Upcoming Preventive Controls Version 2.0 Training from Penn State

 Penn State will be offering two courses for the Preventive Controls for Human Foods. 

Malvern, PA  September 9-11, 2025   https://agsci.psu.edu/pchf-20250909

Cranberry Township, PA  October 13-15, 2025  https://cvent.me/bzvYdk

This is the updated curriculum, Version 2.0.  If you have taken the course in previous years, you had the earlier version and it may be worth considering taking this new version.  Why?  The hazard analysis section has been updated to incorporate the use of the FDA Hazards Guide, specifically Appendix 1.  For your company's plan to be fully compliant, it is important that the hazard analysis reflect what is listed in Appendix 1.  There are other improvements including an updated Supplier Preventive Control chapter, better application examples, and enhanced focus on HACCP approach for CCPs / Process Preventive Controls.   Plus, you will get to hang out with us for 2.75 days. 

Georgia Firm Recalls Freeze Dried Fruit After Internal Testing Revealed Listeria

Doehler Dry Ingredient Solutions, LLC, Cartersville, GA,  is recalling Member’s Mark Freeze Dried Fruit Variety Pack 15 count boxes, UPC 1 93968 50900 2 due to contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.   The firm discovered the problem via internal testing of their products. The products were distributed between 7/1/2025-7/25/2025 and sold in Sam’s Club retail stores.

This is over 3 weeks of production.   This amount may be due to the fact that the company only tests occasionally, and when you find an issue, you have to go back to the last good check.

Product was shipped to distribution centers in the following states: AL, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, LA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, PA, PR, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, WI, WV, WY.





https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/doehler-dry-ingredient-solutions-llc-recalls-members-mark-freeze-dried-fruit-variety-pack-listeria
Doehler Dry Ingredient Solutions, LLC Recalls Member’s Mark Freeze Dried Fruit Variety Pack for Listeria monocytogenes Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 30, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  July 31, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness – Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Doehler Dry Ingredient Solutions, LLC
Brand Name:  Member’s Mark
Product Description:  Freeze dried fruit

Energy Drink Cans Accidently Filled with Booze Recalled

High Noon is recalling two production lots of High Noon Beach Variety packs (12-pack/12 fluid ounce cans). Some of these packs contain cans that are filled with High Noon vodka seltzer alcohol and are mislabeled as CELSIUS® ASTRO VIBE™ Energy Drink, Sparkling Blue Razz Edition with a silver top.  The recall was initiated after High Noon discovered that a shared packaging supplier mistakenly shipped empty CELSIUS cans to High Noon.

In this case, the can supplier shipped the empty CELSIUS energy drink cans to High Noon by accident, and High Noon filled those cans with alcoholic beverage.  Those cans were packed into a variety pack.  Hopefully folks are smart enough to know that when they open the multipack of High Noon product and find an energy drink can, they will realize something is wrong.

How does someone not see a different can during the filling step?


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/high-noon-announces-recall-its-vodka-seltzer-beach-pack-12-pack-due-inclusion-celsiusr-astro-vibe-tm
High Noon Announces Recall of its Vodka Seltzer Beach Pack (12 Pack) Due to Inclusion of CELSIUS® ASTRO VIBE ™ Energy Drink Cans that were Inadvertently Filled with Vodka Seltzer
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 29, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  July 30, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Cans contain alcohol
Company Name:  High Noon
Brand Name:  High Noon, Celsius
Product Description:  Energy Drink

USDA Issues Health Alert for Tortellini Product With Undeclared Soy and Sesame

USDA-FSIS issued a public health alert for frozen product labeled as pork and beef tortellini produced by P. E. & F, Inc. of St Louis, MO due to undeclared allergens. The frozen product labeled as pork and beef tortellini may actually contain pork and beef toasted ravioli product, which contains soy and sesame, known allergens, which are not declared on the product label.  The problem was discovered when the establishment notified FSIS that their sole consignee received a consumer complaint of ravioli product in a bag labeled as tortellini.

A recall was not requested because the products are no longer available for purchase.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-frozen-pork-and-beef-tortellini-product-due
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Frozen Pork and Beef Tortellini Product Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens

WASHINGTON, July 30, 2025 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for frozen product labeled as pork and beef tortellini due to misbranding and undeclared allergens. The frozen product labeled as pork and beef tortellini may actually contain pork and beef toasted ravioli, which contains soy and sesame, known allergens, which are not declared on the product label. FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers with allergies to soy and sesame are aware that this product should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because the products are no longer available for purchase.

Supermarket Chains Expand July 17th Recall of Tuna Salad Items for Listeria

Albertsons, Randalls and Tom Thumb stores in Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas are expanding their July 17th recall to include additional items.  These items contain tuna salad supplied by Reser’s Fine Foods and the breadcrumbs that were used as an ingredient were found to test positive for Listeria.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/albertsons-companies-stores-arkansas-louisiana-oklahoma-and-texas-voluntarily-expands-recall-select
Albertsons Companies Stores in Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas Voluntarily Expands Recall to Select Items Containing Tuna Salad from Reser’s Fine Foods Due to an Ingredient Recall Linked to Possible Listeria monocytogenes Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 26, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  July 28, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness – Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Albertsons
Brand Name:  Randalls, Albertsons, Tom Thumb
Product Description:  Additional Tuna Salad products

Michigan Establishment Recalls Ground Beef After Complaints for Metal Foreign Material

Ada Valley Meat Company, an Ada, Mich., establishment, is recalling approximately 1,065 pounds of a fully cooked frozen ground beef product that may be contaminated with foreign material, specifically metal.  The problem was discovered after the firm notified FSIS that it received a consumer complaint reporting that pieces of metal were found in the product.  There have been no confirmed reports of injury due to consumption of these product

FSIS Announcement
https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/ada-valley-meat-company-recalls-ready-eat-ground-beef-products-due-possible-foreign
Ada Valley Meat Company Recalls Ready-To-Eat Ground Beef Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination

WASHINGTON, July 29, 2025 - Ada Valley Meat Company, an Ada, Mich., establishment, is recalling approximately 1,065 pounds of a fully cooked frozen ground beef product that may be contaminated with foreign material, specifically metal, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

Georgia Firm Recalls Fruit Breads Due to Label Reprint That Missed Egg Allergen

Hillside Orchard Farms, Tiger GA,  is recalling various flavors of their 23oz Fruit Breads & 7.5 oz Fritters due to an undeclared allergen of Egg.  The issue was identified during an investigation by the FDA, where the firm was made aware that the label failed to include the allergen egg had been left of the label during a reprint of the labels.

