An interesting read in Audubon Magazine about the impact of bald eagles on a free range chicken farm in Georgia. Each year, this farm has an increasing number of bald eagles overwintering around the farm and feasting on high priced organic chicken. There are now approximately 75 eagles, eating 3 or 4 chickens per day and costing the farm about $1000/day. (Don't worry too much for the farm, the taxpayers pick up a good portion of that bill...and many of them don't even eat organic / free range chicken).
In addition to the loss by the eagles, free range farming has higher mortality rates...usually about 18% compared to 4% for conventional chicken farming. "Even discounting the three or four chickens each eagle takes every day throughout the winter, Coady thinks the farm’s chicken-mortality rate is too high. It’s roughly 15 percent throughout the year, though some weeks it’s higher and some weeks it’s lower. He’d like it to be somewhere around 10 percent—far below the estimated 18 percent mortality rate the USDA expects for free-range chickens (for comparison, it’s 4 percent for confined chickens)."
The farmer's solution - "Harris has his own ideal solution, and it has nothing to do with noise-makers or reimbursement programs or tourism. If everyone farmed in the nature-first way he does, he says, eagles wouldn’t concentrate on his farm. Flocks of chickens scattered across the Georgia countryside would naturally cause eagles to disperse into smaller, healthier populations." I guess I am missing something here...so yes the eagle population would spread out..for now, but what would limit eagle population growth if farms all over became raptor dinner tables? And with an unchecked eagle population explosion, what else will be on that dinner table....little Sparky and Mr. Tibbs?
Audubon Magazine
http://www.audubon.org/magazine/fall-2016/an-organic-chicken-farm-georgia-has-become-endless
An Organic Chicken Farm in Georgia Has Become an Endless Buffet for Bald Eagles
By Susan MatthewsFall 2016
Showing posts with label chicken. Show all posts
Showing posts with label chicken. Show all posts
Monday, October 24, 2016
Monday, October 17, 2016
Popcorn Chicken Recalled Because of Foreign Material
Tyson Foods New Holland, PA facility is recalling popcorn chicken nuggets packed due plastic pieces. According to the report - "The problem was discovered when the establishment received a consumer complaint from a school regarding foreign material, specifically hard plastic, found inside a bag of Tyson brand whole grain popcorn chicken product."
USDA News Release
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2016/recall-096-2016-release
Tyson Foods Recalls Frozen Popcorn Chicken Products Due To Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Class I Recall 096-2016
Health Risk: High Oct 15, 2016
USDA News Release
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2016/recall-096-2016-release
Tyson Foods Recalls Frozen Popcorn Chicken Products Due To Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Class I Recall 096-2016
Health Risk: High Oct 15, 2016
Monday, October 10, 2016
Chicken Salad Linked to Salmonella Outbreak in WA
Costco Chicken Salad, purchased on August 26, August 31 and September 2, 2016 in one Washington state Costco store may be linked to a Salmonella outbreak. While the product is past the expiration date, concern would be for anyone who may have frozen the product and still have it in the freezer.
The concern still has to be how the product became contaminated. Was the chicken undercooked? Or was it a case of cross contamination after cooking?
FSIS Recall Notice
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/newsroom/news-releases-statements-transcripts/news-release-archives-by-year/archive/2016/pha-100916
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Chicken Product Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination
The concern still has to be how the product became contaminated. Was the chicken undercooked? Or was it a case of cross contamination after cooking?
FSIS Recall Notice
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/newsroom/news-releases-statements-transcripts/news-release-archives-by-year/archive/2016/pha-100916
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Chicken Product Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination
Thursday, September 29, 2016
Chicken Nuggets Recalled Due to Plastic Pieces
Tyson is recalling 132, 520 pounds of cooked chicken nuggets for plastic pieces. Product was packed in an institutional 20lb size that was shipped to Pennsylvania and the 5lb retail pack was shipped nationally.
The recall was initiated after consumer complaints were made. According to the report "the plastic material ranged in size from 21mm in length and 6.5mm in diameter and may have come from a round, hard plastic rod used to connect a plastic transfer belt. The firm said the products pass through a metal detector, but the plastic is not detectable to this technology".
In May, Foster Farms recalled chicken nuggets due to foreign material. And in March, Purdue recalled chicken nuggets due to plastic pieces. In 2014, Tyson recalled chicken nuggets due to plastic pieces. It may make sense for those making chicken nuggets to invest in X-ray technology.
