Food Safety Humor

FSPCA - Food Safety Preventive Controls Alliance

Tuesday, January 27, 2026

CA Firm Recalls Packaged Imported Chia Seed After Supplier Recalls for Salmonella

Navitas Organics, Novato CA, is voluntarily recalling select lots of its 8oz Organic Chia Seeds due to possible Salmonella contamination. This recall is being conducted as a precautionary measure following a recall initiated by the company’s chia seed supplier.

Chia seeds are nutritionally beneficial for fiber, omega-3s, and antioxidants.  They will absorb water (up to 10 times their weight) forming a gelatinous texture when added into moist food matrix.  These seeds are often soaked for several hours to overnight into milk or similar to make a type of pudding.  So if Salmonella were present, this could provide opportunity for growth, or at the least, rehydration.

Product was distributed nationally through retail stores such as Whole Foods Market and online retailers including Amazon.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/navitas-organics-voluntarily-recalls-select-lots-8oz-organic-chia-seeds-because-possible-health-risk
Navitas Organics Voluntarily Recalls Select Lots of 8oz Organic Chia Seeds Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  January 23, 2026
FDA Publish Date:  January 23, 2026
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness - Salmonella
Company Name:  Navitas Organics
Brand Name:  Navitas Organice
Product Description:  Organic Chia Seeds

Tuesday, January 20, 2026

FDA Issues Warning Letter to a Small California Pita Baking Company for GMP Violations

FDA issued a Warning Letter to Middle East Baking Co. a pita and bagel manufacturing facility located in Burlingame, CA .

The biggest issue was excessive insect activity, primary beetles, which were found throughout the facility.  There was also some rodent poop.  Along with this, as one would expect, was a lack of cleaning was also sited.  This resulting excessive food material buildup is what the beetles are feeding on.  There were some other GMP issues.  Surprisingly, not much mention of the post-processing area where post-process contamination seems like it could be a huge Salmonella risk.

Also of note,  this "facility meets the definition of a “qualified facility” under 21 CFR § 117.3; therefore, therefore not subject to having a food safety plan, and only "subject to the modified requirements in 21 CFR § 117.201 of the CGMP & PC rule.".


https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/middle-eastsolis-baking-company-inc-dba-middle-east-baking-co-708017-07252025
Middle East/Soli's Baking Company, Inc. dba Middle East Baking Co.
MARCS-CMS 708017 — July 25, 2025

USDA Releases Pesticide Data Program Annual Summary

Each year, USDA-AMS releases its annual report on its Pesticide Data Program that summarizes data data on pesticide residues in food.  This report covers the data collected in 2024.

As seen in the past, data is generally good.  "In 2024, over 99 percent of the samples tested had residues below the tolerances established by the EPA with 42.3 percent having no detectable residue."   

And as seen in past years, domestic samples have less issues than imported.  "Residues exceeding the tolerance were detected in 0.77 percent (76 samples) of the total samples tested (9,872 samples). Of these 76 samples, 12 were domestic (15.8 percent), 63 were imported (82.9 percent), and 1 was of unknown origin (1.3 percent)." 

Where were the issues?  From page 23 and 24:
"Pesticides exceeding the tolerance were detected in 0.77 percent (76 samples) of the total samples tested (9,872 samples). Of these 76 PTV exceeder samples, 12 were domestic (15.8 percent), 63 were imported (82.9 percent), and 1 was of unknown origin (1.3 percent). PTV exceeder samples represented 0.2 percent of the total domestic  samples, 1.6 percent of the total imported samples, and 1.1 percent of unknown origin samples. The samples  containing pesticides that exceeded established tolerances included: 1 sample of avocados, 22 samples of fresh  blackberries, 8 samples of cherry tomatoes, 5 samples of cucumbers, 3 samples of fresh sweet corn, and 37 samples of tomatillos. Tomatillos accounted for 48.7 percent of all exceeder PTV samples in 2024. Commodities that did not have any samples exceeding the established tolerances were the following: almonds, apples, canned pumpkin, frozen blackberries, fresh/frozen pineapples, frozen sweet corn, head lettuce, leaf lettuce, onion, orange, potatoes, and salmon."