This is where properly applied Preventive Controls should be utilized; first to review labels as they are created, then when they are received, and finally when they are placed on the product.  Too often, label design, receipt and application are taken for granted.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/hillside-orchard-farms-recalls-various-fruit-breads-fritters-due-undeclared-egg
Hillside Orchard Farms Recalls Various Fruit Breads & Fritters Due to Undeclared Egg
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 28, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  July 28, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Allergen – Egg
Company Name:  Hillside Orchard Farms
Brand Name:  Hillside Orchard Farms
Product Description:  Fruit Bread and Fritters

American's Confidence in Safety of Food Declines - But Is That Based in Reality or Due to Poor News Reporting

A survey from the International Food Information Council (IFIC) shows that Americans are less confident about the safety of the US food supply than in previous years, in fact, the lowest it has been in 13 years.  At the same time, those surveyed feel more confident about imported food.  I will admit, looking at the way food safety news is reported, it is hard to imagine this otherwise.  With a constant bombardment of recall news, where most of these recalls have no real bearing on the vast majority of the population (most are allergen mislabeling issues, are limited to a small amount of product, and are limited to a small region), people will think that there is a lot of unsafe food in the marketplace.  But when we look at it, over 300 million people eat 2 to 3 meals a day (hopefully) with no issues.  Yes there are occasional outbreaks, but most recalls are not conducted as a result of an foodborne illness outbreak.  And too many people consider recalls as being part of an outbreak.

Reporting on recalls has a lot to be desired.  As we have pointed out many times, headlines are made to grab ones attention, and the article under the headline is often scant on details regarding the facts - Why the recall occurred, when the recalled occurred, how much product was recalled, and where the recall product was sold.  Reading the actual recall notice often shows that the recall was limited to a few hundred cases and these cases were only shipped to a few states far from the reader.  All the reader sees is the headline stating 'Frozen Meatballs Recalled".

To add to this murkiness, secondary news and social media outlets will regurgitate this news weeks to months later. in what we term an echo effect, but with more bombastic headlines to serve as nothing more than click bait.

You also have to throw our political environment into this conversation.  The national discussions on topics such as colors or ultra processed foods is heightened to push certain agendas.  Certainly over-consumption is an issue, but to what degree is that a food safety issue?

The US has an ever improving systems for identification and tracking, and there is no doubt, that these systems have proven to be more capable of identifying and tracking issues when they occur. They do what they are supposed to do, find the issues before it is consumed.  This week we saw a recall for tuna salad where the breadcrumb ingredient may have contained Salmonella.  While it would have been better to find this issue before the product was made, in this case, testing found the issue and product was recalled without anyone getting ill (so far).

 Years ago, the systems for detecting and tracking were not as good and because of that, we rarely knew there was a contamination issue, or that there was an outbreak where limited people were affected multiple states.    Detection, tracking and reporting systems are better now, and are generally more advanced than anywhere else in the world.  To say that food is safer in other countries is not likely to be the case.  Other countries have similar issues, but their tracking and reporting systems are not nearly as robust as they are here. I would also argue that many of the recalls seen in this country are associated with imported foods.


https://www.foodbusinessnews.net/articles/28718-confidence-in-us-food-safety-reaches-13-year-low
Confidence in US food safety reaches 13-year low

WASHINGTON — Consumer confidence in the safety of the US food supply has declined rapidly, according to new research from the International Food Information Council (IFIC).

The group found that the number of Americans who are very or somewhat confident in the safety of the US food supply in 2025 has reached 55%, the lowest recorded point in the 13-years IFIC has measured attitudes on food supply safety. In 2024, 62% of respondents were very or somewhat confident, and 70% were in 2023. Confidence has declined across all age demographics, led by Gen Z (down 10%), then Gen X (7%), millennials (5%) and baby boomers (5%).

Pizza Accidently Contaminated with THC Results in Intoxication of 85 People, Oil from Shared Kitchen to Blame

In this week's MMWR, a 2024 accidental intoxication of pizza with THC (a psychoactive substance found in Cannabis) which affected at least 85 persons.   The investigation found that the pizza restaurant had run out of oil to make doughy, so they used oil from a shared kitchen located in the same building.   Unfortunately one of users of the shared kitchen made edible products using hemp-derived Δ9-THC.  "The owner initially thought the oil was plain canola oil but later realized it might have been infused with THC. Oil from a large, labeled storage container in the same area where the owner found the oil he used, tested positive for THC".

"Among 107 responses that were considered valid, 85 persons met the following case definition of THC intoxication: 1) ate pizza, garlic bread, cheese bread, or a grinder (submarine sandwich) purchased from the restaurant during October 22–24 and 2) reported at least one symptom of THC intoxication that began within 5 hours after eating the restaurant’s food, defined as dizziness, sleepiness, anxiety, short term memory impact or time distortion, increased heart rate, nausea, paranoia, panic attack, increased blood pressure, vomiting, or hallucinations."

For those involved in shared kitchens, this is a reminder of the importance of understanding what items are being made, and then ensuring proper labeling, cleanup, etc.  There have been past issues associated with shared kitchens where there is cross contamination or allergen cross contact. 

You wonder if there was a rush to buy the remaining contaminated pizza?

CDC MMWR
https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/74/wr/mm7427a2.htm
Tetrahydrocannabinol Intoxication from Food at a Restaurant — Wisconsin, October 2024
Weekly / July 24, 2025 / 74(27);439–442
Amanda Kita-Yarbro, MPH1; Stefanie Moccero1; Katie Brobston, MS1; Jacob Goebel1; Janice Block Banks1; Christy Vogt, MPH1; Casey Schumann, MS1; Katarina M. Grande, MPH1; Julia Olsen, MSEd1; Bonnie Armstrong, MPH1 (View author affiliations)

Summary
What is already known about this topic?
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a psychoactive substance found in Cannabis sativa plants, including varieties such as hemp, is increasingly being used in consumer products.

