USDA-FSIS Announces Stronger Measures for Listeria Verification in RTE Facilities

In the aftermath of the Listeria outbreak associated with deli meat from Boar's Head Virginia facility, UDSA-FSIS announced increased measures to help ensure that companies producing RTE meat and poultry items are controlling Listeria.

Testing for Listeria species for a broader look at Listeria control - Effective January 2025, FSIS will add broader Listeria species testing to all samples of ready-to-eat product, environmental and food contact surfaces. FSIS laboratories currently test these samples for Listeria monocytogenes, which is the specific type of Listeria species that causes illness. However, adding additional species testing to the agency’s regulatory framework will help provide more information about the effectiveness of a facility’s sanitation program and can signal to FSIS if follow up is needed (for example, a Food Safety Assessment, intensified sampling, or enforcement actions).

Improved instruction to inspectors - FSIS will update its instructions and training for food safety inspectors to better equip the workforce to recognize and highlight systemic problems in a standardized way. Agency inspectors will receive updated instructions and training, and FSIS field supervisors will routinely review these instructions with inspectors to ensure full understanding and appropriate application. Inspectors will also receive supplemental Listeria monocytogenes control training designed to help strengthen inspectors’ understanding of the regulatory requirements in FSIS’ Listeria Rule and how to verify establishments have designed and implemented food safety systems that comply with those requirements.

Full Inspections (FSAs) for RTE facilities - FSIS will conduct Food Safety Assessments (in-depth food safety reviews) at ready-to-eat meat and poultry facilities. In FY 2025, FSIS is prioritizing completion of Food Safety Assessments at ready-to-eat meat and poultry facilities that rely exclusively on sanitation measures to control for Listeria. These reviews will provide information about the plants individually and collectively and could inform future policy or process changes to target this microorganism.

Supervisor follow-up to these inspections (FSAs) - FSIS field supervisors will conduct in-person, follow-up visits when systemic issues are identified during a Food Safety Assessment. Follow-up visits by FSIS field supervisors will bolster oversight from more senior inspection staff to ensure a facility fully addresses issues identified during a Food Safety Assessment and could inform enforcement action by FSIS. Field supervisors will work with inspectors to ensure the facility stays in compliance.

Verifying risk factors for Listeria in facilities - FSIS inspectors will verify specific Listeria monocytogenes-related risk factors at ready-to-eat facilities weekly. These risk factors include changes in physical plant modifications, such as new construction; indicators of sanitation problems, such as condensation, roof leaks, damaged equipment, or cracked floors; and Listeria species or Listeria monocytogenes positive test results from company testing. FSIS district offices, agency field supervisors and inspectors will review, analyze and consider the weekly data from each facility to determine if there are systemic issues that warrant further action, such as a Food Safety Assessment, intensified sampling, or enforcement steps.

Work better with state inspected facilities - FSIS will clarify state and Federal requirements for consistent oversight of Talmadge-Aiken (TA) programs through updated cooperative agreements and instructions. 

Revise triggers that warrant action - FSIS will revise establishment-review alert triggers. One significant criterion used to guide a district office’s decision to conduct a Public Health Risk Evaluation (PHRE), which typically precedes a Food Safety Assessment, is a monthly list of facilities with higher rates of noncompliance related to public health that is generated using an algorithm

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/news-events/news-press-releases/fsis-announces-stronger-measures-protect-public-listeria
FSIS Announces Stronger Measures to Protect the Public from Listeria monocytogenes

WASHINGTON, December 17, 2024 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) today announced several new steps to strengthen the agency’s oversight of food processing facilities it regulates (meat, poultry and egg products) and ensure safe food. These steps reflect the agency’s continual effort to protect public health through science-based regulation, strong enforcement, and advancement of its prevention-first approach to eliminating foodborne illness.

Ohio Firm Recalls Salsa Product for Undeclared Yellow 5 and 6.