"Residues with no established tolerance were found in 3.7 percent (361 samples) of the total samples tested (9,872 samples). Of these 361 samples, 118 were domestic (32.7 percent), 230 were imported (63.7 percent), and 13 were of unknown origin (3.6 percent). PTV no-tolerance-established samples represented 2.0 percent of  the total domestic samples, 6.0 percent of the total imported samples, and 14.1 percent of the total unknown  origin samples. These samples included 356 fresh and processed fruit and vegetable samples and 5 almond samples. There were 337 samples that contained 1 pesticide for which no tolerance was established, 23 samples with 2 pesticides for which no tolerance was established, and 1 sample that contained 3 pesticides for which no tolerance was established. Fifty-eight of the 361 samples also contained 1 or more pesticides that exceeded an established tolerance. In most cases, the pesticides with no established tolerance were detected at low levels. Some pesticide residues may have resulted from unintentional spray drift in the field; planting of crops in fields previously treated with the pesticide; transfer of pesticide residues, postharvest fungicides, or other growth 
regulators applied to other commodities kept in the same storage facilities; or exposure to pesticides during transportation through the distribution chain. Commodities that did not have any samples with pesticides for which no tolerance was established were frozen sweet corn, oranges, potatoes, and salmon."

https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/PDPAnnualSummary.pdf
Pesticide Data Program Annual Summary
Calendar Year 2024

Executive Summary

In 1991, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) was charged with designing and implementing the Pesticide Data Program (PDP) to collect data on pesticide residues in food, and Congress mandated the program in the 1996 Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA). PDP provides high-quality data on pesticide residues in food, particularly foods most likely consumed by infants and children. This 34th Pesticide Data Program summary presents results for samples collected in 2024.

Recall Reissued for Tuna with Bad Lids After Third Party Distributor Reships Product

A seafood company is reissuing a recall for product that was recalled in February and then accidently reshipped.

Tri-Union Seafoods is cautioning consumers that a third-party distributor inadvertently released quarantined product that was associated to a February 2025 recall. The initial voluntary recall was conducted following notification from our supplier that the “easy open” pull tab can lid on limited products had 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.  This current recall was initiated after Tri-Union Seafoods discovered that quarantined cases, associated with the initial recall, were inadvertently shipped by a third-party distributor. 

When recalled product is being held, there has to be tight controls in place so this type of thing, reshipping product, does not occur.  This can be especially a concern when third-party companies are the ones holding that product.  One could question why product from February with troublesome lids were still being held for close to a year later.  The longer something is not handled, the longer it sits, the greater the risk that it will escape.  This falls on the processor as much as the third party distributor.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/tri-union-seafoods-identifies-additional-quantities-recalled-genovar-tuna-limited-retailers-due
Tri-Union Seafoods Identifies Additional Quantities of Recalled Genova® Tuna at Limited Retailers Due to Inadvertent Distribution of Previously Recalled Product
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  January 16, 2026
FDA Publish Date:  January 19, 2026
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential contamination with Clostridium botulinum
Company Name:  Tri-Union Seafoods
Brand Name:  Genova
Product Description:  Yellowfin Tuna

Monday, January 19, 2026

Georgia Establishment Recalls Frozen, Fully Cooked Chicken Breast After Lab Finds Listeria

Suzanna’s Kitchen, a Norcross, Ga., establishment, is recalling approximately 13,720 pounds of ready- to-eat grilled chicken breast fillet products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes.  The problem was discovered when a third-party laboratory sample reported a positive Listeria monocytogenes result in the ready-to-eat fully cooked grilled chicken breast fillets product.

The ready-to-eat grilled chicken breast fillet items were produced on October 14, 2025.   These  items (2 units of 5lb bags) were shipped to distribution centers for foodservice sales in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Missouri, New Hampshire, North Carolina, and Ohio.

