four times the typical level of mercury."  He also suffered from Hepatitis B which didn't help.

"One theory involves his penchant for wine; he often consumed an entire bottle in a single day. It wasn't uncommon during that time for wine producers to include lead acetate in their concoctions as a preservative and sweetener. Back then, glass bottles also contained traces of lead. The "Fifth Symphony" composer also ate a lot of fish caught in the Danube, which was known for containing arsenic and mercury, CNN reported."

So to what degree did his tortured condition lead him to writing his highly regarded music?

https://www.livescience.com/archaeology/heavy-metals-in-beethovens-hair-may-explain-his-deafness-study-finds
Heavy metals in Beethoven's hair may explain his deafness, study finds
News
By Jennifer Nalewicki 

May 14, 2024

California Bakery Cited for Failure to Comply with Any Regulations

FDA issued a Warning Letter to a California Bakery.  To make the long notice short [I really don't want to type this one out], the firm operated as if they had no knowledge of regulations.  There was no food safety plan, and with that, no controls for allergens, environmental pathogens, etc.  The firm lacked GMPs including pest control, personal hygiene, proper cleaning, etc.  They also had issues with using unapproved color additives and improper labeling.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/sheng-kee-california-inc-dba-sheng-kee-bakery-668255-04242024
Sheng Kee of California, Inc dba Sheng Kee Bakery
MARCS-CMS 668255 — APRIL 24, 2024

Canning Firm in China Cited by FDA for Failure to Meet LACF Regulations

FDA issued a Warning Letter to a low acid canned food (LACF) facility, located on Huarong County, Yueyang, Hunan, China. 

• Did not process a food in conformity with at least the scheduled process filed with FDA as required by 21 CFR 108.35 including: products produced in 2023 were processed at a different time and temperature than the scheduled process filed with the FDA
• The heat distribution study does not adequately support the scheduled process filed with the FDA.
• The firm’s retorts did not have an accurate temperature-recording device as required by 21 CFR 113.40(b)(2)
• The processing and production records for products failed to document the specific product variety, approximate number of containers per coding interval, initial product temperature, temperature-indicating device readings, and temperature recording device readings. Additionally, as these USA products are produced in a horizontal still water (b)(4) retort, the firm failed to document time steam on, time temperature up to processing temperature, time steam off, and venting time and temperature to which vented. The abovementioned data is also not documented or recorded on processing and production records for any of the LACF products the firm produces for the USA market.
• The firm did not use or document any form of heat-sensitive indicators or other effective means to ensure the baskets have been processed in the horizontal still water (b)(4) retorts used to process the USA low-acid canned food products.
• The firm’s only printed identification code for  USA hermetically sealed pouches consists of a 10-month best by date, which does not adequately identify the establishment where packed, the product in the container, year packed, day packed, or period during which packed
• The firm did not reference  (b)(4) thermometer to document the retort processing temperature. By the admission of your Equipment & Maintenance Manager, the firm relies on the (b)(4) digital temperature control probe display to document the processing temperatures on the horizontal still water (b)(4) retorts ((b)(4)) used to process LACF products for the USA market.
• The General Manager, Assistant Quality Control Manager, and the Equipment & Maintenance Manager, and none of the processing system or retort operators have ever attended training for thermally processing low-acid canned foods, such as a Better Process Control School, nor are they under the supervision of anyone who has completed such training.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/hunan-gagazui-food-co-ltd-673799-02092024
Hunan Gagazui Food Co., Ltd.
MARCS-CMS 673799 — FEBRUARY 09, 2024

Warning Letter Issued to Spanish Seafood Processor for Inadequate HACCP Plan

The FDA issued a Warning Letter after conducting a Foreign Regulatory Assessment (FRRA) of a  seafood processing facility, located in Sevilla, Spain on October 2 through October 11, 2023. During that assessment, FDA found that the company had serious violations of the seafood Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) regulation.  This included that the firm’s HACCP plan for green olives stuffed with anchovy or tuna did not list the food safety hazard of scombrotoxin (histamine) formation, Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) growth and toxin formation, and allergens associated with the tuna and anchovies; and the food safety hazard of S. aureus growth and toxin formation associated with the olives cooked and fermented at your facility.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/jolca-sa-677664-03212024
Jolca, S.A.
MARCS-CMS 677664 — MARCH 21, 2024