What is added by this report?
During October 22–24, 2024, at least 85 persons, ranging from age 1–91 years, ate food from a restaurant in Wisconsin and experienced symptoms consistent with THC intoxication. The restaurant was in a building with a cooperative (i.e., shared) kitchen used by a state-licensed vendor who produced edible THC products. The restaurant mistakenly used THC-infused oil from the cooperative kitchen to prepare dough.

California Firm Recalls Frozen Treats for Undeclared Milk

Tropicale Foods of Ontario, CA is recalling certain Helados Mexico and La Michoacana products with specific best by dates, as detailed below because these products contain undeclared milk. Though these products include “cream” in the product ingredient lists, the common name “milk” is not declared.  The company conducted an audit of all product labels, which led to this recall. One consumer illness has been reported to date.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/tropicale-foods-recalls-certain-helados-mexico-and-la-michoacana-products-due-undeclared-milk
Tropicale Foods Recalls Certain Helados Mexico and La Michoacana Products Due to Undeclared Milk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 25, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  July 26, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk
Company Name:  Tropicale Foods
Brand Name:  La Michoacana, Helados Mexico
Product Description:  Ice cream products

Ham Salad Recalled Due to Concerns for Potential of Listeria in Breadcrumb Ingredient

USDA-FSIS issued a public health alert for ham salad products containing Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulated breadcrumb products that have been recalled by Newly Weds Foods, due to concerns that the products may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes (Lm).  The problem was discovered when Reser’s Fine Foods, Inc., a Topeka, Kan., establishment, determined that they used FDA-regulated breadcrumb products subject to an FDA recall because the breadcrumbs may be contaminated with Lm.


https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-ready-eat-ham-salad-products-containing-fda
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert For Ready-To-Eat Ham Salad Products Containing FDA-Regulated Breadcrumbs That Have Been Recalled Due to Possible Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, July 27, 2025 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for ham salad products containing Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulated breadcrumb products that have been recalled by Newly Weds Foods, due to concerns that the products may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes (Lm). FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers are aware that these products, which bear the USDA mark of inspection, should not be consumed. As more information becomes available, FSIS will update this public health alert. Consumers should check back frequently because additional products may be added.

Canned Pears Recalled for Elevated Levels of Lead and Cadmium

W.W. Industrial Group, Inc., NY is recalling Parashore Pear Slices in juice, 15 oz, because they have the potential to be contaminated with elevated levels of lead and cadmium.  The heavy metal contamination was discovered via sampling by the Maryland Department of Health which is part of the FDA Laboratory Flexible Funding Model program.  No illnesses have been reported as of 07/22/2025.

"Lead and cadmium are toxic substances present in our environment in small amounts and everyone is exposed to some of these heavy metals from daily actions such as inhaling dust, eating food, or drinking water. In general, the small exposure to lead within the U.S. population does not pose a significant public health concern.  However, exposure to larger amounts of lead and cadmium can cause poisoning. While these heavy metals can affect nearly every bodily system, its effects depend upon the amount and duration of lead exposure and age."

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/ww-industrial-group-recalls-pear-slices-juice-due-elevated-levels-lead-and-cadmium
W.W. Industrial Group Recalls Pear Slices in Juice Due to Elevated Levels of Lead and Cadmium
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 23, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  July 23, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Metal Contaminant – Lead and Cadmium
Company Name:  WW Industrial Group
Brand Name:  Parashore
Product Description:  Canned Sliced Pears

Investigative Report for 2023 / 2024 Salmonella Outbreak Linked to California Raw Milk Dairy

An investigative report was issued on a 2023/2024 Salmonella outbreak that was linked to raw milk and raw milk cheese from a California dairy farm.  There were 171 cases with 70% being youth (<18 years old).  "This outbreak is one of the largest foodborne outbreaks linked to raw milk in recent U.S. history. During 2009–2021, a total of 143 enteric disease outbreaks that were confirmed or suspected to be associated with consumption of raw milk were reported to CDC (6). Of these, 16 were salmonellosis outbreaks, all of which were small (median number of cases = 10; range = 2–33). "

"S. Typhimurium was detected in three of the 40 brand A product samples collected; isolates were indistinguishable by WGS from the clinical isolates collected from patients in the outbreak. The positive samples included two from bottled raw whole milk collected by CDFA at the bottling facility operated by dairy farm A on October 19 and 25, 2023; one retail sample of raw milk with a best-by date of October 27, 2023. No Salmonella bacteria were detected in the remaining samples from retail stores and patients’ homes. In addition, the outbreak strain was detected in a sample of raw cheese aged for 60 days made from the contaminated milk and collected from the dairy during January 2024; S. Typhimurium was not detected in any raw milk cheese samples collected before January 2024."

"In California, unpasteurized (raw) milk is regulated by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA). CDFA requires raw milk dairy farms to hold a permit and pass dairy farm and bottling sanitation inspections. Livestock must be tested for brucellosis and tuberculosis annually. Raw milk must meet strict bacterial and cell count limits and be kept at 45°F (7.2°C) or below (1). Raw milk may be legally sold at retail stores but requires warning labels alerting customers of potential contamination by disease-causing microorganisms."


https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/74/wr/mm7427a1.htm
Outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium Infections Linked to Commercially Distributed Raw Milk — California and Four Other States, September 2023–March 2024
Weekly / July 24, 2025 / 74(27);433–438
Eva Weinstein, MPH1; Katherine Lamba, MPH1; Christian Bond1; Vi Peralta, MPH1; Michael Needham, MPH1; Stephen Beam, PhD2; Francine Arroyo, MSc1; David Kiang, PhD1; Yishi Chen, PhD1; Seema Shah, MD3; Mark E. Beatty, MD3; Stephen Klish, MPH4; Akiko Kimura, MD1 (View author affiliations)

Summary
What is already known about this topic?
Unpasteurized (raw) milk has been linked to foodborne illness outbreaks caused by Escherichia coli bacteria and certain species of Brucella, Campylobacter, Cryptosporidium, and Salmonella.

Supermarkets Recall Tuna Salad Products After Breadcrumb Ingredient Potential Source for Listeria

Two supermarket chains are recalling products made with tuna salad produced by Reser's Fine Foods because the breadcrumb ingredient used to make the tuna salad may be contaminated with Listeria.

