Hot Sauce Recalled for Undeclared Sulfites

T.W. Garner Food Company is recalling select lots and sizes (see below table) of Texas Pete® Habanero Buffalo Sauce because bottles may contain Sriracha Sauce. The Sriracha Sauce contains sulfites which are not declared on the label.  

The firm discovered during an internal quality testing of the products that bottles of Habanero Buffalo Sauce actually contained Sriracha Sauce. Upon review of the two labels, it was determined that the Habanero Buffalo Sauce may contain undeclared sulfites, since the Sriracha Sauce contains sodium bisulfite as a preservative. No illnesses have been reported to date.

A few things going on here that were missed. For one, the hazard analysis should have determined that there were sulfites in the Sirracha sauce, and then during formulation, it appears that the sriracha sauce made its way into the Habanero sauce. 

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/tw-garner-food-company-issues-recall-texas-peter-habanero-buffalo-sauce-due-potential-presence
T.W. Garner Food Company Issues Recall on Texas Pete® Habanero Buffalo Sauce Due To Potential Presence of Undeclared Sulfites and Sweet CHAbanero Sweet Sriracha Habanero Sauce Due To Mislabeling
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 03, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  April 03, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Gravy/Sauces
Reason for Announcement:  Potential or Undeclared Allergen-Sulfites
Company Name:  T.W. Garner Food Company
Brand Name:  Texas Pete
Product Description:  Condiments

Pig Ear Sliver Pet Treats Recalled After Testing Finds Salmonella Contamination

Supercan Bulk of Miami, Florida is recalling one lot of Supercan Pig Ear Slivers- Thick Cut Piggy Ear Slices pet treats in 500 piece bags, 15.9 oz, expiration date 11/09/2026, due to Salmonella contamination. The health risk was discovered when samples of the product were collected on 03/04/2025 and tested by the Washington State Department of Agriculture. The product tested positive for Salmonella.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/supercan-bulk-recalls-single-lot-pig-ear-slivers-pet-treats-due-salmonella-contamination
Supercan Bulk Recalls a Single Lot of Pig Ear Slivers Pet Treats Due to Salmonella Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 01, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  April 02, 2025
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness - Salmonella
Company Name:  Supercan Bulk
Brand Name:  Supercan
Product Description:  Pig ear slivers

RI Bakery Recalls Quesadilla de Queso Bread for Not Properly Declaring Milk

Panaderia Salvadorena Inc., of Providence, RI is recalling its 14-ounce packages of Quesadilla de Queso bread because they contain undeclared milk.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered during inspection by the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) that the milk-containing product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of milk and only listed sour cream and butter. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company's packaging processes.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/panaderia-salvadorena-inc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-milk-quesadilla-de-queso
Panaderia Salvadorena, Inc. Issues Allergy Alert On Undeclared Milk In Quesadilla De Queso
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 02, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  April 02, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Bakery Product/Mix
Reason for Announcement:  May contain undeclared milk
Company Name:  Panaderia Salvadorena Inc.
Brand Name:  Panaderia/Bakery
Product Description:  Quesadilla de Queso bread

NY Firm Recalls Chocolate Bars After Multiple Complaints of Small Stones

Tony’s Chocolonely Inc., a New York, New York Corporation, is voluntarily recalling seven lots of Tony’s brand Dark Almond Sea Salt Bar (6.35oz); and Everything Bar (6.35oz) because the product may contain small stones.  The recall was initiated following 12 reports of consumers finding small stones in the product not filtered during third-party almond harvesting and the almond processing process. All complaints occurred outside of the United States and Canada, and no injuries were reported

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/tonys-chocolonely-recalls-two-chocolate-products-because-they-may-contain-small-stones
Tony's Chocolonely Recalls Two Chocolate Products Because They May Contain Small Stones
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 01, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  April 02, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential presence of small stones
Company Name:  Tony’s Chocolonely Inc.
Brand Name:  Tony’s Chocolonely Inc.
Product Description: Dark Chocolate Almond Sea Salt Bar and Everything Bar

NY Juice Processor Recalls Pumpkin Juice Due to Botulism Risk

Walker’s Wine Juice LLC of Forestville, NY is recalling its pumpkin juice because it may be contaminated with "Botulism"[botulinum toxin].   The potential contamination was discovered after an inspection by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors found that the pumpkin juice pH was too high to be processed per Walker’s “hot fill” schedule process. As a result, it was determined that no adequate kill step was used to address the possibility of microbiological hazards.

The risk here is that the pumpkin juice, having a higher pH then regular juice, was improperly processed (it was hot filled which requires a pH below 4.6) resulting in a product that could support the growth of Clostridium botulinum, and with this, the potential to produce botulinum toxin, the causative agent of Botulism poisoning.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/walkers-wine-juice-llc-recalls-product-due-possible-health-risk
Walker’s Wine Juice LLC Recalls Product Due to Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 01, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  April 01, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Juice
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness - Botulism
Company Name:  Walker’s Wine Juice LLC
Brand Name:  Walker’s Wine Juice LLC
Product Description:  Pumpkin Juice

Trader Joe's Mislabeled Salad Dressing Recalled for Undeclared Allergens Including Peanut

Fresh Creative Foods is voluntarily recalling a single item with a specific use by date, produced at a regional facility and distributed to limited Trader Joe’s locations. The product is Trader Joe’s Hot Honey Mustard Dressing, with a Use By Date of 05/27/2025 due to labeling error. The incorrect label does not include allergen callouts for peanuts, soy, sesame, or wheat.

Basically, the product labeled as Hot Honey Mustard was probably the Asian Style Spicy Peanut Vinaigrette.  With potentially undeclared peanut, this could result in someone having a very serious reaction.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/undeclared-allergen-trader-joes-hot-honey-mustard-dressing-use-date-05272025-issued-fresh-creative
Undeclared Allergen in Trader Joe’s Hot Honey Mustard Dressing with Use By Date of 05/27/2025 Issued by Fresh Creative Foods
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 30, 2025
FDA Publish Date: March 31, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared allergen - peanut, soy, sesame, and wheat.
Company Name:  Fresh Creative Foods
Brand Name:  Trader Joe’s
Product Description:  Hot honey mustard dressing
Company Announcement  Vista, CA March 30, 2025

Michigan Establishment Recalls Liquid Egg Product for Potential Contamination with Sanitizer

Cargill Kitchen Solutions, a Lake Odessa, Michigan establishment, is recalling approximately 212,268 pounds of liquid egg products that may contain a cleaning solution with sodium hypochlorite.  The problem was discovered when FSIS received a tip about the potential contamination of these products. After conducting an investigation and thorough assessment of the contents of the cleaning solution, FSIS scientists concluded that use of this product should not cause adverse health consequences, or the risk is negligible, resulting in a Class III recall.  Although FSIS does not expect any adverse health effects for Class III recalled products and there have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products, anyone concerned about an illness should contact a healthcare provider.

Contamination with sanitizer is one of the hazards often discussed when doing the hazard analysis.  One point is whether the concentration would be sufficient to cause injury (degree of severity).  In this case, the concentration (probably in the 100ppm range before mixing with egg product) was viewed as having little to no severity, so a Class III recall was assigned. 

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/cargill-kitchen-solutions-recalls-liquid-egg-products-due-unapproved-substance
Cargill Kitchen Solutions Recalls Liquid Egg Products Due to an Unapproved Substance

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, March 28, 2025 – Cargill Kitchen Solutions, a Lake Odessa, Michigan establishment, is recalling approximately 212,268 pounds of liquid egg products that may contain a cleaning solution with sodium hypochlorite, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

Texas Firm Recalls Brioche Bread Products for Undeclared Allergens - Label Print Error

The Bakery Group of Dallas, Tx is recalling 629 cases of Dense Brioche Pullman loaves, #654203 and 104 cases of 4.5in Brioche HB Buns, #54500 because they may contain undeclared Milk, Soy and Yellow FD&C#5.   The recall was initiated after a routine inspection by The State of Texas Health and Human Services that the product(s) did not have a containment statement on the label reflecting the product contains Milk, Soy, Wheat and Yellow FD&C #5 was distributed in packaging not revealing the presence of these allergens and after further investigation we concluded that the problem was caused by human error in our labeling and packaging department and has been corrected as of March 19, 2025.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/bakery-group-issues-allergen-alert-undeclared-milk-soy-and-yellow-fdc-5-specific-bread-and-hamburger
The Bakery Group Issues Allergen Alert on Undeclared Milk, Soy and Yellow FD&C #5 In Specific Bread and Hamburger Buns
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 25, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  March 28, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Bakery Product/Mix  
Reason for Announcement:  May contain undeclared milk, soy and yellow FD&C # 5
Company Name:  The Bakery Group
Brand Name:  Ben E. Keith, Rodeo Goat, Casa Linda
Product Description:  Brioche loaves, Brioche Buns