FDA Warning Letter to Foreign Supplier Highlights the Need for Supplier Preventive Controls

FDA issued a Warning Letter to a Chinese manufacture of RTE soy protein isolate.  FDA inspected the food manufacturing facility, located in Ye County, Pingdingshan, Henan, 467200, China from August 15 to 17, 2023. Soy protein isolate is used as a protein source in a number of food items including as an ingredient in smoothie mixes, pancake mixes, and breakfast ceral.

This is a great demonstration for the need of a tight Supplier Preventive Control as part of the Preventive Controls for Human Foods OR as part of a FSVP.  Note the issue with Certificates of Analysis (COAs).   A good reason to always verify COA with one's own testing.  This is especially important since this is considered a RTE ingredient.

Issues included:

• 'The hazard analysis covering the RTE Soy Protein Isolate did not identify the hazard of recontamination with environmental pathogens (e.g., Salmonella) as requiring a preventive control.'   
• 'Further, after employees completed and documented cleaning of the packing room, the investigator visually observed apparent soy protein powder residue on food-contact surfaces including the manual hand scoop, powder filling spout, and air removal probes.  The also visually observed soy protein powder residue on food-contact surfaces including the manual hand scoop, powder filling spout, and air removal probes.' 
• 'The production manager also informed the investigator that the only method of sanitization for the equipment in the packaging room is turning on the ceiling-mounted ultraviolet light for (b)(4) minutes before starting packaging. Of course, the company must ensure that the sanitization system is effective in reducing environmental pathogens on food-contact packaging surfaces to a safe level (including those far from the light source, those where the light might not reach, and those with organic residues.)'
• The firm did not take effective measures to exclude pests from the processing, packing, and holding areas and to protect against the contamination of food on the premises by pests, including a live insect was observed crawling inside the facility’s post-heat treatment packaging room for the RTE soy protein products; three live crawling insects and two dead insects were observed on the floor of the spray dryer room, which is directly adjacent and connected to the post-heat treatment packaging room; and a gap was observed at the bottom of the packaging room entry doors.
• Failed to properly store equipment, remove litter and waste, and cut weeds and grass within the immediate vicinity of the plant thus constituting an attractant, breeding place, or harborage for pests, as required by 21 CFR 117.20(a)(1). Specifically, the exterior ground along the south side of the facility was overgrown with weeds and being used as a storage area for scrap metal and old equipment. This area is directly outside the soy packaging room.
• The firm provided the investigator with certificates of analysis (COAs) for outgoing shipments of Soy Protein Isolate to U.S. customers which included results for Salmonella and E. coli testing. However, the firm had no original testing data to support the results on the COA. According to the Laboratory Manager and Food Safety Plan Systems manager, the firm sends their U.S. customers COAs with data that is not supported by actual results but creates the COA with values to satisfy the customer specifications. The firm then performs testing after the batches are sent to the U.S.; however, the testing does not include Salmonella or E. coli.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/pingdingshan-tianjing-plant-albumen-co-ltd-675567-04172024
Pingdingshan Tianjing Plant Albumen Co., Ltd.
MARCS-CMS 675567 — APRIL 17, 2024

CA Firm Recalls Yogurt Covered Pretzels After Yogurt Coating Supplier Finds Salmonella

Western Mixers Produce & Nuts, Inc. of Ontario, CA is recalling Yogurt Covered Pretzels, because the yogurt coating has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella,  The recall was as the result of a routine sampling program by the source supplier of the yogurt coating, which revealed that the finished products contained the bacteria. The company has ceased the production and distribution of the product as FDA and the company continue their investigation as to what caused the problem.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/western-mixers-produce-nuts-inc-recalls-yogurt-covered-pretzels-because-possible-health-risk
Western Mixers Produce & Nuts, Inc. Recalls Yogurt Covered Pretzels Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 10, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 10, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Salmonella
Company Name:  Western Mixers Produce and Nuts
Brand Name:  First Street, Gelson’s, bulk at Down Home Goods and Thorp Fruit
Product Description:   Yogurt covered pretzels