FSIS Recall Notice
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/931c84b3-cc2e-4a10-9108-806bfab661b0/75-16.pdf?MOD=AJPERES
Tyson Foods Inc. Recalls Chicken Nugget Products Due To Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Class I Recall 089-2016
Health Risk: High Sep 27, 2016
The recall was initiated after consumer complaints were made. According to the report "the plastic material ranged in size from 21mm in length and 6.5mm in diameter and may have come from a round, hard plastic rod used to connect a plastic transfer belt. The firm said the products pass through a metal detector, but the plastic is not detectable to this technology".
In May, Foster Farms recalled chicken nuggets due to foreign material. And in March, Purdue recalled chicken nuggets due to plastic pieces. In 2014, Tyson recalled chicken nuggets due to plastic pieces. It may make sense for those making chicken nuggets to invest in X-ray technology.
FSIS Recall Notice
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/931c84b3-cc2e-4a10-9108-806bfab661b0/75-16.pdf?MOD=AJPERES
Tyson Foods Inc. Recalls Chicken Nugget Products Due To Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Class I Recall 089-2016
Health Risk: High Sep 27, 2016
Monday, September 19, 2016
Backyard Chickens and Eggs - Beware of the Salmonella Risk
In two news stories this week - one on raising chickens at home and the other on eggs from small chicken flocks - there is discussion on the higher risk for Salmonella.
In the Post article, people raising chickens at home threat the chickens more like pets. Many people will cuddle or kiss baby chicks and nearly half of the patients who contracted Salmonella from the chickens allowed the chickens into the house (and some into the bedroom).
Penn State conducted a large survey looking at the prevalence in Salmonella in eggs which were purchased from farm stands across the state. These eggs were from small chicken flocks and fall outside of regulations for controlling Salmonella. The survey found that 2% of the eggs tested were positive for Salmonella. The contamination was primarily found inside the egg. For commercial egg producers, this number is less than 0.5%.
Salmonella is a natural contaminate of chickens, and unless carefully controlled, it can be passed to humans through handling of the chickens or through mishandling or undercooking of the eggs. Commercially, Salmonella is controlled through diet (including probiotics), house maintenance procedures, and Salmonella testing. With backyard flocks, these controls are normally not in place. Another risk, not discussed in these articles, is Campylobacter. This has been shown to have a higher prevalence in small flocks as well.
This is not saying that people should not raise chickens or consume their eggs, but people have to be aware of the risk. Keep chicken in the coup. Wash your hands after handling the chicken. Cook the eggs and the chicken to the proper temperature. No Rocky breakfast drink with these eggs, not unless you plan your next bout at the American Standard Bowl.
Penn State News
http://news.psu.edu/story/425880/2016/09/14/research/eggs-small-flocks-just-likely-contain-salmonella-enteritidis
Eggs from small flocks more likely to contain Salmonella enteritidis
By Jeff Mulhollem
September 14, 2016
In the Post article, people raising chickens at home threat the chickens more like pets. Many people will cuddle or kiss baby chicks and nearly half of the patients who contracted Salmonella from the chickens allowed the chickens into the house (and some into the bedroom).
Penn State conducted a large survey looking at the prevalence in Salmonella in eggs which were purchased from farm stands across the state. These eggs were from small chicken flocks and fall outside of regulations for controlling Salmonella. The survey found that 2% of the eggs tested were positive for Salmonella. The contamination was primarily found inside the egg. For commercial egg producers, this number is less than 0.5%.
Salmonella is a natural contaminate of chickens, and unless carefully controlled, it can be passed to humans through handling of the chickens or through mishandling or undercooking of the eggs. Commercially, Salmonella is controlled through diet (including probiotics), house maintenance procedures, and Salmonella testing. With backyard flocks, these controls are normally not in place. Another risk, not discussed in these articles, is Campylobacter. This has been shown to have a higher prevalence in small flocks as well.
This is not saying that people should not raise chickens or consume their eggs, but people have to be aware of the risk. Keep chicken in the coup. Wash your hands after handling the chicken. Cook the eggs and the chicken to the proper temperature. No Rocky breakfast drink with these eggs, not unless you plan your next bout at the American Standard Bowl.