This is the type of situation that a robust environmental monitoring program is designed to prevent. Not only is USDA testing product, but so are customers, only done through outside contract laboratory services.  Unfortunately, the food establishment does not get to decide which outside laboratory a customer uses (if this is the case in this situation).


https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/suzannas-kitchen-recalls-ready-eat-grilled-chicken-breast-fillet-products-due
Suzanna’s Kitchen Recalls Ready-To-Eat Grilled Chicken Breast Fillet Products due to Possible Listeria Contamination

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Jan. 16, 2026 – Suzanna’s Kitchen, a Norcross, Ga., establishment, is recalling approximately 13,720 pounds of ready- to-eat grilled chicken breast fillet products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes (Lm), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

Super Greens Dietary Supplement Powder Recalled After Linked to Salmonella Outbreak

FDA and CDC are investigating illnesses in a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium infections linked to Live it Up-brand Super Greens dietary supplement powder produced by Superfoods, Inc. doing business as (dba) Live it Up of New York, NY. There have been 45 cases with 12 hospitalizations to date.  The company is recalling all Live it Up-brand Super Greens dietary supplement powder, including original and wild berry flavors, with lots beginning with the letter "A" and all stick pack products within expirations dates from 08/2026 to 01/2028 

Case Counts
Total Illnesses: 45
Hospitalizations: 12
Deaths: 0
Last Illness Onset: December 30, 2025
States with Cases: AL, CT, DE, IA, IL, KY, MA, ME, MI, MN, MO, NE, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, UT, VT, WA, WI
Product Distribution: Nationwide


https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-salmonella-dietary-supplement-january-2026
Outbreak Investigation of Salmonella: Dietary Supplement (January 2026)
Do not eat, sell or serve recalled Live it Up-brand Super Greens dietary supplement powder. FDA’s investigation is ongoing.
Product
All Live it Up-brand Super Greens dietary supplement powder, including original and wild berry flavors, with lots beginning with the letter "A" and all stick pack products within expirations dates from 08/2026 to 01/2028 have been recalled.

Friday, January 16, 2026

Cheese Recall Reposted a Month After It Was Issued

FDA is issuing a recall notice that was reissued last month regarding Ambriola Company's recall of select cheese products after routine testing confirmed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes. The recall was initially posted at the end of November, but it was reissued on December 3 to include additional product identification.  It seems that FDA did not post this at that time, and so are posting it now.  However, the main stream press is reporting this again which makes it seem as if it is a new recall.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/ambriola-company-issues-recall-cheese-products-because-listeria-health-risk
The Ambriola Company Issues Recall of Cheese Products Because of Listeria Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 03, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  January 15, 2026
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:   The Ambriola Company
Brand Name:   Ambriola, Locatelli, Member’s Mark, Pinna, and Boar’s Head
Product Description:  Cheese

NY Firm Recalls Traditional Indian Sweets for Undeclared Milk

Karison Foods & Snacks Inc of Port Washington, NY 11050 is recalling 12 oz containers of ‘PANJIRI’, ‘ALSI PINNI’, ‘PUNJABI PINNI’, ‘BESAN LADDOO’, and ‘NO SUGAR ADDED BESAN LADDOO’ due to undeclared milk allergen.   During a routine inspection conducted at the firm, it was found that the milk allergen is undeclared on labels.

These items are traditionally made with ghee, a type of clarified butter.  This may be the case here that ghee was used.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/food-business-karison-foods-snacks-inc-recalls-panjiri-alsi-pinni-punjabi-pinni-besan-laddoo-and-no
Food Business Karison Foods & Snacks Inc Recalls ‘PANJIRI’, ‘ALSI PINNI’, ‘PUNJABI PINNI’, ‘BESAN LADDOO’, and ‘NO SUGAR ADDED BESAN LADDOO’ Due to Undeclared Milk Allergen
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  January 12, 2026
FDA Publish Date:  January 12, 2026
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential or Undeclared Allergen – Milk
Company Name:  Karison Foods & Snacks Inc
Brand Name:  Karison
Product Description:  Panjiri, pinni, and laddoo

California Firm Recall Sea Moss Gel for Improper Process Controls Resulting in Botulism Risk

Diva Fam Inc. ("Diva Fam" or the "Company") today (January 9, 2026) announced a voluntary recall of all lots and flavors of Sea Moss Gel Superfood due to lack of required regulatory authorization and temperature monitoring records for pH-controlled food products.  The matter was identified during a California Department of Public Health inspection that raised questions regarding regulatory authorization and related production records for certain distributed products. The Company is cooperating fully with regulatory authorities and has initiated this voluntary recall to ensure regulatory alignment.

The company is making a sea moss gel, which if not adjusted for pH after heating to set the gel, could become essentially a petri dish for growing organisms, specifically Clostridium botulinum.  