Washington State Firm Recalls Goat Milk Infant Formula Kit After Adverse Event in Infant

Healthwest Minerals, Inc. d/b/a Mt. Capra Products of Chehalis, Washington, is recalling 1,506 boxes of Goat Milk Formula Recipe Kit on the recommendation of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and advises consumers to immediately discontinue use of the product as infant formula. The FDA is concerned that the formula does not meet all FDA requirements for infant formula, does not provide sufficient nutrition when used as an infant formula, and the storage instructions may be insufficient for the product. Infants consuming the recalled product without additional iron supplementation can develop iron deficiency anemia and feeding intolerance.

FDA notified Mt. Capra of an adverse event report of anemia in one infant. FDA determined that while the caregivers were using the Goat Milk Formula Recipe Kit and recipe, the caregivers substituted some ingredients with a different brand of multivitamin, which created a product deficient in vitamin B12 as well as folate and ultimately resulted in the development of anemia.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/healthwest-minerals-inc-dba-mt-capra-products-recalls-goat-milk-formula-recipe-kit-and-warns
Healthwest Minerals Inc. DBA Mt Capra Products Recalls Goat Milk Formula Recipe Kit and Warns Consumers Against the Use of Product as Infant Formula
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 10, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 10, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Product does not provide sufficient nutrition when used as an infant formula
Company Name:  Healthwest Minerals, Inc. dba Mt. Capra Products
Brand Name: Mt. Capra
Product Description:  Goat Milk Formula Recipe Kit

Japan - Rat Parts Found in Bread

In Japan, a major food company issued a recall for over 100,000 packs of sliced white bread after rat parts were found in the product.  In a statement on Wednesday, Pasco Shikishima Corporation said it was investigating how parts of “a small animal” [a rat] found its way into two packets of sliced bread, adding that no one has fallen sick so far after consuming the product."  "They were found in a batch of white “chojuku” bread — or super fermented bread, known for its extra chewy texture — manufactured by a factory based in western Tokyo prefecture, according to the company."

Perhaps a name change is in order....ratachewy.

CNN

https://www.cnn.com/2024/05/09/food/japan-bread-rat-parts-recall-intl-hnk
Rat parts found in sliced white bread in Japan, sparking recall
By Chris Lau and Himari Semans, CNN
Updated 2:38 AM EDT, Thu May 9, 2024
Tokyo

Texas Nut Company Recalls All Products for Never Having Adhered to Allergen Regulations

Texas Pecan of Dallas TX is recalling 1 Lb and 8 oz products because it may contain an undeclared allergens - cashews, filberts, macadamias, pistachios, pecans, pine nuts, walnuts, soy, dairy (milk), sesame and wheat.

According to the company, "The problem came about with a routine check from the Texas Department of state and Health Services. When they inspected the packaging machine they decided that cross contamination was possible as our labels do states tree nut but each tree nut was not named individually. Our packaging machine is cleaned properly however our written documentation did not clearly state that."  They further state, "his company has been in business for over 40 years and no sickness or allergic reaction has ever been reported to us."

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/texas-pecan-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-tree-nuts-not-named-individually-soy-dairymilk-sesame
Texas Pecan Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Tree Nuts (Not Named Individually), Soy, Dairy(Milk), Sesame and Wheat Not Named in Product
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 08, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 08, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared peanut, tree nuts, soy, milk, sesame, and wheat allergens
Company Name:  Texas Pecan
Brand Name:  Texas Pecan Company
Product Description:  1 lb and 8 oz nuts, snack mixes, seeds, snack sticks

Iowa Retailer Recalls Cream Cheese Spread and Cookies and Cream Mix for Salmonella After Co-manufacturers Issue Notification

Hy-Vee, Inc., based in West Des Moines, Iowa, is voluntarily recalling two varieties of its Hy-Vee Cream Cheese Spread  and bulk-packaged Cookies & Cream Mix out of an abundance of caution due to the potential for contamination with Salmonella.  These products are manufactured at different third-party facilities around the Midwest and are sold under HyVee’s private label and bulk packaging programs. The manufacturers of these products notified Hy-Vee of the potential issue.