This is an issue for companies that make ingredients that in themselves, do not support the growth of Listeria, but then are added to foods where that new food matrix can support the growth of Listeria.  It may be that for the company making breadcrumbs, there may a bigger concern with Salmonella than with Listeria.  However, for the company buying those breadcrumbs for use in a RTE refrigerated product such as tuna salad, Listeria in a concern and with that, will test ingredients for Listeria.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/albertsons-companies-stores-arkansas-louisiana-oklahoma-and-texas-voluntarily-recalls-select-items
Albertsons Companies Stores in Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas Voluntarily Recalls Select Items Containing Tuna Salad from Reser’s Fine Foods Due to an Ingredient Recall Linked to Possible Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 17, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  July 21, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Foodborne Illness
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness – Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Albertsons
Brand Name:  Randalls, Albertsons
Product Description:  Tuna Salad products

FDA to Revoke 52 Food Product SOIs (Standard of Identity)

FDA announced that it plans to revoke 52 obsolete food standards, or Standards of Identity (SOI) of the more than 250 that exist.  According to FDA, "The FDA’s Standards of Identity efforts have helped ensure uniformity, boost consumer confidence and prevent food fraud. But many of these standards have outlived their usefulness and may even stifle innovation in making food easier to produce or providing consumers healthier choices."

The list of items are provided below.  The only one I saw of interest to me was removal of the standard for raw, lightly breaded shrimp.  While it was removed, the standard for raw breaded shrimp remains.  The difference is that with lightly breaded shrimp, the shrimp constitutes 65% of the product whereas with raw breaded shrimp, the standard is that the product is comprised of at least 50% shrimp with the rest breading.  

https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-revoke-52-obsolete-standards-identity-food-products
FDA to Revoke 52 Obsolete Standards of Identity for Food Products
Today’s action builds on Trump Administration’s deregulatory initiative.

For Immediate Release:
July 16, 2025

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced it is revoking, or proposing to revoke, 52 food standards after concluding they are obsolete and unnecessary. The 52 standards are for canned fruits and vegetables, dairy products, baked goods, macaroni products and other foods.

USDA Announces Plans to Improve Food Safety for Meat and Poultry

USDA's new Secretary launched a new plan to bolster USDA’s efforts to combat foodborne illness.

1. Enhancing Microbiological Testing and Inspection Oversight

• FSIS is making continued enhancements to its Listeria testing method to provide quicker results to industry and to detect a broader set of Listeria species
• FSIS is opening its new, modernized Midwestern Laboratory in Normandy, Missouri.
• FSIS is also mobilizing its resources to perform more robust, in-person Food Safety Assessments (FSAs), prioritizing RTE meat and poultry establishments

2. Equipping FSIS Inspectors with Updated Training and Tools

• FSIS implemented a new weekly questionnaire for frontline inspectors to collect data on specific Listeria monocytogenes-related risk factors at all RTE establishments
• FSIS continues to enhance its instructions and related training for inspectors to help them recognize and elevate problems with an establishment’s food safety system. New instructions aid inspectors in recognizing how to look beyond individual noncompliances and determine when an establishment has systemic problems that should be elevated and addressed.

3. Charging Ahead to Reduce Salmonella Illnesses

• FSIS is pursuing a new, common-sense strategy on Salmonella to protect public health while preventing unnecessary regulatory overreach, which will begin by convening listening sessions with key stakeholders to collaborate on best approaches moving forward.

4. Strengthening State Partnerships

• Announced an additional $14.5 million in funding to reimburse states for their meat and poultry inspection programs and called on Congress to more sustainably fund these critical programs moving forward. This funding is needed to support more than 1,500 American businesses that rely on state inspection, including small and very small meat and poultry processors. The Secretary also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture in May to improve collaboration between USDA and states moving forward.
• FSIS signed updated, comprehensive cooperative agreements with all 29 states that operate state meat and poultry programs.

5. Empowering FSIS Inspectors to Take Action to Drive Compliance

• FSIS is exercising its enforcement authorities and issuing notices of intended enforcement or suspending operations at establishments to address recurring noncompliance and ensure safe food production. 

https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/news/press-releases/2025/07/15/secretary-rollins-announces-new-plan-bolster-meat-and-poultry-safety

Secretary Rollins Announces New Plan to Bolster Meat and Poultry Safety

Published: 
July 15, 2025

NJ Firm Recalls Golden Raisins Due to Undeclared Sulfites

Nirwana Foods of NJ is recalling its 28-ounce pouches Golden Raisin with lot number (24/351-2410) because they may contain undeclared sulfites. The recall was initiated after routine sampling by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors and subsequent analysis by Food Laboratory personnel revealed that the sulfites containing product Golden Raisin 28Oz Pouch distributed in the packages that did not reveal the presence of sulfites.

The recalled Golden Raisin was distributed at retail stores of Maharaja Super Market, NY and Villager Farmers Market stores located at NY and NJ.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/nirwana-foods-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-sulfites-golden-raisin-28oz-pouch-label
Nirwana Foods Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Sulfites on Golden Raisin 28Oz Pouch Label
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  June 28, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  July 18, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared sulfites
Company Name:  Nirwana Foods LLC
Brand Name:  Nirwana Foods
Product Description:  Golden Raisins

Imported Cookie Products Recalled For Undeclared Allergens

Jalux Americas, Inc.(dba J.sweets) of El Segundo, CA is recalling 32 units of L’espoir Brand L’espoir cookies and 28 units of L’espoir Brand Drycapot cookies, because they may contain the following undeclared allergens: in L’espoir – undeclared milk; and in Drycapot – undeclared tree nuts (almond and macadamia nuts).  The recall was initiated after it was discovered during an inventory audit that L’espoir product containing Milk and the Drycapot product containing Tree Nuts were inadvertently distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of those allergens.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/jalux-americas-inc-dba-jsweets-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-tree-nuts-and-milk-lespoir-brand
Jalux Americas, Inc. (dba J.sweets) Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Tree Nuts and Milk in L’espoir Brand Cookies
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 14, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  July 17, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk and tree nuts (almonds and macadamia nuts)
Company Name:  Jalux Americas, Inc.(dba J.sweets)
Brand Name:  L'espoir
Product Description:  L’espoir and Drycapot cookies,

USDA Issues Public Health Alert for Barbeque with Undeclared Allergens from Colorado Establishment

USDA-FSIS issued a public health alert for two ready-to-eat products, barbecue pulled pork and pulled pork burrito filling, for undeclared allergens - they were prepared with Worchester sauce, which contains soy, a known allergen that is not declared on the product labels. The pulled pork burrito filling product also contains anchovies and egg whites, known allergens that are not declared on the product label.   The products were produced by Roth Premium Foods of Colorado Springs, CO.  The problem was discovered during a routine FSIS label review.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-ready-eat-pulled-pork-products-due-misbranding-and
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Ready-To-Eat Pulled Pork Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens

WASHINGTON, July 11, 2025 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for pulled pork products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens. The two ready-to-eat products barbecue pulled pork and pulled pork burrito filling are prepared with Worchester sauce, which contains soy, a known allergen that is not declared on the product labels. The pulled pork burrito filling product also contains anchovies and egg whites, known allergens that are not declared on the product label. Consumers with allergies to soy, fish or egg should not consume these products. A recall was not requested because the products are no longer available for purchase.

