CFIA Lab Determines Incorrect Testing Result On Green Onions - Recall Rescinded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Food Inspection Agency Laboratory Error Incorrectly Resulted in Recall of Church Brothers Farms Green Onions – Recall Rescinded-..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

Canadian Food Agency Releases Investigation Report on 2024 Listeria Outbreak Linked to Plant-based Milks

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) issued a report of their investigation into the August 2024 Listeria outbreak linked to plant based milks produced by Joriki, Inc, a third-party manufacturer based in Pickering, Canada producing product for Danone, Canada.  The company issued a recall for almond, coconut, and oat milks after 15 hospitalizations and 3 deaths.

The report stated:

• "The investigation was not able to confirm the primary source of the contamination within the establishment, which is not uncommon with investigations regarding pasteurized products like plant-based beverages – listeria cannot survive pasteurization – however, cross-contamination could have occurred after processing."
• "During the course of its investigation, the CFIA discovered that the facility did not properly implement environmental swabbing and finished product testing in adherence to Health Canada's Policy on Listeria monocytogenes in ready-to-eat foods, which is why the CFIA is closely following up to ensure corrective actions are completed and necessary safety measures are in place."
• "As a result of the food safety investigation, production at Joriki Inc. in Pickering has been fully halted, and significant cleanup and renovations are underway. Manufacturing will not resume until all necessary safety measures are in place, and until we are confident that the risk of contamination has been eliminated."

https://www.canada.ca/en/food-inspection-agency/news/2024/10/statement-on-the-conclusion-of-the-food-safety-investigation-related-to-the-recall-of-various-silk-and-great-value-brand-plant-based-refrigerated-b.html
Statement on the conclusion of the food safety investigation related to the recall of various Silk and Great Value brand plant-based refrigerated beverages
From: Canadian Food Inspection Agency

Imported Enoki Mushrooms Recalled for Listeria After Sample Tests Positive

HH Fresh Trading Corp of California is recalling its 200g of Taiwan Enoki because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.  The recalled “Enoki mushrooms 200 gram” were distributed in West Virginia in multiple retail store locations and were sold on 8/20/2024 and 8/23/2024 with 240 cases for each date. HH Fresh Trading received notice on 10/11/2024 and that the Enoki 200 gram test revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes on 9/9/2024. 

FDA Recalls
https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/hh-fresh-trading-corp-recalls-taiwan-enoki-200gx25pk-because-possible-health-risk
HH Fresh Trading Corp Recalls Taiwan Enoki 200gx25pk Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 01, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  November 02, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.
Company Name:  HH Fresh Trading Corp of California
Brand Name:  HH Fresh Trading
Product Description:  Enoki Mushrooms

Update on E. coli Outbreak Linked to Slivered Onions on Burgers - October 30, 2024

On October 30, 2024 FDA and CDC updated information on E. coli STEC linked to slivered onions used on McDonald Quarter Pounders. There are now 90 cases with 27 hospitalizations and 1 death.  2 people developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious condition that can cause kidney failure.  There are 15 more cases than reported in the October 25th update.

"On October 22, 2024, Taylor Farms recalled yellow onions that were supplied to McDonald’s and other food service customers. FDA is working with Taylor Farms and their direct customers to determine if additional downstream customer recalls are necessary. According to available information, it is unlikely that recalled yellow onions were sold to grocery stores or directly to consumers. Food service customers who received recalled onions were contacted and should no longer be using or serving recalled onions. These customers should also ensure that they did not freeze recalled onions or foods containing recalled onions."

Fast Facts
Cases: 90 (15 new)
Hospitalizations: 27 (5 new)
Deaths: 1 (0 new)
States: 13 (0 new)

FDA

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 is investigating slivered onions served at McDonald’s as the likely source of this outbreak. Onions have been recalled and are no longer being used.

Florida Firm Recalls Frozen Croquette Produced Without Inspection and Failure to List Allergens

A Tu Gusto, LLC, a Lehigh Acres, Fla. firm, is recalling approximately 7,630 pounds of frozen meat and poultry croquette products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection and may contain undeclared allergens - the product contains soy, sesame seed and wheat, known allergens, which are not declared on the product label.  The problem was discovered when FSIS was performing surveillance activities at a retailer and observed labeling irregularities. After further investigation it was determined that the items were produced at a facility that does not have a grant of inspection and contained allergens not declared on the product label. Therefore, the items were produced without the benefit of FSIS inspection and are mislabeled.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/a-tu-gusto-llc-recalls-frozen-croquette-products-produced-without-benefit-inspection
A Tu Gusto, LLC Recalls Frozen Croquette Products Produced Without the Benefit of Inspection and Undeclared Allergens
FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Oct. 29, 2024 – A Tu Gusto, LLC, a Lehigh Acres, Fla. firm, is recalling approximately 7,630 pounds of frozen meat and poultry croquette products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection and may contain undeclared allergens, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product contains soy, sesame seed and wheat, known allergens, which are not declared on the product label.