Jose Madrid Salsa of Zanesville, OH is announcing a voluntary recall of our Chipotle Con Queso Salsa. The salsa is being recalled because it contains Yellow 5 and Yellow 6, which were not listed on the ingredient label. Individuals who are allergic or sensitive to Yellow 5 or Yellow 6 run the risk of minor to serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume this product.  

The problem was discovered during a routine inspection of the production facility by the Ohio Department of Agriculture acting on behalf of the FDA. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company's production and packaging processes.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/recall-jose-madrid-salsa-chipotle-con-queso
Recall of Jose Madrid Salsa Chipotle Con Queso
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 20, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  December 20, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Gravy/Sauces
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Yellow 5 and Yellow 6
Company Name:  Jose Madrid Salsa
Brand Name:  Jose Madrid
Product Description:  Chipotle Con Queso Salsa

Retailer Recalls Imported Buttered Vegetables For Not Declaring Milk

 Lidl US is recalling all lots of their Taste of Deutschland Buttered Vegetables 10.5 oz box UPC 4 056489 122876 due to undeclared milk allergen. The recall was issued due to undeclared milk in the products.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered by the FDA during an inspection that the labels did not list the allergen milk in the ingredient statement.  

Butter is listed on the label, but milk is not declared.  Product is imported from Germany.  This falls on the FSVP importer, in this case probably the retailer, to ensure that the product meets US regulatory standards.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/lidl-recalls-taste-deutschland-buttered-vegetables-due-undeclared-milk-allergens
Lidl Recalls Taste of Deutschland Buttered Vegetables Due to Undeclared Milk Allergens
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 20, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  December 20, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Vegetable Products  Allergens
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk
Company Name:  Lidl US
Brand Name:  Taste of Deutschland
Product Description:  Frozen Buttered Vegetables, Carrots, Peas, Cauliflower, & Corn

California Company Recalls Protein Powder After Allergic Reaction to Peanut

Orgain of Irvine, California is voluntarily recalling a single batch of its 30g Protein Organic Plant Based Powder - Chocolate 2.01lb because it may contain undeclared peanut residue.  The recall is limited to a single batch of 30g Protein Organic Plant Based Powder - Chocolate 2.01lb and was distributed nationwide both in retail stores and online.  Orgain has conducted a complete review of the production process for this batch and found no discrepancies. This voluntary recall was initiated out of an abundance of caution following a report of an allergic reaction from one consumer. No other illnesses have been reported to date.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/orgain-issues-voluntary-allergy-alert-possible-undeclared-peanut-residue-single-batch-30g-protein
Orgain Issues Voluntary Allergy Alert on Possible Undeclared Peanut Residue in a Single Batch of 30G Protein Organic Plant Based Powder – Chocolate 2.01lb
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 19, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  December 19, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Product may contain undeclared peanut
Company Name: Orgain
Brand Name:  Orgain
Product Description:  30g Plant Protein Complete Protein Powder – Chocolate

Potato Chip Product Recalled After Consumer Report

Frito-Lay today issued a recall of a limited number of 13 oz. bags of Lay’s Classic Potato Chips that may contain undeclared milk, after being alerted through a consumer contact.  Since no illness / allergic reactions occurred, this must be a case where the wrong product was in the bag.  Frito-Lay has had numerous issues for allergens due to incorrect packaging. The company was issued a Warning Letter in 2020.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/frito-lay-issues-limited-recall-undeclared-milk-lays-classic-potato-chips-distributed-oregon-and
Frito-Lay Issues Limited Recall on Undeclared Milk in Lay’s Classic Potato Chips Distributed in Oregon and Washington
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 16, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  December 18, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Snack Food Item 
Reason for Announcement:  Potential or Undeclared Allergen – Milk
Company Name:  Frito-Lay
Brand Name:  Lay’s
Product Description:  Potato Chip