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/diva-fam-inc-announces-voluntary-recall-sea-moss-gel-superfood-products-due-possible-health-risk
Diva Fam Inc. Announces Voluntary Recall Of Sea Moss Gel Superfood Products Due to Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  January 09, 2026
FDA Publish Date:  January 12, 2026
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness - Botulism
Company Name:  Diva Fam Inc.
Brand Name:  True Sea Moss
Product Description:  Sea Moss Gel Superfood in various flavors (16 FL OZ glass jars)

Colorado Firm Recalls Bread Crumbs for Undeclared Allergens

VH Foods Inc. DBA Outside The Breadbox of Colorado Springs, CO is recalling its 8 ounce packages of "Bread Crumbs" because they may contain undeclared egg and milk.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the egg and milk product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of eggs or milk. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company's production and packaging processes.  

One could guess that the wrong bread crumbs were added to the prelabeled package.  Here, proper labeling of in-process product and then selection of that product is so important.  Allergen Preventive Controls need to address these elements.    Note that the label does have the precautionary statement, but that does nothing to prevent this recall.

This was an isolated incident occurring on one production date.  The recalled "Bread Crumbs" were distributed in Colorado retail stores and through mail orders.




https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/vh-foods-inc-dba-outside-breadbox-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-egg-and-milk-bread-crumbs
VH Foods Inc. DBA Outside The Breadbox Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Egg and Milk in "Bread Crumbs"
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  January 12, 2026
FDA Publish Date:  January 12, 2026
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential or Undeclared Allergen – Egg and Milk
Company Name:  VH Foods Inc. DBA Outside The Breadbox
Brand Name:  Outside the Breadbox
Product Description:  Bread Crumbs

NC Firm Recalls Flavored Chocolate Bars After Contract Manufacturer Finds Salmonella in Product

Spring & Mulberry is voluntarily recalling various types of  flavored Chocolate Bar (2.1 oz) due to possible contamination with Salmonella.  The potential for contamination was first noted after routine third-party testing conducted by the company’s contract manufacturer revealed finished product tested positive for Salmonella.  The recall was initially for the Mint Leaf Date Sweetened Chocolate Bar (2.1 oz) but that recall was expanded five days later to include additional flavors.

There have been no confirmed illnesses or adverse health effects reported to date.  The affected products were available for purchase online and through select retail partners nationwide since September 15, 2025.

Food entrepreneurs who build a brand relying on co-manufacturers live and die by quality and food safety systems of that co-man.  I always recommend that someone from the organization take training to understand the technical elements of making safe quality product and then ensure that the co-mans are compliant.  With that, requiring co-mans to have 3rd party certification is a big part of that picture, but then reviewing the food safety plan with its preventive control elements to ensure the necessary elements have been determined and are being properly implemented. 


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/spring-mulberry-expands-voluntary-recall-select-chocolate-bars-due-possible-salmonella-contamination
Spring & Mulberry Expands Voluntary Recall of Select Chocolate Bars Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination
https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/spring-mulberry-expands-voluntary-recall-select-chocolate-bars-due-possible-salmonella-contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  January 14, 2026
FDA Publish Date:  January 15, 2026
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Foodborne Illness - Salmonella
Company Name:  Spring & Mulberry
Brand Name:  Spring & Mulberry
Product Description:  Multiple Flavors of Chocolate Bars

Friday, January 9, 2026

NJ Distributor Recalls Shrimp Paste For Elevated Lead Levels Which Resulted in Injury

Gusto Group Inc. of Paterson, NJ is recalling [Klong Kone] Shrimp Paste (Klong Kone) '454 G. (1 LBS)' and ‘910 G. (2 LBS)’ because it has the potential to be contaminated with elevated levels of lead.
To date, there has been one report of four children becoming ill, which involved diarrhea and elevated blood levels. This recall was initiated following this report of illness associated with consumption of the product. The FDA collected product samples from retail locations and lab analysis found that the finished products contained elevated levels of lead. The company has ceased distribution of this lot. 