No illnesses have been reported.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/recall_supplier-recalls-impact-two-hy-vee-products-third-party-manufacturers-alert-retailer
Recall_Supplier Recalls Impact Two Hy-Vee Products Third-Party Manufacturers Alert Retailer of Potential for Contamination; No Illnesses Reported
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 06, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 06, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Salmonella
Company Name:  Hy-Vee Inc
Brand Name:  HyVee
Product Description:  Plain Whipped Cream Cheese, Plain Cream Cheese, and Cookies & Cream Mix

Whoa....PSU Food Safety Ranked as One of Best Food Safety Blogs for 2024

Very excited to see our blog ranked in the Best Food Safety Blogs for 2024, coming in at #11.

Thanks to all for your readership!

https://food.feedspot.com/food_safety_blog/
45 Best Food Safety Blogs and Websites
Here are 45 Best Food Safety Blogs you should follow in 2024

11. Penn State Food Safety Blog

Penn State Food Safety Blog....Providing news and commentary on important food safety issues. Penn State Food Safety is a work group in the College of Agricultural Sciences with members from the Department of Food Science, Department of Animal Science, and Cooperative Extension.

White Chocolate Candy Product Recalled After Notification by Supplier of Potential Salmonella Contamination in Ingredient

Palmer Candy Company, Sioux City, Iowa, is recalling its “White Coated Confectionary Items” because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.  Palmer Candy was notified by its liquid coating supplier that there was a potential for contamination with salmonella from an ingredient that was potentially contaminated from one of their suppliers.
The recalled confectionary items were distributed nationwide 

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/palmer-candy-company-recalls-white-confectionary-products-because-possible-health-risk
Palmer Candy Company Recalls White Confectionary Products Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 05, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 06, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Salmonella
Company Name:  Palmer Candy Company
Brand Name:  Freshness Guaranteed, Palmer, Sweet Smiles, Snackin’ With The Crew, Casey’s, Sconza Chocolates, Favorite Day Bakery, Sunny Select, Urge!, Kwik Trip Inc.
Product Description:  Various Confectionary Products

Peanuts Recalled for Potential Listeria Contamination

Hormel Foods Sales, LLC is voluntarily recalling a limited number of two PLANTERS® products that were produced at one of its facilities in April because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.  The products were shipped to Publix distribution warehouses in Florida, Georgia, Alabama and North Carolina and to Dollar Tree distribution warehouses in South Carolina and Georgia.

While no reason was stated for the recall, one could guess that testing of product or food contact surfaces may be the reason.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/hormel-foods-sales-llc-recalls-limited-number-plantersr-honey-roasted-peanuts-4-oz-and-plantersr
Hormel Foods Sales, LLC Recalls a Limited Number of Planters® Honey Roasted Peanuts 4 Oz. and Planters® Deluxe Lightly Salted Mixed Nuts 8.75 Oz. Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 03, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 03, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Nuts & Nut Products
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Hormel Foods Sales, LLC
Brand Name:  Planters
Product Description:  Honey Roasted Peanuts and Deluxe Lightly Salted Mixed Nuts

Chocolate Covered Potato Chips Recalled Due to Inadvertent Addition of Hazelnuts

Chuao Chocolatier, a Carlsburg, CA firm, is voluntarily recalling a single production of Potato Chip mini bar .39oz/11 gram LOT 4022 because some packages may contain undeclared hazelnut.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered hazelnuts were inadvertently added to the product during manufacturing and the lot produced was distributed in packaging that does not reveal the presence of hazelnuts. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by cross contamination on a piece of share equipment.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/chuao-chocolatier-recalls-its-39-oz-11-gram-potato-chip-mini-bar-lot-4022-due-undeclared-hazelnuts
Chuao Chocolatier Recalls Its: .39 oz /11 Gram Potato Chip Mini Bar Lot 4022 Due to Undeclared Hazelnuts

Onion Rings Recalled for Potential Staphylococcus Aureus

In the FDA Enforcement Reports, a recall of fried onion rings due to the potential growth of Staphylococcus aureus.  While the information on the Enforcement Reports is limited, one would guess that the issue was related to temperature control of the batter during manufacturing.  If this is the case, teh concern would be that Staphylococcus aureus may have grown, produced toxin, and now that toxin would be heat stable.  Another possibility was that there could have been a high staph count on the finished product, and if the consumer temperature abused the product, Staphylococcus would grow.