SC Firm Recalls Chicken Salad Sandwiches For Undeclared Milk When Forgetting the Bread in the Ingredient Statement

Cromer Food Services, Inc., Anderson SC, is recalling all lots of our CFS Cromer Food Service brand Chicken Salad on White Sandwich with UPC 31166 & UPC 13172 because it contains undeclared milk
On March 25, 2025, the firm was notified by FDA during a routine inspection, that the Chicken Salad on White Sandwich label failed to include the ingredients for the bread which contains the allergen milk. 




https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/cromer-food-services-inc-recalls-chicken-salad-white-sandwich-due-undeclared-milk-allergen
Cromer Food Services, Inc. Recalls Chicken Salad on White Sandwich Due to Undeclared Milk Allergen
Summary  
Company Announcement Date:  March 27, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  March 27, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk
Company Name:  Cromer Food Services, Inc.
Brand Name:  CFS Cromer Food Services, Inc.
Product Description:  Chicken salad on white bread sandwich

Major Chip Company Recalls Tortilla Chips For Potential Undeclared Cheese Due to Mispacking Issue

Frito-Lay today issued a recall of a limited number of 13 oz. bags of Tostitos Cantina Traditional Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips that could include nacho cheese tortilla chips, and therefore may contain undeclared milk.   A limited number of 13 oz. bags of Tostitos Cantina Traditional Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips are being recalled as they could include nacho cheese tortilla chips, and therefore may contain an undeclared milk allergen. Less than 1,300 bags of impacted products were for sale in stores in 13 states (Ala., Fla., Ga., Ill., Ind., Ky., Miss., N.C., Ohio, S.C., Tenn., Va., W. Va.) and across digital channels since March 7. Consumers can view the full press release on the Frito-Lay ContactUs Disclaimer page to see if their product is impacted by this recall. Unless a consumer has a dairy allergy or sensitivity to milk, this product is safe to consume.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/frito-lay-issues-limited-recall-tostitos-cantina-traditional-yellow-corn-tortilla-chips-undeclared
Frito-Lay Issues Limited Recall for Tostitos Cantina Traditional Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips for Undeclared Milk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 26, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  March 27, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk
Company Name:  Frito-Lay
Brand Name:  Tostitos
Product Description:  Cantina Traditional Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips

Idaho Establishment Recalls RTE Beef Sticks After Two Complaints of Foreign Metal

Idaho Smokehouse Partners, LLC, a Shelley, Idaho establishment, is recalling approximately 29,541 pounds of ready-to-eat beef stick products that may be contaminated with foreign material, specifically metal. The problem was discovered after the firm notified FSIS that it received two consumer complaints reporting that pieces of metal were found in the product.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/idaho-smokehouse-partners-recalls-ready-eat-beef-stick-products-due-possible-foreign
Idaho Smokehouse Partners Recalls Ready-To-Eat Beef Stick Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, March 20, 2025– Idaho Smokehouse Partners, LLC, a Shelley, Idaho establishment, is recalling approximately 29,541 pounds of ready-to-eat beef stick products 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 Company Recalls Cheesecake for Undeclared Pecans, the Result of Mislabeling

Dessert Holdings LLC of Kennesaw, GA, is recalling Target brand Favorite Day™ Gourmet New York Style Cheesecake 6oz/2ct, Lot code 25028A1 000039133 UPC 0 85239 09690 1 due to product mislabeling resulting in undeclared pecans.  On 3/14/2025, the firm received a customer complaint that the product contained pecans, but the product label did not declare pecans. This issue has been corrected and no other manufacturing dates or lots are impacted. No illnesses have been reported to date.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/dessert-holdings-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-tree-nut-allergen-favorite-daytm-gourmet-new-york
Dessert Holdings Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Tree Nut Allergen in Favorite Day™ Gourmet New York Style Cheesecake 6oz/2ct
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 19, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  March 20, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement: Potential or Undeclared Allergen - Pecans
Company Name:  Dessert Holdings
Brand Name:  Target
Product Description:  Favorite Day Gourmet New York Style Cheesecake

Frozen Meals Recalled for Potential Wood-like Physical Hazard

Nestlé USA is initiating a voluntary recall of a limited quantity of Lean Cuisine® and STOUFFER’S® frozen meals due to the potential presence of wood-like material.  The company stated, "We are actively investigating the source of the wood-like material. We are confident that this is an isolated issue, and we have taken action to address it."

Recalls due to wood or wood-like physical hazards have been pretty rare.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/nestle-usa-announces-voluntary-recall-limited-quantity-lean-cuisiner-and-stouffersr-frozen-meals-due
Nestlé USA Announces Voluntary Recall of a Limited Quantity of Lean Cuisine® and STOUFFER’S® Frozen Meals Due to Potential Presence of Foreign Material
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 17, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  March 18, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Contaminant - Wood
Company Name:  Nestle USA
Brand Name:  Stouffer’s
Product Description:  Frozen meals

FDA Delays the Compliance Date for the Traceability Rule by 30 Months

The FDA delayed the compliance date for the Food Traceability Rule by 30 months. Scheduled to take effect in January of 2026, FDA has pushed the date back. 

FDA stated, "the compliance date extension affords covered entities the additional time necessary to ensure complete coordination across the supply chain in order to fully implement the final rule’s requirements—ultimately providing FDA and consumers with greater transparency and food safety."

"The FDA intends to use the extended time period to continue the agency’s work with stakeholders, including by participating in cross-sector dialogue to identify solutions to implementation challenges and by continuing to provide technical assistance, tools, and other resources to assist industry with implementation."

This was one can that surely needed to be kicked down the road.  My guess is there are many out there who are happy that they don't need to walk this dog anytime soon.

https://www.fda.gov/food/hfp-constituent-updates/fda-intends-extend-compliance-date-food-traceability-rule
FDA Intends to Extend Compliance Date for Food Traceability Rule
Constituent Update
March 20, 2025

Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is announcing its intention to extend the compliance date for the Food Traceability Rule (the “final rule”) by 30 months. The FDA intends to extend the compliance date using appropriate procedures at a later time, including publishing a proposed rule in the Federal Register.

Many Do Not Cook Frozen Vegetables - Implications for the Food Safety Plan

Results of a recent research survey published in the Journal of Food Protection show that about 9% of people do not cook frozen vegetables, although cooking instructions are stated on the product package.  This is an example of 'unintended use' by consumers that needs to be accounted for by the processing facility when developing a food safety plan.

Many frozen foods facilities were built decades ago when there was no perceived risk due to organisms like Listeria monocytogenes.  For one, people tended to cook frozen vegetables.  They were not making vegetable smoothies where uncooked frozen vegetables are blended with fruits or yogurt.  Secondly, when these plants were built, Listeria was not a recognized foodborne pathogen. This recognition did not occur until the 1980's.  So the level of sanitary design needed for Listeria control was not incorporated when the plants were built.   Couple that with these plants now having aged fifty-plus years, with the cracks and crevices that occur with time, Listeria control as a post-blanch contaminate is a chore.

Facilities generally blanch vegetables, which eliminates the low level of organisms present on the incoming product (if properly controlled), but the concern comes due to post-process contamination from environmental pathogens, especially Listeria.  A facility's Food Safety Plan needs to recognize this potential environmental contaminate as a significant hazard and then implement Sanitation Preventive Controls to eliminate the risk of this hazard. 

Journal of Food Protection
Volume 88, Issue 2, 3 February 2025, 100440
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0362028X24002242

Preparation Methods and Perceived Risk of Foodborne Illness Among Consumers of Prepackaged Frozen Vegetables – United States, September 2022

Abstract

Listeria monocytogenes causes listeriosis, a serious infection with a high mortality rate for persons at higher risk for listeriosis. The first Listeria outbreak linked to frozen vegetables occurred in 2016 and resulted in three deaths. Many frozen vegetables are intended to be consumed after cooking. However, data on consumer behavior are sparse. We characterized consumers’ perceptions of contamination of prepackaged frozen vegetables, and preparation methods of prepackaged frozen vegetables to help inform prevention strategies. During September 1–24, 2022, Porter Novelli Public Services conducted the FallStyles survey using the Ipsos KnowledgePanel. Data were weighted to be representative of the U.S. population. Point estimates and 95% CIs were calculated, and differences between respondents were determined using Wald chi square tests. Among 3,008 respondents reporting a preparation and consumption method for frozen vegetables, 8.7% (95% CI = 7.4–10.0%) reported ever consuming the product raw. Respondents who reported having children < 18 years old were more likely to report ever consuming frozen vegetables raw compared with respondents who did not (12.5% vs. 7.4%, p < 0.01). The most reported raw preparation method was adding them directly to a blender for smoothie or juice (5.6%; 95% CI = 4.6–6.7%). Among respondents who reported eating frozen vegetables, 59.6% (95% CI = 57.6–61.6%) reported following package instructions. A third (34.1% [95% CI = 32.2–35.9%]) of respondents agreed that frozen vegetables can be contaminated with germs (like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria), with a greater proportion of people with cancer disagreeing compared to those without cancer (32.5% vs 23.4%, p = 0.041). These findings show that some consumers may not be cooking frozen vegetables before eating them. Second, consumers might not be reading instructions on packaging. Both findings highlight the critical importance of preventive controls in the production of frozen vegetables prior to reaching the consumer.