The recalled [Klong Kone] Shimp Paste (Klong Kone) “454 G. (1 LBS)” and “910 G. (2 LBS),” is packaged in a white plastic jar with a red cap was directly distributed to the two retailers listed below, located IA and NJ , between April 2023 to December 2023 There were no online sales


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/gusto-group-inc-recalls-shrimp-paste-klong-kone-454-g-1-lbs-and-910-g-2-lbs-because-possible-health
Gusto Group Inc. Recalls Shrimp Paste (Klong Kone) ‘'454 G. (1 LBS)’ and ‘910 G. (2 LBS)’ because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  January 08, 2026
FDA Publish Date:  January 08, 2026
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Metal Contaminant - Lead
Company Name:  Gusto Group Inc.
Brand Name:  Klong Kone
Product Description:  Klong Kone Shrimp Paste

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Connecticut Facility Recalls Hummus Products Due to Undeclared Sesame

The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection Food and Standards Division is warning the public that Carrot Top Country Kitchens LLC, DBA Carrot Top Kitchens of Bridgeport (formerly Redding), is recalling 5 varieties of hummus due to undeclared sesame.

The recalled products were distributed to Rochambeau Farm Store (Bedford, NY). The product has also been sold at farmers markets in Connecticut.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/carrot-top-kitchens-bridgeport-formerly-redding-issues-class-ii-recall-hummus-containing-undeclared
Carrot Top Kitchens of Bridgeport (formerly Redding) Issues a Class II Recall of Hummus Containing Undeclared Sesame
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  January 06, 2026
FDA Publish Date:  January 07, 2026
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential or Undeclared Allergen – Sesame
Company Name:  Carrot Top Kitchens
Brand Name:  Carrot Top Kitchens
Product Description:  Hummus Varieties

CA Company Expands Recall of Tamale Products Due to Improper Processing

Primavera Nueva Inc., Sonoma, CA, is expanding its recall of its 4-count tamales because of an undercooking process condition of the products resulting in the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. The expanded recall includes additional products.  The initial recall was posted on December 17, 2025.

The issue was that the products were sold as ready-to-heat, which is really ready-to-eat, but an ingredient used in the product had to be fully cooked first, but was not when the tamale product was made.  
"The products were made with a frozen ingredient labeled “Not Ready to Eat. Must Be Thoroughly Cooked Before Eating.” During an FDA inspection on October 10, 2025, the agency determined that earlier production records did not consistently verify internal cooking temperatures needed to control potential biological hazards, including Listeria monocytogenes".
So while Listeria was not actually detected in the product, it is a risk, as would other pathogens such as Salmonella.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/primavera-nueva-inc-issues-voluntary-recall-select-4-count-tamales-because-possible-health-risk-0
Primavera Nueva Inc. Issues Voluntary Recall of Select 4-Count Tamales Because of Possible Health Risk- Revised to Include Roasted Pumpkin & White Cheddar, a Seasonal Item
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  January 05, 2026
FDA Publish Date:  January 07, 2026
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential presence of Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Primavera Nueva Inc.
Brand Name:  Primavera
Product Description:  Tamales

Tuesday, January 6, 2026

CA Importer Recalls Mustard Product Due to Undeclared Wheat

Newway Import Inc., located in La Puente, CA 91744, is recalling “Preserved Mustard in Soybean Oil” (Brand: Cai Hua Xiang) because the product may contain undeclared wheat.  The recalled product is Cai Hua Xiang brand preserved mustard in soybean oil.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the product contained wheat but was distributed in packaging that did not declare wheat as an allergen.

The ingredient statement includes soy sauce which usually contains wheat.  The wheat was not declared on the label.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/newway-import-inc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-wheat-preserved-mustard-soybean-oil-la-puente
Newway Import Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Wheat in “Preserved Mustard in Soybean Oil” La Puente, Calif. – December 23, 2025
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 23, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  January 05, 2026
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared wheat
Company Name:  Newway Import Inc.
Brand Name:  Newway Import
Product Description:  Preserved mustard in soybean oil

Monday, January 5, 2026

Warning Letter Issued to Feed Mill for Excessive Mycotoxins in Feed That Led to Animal Deaths

FDA issued a Warning Letter to King Farm, Dover, DE, a manufacturer of non-medicated animal food, after a series of deaths to horses and a goat promoted an FDA investigation. "This inspection was initiated after FDA became aware of at least 30 horse deaths and potentially one goat death after consuming your animal food products that were contaminated with the mycotoxin fumonisin."