Massachusetts Establishment Recalls RTE Chicken Sausage After Receiving Complaints for Plastic Foreign Material

Kayem Foods Inc., a Chelsea, Mass., establishment, is recalling approximately 24,173 pounds of ready-to-eat chicken sausage products that may be contaminated with foreign material, specifically pieces of plastic.  The problem was discovered after the firm notified FSIS that it received three consumer complaints reporting white pieces of plastic in the chicken sausage products.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/kayem-foods-inc--recalls-ready-eat-chicken-sausage-products-due-possible-foreign
Kayem Foods Inc. Recalls Ready-To-Eat Chicken Sausage Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination

WASHINGTON, July 17, 2025 – Kayem Foods Inc., a Chelsea, Mass., establishment, is recalling approximately 24,173 pounds of ready-to-eat chicken sausage products that may be contaminated with foreign material, specifically pieces of plastic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

Frozen Mung Beans Recalled After Linked to a Salmonella Outbreak

The FDA and CDC, in collaboration with state and local partners, are investigating illnesses in a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Anatum infections linked to Deep-brand frozen sprouted mat (moth) beans and frozen sprouted moong (mung) beans.   Based on epidemiological information collected by CDC, a total of 11 people infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella have been reported from 10 states. Illnesses started on dates ranging from October 22, 2024, to June 24, 2025. Four of six cases with information available reported eating or likely eating frozen sprouted mat (moth) beans and frozen sprouted moong beans before becoming ill. There have been four hospitalizations, and no deaths have been reported.

Chetak affiliated companies are recalling Frozen ‘Deep Sprouted Mat(Moth) 16 oz. and Deep Sprouted Moong 16oz. because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella

Case Counts

Total Illnesses: 11

Hospitalizations: 4

Deaths: 0

Last Illness Onset: June 24, 2025

States with Cases: CT, FL, IL, MA, MN, NJ, PA, TN, VA, WA

Product Distribution: Nationwide

https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-salmonella-frozen-sprouted-beans-july-2025

Outbreak Investigation of Salmonella: Frozen Sprouted Beans (July 2025)

Do not eat, sell, or serve recalled Deep-brand frozen sprouted mat (moth) beans and frozen sprouted moong (mung) beans. FDA’s Investigation is ongoing.

Current Update

July 17, 2025

NY Firm Recalls Uneviscerated Fish Due to Botulism Concern

KRASNIY OKTYABR INC. USA. of BROOKLYN, NY, is recalling its “ARAL SILVER VOBLA” brand “ARAL”, because the product was found to be uneviscerated.  The recall was initiated after routine sampling by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets food inspectors and subsequent analysis by NYS Food Laboratory revealed the product was not properly eviscerated prior to processing.

The sale of uneviscerated fish is prohibited because clostridium botulinum spores are more likely to be concentrated in the viscera than any other portion of the fish. Uneviscerated fish have been linked to outbreaks of botulism poisoning.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/krasniy-oktyabr-inc-usa-issues-alert-eviscerate-dry-salted-vobla-aral-silver
Krasniy Oktyabr Inc. USA Issues Alert on Eviscerate Dry Salted Vobla “Aral Silver”
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 15, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  July 15, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness – Clostridium botulinum
Company Name:  KRASNIY OKTYABR INC. USA
Brand Name:  ARAL SILVER VOBLA
Product Description:  EVISCERATE DRY SALTED VOBLA ARAL SILVER

Yogurt Product with Topper Lid Recalled Plastic Pieces Found in Topper Component

Danone U.S. is voluntarily recalling YoCrunch® products sold at retail stores nationwide due to the potential presence of plastic pieces in the dome topper.  Consumer complaints have reported the presence of plastic pieces in the toppers, which have the potential to cause choking. The plastic pieces are transparent, may have sharp edges, and could present a risk to consumers because some pieces are between 7 and 25 mm in length. This voluntary recall was initiated on July 11, 2025

Based on the lots dates, the recall covers about 2 months of production

The issue is isolated only to the separately packaged topper and does not impact the separately packaged yogurt. This recall applies to all flavors and sizes of YoCrunch® products currently inmarket, as summarized on the table below.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/yocrunchr-products-voluntarily-recalled-danone-us-due-potential-presence-plastic-pieces-dome-topper
YoCrunch® Products Voluntarily Recalled by Danone U.S. Due to Potential Presence of Plastic Pieces in Dome Topper
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 14, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  July 14, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential presence of plastic pieces in the dome topper.
Company Name:  Danone U.S.
Brand Name:  YoCrunch®
Product Description:  Yogurt with topper

Pistachio Cacao Cream with Kadayif Recalled After Product Tests Positive for Salmonella, Linked to Outbreak

World Market of Alameda, CA is recalling EMEK SPREAD PISTACHIO CACAO CREAM WITH KADAYIF, 9.7oz, Best Before: April 01, 2027, Batch Number: 250401 due to a potential contamination of Salmonella.  The firm initiated the recall after samples of the product were tested by the FDA and the products tested positive for Salmonella.

The product is sold primarily in World Market retail stores located in the States of: AL, AZ, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, NE, NH, NJ, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, WA & WI.