CA Firm Recalls Raw Cat Food After Cats Impacted by Avian Influenza (HPIA or Bird Flu)

Savage Pet of El Cajon, CA is recalling 66 Large Chicken Boxes 84 oz. and 74 Small Chicken Boxes 21 oz. with the lot code/best by date of 11152026 because it has the potential to contain H5N1, also known as bird flu.  Savage Cat Food Large Chicken Boxes and Small Chicken Boxes were distributed to retailers in California, Colorado, New York, Pennsylvania and Washington

In February, Savage Pet was made aware of one cat in Colorado who contracted H5N1, got sick and recovered. Colorado State University Laboratory tested sealed packets of Savage Cat Food using PCR testing for H5N1. The PCR test results were “non-negative”. The product with “non-negative” PCR results was sent to the National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa for virus isolation testing.

On 03/06/25 the NVSL virus isolation testing results confirmed the virus to be negative.

On 3/13/2025 Savage Pet was made aware of an additional case in New York of a kitten that was feeding lot 11152026 who contracted avian flu. Further testing is ongoing.

The product produced by Savage Pet is considered raw product.  It is not high pressure processed (HPP) and is sold in the frozen state to achieve suitable shelf-life.  As for the product testing, like any pathogen, it may be present at low levels, where testing may not be able to detect contamination that is present in a small amount of product.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/savage-pet-recalls-savage-cat-food-chicken-large-and-small-boxes-because-possible-bird-flu-health
Savage Pet Recalls Savage Cat Food Chicken – Large and Small Boxes Because of Possible Bird Flu Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date: March 15, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  March 15, 2025
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary
Reason for Announcement:  Possible Bird Flu Health Risk
Company Name:  Savage Pet
Brand Name:  Savage Pet
Product Description:  Cat Food Chicken

Washington Firm Recalls Seafood Chowder Products After Faulty Pouch Seal Discovered

SeaBear Company of Anacortes, Washington is recalling two variations of seafood chowder (Smoked Salmon Chowder & Alehouse Clam Chowder), after it was discovered the containers had a faulty seal that has potential to become contaminated with Clostridium botulinum.  SeaBear initiated a voluntary recall after they became aware of a pouch seal issue from a customer complaint. Upon further investigation, they identified a mechanical issue with equipment, which caused seals to not fully bond and made some pouches leak.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/seabear-company-recalls-smoked-salmon-chowder-and-alehouse-clam-chowder-because-possible-health-risk
Seabear Company Recalls Smoked Salmon Chowder and Alehouse Clam Chowder Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 15, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  March 15, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential contamination with Clostridium botulinum
Company Name:  Seabear Company
Brand Name:  Seabear
Product Description:  Alehouse Clam Chowder and Smoked Salmon Chowder

Texas Firm Recalls Mac And Cheese Product After Mislabeling Issue Results in Undeclared Egg and Meat

C.H. Guenther & Son LLC of San Antonio, TX, is recalling its 365 Whole Foods Market Small Bites Macaroni & Cheese because it may contain undeclared eggs and meat ingredients.  The recall was initiated after receiving a consumer complaint that the product contained meat and was not a macaroni and cheese bite. This issue has been corrected and no other manufacturing dates or lots are impacted.

This appears to be the be a labeling application issue with the wrong box being used.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/ch-guenther-son-llc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-egg-365-whole-foods-market-small-bites-macaroni

C.H. Guenther & Son LLC Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Egg in “365 Whole Foods Market Small Bites Macaroni & Cheese”
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 14, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  March 14, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared eggs
Company Name:  C.H. Guenther & Son LLC
Brand Name:  365 Whole Foods Market
Product Description:  Small Bites Macaroni & Cheese

New York Firm Recalls Noodle Product for Undeclared Egg

HAR Maspeth Corp, Maspeth NY, is recalling its 8 ounce and 12 ounce packages of "JINGA GLASS NOODLES W/ VEGETABLES (Japche)" because they contain undeclared eggs.  The recall was initiated after being notified by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors during a retail inspection and the presence of eggs in the 8 and 12 ounce packages of "JINGA GLASS NOODLES W/ VEGETABLES (Japche)" which did not declare an egg ingredient on the label.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/har-maspeth-corp-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-eggs-jinga-glass-noodles-w-vegetables-japche
Har Maspeth Corp Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Eggs in “Jinga Glass Noodles w/ Vegetables (Japche)”
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 14, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  March 14, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared eggs
Company Name:  HAR Maspeth Corp
Brand Name:  Jinga
Product Description:  Glass noodles with vegetables

Another Enoki Mushroom Recall for Listeria

New Age International Inc of Brooklyn, NY is recalling all lots of Daily Veggies brand Enoki Mushroom, 200g, Product of Korea, because they may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.  

The contamination was discovered after samples were collected from a store in West Virginia on 1/14/2025 and subsequent analysis by West Virginia Department of Agriculture revealed the presence of Listeria Monocytogenes in some 200g packages of Daily Veggies Enoki Mushroom from Korea.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/new-age-international-recalls-daily-veggies-brand-enoki-mushroom-due-possible-health-risk
New Age International Recalls Daily Veggies Brand Enoki Mushroom Due to Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 11, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  March 12, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  New Age International Inc.
Brand Name:  Daily Veggies
Product Description:  Enoki Mushroom

California Company Recalls Hot Sauce Product Missing Allergens on Label

On March 11, 2025, Liaoning Cheng Da USA Inc. of San Gabriel, California is recalling Hot Pot Sauce Because it may contain undeclared peanut, soy, sesame, and wheat.  The recall was initiated after the manufacturer discovered that the products containing peanut, soy, sesame, and wheat were distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of peanut, soy, sesame and wheat.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/liaoning-cheng-da-usa-inc-san-gabriel-california-recalling-hot-pot-sauce-because-it-may-contain
Liaoning Cheng Da USA Inc. of San Gabriel, California is Recalling Hot Pot Sauce Because it May Contain Undeclared Peanut, Soy, Sesame, and Wheat
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 11, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  March 11, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Gravy/Sauces
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared allergen - peanut, soy, sesame, and wheat
Company Name:  Liaoning Cheng Da USA Inc.
Brand Name:  Wangzhihe
Product Description:  Hot Pot Sauce

Animal Nutritional Company Recalls Feed for Potentially High Levels of Copper, Low Levels of Zinc

ADM Animal Nutrition, a division of ADM (NYSE: ADM), is recalling specific pelleted animal feed products because they may contain elevated levels of copper or have levels of zinc below the represented amounts which could be harmful to cattle.  ADM discovered this issue during routine production. The company immediately began investigating and initiated the recall upon receiving confirmation that the pelleted feed had varying levels of copper and zinc that can impact animals. 

Possible impacts of chronic copper toxicity include: gastroenteritis characterized by anorexia, signs of abdominal pain, depression, lethargy, diarrhea, and dehydration. Possible impacts of zinc deficiency include: decreases in feed intake, feed efficiency, and growth.  No illnesses or deficiency impacts have been reported to date.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/adm-recalls-select-pelleted-cattle-nutrition-feed-products
ADM Recalls Select Pelleted Cattle Nutrition Feed Products
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 05, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  March 05, 2025
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary  Livestock Feed
Reason for Announcement:  Elevated levels or deficient levels of nutrients which may be harmful to cattle
Company Name:  ADM Animal Nutrition
Brand Name:  ADM Animal Nutrition
Product Description:  Cattle Feed

CA Distributor Recalls Dried Lilly Flowers for Undeclared Sulfites

U.S. Trading Company of Hayward, CA is recalling Joy Luck Brand Lily Flowers because it may contain undeclared SULFITES.  The recall was initiated after Florida Dept of Agriculture and Consumer Services collected a sample of the lily flowers. It was discovered that lily flowers containing sulfites were distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of sulfites.

Eating Lilly Flowers...according to AI:

Eating dried lily flowers, particularly the unopened buds of the daylily plant (also called "golden needles"), is a common practice in Chinese cuisine, where they are added to soups, stir-fries, and rice dishes for their subtle floral aroma and mild, slightly sweet flavor; essentially, they are considered an edible flower with a musky and flowery taste when rehydrated and cooked properly. 

Key points about eating dried lily flowers:

Origin: Primarily used in Chinese cooking, where they are often referred to as "golden needles" or "yellow flower vegetable". 

What you eat: The dried unopened buds of the daylily plant. 

Preparation: Before using, dried lily flowers need to be soaked in water to rehydrate them. 

