California University Recalls Chocolate Bars

A university in California is recalling candy bars that were produced by a student group in less-than-sanitary conditions.

While the story does not indicate how the contamination event occurred, if one had to guess, it would be that the student group made the product without following good sanitation procedures.  Later, a wiser individual(s) realized this (and this person(s) was probably not involved when the product was initially made) and raised questions about sanitation and allergen control.  The group was not able to answer these questions, thus putting the University at risk.  Rather than waiting for people to get ill and for a scandal to erupt, the University took a proactive posture and recalled the product.

Does this situation apply outside a university setting? Absolutely.  Anytime some genius thinks that they can produce product for sale on the fly without going through the proper channels, laying out a food safety plan, etc. This could be a temporary side operation that someone wants to do in a processing facility or a foodservice operation, or a volunteer group that thinks it can easily raise money. 

Here at Penn State, the risk management group has a strict policy regarding  products being made and branded as Penn State.  For good reason.


 The Tribune
http://www.sanluisobispo.com/2014/10/04/3280284/cal-poly-recalls-6-of-its-chocolate.html
Cal Poly recalls some chocolate bars because of possible contamination

Candies may contain allergens or infectious material, spokesman says
By Nick Wilson
nwilson@thetribunenews.com
October 4, 2014

Cal Poly has voluntarily recalled six varieties of its chocolate candy bars, citing possible contaminations.

The bars may have been tainted with peanut, milk or soy allergens and possibly exposed to microbial contamination, which can include infectious materials such as bacteria, yeast, or mold, the university said.