FDA found levels ranging from 18 to 36 ppm in the feed, while the limit for horses is 5ppm.

Having excessive levels of the toxin in the feed, FDA identified that the company did not have any practices in place to prevent it. FDA stated the operation "did not have procedures in place, conduct routine testing, or have any processes in place to determine whether mycotoxins such as fumonisin, aflatoxin, or deoxynivalenol (DON/vomitoxin) are present at levels that can cause injury or illness to animals or humans in these grain and grain co-products you receive, store, and use in your animal food products."

In addition, the company "failed to report a reportable food to the Reportable Food Registry (RFR) within twenty-four hours of determining that it is a reportable food (i.e., an animal food for which there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, such animal food will cause serious adverse health consequences or death to animals). Failure to submit a required reportable food report is a prohibited act."

What are fumonisins and what is allowed in feed (FDA https://www.fda.gov/regulatory-information/search-fda-guidance-documents/guidance-industry-fumonisin-levels-human-foods-and-animal-feeds)
Fumonisins are environmental toxins produced by the molds Fusarium moniliforme (F. verticillioides), F. proliferatum, and other Fusarium species that grow on agricultural commodities in the field or during storage. These mycotoxins have been found as contaminants worldwide, mainly in corn. More than ten types of fumonisins have been isolated and characterized. Of these, fumonisin B1 (FB1), fumonisin B2 (FB2), and fumonisin B3 (FB3) are the major fumonisins produced in nature. The most prevalent of these mycotoxins in contaminated corn is FB1, which is believed to be the most toxic (1, 2).

Occurrence in Raw Corn - The extent of contamination of raw corn with fumonisins varies with geographic location, agronomic and storage practices, and the vulnerability of the plants to fungal invasion during all phases of growth, storage, and processing. The levels of fumonisins in raw corn are also influenced by environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and rainfall during pre-harvest and harvest periods (3). High levels of fumonisins are associated with hot and dry weather, followed by periods of high humidity. High levels of fumonisins may also occur in raw corn that has been damaged by insects (4, 5). Further, fumonisin levels in raw corn can increase under improper storage conditions. For example, optimal growth of fumonisin-producing molds that lead to increased levels of fumonisins in raw corn can occur when the moisture content of harvested raw corn during storage is 18-23 percent (5).

Animal Feeds
Corn and corn by-products intended for: Total Fumonisins (FB1+FB2+FB3)
Equids (horses) and rabbits 5 ppm  (no more than 20% of diet)**
Swine and catfish 20 ppm  (no more than 50% of diet)**
Breeding ruminants, breeding poultry and breeding mink* 30 ppm (no more than 50% of diet)**
Ruminants > 3 months old being raised for slaughter and mink being raised for pelt production 60 ppm  (no more than 50% of diet)**
Poultry being raised for slaughter 100 ppm  (no more than 50% of diet)**
All other species or classes of livestock and pet animals 10 ppm  
(no more than 50% of diet)**

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/king-farm-713276-12042025
WARNING LETTER

King Farm
MARCS-CMS 713276 — December 04, 2025

Sunday, January 4, 2026

Idaho Establishment Recalls Raw Ground Beef After FSIS Testing Finds E. coli O26

Mountain West Food Group, LLC, a Heyburn, Idaho establishment, is recalling approximately 2,855 pounds of raw ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O26.  The problem was discovered during routine FSIS testing and the sampling results showed the presence of E. coli O26.

"E. coli O26, like the more common E. coli O157:H7, is a serovar of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC). People can become ill from STECs 28 days (average of 34 days) after exposure to the organism.....The only way to confirm that ground beef is cooked to a temperature high enough to kill harmful bacteria is to use a food thermometer that measures internal temperature, https://www.fsis.usda.gov/safetempchart."