Flavor profile: A delicate, slightly sweet floral taste with a musky undertone. 

How to use dried lily flowers in cooking:

Soups: Add to broths for a subtle floral flavor. 

Stir-fries: Incorporate into stir-fried vegetable or protein dishes. 

Rice dishes: Mix into fried rice or rice porridge for added texture and flavor. 

Important points to remember:

Not all lilies are edible:

Ensure you are using the correct type of lily, specifically the daylily, as other lily varieties can be toxic. 

Quality matters:

Buy dried lily flowers from a reputable source to guarantee quality and proper identification. 

Check for insects:

Always rinse dried lily flowers thoroughly before using to remove any potential insects. 

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/us-trading-company-hayward-ca-recalling-joy-luck-brand-lily-flowers-because-it-may-contain
U.S. Trading Company of Hayward, CA is Recalling Joy Luck Brand Lily Flowers Because it May Contain Undeclared Sulfites
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 04, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  March 04, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared sulfites
Company Name:  U.S. Trading Company
Brand Name:  Joy Luck
Product Description:  Dried Lily Flowers

California Distributor Expands Recall for Packaged Vegetables for Temperature Abuse, Botulism Potential

AKT Trading Inc. of Torrance, California, is recalling additional prepared vegetable products manufactured by Choshiya Honten Co., Ltd. The company had recalled Bamboo Shoots on February 11, 2025.  The  report states, "the products lack the necessary "Keep Refrigerated" statement, which could lead to hazardous bacterial growth if stored at room temperature. Consumers are warned not to use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled."  The concern with these product is the potential risk of Clostridium botulinum. The products lack the necessary "Keep Refrigerated" statement, which could lead to hazardous bacterial growth if stored at room temperature.

This issue was discovered on 2/18/2025 at the Tokyo Central / Marukai retail store. The missing "Keep Refrigerated" label likely contributed to this issue. The product was immediately removed from sale at this location. 

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/akt-trading-inc-recalls-prepared-vegetable-products-because-possible-health-risk
AKT Trading Inc. Recalls Prepared Vegetable Products Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 03, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  March 03, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential risk of Clostridium botulinum
Company Name:  AKT Trading, Inc.
Brand Name:  Multiple brands
Product Description:  Prepared vegetable products.

Raw Cat Food Recalled Due to Potential Bird Flu (HPAI) Contamination

Wild Coast LLC dba Wild Coast Raw of Olympia, WA is recalling lots of frozen Boneless Free Range Chicken Formula raw pet food for cats because it has the potential to be contaminated with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 also known as bird flu.  The recall was initiated after sampling conducted by the Oregon Department of Agriculture revealed the presence of the same strain of H5N1 in the affected cats and these products as well as sampling by the Washington State Department of Agriculture. Wild Coast Raw and the Washington State Department of Agriculture continue to work collaboratively to address the source of the problem.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/voluntary-recall-wild-coast-raw-boneless-free-range-chicken-formula-raw-pet-food-because-possible
Voluntary Recall of Wild Coast Raw Boneless Free Range Chicken Formula Raw Pet Food Because of Possible Bird Flu Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 01, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  March 01, 2025
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary
Reason for Announcement:  Possible Bird Flu Health Risk
Company Name:  Wild Coast LLC dba Wild Coast Raw
Brand Name:  Wild Coast Raw
Product Description:  Frozen Boneless Free Range Chicken Formula raw pet food for cats

MA Produce Packer Recalls Salad for Undeclared Allergens Due to Mislabeling

Little Leaf Farms, Shirley, MA, is voluntarily recalling a specific lot code of its Southwest Salad Kits due to the potential presence of undeclared fish and wheat allergens.   The issue was identified after receiving one consumer complaint noting incorrect ingredients. No injuries or illnesses have been reported to date.

So it appears that the wrong preprinted label was applied to the clamshell package.





https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/little-leaf-farms-announces-limited-voluntary-withdrawal-specific-lot-code-southwest-salad-kit-due
Little Leaf Farms Announces Limited Voluntary Withdrawal of a Specific Lot Code of Southwest Salad Kit Due to Undeclared Fish and Wheat
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  February 28, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  March 01, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement: Undeclared fish and wheat allergen
Company Name:  Little Leaf Farms
Brand Name:  Little Leaf Farms
Product Description:  Southwest Salad Kits

FDA and CDC Provide Update on Listeria Outbreak Linked to Supplement Shakes

FDA and CDC provided an update on the investigation of Listeria in frozen shakes.

As of February 24, 2025, a total of 38 people infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria monocytogenes have been reported from 21 states.   There have been 12 deaths, up one from the initial report.  Of the 38 people for whom information is available, 37 people have been hospitalized, and 12 deaths have been reported.  Age Range -  from 43 to 101 years with a median age of 78.

Case Counts

Total Illnesses: 38

Hospitalizations: 37

Deaths: 12

Last Specimen Collection Date: January 23, 2025

States with Cases: AL, CA, CO, CT, FL, IL, IN, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, NV, NY, OH, OK, PA, TN, TX, WA, and WV

Product Distribution: Nationwide

As summarized by CIDRAP

• Starting in 2018, illnesses were reported but at that time, epidemiologic investigations suggested that institutional food was the likely source, however there wasn't enough evidence to pinpoint a specific food source.
• There were subsequent investigation in 2021, and 2023, in addition to 2018.
• The CDC reopened the investigation in October 2024 after six new infections were reported. In background information on the outbreak, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said 20 of the cases were reported in 2024 and 2025 and that the outbreak and the investigations are ongoing.
• In November 2024, the FDA focused on nursing homes where many of the cases occurred. In its investigation, FDA used food invoices from involved nursing homes to show that since 2024, all nursing homes had received frozen supplement shakes from Lyons ReadyCare or Sysco Imperial brand.
• FDA investigators used environmental sampling and whole-genome sequencing to show that the strain of Listeria found in environmental samples were closely related to isolates from sick patients.  "Three of the environmental swabs collected from the processing area tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes. Whole Genome Sequencing analysis determined that the Listeria detected in these samples is closely related to the strain of Listeria that is causing illnesses in this outbreak."
• On February 22, Lyons Magnus, a distributor based in Fresno, California, recalled 4-ounce servings of several flavors of Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen supplemental shakes.

Washington State Firm Recalls RTE Chicken Caesar Wraps Due to Undeclared Anchovies (Fish)

LPK1, a Renton, Wash. establishment, is recalling approximately 303 pounds of ready-to-eat chicken Caesar wrap products due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen - the product’s individually-wrapped Caesar dressing packet contains fish (anchovies) which is not declared on the product label.  The problem was discovered by the establishment during a routine quality assurance check of ingredient labels. The establishment then notified FSIS that the product may contain fish (anchovy), which is not declared on the label.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/lpk1-recalls-ready-eat-chicken-caesar-wrap-products-due-misbranding-and-undeclared
LPK1 Recalls Ready-to-Eat Chicken Caesar Wrap Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergen

WASHINGTON, Feb. 23, 2025 – LPK1, a Renton, Wash. establishment, is recalling approximately 303 pounds of ready-to-eat chicken Caesar wrap 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’s individually-wrapped Caesar dressing packet contains fish (anchovies), a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.

NJ Firm Recalls Dark Chocolate Novelties Due to Undeclared Milk

Kayco, a Bayonne NJ company is recalling their Glicks Dark Chocolate Conettos because it may contain undeclared milk.  This recall was initiated after the company was notified by their Quality Control Department that a limited number of bags labeled as “Dark Chocolate Conettos” contained Milk Chocolate Conettos, which contains milk allergen that is not declared on the label.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/kayco-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-milk-limited-units-glicks-dark-chocolate-conettos
Kayco Issues an Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in Limited Units of Glicks Dark Chocolate Conettos
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  February 21, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  February 21, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk allergen
Company Name:  Kayco
Brand Name:  Glicks
Product Description:  Dark Chocolate Conettos

Frozen Supplemental Shakes Linked to Listeria Outbreak Impacting Long-Term Care Residents

The FDA and CDC are linking a multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections  Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Supplemental Shakes.  This product, used a nutrient supplement, was used in long-term care facilities which would have high-risk consumers for Listeria.  Cases date back to 2018.  There have been 38 reported cases with 11 deaths.

"On November 25, 2024, FDA was notified about an outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes in the United States, with many ill people residing in long-term care facilities (LTCF) prior to illness onset. FDA’s traceback investigation identified that each of the LTCF who supplied invoice information for review from 2024 to present received a frozen supplemental shake of either Lyons ReadyCare or Sysco Imperial brand. As part of this investigation, FDA collected environmental samples and found the outbreak strain of Listeria."