As of June 13, 2025, four people infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Oranienburg have been reported from two states.  The Minnesota Department of Agriculture collected and tested pistachio cream from the restaurant where sick people reported eating. WGS from these samples showed that the Salmonella in the pistachio cream is closely related to bacteria from the sick people, confirming the pistachio cream as the source of the outbreak.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/world-market-recalls-emek-spread-pistachio-cacao-cream-kadayif-due-salmonella-contamination
World Market Recalls Emek Spread Pistachio Cacao Cream with Kadayif Due to Salmonella Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 14, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  July 14, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Salmonella
Company Name:  World Market
Brand Name:  Emek
Product Description:  Spread Pistachio Cacao Cream with Kadayif

Company Announcement

Mushrooms Imported from China Recalled after FDA Testing Finds Listeria

LLK TRADING INC. of Linden, NJ, is recalling its 200g packages of “Needle Mushrooms” because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.  The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing by the FDA revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in the package they sampled.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/llk-trading-inc-recalls-needle-mushrooms-because-possible-health-risk
LLK Trading Inc. Recalls “Needle Mushrooms” Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 11, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  July 13, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness – Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  LLK TRADING INC.
Brand Name:  LLK TRADING INC.
Product Description:  Needle mushroom

Sliced Mushrooms from Canada Recalled After Testing Finds Listeria

Wiet Peeters Farm Products Limited of Charing Cross Ontario, Canada is recalling its Aunt Mid’s Fresh Sliced Mushrooms 227g , Peeters Mushroom Farm Cremini Sliced 227g and Peeters Mushroom Farm Thick Slice Mushroom 10lb cardboard because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.  The potential for contamination was noted after testing by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in 227g packages of Fresh Sliced Mushrooms. The other products affected in this recall have been manufactured on the same line as the 227g fresh sliced mushrooms.

The recalled mushrooms were distributed in Michigan and Ohio.  No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/wiet-peeters-farm-products-limited-recalls-aunt-mids-fresh-sliced-mushrooms-peeters-mushroom-farm
Wiet Peeters Farm Products Limited RECALLS “Aunt Mid’s Fresh Sliced Mushrooms, Peeters Mushroom Farm Cremini Sliced and Peeters Mushroom Farm Thick Slice Mushroom " Because of Possible Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 10, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  July 11, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness - Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Wiet Peeters Farm Products Limited
Brand Name:  Peeters and Aunt Mid’s
Product Description:  Fresh sliced and Cremini sliced mushrooms

Man Pleads Guilty of Intentionally Contaminating Food At Kansas Steakhouse

A 21 year old former kitchen employee of a well know Kansas steakhouse has plead guilty of intentionally contaminating food while he worked for the restaurant.  From the new report, "The special agent later provided thumbnails for videos posted to a website from the username “Vandalizer.” The images depicted a male urinating in food contained in restaurant-style bins, pressing food items against his privates and buttocks and using their feet to touch food items."

The restaurant has closed and faces numerous lawsuits.

https://fox4kc.com/news/man-accused-of-contaminating-food-at-leawood-hereford-house-pleads-guilty/
Man accused of contaminating food at Leawood Hereford House pleads guilty
by: Brian Dulle
Posted: Jul 3, 2025 / 05:37 PM CDT
Updated: Jul 3, 2025 / 06:11 PM CDT

FDA Closes Investigation for Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Eggs from California Producer

The FDA and CDC investigated a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis infections linked to recalled brown cage-free eggs and brown certified organic eggs supplied by August Egg Company, of Hilmar, CA. In this outbreak, there were a reported total of 134 people infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella from 10 states. There have been 38 hospitalizations, and one death.

CDC has declared the outbreak to be over.  The outbreak was first reported in early June

"As part of this investigation, FDA conducted an inspection with environmental sampling at cage-free laying houses used by August Egg Company. Three environmental samples from this inspection were positive for Salmonella and found to match the strain of Salmonella causing illnesses in this outbreak by whole genome sequencing (WGS) analysis. Eggs supplied by this facility were already included in the recall from August Egg Company and should no longer be available for sale."

Case Counts
Total Illnesses: 134
Hospitalizations: 38
Deaths: 1
Last Illness Onset: June 6, 2025
States with Cases: AZ, CA, CO, KS, KY, NE, NJ, NV, UT, WA
Product Distribution*: AZ, CA, IL, IN, NE, NM, NV, WA, 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-salmonella-eggs-june-2025
Outbreak Investigation of Salmonella: Eggs (June 2025)
Outbreak is over. FDA’s investigation is complete.

Current Update
July 10, 2025

Ohio Food Operation Supplying Vending Machines Recalls Sandwich Products With Undeclared Sesame

Sheehan Brothers Vending of Springfield OH is recalling its Cheeseburgers, Spicy Chicken Sandwich, Italian Mini Subs, Pepperoni Pizza Sub, Chili Cheese Coney and BBQ Riblet w/coleslaw due to an undeclared Sesame allergen.  The products were available from 7/2/2025 - 7/8/2025 through Micro Markets and Vending Machine locations throughout all of Ohio, Northern Kentucky, Eastern Indiana.

The issue was discovered during a routine inspection conducted by the Ohio Department of Agriculture. There have been no reports of illnesses involving the product addressed in this recall.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/sheehan-brothers-vending-issues-voluntary-recall-due-undeclared-sesame-allergen
Sheehan Brothers Vending Issues a Voluntary Recall Due to an Undeclared Sesame Allergen
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 08, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  July 10, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared sesame
Company Name:  Sheehan Brothers Vending
Brand Name:  Sheehan Brothers Vending
Product Description:  Cheeseburgers, Spicy Chicken Sandwich, Italian Mini Subs, Pepperoni Pizza Sub, Chili Cheese Coney and BBQ Riblet w/coleslaw

FDA Issues Warning Letter to Wisconsin Egg Producer

FDA issued a Warning Letter to Voehlganic Farm LLC of  Westby, WI . a producer of shell eggs.  FDA issued the warning letter for "serious violations of the Prevention of Salmonella Enteritidis in Shell Eggs During Production, Storage, and Transportation regulation (the Shell Egg regulation), Title 21, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 118 (21 CFR Part 118)".

The firm did not have and implement a written SE Prevention Plan that includes, at a minimum, the SE prevention measures required by 21 CFR 118.4. With that, the firm had not enacted required procedure for the control of Salmonella.

FDA Warning Letter

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/voehlganic-farm-llc-698230-05282025

Voehlganic Farm LLC
MARCS-CMS 698230 — May 28, 2025

FDA Issue Warning Letter to PA Producer of Raw Pet Food

FDA issued a Warning Letter to Answers Pet Food of Elizabethville, PA after an investigation that was triggered by samples of pet food testing positive for Salmonella and Listeria.