The product was shipped to distributors in California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Pennsylvania, and Washington for further distribution for retail sales.


https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/mountain-west-food-group-llc-recalls-ground-beef-products-due-possible-e--coli-o26
Mountain West Food Group, LLC Recalls Ground Beef Products Due To Possible E. Coli O26 Contamination
Mountain West Food Group LLC
FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Dec. 27, 2025 – Mountain West Food Group, LLC, a Heyburn, Idaho establishment, is recalling approximately 2,855 pounds of raw ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O26, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

Iowa Distributor Recalls Pet Treats After Testing Finds Salmonella

Consumers Supply Distributing, LLC of Sioux City, Iowa is recalling 4 lb. bags of Country Vet Biscuits – Original Meaty Flavor and 4 lb. bags of Heartland Harvest Dog Biscuits – Meaty Flavor with Chicken because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.  The recall was the result of a routine sampling program by the FDA which revealed that the finished products contained the bacteria. The company has ceased the production and distribution of the lot number as FDA and the company continue their investigation as to what caused the problem.

The recalled products were sold through retail stores in Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Texas, Montana and Nebraska.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/consumers-supply-distributing-llc-recalls-country-vet-biscuits-dogs-due-possible-salmonella-health
Consumers Supply Distributing, LLC Recalls Country Vet Biscuits for Dogs Due to Possible Salmonella Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 24, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  December 24, 2025
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary  Food & Beverages  Pet Food
Reason for Announcement:   Potential to be contaminated with Salmonella
Company Name:  Consumers Supply Distributing, LLC
Brand Name:  Country Vet, Heartland Harvest
Product Description:  Dog Biscuits

Minnesota Firm Recalls Macadamia Nut Frozen Cookie Dough for Undeclared Peanuts

Gregory’s Foods, Inc. of Eagan, MN is recalling its 2-pound 8.5-ounce packages of "Bag Full of Cookies" White Chocolate Macadamia Nut frozen cookie dough because some units may contain undeclared Peanut. Frozen Monster Cookie Dough, which contains Peanut, may be packaged in a bag that is labeled as White Chocolate Macadamia Nut.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the peanut-containing product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of peanuts.  
The error was isolated to certain units in one day’s production and has been corrected.

The recalled "Bag full of Cookies" White Chocolate Macadamia Nut frozen cookie dough was distributed in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Nebraska in retail grocery stores and through distribution centers.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/gregorys-foods-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-peanuts-bag-full-cookies-white-chocolate-macadamia
Gregory’s Foods Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Peanuts in "Bag Full of Cookies" White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Frozen Cookie Dough
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 23, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  December 23, 2025
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared peanuts
Company Name:  Gregory's Foods, Inc.
Brand Name:  Gregory's Foods
Product Description:  Bag Full of Cookies White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Frozen Cookie Dough

Minnesota Food Distributor Recalls Extensive List of Products After Being Found to Be Held Under Insanitary Conditions

Gold Star Distribution, Inc. (Gold Star or “the Company”), a food distribution company based in Minneapolis, MN, is recalling all FDA regulated products due to the presence of rodent and avian contamination at their Minnesota facility.  
"The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) determined that the facility was operating under insanitary conditions, including the presence of rodent excreta, rodent urine, and bird droppings in areas where medical devices, drugs, human food, pet food, and cosmetic products were held. These conditions create a significant risk that products held at the facility may have been contaminated with filth and harmful microorganisms. Products held under insanitary conditions may become contaminated through contact with contaminated surfaces or exposure to airborne particulates associated with animal waste. Exposure to contaminated products can pose serious health risks to consumers, including the potential for bacterial contamination, which may result in illness or infection, including Salmonella. There are numerous hazards associated with rodents including the potential presence of Salmonella."
There is an extensive list of products that include animal and veterinary products, cosmetics  dietary supplements, drugs, medical devices, food and beverages.  

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/gold-star-distribution-inc-issues-recall-certain-fda-regulated-products-three-states-including-drugs
Gold Star Distribution Inc., Issues Recall of Certain FDA-Regulated Products in Three States Including Drugs, Devices, Cosmetics, Human Foods, and Pet Foods
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 26, 2025
FDA Publish Date:  December 26, 2025
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary  Cosmetics  Dietary Supplements  Drugs  Food & Beverages
Medical Devices
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Salmonella contamination, presence of rodent and avian contamination and insanitary conditions during the storage process.
Company Name:  Gold Star Distribution, Inc.
Brand Name:  Multiple brand names
Product Description:  All FDA-regulated products held at facility including drugs, medical devices, cosmetics, dietary supplements, human food, and pet food
Company Announcement