"According to CDC, this outbreak includes cases dating back to 2018, with 20 cases across 2024 and 2025, and is currently ongoing. Epidemiologic evidence in previous investigations were unable to identify a source of the outbreak. As of February 21, 2025, a total of 38 people infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria monocytogenes have been reported from 21 states. Of the 38 people for whom information is available, 37 people have been hospitalized. Eleven deaths have been reported. Of the 38 people for whom information is available, 34 (89%) reported living in long term care facilities or were hospitalized prior to becoming sick. Records reviewed from facilities indicated nutritional shakes were available to residents."

Lyons Magnus LLC (“Lyons Magnus”), Fresno CA, announced that it is voluntarily recalling 4 oz. Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Supplemental Shakes due to the potential for the products to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. 

Case Counts
Total Illnesses: 38
Hospitalizations: 37
Deaths: 11
Last Specimen Collection Date: January 23, 2025
States with Cases: AL, CA, CO, CT, FL, IL, IN, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, NV, NY, OH, OK, PA, TN, TX, WA, and WV

https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-listeria-monocytogenes-frozen-supplemental-shakes-february-2025
Outbreak Investigation of Listeria monocytogenes: Frozen Supplemental Shakes (February 2025)
Content current as of: 02/21/2025
Do not sell or serve Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Supplemental Shakes. FDA’s investigation is ongoing.

Importer Recalls Snack Products After Foreign Supplier Fails on Allergen Labeling

ZB Importing LLC. Cicero, IL, is voluntarily recalling certain lots of six varieties of Ulker Brand snack rolls, biscuits, and wafers due to undeclared wheat, egg and/or milk in the Ingredient List and/or Contains Statement on the product labels.  This mislabeling was discovered following receipt of a single consumer complaint involving an allergic reaction. The issue originated from a supplier who inadvertently failed to fully disclose all allergens while translating the ingredient list. [The company is] actively working with the supplier to implement stricter labeling controls, including an additional verification process for multilingual labels.

Ulker branded product is imported from Turkey.

The importer in this case, ZB Importing LLC., is responsible for assuring proper allergen labeling through their foreign supplier verification program (FSVP).   Allergens would have been identified on the hazard analysis for  product from that company, and the importer would need measures to ensure that proper allergen control was implemented, specifically in this case, label declaration of allergens.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/zb-importing-issue-voluntary-recall-and-allergy-alert-undeclared-egg-wheat-and-milk-certain-ulker
ZB Importing Issue Voluntary Recall and Allergy Alert on Undeclared Egg, Wheat and Milk in Certain Ulker Brand Products
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  February 18, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  February 20, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared allergen (wheat, eggs, milk)
Company Name:  ZB Importing LLC
Brand Name:  Ulker
Product Description:  Snack rolls, biscuits, and wafers

Texas Firm Recalls Snack Mix For Missing Allergen Labeling

KEDAKE, INC. of Houston, TX is recalling it’s 2 lb packages of Las Ollas Botana Mix Snacks because they may contain undeclared Sesame, Soy, Wheat, Yellow No 5, Yellow No 6, and Red No 6.  Las Ollas Botana Mix Snacks 2 lb packages were distributed in Texas and reached consumers through both wholesale and retail stores.   The recall was initiated after the FDA discovered in a routine inspection that the product containing the Sesame, Soy, Wheat, Yellow No 5, Yellow No 6, and Red No 6 was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of these ingredients and subsequent investigation indicated that the problem was caused by a production printing problem with the label.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/kedake-inc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-sesame-soy-wheat-yellow-no-5-yellow-no-6-and-red-no-6
Kedake Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Sesame, Soy, Wheat, Yellow No. 5, Yellow No. 6, and Red No. 6 in Botana Mix Snacks
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  February 20, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  February 20, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared wheat, sesame, soy, yellow 5, yellow 6, red 6
Company Name:  Kedake Inc
Brand Name:  Las Ollas
Product Description:  Las Ollas Botana Mix Snacks and Delights 2 lb packages

PSU Food Safety News Blog Ranked in Top 10 Food Safety Blogs for 2025

 According to Feedspot, a global blog and podcast hosting site, Penn State Food Safety News is ranked as one of the top food safety blog sites in the world.  For 2025, Penn State Food Safety News is ranked #9, breaking into the top ten!

https://bloggers.feedspot.com/food_safety_blog/

Thanks to all of you who continue to support our effort in bringing you the important issues involving food safety!

Georgia Firm Recalls Snack Pack Product for Undeclared Allergens After Incorrect Back Label Applied

Naturipe Value Added Fresh LLC. of Alma, GA, is recalling its 2.1 oz./60 gram packages of "Berry Buddies, Berries & Pancakes" bento box snack packs because they contain wheat and EGGS that were not declared on the label.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the incorrect back label was placed on the back of the package. Because of this, the allergens of WHEAT and EGGS were not listed on the label. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a production label changeover failure which has since been corrected.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/naturipe-value-added-fresh-llc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-wheat-eggs-berry-buddies-berries
Naturipe Value Added Fresh LLC Issues Allergy Alert On Undeclared Wheat & Eggs In "Berry Buddies, Berries & Pancakes” Lot # 1097901
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  February 18, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  February 19, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared allergen (wheat, eggs)
Company Name:  Naturipe Value Added Fresh LLC
Brand Name:  Naturipe Snacks
Product Description:  Berry Buddies, Berries & Pancakes bento box snack packs

Milk Chocolate Covered Macadamias Recalled for Undeclared Almonds

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Company LLC of Kea’au, HI is voluntarily recalling one batch of its Mauna Loa Milk Chocolate Covered Macadamias snack (1oz) pouches, due to the presence of undeclared almonds which are an allergen.  The recall was initiated after Mauna Loa’s internal quality control process identified that the affected batch, manufactured by a third-party co-manufacturer, contained undeclared almonds. Immediate action was taken to contain the affected product, notify the third-party co-manufacturer, alert consumers and distributors, and report the issue to the FDA.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/mauna-loa-macadamia-nut-company-llc-issues-product-recall-undeclared-almonds-mauna-loa-milk
Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Company, LLC Issues a Product Recall on Undeclared Almonds in Mauna Loa Milk Chocolate Covered Macadamias (1oz) Pouches
Summary
Company Announcement Date: February 15, 2025

FDA Publish  Date: February 15, 2025

Product Type: Food & Beverages

Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared almonds

Company Name: Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Company, LLC

Brand Name: Mauna Loa

Product Description: Mauna Loa Milk Chocolate Covered Macadamias  

MN Bakery Recalls Mislabeled Muffins for Undeclared Walnuts

JE Bakery 2019, LLC, doing business as Broadway Bakery, Minneapolis MN is voluntarily recalling its Raisin Bran Muffin 6 count due to a labeling error. The affected product was mislabeled and instead contains Glorious Morning Muffins, which contains Walnuts, a known allergen not declared on the label.

Bamboo Shoots Recalled for Temperature Abuse, Botulism Potential?

AKT Trading Inc of Torrance, California is recalling 120 packages of Menma Ajitsuke Prepared Bamboo Shoot Product, because it has the potential to be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium which can cause life-threatening illness or death.  This issue was discovered on 1/14/2025 at the Tokyo Central Costa Mesa retail store where the product was found being sold under ambient (non-refrigerated) conditions. The missing "Keep Refrigerated" label likely contributed to this issue. The product was immediately removed from sale at this location. Consumers who have purchased the affected product with the specified expiration date are urged not to consume it. Consumers should discard the product or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Technically, this vacuum packed product must have a secondary barrier (low Aw, low pH, etc) so that one would not need to rely on refrigeration because of issues where the product would be temperature abused. Otherwise, temperature control would be preventive control needed to be maintained throughout the supply chain, which is not likely for a retail product such as this.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/akt-trading-inc-recalls-seasoned-bamboo-shoots-because-possible-health-risk
AKT Trading Inc. Recalls Seasoned Bamboo Shoots Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  February 11, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  February 12, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness - Botulism
Company Name:  AKT Trading Inc.
Brand Name:  CHOSHIYA
Product Description:  Menma Ajitsuke Prepared Bamboo Shoot

Frozen Pasty Recalled for Undeclared Egg

The USDA-FSIS is issuing a public health alert for frozen, fully cooked ready-to-eat (RTE) meat and poultry pasties, produced by the Pasty Oven, Florence, WI, due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen. The products were produced using an egg wash, which contains egg, a known allergen, that is not declared on the product label.  FSIS discovered the problem during routine labeling review activities when it found that the egg ingredient was not listed on the final product label.



https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-frozen-ready-eat-meat-and-poultry-pasties-due
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Frozen Ready-To-Eat Meat and Poultry Pasties Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergen
The Pasty Oven, Inc.

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Feb. 12, 2025 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for frozen, fully cooked ready-to-eat (RTE) meat and poultry pasties due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen. The products were produced using an egg wash, which contains egg, a known allergen, that is not declared on the product label. FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers with allergies to eggs are aware that this product should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because the affected products are no longer available for purchase.