"August 22, 2024, an FDA Investigator purchased samples of your Answers raw pet food from a retailer in Nevada in response to consumer complaints. Sample analysis revealed that all four sampled lots contained Salmonella and/or Listeria monocytogenes, as described below. Therefore, your Answers Pet Food Raw Beef Detailed Formula, lot May 06 2026, Answers Pet Food Raw Beef Straight Formula, lot Jan 31 2026, and your Answers Pet Food Straight Chicken Formula, lots Jan 02 2026 and Mar 11 2026, are adulterate"

First, the fact that the pathogens were present, meant that identified preventive controls were not adequate.

"Your food safety plan identifies process, sanitation, and supply chain preventive controls as part of your “(b)(4) technology” to control pathogens. Yet, your preventive controls are not adequate as shown by the following samples of four products collected at retail and analyzed by FDA that contain Salmonella, L. monocytogenes, or both:"

The company identified sanitation preventive controls, but were not sufficient because Salmonella was present in the environment.

"Your hazard analysis identified Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOPs) and current good manufacturing practices (CGMPs) as a preventive control for biological hazards (which include pathogens) in your raw pet food at steps (b)(4) of your whey mixture containing lactic acid bacteria (LAB). Inspectional findings that indicate your sanitation preventive control is inadequate include:

i. FDA Investigators collected environmental samples on July 23, 2024, under sample 1263703, that revealed the presence of L. monocytogenes on seven surfaces in your facility, including Zone (b)(4) food-contact surfaces."

The company identified supply chain preventive controls, but did not have evidence for that control.

"you were unable to provide COAs for turkey and pork ingredients used to manufacture your raw pet food between July 22 and July 24, 2024"   "You did not provide documentation of annual onsite audits for your suppliers during the inspection, and you do not have a written justification for accepting LOGs and/or COAs from ingredient suppliers in lieu of an annual onsite audit at your suppliers."

GMP issues were also noted in this report.


FDA Warning Letter
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/lystn-llc-dba-answers-pet-food-694680-06182025
Lystn LLC dba Answers Pet Food

Illinois Bakery Recalls Bread with Undeclared Hazelnut

Updated for addition of lots included in the recall  with FDA rerelease on 7/14/25

Hartford Bakery, Inc, Evansville, IL,  is recalling six lots of its “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf” as this product may contain undeclared hazelnuts. The recall was initiated after discovering that approximately 883 loaves of bread from six production lots contained visible hazelnuts and were distributed in “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf” packaging. While the packaging states “May Contain Tree Nuts,” it does not state that it “Contains Hazelnuts.” An investigation revealed an error in change of packaging for a hazelnut-containing bread to the implicated white bread product.

The interesting issue was that it was not caught during the production of 6 different lots of product, although appears to have been produced on the same day (same expiration date).

The recalled “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf” products were distributed in Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, Arkansas, Missouri, Alabama, and Mississippi retailers, including Kroger and Walmart. 

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/hartford-bakery-inc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-hazelnuts-lewis-bake-shop-artisan-style-12-loaf
Hartford Bakery, Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Hazelnuts in “Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style ½ Loaf”
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 10, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  July 10, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Bakery Product/Mix
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared hazelnuts
Company Name:  Hartford Bakery, Inc.
Brand Name:  Lewis Bake Shop
Product Description:  Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf

California Distributor Recalls Dried Black Fungus Slice Due to Potential Salmonella Contamination

Natureen International Inc. of Walnut, CA is recalling 244 bags of Wei-Chuan Dried Black Fungus Slice (2.5oz / bag), because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.  The California Department of Public Health notified FDA that the product was contaminated with pathogen of Salmonella.

The recalled Wei-Chuan Dried Black Fungus Slice (2.5oz / bag) were distributed in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, and Wisconsin through direct delivery to retail stores and supermarkets from Wei-Chuan Chicago Branch.

Chinese black fungus - according to this source, "Chinese black fungus, also known as “wood ear” or “cloud ear,” has been a staple in Chinese cuisine for centuries. This unique ingredient not only adds texture and flavor to dishes but also offers numerous health benefits."
_______________________________________________________________
https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/natureen-international-inc-recalls-wei-chuan-dried-black-fungus-slice-25oz-because-possible-health
Natureen International Inc. Recalls Wei-Chuan Dried Black Fungus Slice (2.5oz) Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date: July 08, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  July 09, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Salmonella
Company Name:  Natureen International Inc.
Brand Name:  Wei-Chuan
Product Description:  Dried Black Fungus Slice

News Outlets Continue to Post Confusing Information on Food Recalls

Have you ever noticed recent news articles that discuss a recall or a series of old recalls.  Well, you don't know its an old recall until you read through the entire article to find that FDA had issued the notice a month or more ago.  So many times I catch a headline, like the one recently released by Newsweek,  Aldi Food Recall Update: Customers in 37 States Told to 'Discard' Products.  Initially I think, 'wow, something new', only to find out that the article discusses a series of recalls occurring over the first half of the year, with many of the items discussed, already having been removed from commerce.

Why do news outlets, and these are primarily secondary news outlets, write these articles that are not upfront and factual on the recall issues being presented?  This can only create confusion for the customer.  A person may have bought an item recently and then reads this and questions whether it is part of this recall, or forgoes buying that item because they saw a picture of that item in a story about it being recalled.  As we know, most people do not read the entire article, or basically scan it where they are not picking up the fine details.

Further, posting the same recalls over and over for months gives people a sense that our food supply is less safe.  Along with this, other news outlets will then publish the same story days or weeks later.  This echo effect than adds to consumers feeling of concern.

So why do news outlets do this?  Lazy reporting?  Clickbait?  Or is it more sinister in trying to damage a company's brand?  Whatever the reason, this type of reporting is becoming more common.  Very unfortunate for consumers and businesses alike.

Newsweek
https://www.newsweek.com/aldi-food-recalls-list-2025-2096171
Aldi Food Recall Update: Customers in 37 States Told to 'Discard' Products
Published Jul 08, 2025 at 12:43 PM EDT
Updated Jul 09, 2025 at 1:09 AM EDT
By Daniel Orton
Editor, Live News
Newsweek Is A Trust Project Member

Major food recalls recently announced by Aldi have impacted shoppers across 37 states, following safety alerts for undeclared allergens and contamination risks.