Oklahoma Establishment Recalls RTE Meat Products Due to Undeclared Milk

Ralph's Packing Company, a Perkins, Okla. establishment, is recalling approximately 3,132 pounds of ready-to-eat pork and beef bologna products due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen - product may contain milk, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.   The problem was discovered when the establishment notified FSIS that the labels applied to the product did not include milk on the label

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/ralphs-packing-company-recalls-ready-eat-pork-and-beef-bologna-products-due
Ralph's Packing Company Recalls Ready-To-Eat Pork and Beef Bologna Products Due to Misbranding and an Undeclared Allergen

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Dec. 20, 2024 – Ralph's Packing Company, a Perkins, Okla. establishment, is recalling approximately 3,132 pounds of ready-to-eat pork and beef bologna products due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product may contain milk, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.

Maryland Establishment Recalls Raw Pork Products Produced While Under Suspension

Impero Foods & Meats, Inc., a Baltimore, Md. establishment, is recalling approximately 7,485 pounds of raw pork sausage products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection.  The problem was discovered when FSIS was performing surveillance activities at a retailer after notification that items may have been produced at a facility that had a suspended grant of inspection. After further investigation, it was determined that the items were produced without the benefit of FSIS inspection.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/impero-foods-meats-inc--recalls-raw-pork-sausage-products-produced-without-benefit
Impero Foods & Meats, Inc. Recalls Raw Pork Sausage Products Produced Without Benefit of Inspection

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Dec. 20, 2024 – Impero Foods & Meats, Inc., a Baltimore, Md. establishment, is recalling approximately 7,485 pounds of raw pork sausage products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

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

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

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


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

News
By Emily Cooke 

12/16/24

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

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

(photo credit - Tripadvisor Link)


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

Wisconsin Firm Recalls Frozen Pizza Due to Potential for Plastic

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Granola Bars Recalled Due to Potential for Metal

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

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

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

Shocker - Another Recall of Imported Enoki Mushrooms for Listeria

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Overall - Key results [per the report]

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

Salmonella

Key results

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

E. coli O157

Key results

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

Listeria monocytogenes

Key results

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

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


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

At a glance

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

Executive summary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Additional Products Recalled After Linked to Cucumber Recall for Salmonella

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

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

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

Summary

Company Announcement Date:  December 09, 2024

FDA Publish Date:  December 10, 2024

Product Type:  Food & Beverages

Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness - Salmonella

Company Name:  Reser’s Fine Foods, Inc

Brand Name:  Sprouts Farmers Market

Product Description:  Gyro Family Kit

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NC Firm Recalls Hushpuppies Due to Missing Milk Allergen Declaration

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

So this would be an issue with improper label design.

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

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

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

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

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


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

Current Update
December 5, 2024

FDA Cites Bakery for Preventive Control and GMP Issues

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GMP Issues

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Georgia Facility Recalls Mustard Greens After State Lab Testing Finds Listeria

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

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

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

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

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

Summary

Company Announcement Date:  December 02, 2024

FDA Publish Date:  December 04, 2024

Product Type: Animal & Veterinary Pet Food

Reason for Announcement: Potential Foodborne Illness - Salmonella

Company Name: Blue Ridge Beef

Brand Name: Blue Ridge Beef

Product Description: Puppy Mix

Company Announcement

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

Additional Companies Recall Cucumber Products Due to Shared Supplier

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

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


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

Summary

Company Announcement Date:  November 29, 2024

FDA Publish Date: December 02, 2024 

Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Produce

Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness - Salmonella

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

Brand Name:  PAM PAK 

Product Description:  Whole Fresh American Cucumbers

Recall of Fresh Vegetable Packs Containing Recalled Carrots

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

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

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

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

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

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

Salmonella Outbreak Due to Whole Cucumbers; Product Recalled

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

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

Fast Facts

Cases: 68

Hospitalizations: 18

Deaths: 0

States: 19

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

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

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

Organic Eggs Recalled Due to Potential Salmonella After Inadvertent Distribution

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

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

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