FDA Begins Email Communications Listing Weekly Recap of Recalls

We just received an email from FDA titled Weekly Recap of Recalls...for each of the weeks of this year starting January 12 to 18, 2025.  Those of you who are receiving recall information from FDA already probably received the series of emails as well.  Good idea.

Recent Recall for Oysters Highlights Norovirus Risk

Over the past year, there have been 14 recalls for oysters after foodborne illness outbreaks, primarily due to norovirus infections.  Five of those outbreaks / recalls occurred over the past 4 months (below), with the last one due to oysters harvested in Louisiana.   

Raw oysters are a risk for viral and bacterial pathogens.  As filter feeds, they capture the contaminants in the water column and those contaminates are consumed when the oysters are eaten raw.  The government requires shellfish identification tags to be placed on the shellfish when harvested and these tags accompany the shellfish to the point of sale, at which point, they must be kept on file in the event of an outbreak.  This allows investigators to identify the site in which the oysters were harvested and then issue a source specific recall.

Louisiana Oysters - Norovirus - Feb 2025

The Louisiana Department of Health has issued a recall for certain oysters that were harvested from Louisiana due to an outbreak of norovirus illnesses. The oysters were harvested from Louisiana Area 3 from 1/10/2025 through 2/4/2025. The oysters were shipped to distributors and retailers in AL, FL, LA, MD, MS, NC, and TX and may have been distributed to other states as well. The FDA is advising restaurants and food retailers not to serve or sell and to dispose of, and consumers not to eat, these oysters following the instruction provided below because they may be contaminated with norovirus.

Seafood Processor Recalls Canned Tuna of Various Brands for Can Lid Failure, Botulism Concern

Tri-Union Seafoods has made the decision to voluntarily recall select lots of canned tuna products sold under the Genova®, Van Camp’s®, H-E-B and Trader Joe’s brand names. This voluntary recall is out of an abundance of caution following the notification from our supplier that the “easy open” pull tab can lid on limited products encountered a manufacturing defect that may compromise the integrity of the product seal (especially over time), causing it to leak, or worse, be contaminated with clostridium botulinum, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning.

While some news articles are stating this recall is botulism contamination, it is better stated as a can lid failure issue that could result in Clostridium botulinum contamination, and thus a risk for botulism.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/tri-union-seafoods-issues-recall-select-genovar-van-campsr-h-e-b-and-trader-joesr-tuna-cans-due
Tri-Union Seafoods Issues Recall of Select Genova®, Van Camp’s®, H-E-B and Trader Joe’s® Tuna Cans Due to Clostridium Botulinum Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  February 07, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  February 10, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness - Botulism
Company Name:  Tri-Union Seafoods
Brand Name:  Genova, Van Camp’s, H-E-B, Trader Joe’s
Product Description:  Canned tuna

Message Boards Are Not a Good Information Source for Recalls

There was evidently a rumor of an egg recall that circulated on web message boards over the past week.  Shows how many people buy into unverified news such as delivered through internet message boards.

Forbes
https://www.forbes.com/sites/stephaniegravalese/2025/02/06/egg-recall-rumors-are-spreading--heres-what-you-need-to-know/
Egg Recall Rumors Are Spreading—Here’s What You Need To Know
Stephanie Gravalese
Contributor

Was There a Recall on Eggland's Best Eggs? Here's What We Know

If you've seen posts claiming Eggland's Best eggs have been recalled, you're not alone. Over the past week, rumors have spread across social media, with people warning others to check their cartons, return eggs to stores, or avoid buying them altogether.

But is there actually an Eggland's Best eggs recall 2025? No.

TX Establishment Recalls Sausage Product After Complaint for Foreign Material - A Pen

 D.J.’s Boudain, LLC, a Beaumont, Texas, establishment, is recalling approximately 17,720 pounds of boudain sausage link products that may be contaminated with foreign materials, specifically pieces of a pen.  The problem was discovered after the establishment received a consumer complaint involving the discovery of a piece of a pen while eating the Original Boudain sausage links product.

There has been one reported oral injury associated with consumption of this product. FSIS has received no additional reports of injury or illness from consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an injury should contact a healthcare provider.

One of our favorite examples for foreign material sources - employees with pens.  And this is what happens - employee drops the pen or places it in the wrong spot, falls into the product stream, gets blended or ground, ends up in finished product, and then injures a customer as they consume product with broken pen pieces.

So what does that lost pen cost?  In terms of production, over 8 tons of finished product.

A great example for sharing with employees.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/djs-boudain-llc-recalls-sausage-link-products-due-possible-foreign-matter
DJ’s Boudain LLC Recalls Sausage Link Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Jan. 31, 2025 – D.J.’s Boudain, LLC, a Beaumont, Texas, establishment, is recalling approximately 17,720 pounds of boudain sausage link products that may be contaminated with foreign materials, specifically pieces of a pen, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

Wisconsin Sprout Operation Recalls Sprouts After State Testing Finds Listeria

Jack and the Green Sprouts, Inc. of River Falls, WI is recalling 5oz packages of Alfalfa sprouts that expired on 1/29/25 because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.  The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing by the State of MN which revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in expired 5oz package Alfalfa sprouts. Even though Jack and the Green Sprout’s tests from an independent lab had negative results confirmed on spent irrigation water & finished Product for the Alfalfa Lot #687 before release.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/jack-and-green-sprouts-recalls-expired-alfalfa-sprouts-because-possible-health-risk
Jack and the Green Sprouts Recalls Expired Alfalfa Sprouts Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  February 07, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  February 08, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness – Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Jack and the Green Sprouts, Inc.
Brand Name:  Jack & the Green Sprouts
Product Description:  Alfalfa Sprouts

NJ Firm Recalls Imported Tahini Paste After State Lab Detects Salmonella

Turkana Food Inc. Kenilworth, NJ is recalling 858 cases OF Aleppo Tahini Sesame Paste because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.  The recall was the result of a routine sampling performed by the Ohio Department of Agriculture which revealed that the finished products contained Salmonella. The company has ceased production and distribution of the products as FDA and the company continue their investigation to what caused the problem.  Product is imported from Turkey.
             
                                                
https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/turkana-food-inc-recalls-aleppo-tahini-sesame-paste-1lb-16oz-because-possible-health-risk
Turkana Food Inc. Recalls Aleppo Tahini Sesame Paste 1lb (16oz) Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  February 06, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  February 06, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness - Salmonella
Company Name:  Turkana Food Inc.
Brand Name:  Aleppo
Product Description:  Tahini Sesame Paste

Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Imported Mini Pastries

The FDA and CDC, in collaboration with state, local, and international partners, are investigating illnesses in a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis infections linked to Sweet Cream-brand mini pastries manufactured in Italy and exported into the United States by Importations Piu Che Dolci Inc. of Quebec, Canada.  As of January 29, 2025, a total of 18 people infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella have been reported from seven states. Of the 18 people for whom information is available, one person has been hospitalized

On January 21, 2025, FDA was notified about an outbreak of Salmonella in the United States, which is the same strain investigated in Canada. Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) informed FDA that their investigation linked their outbreak to Sweet Cream-brand mini pastries,

The recalled products were imported by two distributors in the U.S. who were contacted about the recall. One distributor had no product on hand, and the second distributor quarantined all product on hand and informed all of their downstream customers of the recall. As part of this investigation, FDA conducted traceback for one of the U.S. cases and identified that they were served recalled Sweet Cream-brand mini pastries at a restaurant prior to becoming sick. The restaurant received the pastries from one of the U.S. distributors.

The FSVP (Foreign Supplier Verification Program) was put in place to ensure that importer of this product can verify the foreign producer is meeting US standards including having a Food Safety Plan.  In this case, the FSVP importer would conduct a hazard analysis, determine significant hazards, and then put in verification procedures to ensure that supplier is controlling the significant hazards.  In a pastry product such as this, Salmonella would have been determined to be a significant hazard to be controlled through process control and then through sanitation control to prevent recontamination of the RTE pastry before packaging.

Case Counts
Total Illnesses: 18
Hospitalizations: 1
Deaths: 0
Last Illness Onset: December 6, 2024
States with Cases: CA, IL, MA, NC, NJ, NY, and PA
Product Distribution*: FL, NJ, NY, and PA

*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-mini-pastries-january-2025
Outbreak Investigation of Salmonella: Mini Pastries (January 2025)
Do not sell or serve recalled Sweet Cream-Brand Mini Pastries. FDA’s investigation is ongoing.

Rushing to Judgment on the FDA 483 Inspectional Observations of Onion Facility

It can be difficult in determining the exact cause of a foodborne illness outbreak, even for inspectors.  But it seems that it can be too easy to jump to conclusions, especially for the media, based upon pieces of information that become available.  A recent posting from Food Safety Strategy titled The Mischaracterization of a 483  provides a good analysis of the FDA's 483 report of Inspectional Observations and how they can be difficult to judge, especially for those who are not familiar with food observations.  While this analysis did not reference a specific 483 report, I immediately thought of the report of the facility that was responsible for the 2024 E. coli outbreak linked to sliced onions sold at McDonalds.