Popular Cracker Product Recalled When Peanut Butter Filled Labeled as Cheese Crackers

Mondelēz Global LLC announced today a voluntary recall of four carton sizes of RITZ Peanut Butter Cracker Sandwiches (8-pack, 20-pack, and 40pack cartons of RITZ Peanut Butter Cracker Sandwiches, as well as the 20-pack RITZ Filled Cracker Sandwich Variety Pack carton) manufactured in the United States and sold nationwide. The affected cartons include individually wrapped packs that may be incorrectly labeled as Cheese variety even though the product may be a Peanut Butter variety.

The recall was initiated after Mondelēz Global LLC discovered that film packaging rolls used to package individually wrapped products containing peanut butter may contain defects due to a supplier error. Corrective actions are being taken to help ensure this issue does not recur.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/mondelez-global-llc-conducts-us-voluntary-recall-four-carton-sizes-ritz-peanut-butter-cracker

Mondelēz Global LLC Conducts U.S. Voluntary Recall of Four Carton Sizes of RITZ Peanut Butter Cracker Sandwiches Due to Labeling Error
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 08, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  July 08, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Allergen – Peanut
Company Name:  Mondelez Global LLC
Brand Name:  Ritz
Product Description:  Peanut butter cracker sandwiches

CDC MMWR - CA Botulism Outbreak Linked to Improperly Processed Home Canned Prickly Pear Cactus

CDC's MMWR reports a June 2024 botulism outbreak affecting 8 people after consuming home canned prickly pear cactus pads (nopales) that was used in salad.   Six patients were admitted to an intensive care unit, and two required invasive mechanical ventilation; all survived.  

The first victim reported persistent dizziness, blurry vision, a drooping eyelid, and difficulty swallowing. She was admitted and received mechanical ventilation within 6 hours of arrival because of impending respiratory failure; botulism was suspected because of progressive descending paralysis, a primary clinical characteristic of botulism.

"Among 31 persons who attended one or both gatherings, 10 patients sought evaluation at one of two hospitals in Fresno County (five patients at each hospital) during June 23–June 27, with illness onsets ranging from June 23 to June 27, and an interval of 1–5 days from symptom onset until evaluation (Figure 1). Eight of the 10 patients (patients A–F, H, and I) received a clinical diagnosis of botulism; the most common clinical findings included diplopia (eight patients), hoarseness (seven), dizziness (six) and difficulty swallowing (six) (Table). All patients were Hispanic or Latino, the median age was 44 years (range = 24–59 years), and five were women."

Epidemiologic investigation identified home-preserved prickly pear cactus pads (nopales) included in a homemade salad and served at both events as a food item of interest; laboratory testing confirmed the nopales salad as the source of BoNT/A."

"Patient D reported that she had prepared the nopales salad using fresh onions, fresh tomatoes, and home-preserved nopales stored in glass jars. She had prepared the empty jars by immersing them in boiling water, and then added chopped, uncooked nopales mixed with a small amount of salt. She closed the jars with new metal lids and stored them for 6 weeks in an outdoor shed behind her home. The nopales salad she had prepared was not shared outside of these gatherings. She had been home preserving foods for years using this technique, which was taught to her by friends and relatives, and said she was unaware of the risk for botulism associated with this practice."

"Foods that are not properly processed, fermented, preserved, stored, or refrigerated can facilitate C. botulinum growth and toxin production, particularly if the food is in a low-acid, unrefrigerated, and anaerobic environment (7). Home canning or fermentation of vegetables are common practices used to preserve various foods by persons from diverse backgrounds and are the most common causes of foodborne botulism in the continental United States (8–10)."


https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/74/wr/mm7424a1.htm
Foodborne Botulism Outbreak After Consumption of Home-Canned Cactus (Nopales) — Fresno County, California, June 2024

USDA Issues Public Health Alert for Idaho Establishment's Beef Jerky Product Due to Potential Plastic Foreign Material

USDA-FSIS is issuing a public health alert for ready-to-eat (RTE) beef jerky stick products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically plastic. Product was produced by Top Notch Jerky  of Sugar City, ID.   FSIS did not request a recall because the affected products are no longer available for purchase.  The problem was discovered after the firm notified FSIS that it received consumer complaints reporting transparent pieces of plastic in the beef stick products.


https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-ready-eat-beef-jerky-stick-products-due-possible
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Ready-to-eat Beef Jerky Stick Products Due to Possible Extraneous Material Contamination

WASHINGTON, July 02, 2025 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), is issuing a public health alert for ready-to-eat (RTE) beef jerky stick products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically plastic. FSIS did not request a recall because the affected products are no longer available for purchase.

South Carolina Establishment Recalls Turkey Bacon Products After Positive Listeria Test

Kraft Heinz Foods Company, a Newberry, S.C., establishment, is recalling approximately 367,812 pounds of fully cooked Oscar Mayer brand turkey bacon products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes (Lm).  The problem was discovered after the establishment's laboratory testing indicated the product may be contaminated with Lm.

These items were shipped to retail locations nationwide and some were exported to the British Virgin Islands and Hong Kong.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/kraft-heinz-foods-company-recalls-turkey-bacon-products-due-possible-listeria
Kraft Heinz Foods Company Recalls Turkey Bacon Products Due to Possible Listeria Contamination

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, July 2, 2025 – Kraft Heinz Foods Company, a Newberry, S.C., establishment, is recalling approximately 367,812 pounds of fully cooked turkey bacon products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes (Lm), the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

Ohio Firm Recalls Chocolate Product for Undeclared Milk

Mellace Family Brands California, Inc. of Warren, OH is recalling Wegmans Semi – Sweet Chocolate Nonpareils, because they contain undeclared milk allergen.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that Wegmans Semi-Sweet Chocolate Nonpareils contained a milk allergen and was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of milk. This Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the suppliers’ manufacturing process.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/mellace-family-brands-california-inc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-milk-allergen-wegmans-semi
Mellace Family Brands California, Inc. Issues An Allergy Alert On Undeclared Milk Allergen In Wegmans Semi-Sweet Chocolate Nonpareils
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  June 25, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  June 30, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk allergen
Company Name:  Mellace Family Brands California, Inc.
Brand Name:  Wegmans
Product Description:  Semi-sweet Chocolate