FDA Enforcement Report

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/ires/index.cfm
Product Details
Product Description:
FRENCH S CRISPY FRIED ONIONS ORIG 240/26.5 OZ PDM
Reason for Recall:  Potential growth of Staphylococcus aureus
Product Quantity:  26.5 ounce - 720 Pouches
Recall Number:  F-1214-2024
Code Information:  UPC: 041500959030

Classification:  Class II
Event Details
Event ID:  94282
Voluntary / Mandated:  Voluntary: Firm initiated
Product Type:  Food
Initial Firm Notification of Consignee or Public:  Two or more of the following: Email, Fax, Letter, Press Release, Telephone, Visit
Status:  Ongoing
Distribution Pattern:  The product was distributed to the following States: AZ, IL
Recalling Firm:  McCormick & Company, Inc.- Consumer Product Division
11100 Mccormick Rd
Hunt Valley, MD 21031-1107
United States

Press Release URL(s):
Recall Initiation Date:  3/18/2024
Center Classification Date:   5/2/2024

FDA Publishes Final Rule for Use of Agricultural Water on FSMA Covered Produce

FDA released their final rule on agricultural water for produce. "Farms are required to conduct assessments of their pre-harvest agricultural water annually, and whenever a significant change occurs, to identify any conditions likely to introduce known or reasonably foreseeable hazards into or onto covered produce or food contact surfaces."   The rule provides the various factors that go into the evaluation.  

 "The final rule replaces certain pre-harvest agricultural water requirements for covered produce (other than sprouts) in the 2015 produce safety rule with requirements for systems-based agricultural water assessments to determine and guide appropriate measures to minimize potential risks associated with pre-harvest agricultural water."  It "establishes requirements for agricultural water assessments that evaluate a variety of factors that are key determinants of contamination risks associated with pre-harvest agricultural water. This includes an evaluation of the water system, water use practices, crop characteristics, environmental conditions, potential impacts on water from adjacent and nearby land, and other relevant factors."


https://www.fda.gov/food/cfsan-constituent-updates/fda-publishes-landmark-final-rule-enhance-safety-agricultural-water?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
FDA Publishes Landmark Final Rule to Enhance the Safety of Agricultural Water
Constituent Update
May 2, 2024

Public Health Alert for Chorizo After Consumer Complaints Filed for Hard Plastic and Metal in Product

USDA-FSIS issued a public health alert due to concerns of raw pork chorizo products that may be contaminated with a foreign material, specifically hard plastic and metal.  The product was produced by San Antonio Packing Company of San Antonio, TX.   The problem was discovered after the firm notified FSIS that it had received a consumer complaint reporting that pieces of hard plastic and metal were found in the raw pork chorizo product.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-raw-pork-chorizo-products-due-possible-foreign
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Raw Pork Chorizo Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination

WASHINGTON, May. 2, 2024 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert due to concerns of raw pork chorizo products that may be contaminated with a foreign material, specifically hard plastic and metal. FSIS is issuing a public health alert to ensure that consumers are aware that this product should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because the product is no longer available for purchase.

Raw Ground Beef Recalled for E. coli O157:H7 After Segregated Product Mistakenly Used

Cargill Meat Solutions, a Hazleton, Pa., establishment, is recalling approximately 16,243 pounds of raw ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7.  The establishment reported the issue to FSIS after they identified that previously segregated product had been inadvertently utilized in the production of ground beef.  These items were shipped to Walmart retail locations nationwide.

Ouch.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/cargill-meat-solutions-recalls-ground-beef-products-due-possible-e--coli-o157h7
Cargill Meat Solutions Recalls Ground Beef Products Due to Possible E. coli O157:H7 Contamination

WASHINGTON, May 1, 2024 - Cargill Meat Solutions, a Hazleton, Pa., establishment, is recalling approximately 16,243 pounds of raw ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.