To read through this, one can easily say the inspector is leaning to environmental contamination issue due to lack of cleaning.  Certainly some of the media conveyed that thought.  However, while this facility had 'potential' issues based upon what he inspector observed, there is no hard evidence provided and plenty of questions that are not answered.

As pointed out in the article cited above, fresh operations are going to have pooling water.  It is a wet operation.  The 483 cites 'apparent biofilm',  but there was no analysis to determine if it was bacteriological in origin.  In fact, no environmental testing was mentioned in the report.   

The presence of Listeria and other pathogens in these types of facilities is going to happen.  There needs to be recognition of whether that contamination is endemic or transient.

It is important to recognize that this is a process with no lethality / kill step.  The biggest issue with contamination is just as much or more of a raw material issue than a facility issue.  And the 483 does not delve into this fact that contamination may likely have been on the product.  And there has been some research evidence for internalization of pathogenic organisms in produce including onions that are grown in soil.  

Not to argue with what the inspector observed, but one must be cautious about jumping to conclusions based upon these observations without additional information including field testing, product testing, etc.

https://www.koaa.com/news/covering-colorado/inspectors-find-dozens-of-violations-at-taylor-farms-in-colorado-springs
FDA 483 Inspectional Observations
Taylor Farms Colorado, Inc.

6th &  Kipling St. (P.O. Box 25087)

Denver, CO 80225-0087

(303)236-3000  Fax:(303)236-3100

OBSERVATION 1
You did not implement your sanitation preventive control, monitoring, corrective action and verification procedures.

NC Raw Pet Food Company Continues to Issue Recalls For Pathogens Found by State Testing

Blue Ridge Beef, of Statesville, NC is recalling 5,700 lbs. of their 2 lb log Natural Mix due to a contamination of Salmonella. Lot # N25/12/31 (Lot numbers are stamped in the clips on the end of the chubs/bags) UPC# 854298001054.  Samples of the product was collected on 01/08/25 by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and tested by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture Food and Drug Protection Laboratory. The product tested positive for Salmonella.  On 01/27/2025 the firm was notified by the FDA that the product tested positive for Salmonella.

This company has a significant history of recalling product due to the presence of pathogens.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/blue-ridge-beef-issues-recall-blue-ridge-beef-natural-mix-due-salmonella-contamination
Blue Ridge Beef Issues a Recall of Blue Ridge Beef Natural Mix Due to Salmonella Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  January 31, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  January 31, 2025
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary  Food & Beverages   Pet Food
Reason for Announcement: Salmonella contamination
Company Name:  Blue Ridge Beef
Brand Name:  Blue Ridge Beef
Product Description:  Natural Mix

Baby Teething Chew Stick Recalled and Discontinued After Choking Incidents

Gerber Products Company is initiating a recall and discontinuation of all batches of GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS due to a potential choking hazard for babies and young children.  The recall was initiated after receiving consumer complaints of choking incidents. To date, one emergency room visit has been reported to the firm.

Consumers who may have purchased GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS should not feed this product to their child and can return the product to the retailer where it was purchased for a refund. Anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact a health care provider.

According to the Gerber website, This voluntary recall and discontinuation is isolated to GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS – STRAWBERRY APPLE and GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS – BANANA. It does not impact any other Gerber products such as Gerber® Teethers Gentle teething wafers and Gerber® TEETHER WHEELS.

It seems to me that this product design would be a bad idea.  Anyone with a dog knows that chew sticks can be an issue with choking for some dogs, so the same issue would apply to this.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/gerber-products-company-announces-recall-and-discontinuation-all-batches-gerberr-soothe-n-chewr
Gerber Products Company Announces Recall and Discontinuation of All Batches of Gerber® Soothe N Chew® Teething Sticks Due To Choking Hazard
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  January 31, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  January 31, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential choking hazard for babies and young children
Company Name:  Gerber Products Company
Brand Name:  Gerber
Product Description:  Gerber® Soothe N Chew® Teething Sticks

Chocolate Covered Pretzels Recalled for Undeclared Milk

United Natural Trading LLC, Edison, NJ, is voluntarily recalling Fresh Direct Dark Chocolate Covered Pretzels due to the presence of an undeclared milk allergen.  The issue was discovered during an internal review of label management system as an action item from an internal nonconformance.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/united-natural-trading-llc-announces-allergy-alert-undeclared-milk-fresh-direct-dark-chocolate
United Natural Trading LLC Announces Allergy Alert for Undeclared Milk in Fresh Direct Dark Chocolate Covered Pretzels
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  January 30, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  January 30, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Snack Food Item
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk
Company Name:  United Natural Trading LLC
Brand Name:  Fresh Direct
Product Description:  Dark Chocolate Covered Pretzels

Some Media Headlines on Recalls Do Nothing More than Cause Confusion and Fear

Reading the daily headlines, I find that these new releases for recalls are just over the top.  Today, an article titled Why Lay’s Potato Chip Recall Was Elevated To FDA’s Deadliest Category was published in Forbes online.  To read this, you are thinking that these are some truly dangerous chips.  But then when actually read the article, you realize this is an milk allergen issue (and there were people affected) with the recall occurring over a month (Dec 18, 2024) ago and that product's distribution was limited to Oregon and Washington state.

As the recall category be classified Class 1, this is more of just an administrative function that sometimes takes longer to get applied.  So not like FDA had a revelation a month later.

From the FSPCA manual, Preventive Controls for Human Foods

Recalls are actions taken by a facility to remove a product from the market that may be adulterated, misbranded, or violate regulations in some way. In other words, a product for which the FDA or a state could take legal action against the facility would be subject to a recall. It is important to note that a recall is different from a market withdrawal and stock recovery. In a market withdrawal, it is the  company’s removal or correction of a distributed product which involves a minor violation that would not be subject to legal action by the FDA, or which involves no violation. A stock recovery is when the company corrects or removes a product where that product has not left direct control of the facility.

 The numerical designation (i.e., I, II, or III) [is] assigned by FDA to a particular product recall to indicate the relative degree of health hazard presented by the product being recalled (FDA Hazard Guide, Chapter 14, 2018).

(1) Class I is a situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death (21 CFR 7.3(m)(1));

(2) Class II is a situation in which use of, or exposure to, a violative product may cause temporary or

medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious health

consequences is remote (21 CFR 7.3(m)(2)); and

(3) Class III is a situation in which use of, or exposure to, a violative product is not likely to cause illness or injury (21 CFR 7.3(m)(3)).

https://www.forbes.com/sites/stephaniegravalese/2025/01/28/why-lays-potato-chip-recall-was-elevated-to-fdas-deadliest-category/
Forbes
Why Lay’s Potato Chip Recall Was Elevated To FDA’s Deadliest Category

Three Importers Issued Warning Letters for Failure to Develop FSVP for Imported Foods

Food imported into the United States must meet same standards as products produced in the United States.  The Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP) is a regulation that must be complied with by importers of food into the US.   This ensures that someone here in the US has verified compliance of the foreign producer to US standards.  However, there has been a continuing issue where importers do not comply.    And this is not that they have a bad program, it is that they have no FSVP program.

Premium Fresh Growers LLC of McAllen, Texas did not develop an FSVP for any of the foods imported, including each of the following foods:
Limes imported from, (b)(4)
Cilantro imported from, Carlos Alberto Toto Cortes, located in Mexico
Carrots imported from, (b)(4)
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/premium-fresh-growers-llc-698646-12182024

Candymar Produce Inc of McAllen, TX did not develop an FSVP for any of the foods imported, including each of the following foods:
Carrots imported from (b)(4)
Squash imported from (b)(4)
Cabbage imported from (b)(4).
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/candymar-produce-inc-697780-12042024

George Food Specialties Inc. of Ballston Lake, NY did not develop an FSVP for any of the foods imported. Including each of the following foods:
Mayonnaise imported from (b)(4) located in (b)(4)
Mayonnaise imported from (b)(4) located in (b)(4)
Hot Sauce imported from (b)(4) located in (b)(4)
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/george-food-specialties-inc-697738-12232024

FDA Warning Letter to UT Bakery Highlights Preventive Control and GMP Misses Typical for Bakery

FDA issued a Warning Letter to Salt City Baking Company of Murray, Utah,  a baking company that produces ready-to-eat (RTE) bread products.  In the Preventive Controls for Human Foods training, these topics are covered, including the need to address controls associated with exposed RTE foods.

First the company "did not conduct a hazard analysis to identify and evaluate a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard to determine whether it required a preventive control for your RTE bread products."

• Did not consider environmental pathogens, such as Salmonella, as a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard to determine whether it required a preventive control. [The] facility manufactures RTE bread products (such as White Cottage sliced bread) which are exposed to the environment after baking and handled by employees prior to packaging. 
• In addition, when contamination with environmental pathogens is a hazard requiring a preventive control, [one] must verify the effectiveness of this preventive control by performing environmental monitoring for an environmental pathogen or for an appropriate indicator organism, by collecting and testing environmental samples (see 21 CFR 117.165(a)(3)). [The company is] not performing environmental monitoring to evaluate the effectiveness of  sanitation practices regarding employee practices and cleanliness of food-contact surfaces.
• Did not consider mycotoxins as a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard to determine whether it required a preventive control. [The] bread products (such as White Cottage sliced bread) contain wheat flour, which has been associated with mycotoxins such as deoxynivalenol (DON). Therefore, contamination with mycotoxins is a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard.
• 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).
• The written allergen preventive controls do 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 written Preventive Controls document indicates that the hazard of allergen cross-contact will be significantly minimized or prevented through scheduling and segregation practices. However, the allergen preventive control procedures do not cover sesame, nor do they include preventive control management components (monitoring, verification, and corrective action) for any allergens (see 21 CFR 117.140).
• In addition, the bread products are packaged in plastic bags and then the bags are placed into a cardboard case for distribution for use by foodservice establishments. The finished product labels are applied to the outside of the cardboard case. We note that you did not have adequate controls in place for undeclared allergens regarding monitoring and verification activities.

GMP Issues

USDA Issues Health Alert for Chicken Nugget Product for Potential Bone Fragments

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for frozen, fully cooked Wegmans breaded chicken breast nuggets that may be contaminated with extraneous material, specifically bone fragments. FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers are aware that this product should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because the product is no longer available for purchase.  The product was produced on August 26, 2024.  FSIS was notified of the issue after Wegmans received multiple consumer complaints of bone fragments in the frozen fully cooked breaded chicken breast nugget product.


https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-wegmans-frozen-fully-cooked-chicken-nuggets-due
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Wegmans Frozen Fully Cooked Chicken Nuggets Due to Possible Extraneous Material Contamination

Perdue Foods LLC

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Jan. 27, 2025 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for frozen, fully cooked Wegmans breaded chicken breast nuggets that may be contaminated with extraneous material, specifically bone fragments. FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers are aware that this product should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because the product is no longer available for purchase.

California Firm Recalls Bread Crumbs for Undeclared Sesame

La Fiesta Food Products, LLC, La Mirada, CA is recalling 8 oz packages of La Fiesta brand Unseasoned Bread Crumbs (Pan Rayado) and Seasoned Bread Crumbs (Pan Rayado Sazonado). The products contain sesame as an undeclared allergen. Additionally, the labels do not include the allergen declaration in Spanish.  The recall was initiated after discovering that the product contained undeclared sesame. Further investigation revealed that the issue was caused by errors on the product labeling.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/recall-la-fiesta-brand-bread-crumbs-unseasoned-and-seasoned-undeclared-sesame
Recall of La Fiesta Brand Bread Crumbs (Unseasoned and Seasoned) for Undeclared Sesame
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  January 25, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  January 28, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared allergen (sesame)
Company Name:  La Fiesta Food Products, LLC.
Brand Name:  La Fiesta
Product Description: Breadcrumbs (pan Rayado)

CA Firm Expands Recall for Corn Puff Snack with Undeclared Milk Allergen

Wismettac Asian Foods, Inc., Santa Fe Springs, CA is expanding its January 17, 2025 recall of 2.46 oz packages of Shirakiku brand Curvee Puffs Corn Puff Snack Curry Flavor. The expansion now includes two additional flavors; Sea Salt & Umami Flavor and Corn Potage Flavor. The product contains  undeclared milk.

The FDA Recall Notice was obviously not well reviewed prior to its issuance.  See the struck-out sections below where these were obviously not associated with this product.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/wismettac-asian-foods-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-milk-curvee-puffs-corn-puff-snack
Wismettac Asian Foods Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in Curvee Puffs Corn Puff Snack
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  January 28, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  January 28, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Snack Food Item
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk.
Company Name:  Wismettac Asian Foods, Inc.
Brand Name:  Shirakiku
Product Description:  Snack foods-Corn Puffs

Company Announcement

Wismettac Asian Foods, Inc., Santa Fe Springs, CA is expanding its January 17, 2025 recall of 2.46 oz packages of Shirakiku brand Curvee Puffs Corn Puff Snack Curry Flavor. The expansion now includes two additional flavors; Sea Salt & Umami Flavor and Corn Potage Flavor. The product contains the undeclared milk. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume those products.

The product was distributed nationwide in AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WI through retail stores, restaurants, online business. The product was also exported to Mexico and Peru.

The product is packaged in a 2.46 oz flexible bag. The UPC for the product is located on the back right side of the product package. This issue affected all lot codes or date codes.

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.

Consumers who have purchased 200g packages of Daily Veggies Enoki Mushroom from October to November of 2024 are urged to destroy the products immediately or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 718-808-1018.

Consumers who have purchased Dynacare Baby Powder (see products/lots below) should discontinue use immediately and return it for a full refund.

Item Number  Item Description  Packing Size  UPC Code
#78512  SNACK CURVEE PUFF CURRY SK  20/ 2.46 OZ  074410785123 #65155
SNACK CURVEE PUFFS SEA SALT & UMAMI SK
20/ 2.46 OZ
074410651558
#65156
SNACK CURVEE PUFFS CORN POTAGE SK
20/ 2.46 OZ
074410651565

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this issue.




The recall was initiated after discovering that the product contained an undeclared allergen (milk). The last distribution of the product in the marketplace was on January 10, 2025.




Consumers who have purchased the product are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.




Consumers with questions may contact the company at recall@wismettacusa.com.

NY Wholesaler Recalls Herb Powder Due to Elevated Lead Levels

New York Wholesale Group of Hicksville, NY is recalling Zaarah Herbals Shatavari Powder, to the consumer/user level because it has the potential to be contaminated with elevated levels of lead. The recall is the result of an analysis conducted by Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection; Food & Standards Division that revealed the product contained elevated levels of lead.

How did the lead get into the product?  To make an educated guess, the powder is derived from the plant root, so the lead would probably have been taken up from the soil / growth medium.

What is Shatavari powder?  I asked AI and this is what I got.

Shatavari is a herb that is a member of the asparagus family. It is also known as Asparagus racemosus and is a natural adaptogen, which means it helps the body cope with physical and emotional stress. Shatavari is considered a general health tonic to improve vitality and is a staple in ayurvedic medicine. Shatavari powder is a fine powder made from the dried roots of the shatavari plant and is commonly used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to support the female reproductive system and promote overall health and wellness

So an important question is, will shatavari powder make one's urine smell similar to when one eats asparagus.  Well, according to a journal article, Asparagus racemosus (Shatavari) does contain Asparagusic acid, the compound responsible for the asparagus-related pee odor, but this does not seem to be thing (of note).

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/new-york-wholesale-group-recalls-zaarah-herbals-shatavari-powder-because-possible-health-risk
New York Wholesale Group Recalls Zaarah Herbals Shatavari Powder Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  January 27, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  January 27, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Contaminants
Reason for Announcement:  Product may be contaminated with elevated levels of lead.
Company Name:  New York Wholesale Group
Brand Name:   Zaarah Herbals
Product Description:  Shatavari Powder

WI Firm Recalls Bacon Seasoning Due to Undeclared Soy, A Result of a Supplier Substitution

TS Food Packaging, a Wisconsin firm, is recalling its “Rural King” and “Wabash Valley Farms” Bacon Seasoning due to the presence of an undeclared soy ingredient.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered via a manufacturing quality verification that the soy containing ingredient was a substitute provided by a supplier without notification of the presence of Soy. Subsequent investigation indicated the problem was caused by a substitution review process gap between the supplier and their customer base, corrective actions are in place to prevent recurrence.

There are two issues here.  One, the supplier made a substitution without notifying the customer, the receiving company, that a substituted product contained soy.   However, while this is a supplier oversight, the receiving company must have processes to prevent such issues.  For one, the purchasing department should have been on top of this.  I find it difficult to think that the supplier did not notify them of the need for a substitution.  With that, the purchasing department would then notify quality department of the need for a review. Second, the receiving company, (AKA, the customer), was not reviewing incoming ingredients close enough to detect the issue.  A simple product and label check of the incoming item would have caught this.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/ts-food-packaging-recalling-its-rural-king-and-wabash-valley-farms-bacon-seasoning-due-presence
TS Food Packaging is Recalling its “Rural King” and “Wabash Valley Farms” Bacon Seasoning Due to the Presence of an Undeclared Soy Ingredient
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  January 24, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  January 24, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential or Undeclared Allergen – soy
Company Name:  TS FOOD PACKAGING
Brand Name:  Wabash Valley Farms, Rural King
Product Description:  Bacon flavor popcorn seasoning