Penn State News
http://news.psu.edu/story/425880/2016/09/14/research/eggs-small-flocks-just-likely-contain-salmonella-enteritidis
Eggs from small flocks more likely to contain Salmonella enteritidis
By Jeff Mulhollem
September 14, 2016
Thursday, June 2, 2016
Raw Chicken Juice - Understanding the Risk for Foodborne Illness from Campylobacter
Do people understand the risk when opening that package of raw chicken breasts? Are they concerned about safe handling of the packaging material and the associated raw chicken juice (or more technically, the exudate)? Maybe not as much as they should.
A recent study looked at the prevalence of Campylobacter, one of the leading causes of sporadic diarrheal illness in the US, within the package as well as on the outside of the package. They found that Campylobacter was present in the chicken juice in 60% of packages where the chicken juice was tested. As for the packaging, none of the outer surfaces had Campylobacter, except for one of the packages that was leaking.
Campylobacter is a commonly found on raw chicken, found on the surface of both skin-on and skin-off chicken, whether parts or whole. Within the package, it can be found in the juice that comes off the bird, the surface of the bird, and the inner packaging. Because of this, it is important that consumers not only properly handle the chicken meat, but also the packaging and any dripping chicken juice from the bird or the package. Drops of chicken juice should be cleaned properly as you go. Of course, handwashing is critical after handling the meat and the package. It is also important to purchase packages that are not leaking and to make sure that the less-than-attentive store clerk bags the raw chicken separate from the other foods (in plastic).
Since chicken juice is clear, unlike exudate from red meat which is red in color, drops are more easily missed, or perhaps, not given the same attention. However from a pathogen standpoint, this research shows that there is a high risk level for pathogen contamination in that chicken juice.
Detection of Campylobacter on the Outer Surface of Retail Broiler Chicken Meat Packages and on Product Within
Food Protection Trends, vol. 36, no. 3, pp. 176-182, May 2016
Volume 36, Issue 3: Pages 176–182
https://www.foodprotection.org/publications/food-protection-trends/archive/2016-05-detection-of-campylobacter-on-the-outer-surface-of-retail-broiler-chicken-meat-packages-and-/
A recent study looked at the prevalence of Campylobacter, one of the leading causes of sporadic diarrheal illness in the US, within the package as well as on the outside of the package. They found that Campylobacter was present in the chicken juice in 60% of packages where the chicken juice was tested. As for the packaging, none of the outer surfaces had Campylobacter, except for one of the packages that was leaking.
Campylobacter is a commonly found on raw chicken, found on the surface of both skin-on and skin-off chicken, whether parts or whole. Within the package, it can be found in the juice that comes off the bird, the surface of the bird, and the inner packaging. Because of this, it is important that consumers not only properly handle the chicken meat, but also the packaging and any dripping chicken juice from the bird or the package. Drops of chicken juice should be cleaned properly as you go. Of course, handwashing is critical after handling the meat and the package. It is also important to purchase packages that are not leaking and to make sure that the less-than-attentive store clerk bags the raw chicken separate from the other foods (in plastic).
Since chicken juice is clear, unlike exudate from red meat which is red in color, drops are more easily missed, or perhaps, not given the same attention. However from a pathogen standpoint, this research shows that there is a high risk level for pathogen contamination in that chicken juice.
Detection of Campylobacter on the Outer Surface of Retail Broiler Chicken Meat Packages and on Product Within
Food Protection Trends, vol. 36, no. 3, pp. 176-182, May 2016
Volume 36, Issue 3: Pages 176–182
https://www.foodprotection.org/publications/food-protection-trends/archive/2016-05-detection-of-campylobacter-on-the-outer-surface-of-retail-broiler-chicken-meat-packages-and-/
Tuesday, March 8, 2016
Chicken Nuggets Recalled for Small Clear Plastic Pieces
Purdue Foods is recalling 4500 lbs of chicken nuggets after receiving complaints of "small, solid, clear plastic inside the Applegate Naturals Chicken Nuggets". There have not been any reports of adverse effects.
USDA News Release
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2016/recall-023-2016-release
Perdue Foods LLC, Recalls Chicken Nugget Products Due To Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Class I Recall 023-2016
Health Risk: High Mar 5, 2016
Congressional and Public Affairs Kristen Booze (202) 720-9113 Press@fsis.usda.gov
WASHINGTON, March 5, 2016 – Perdue Foods LLC, a Gainesville, Ga. establishment, is recalling approximately 4,530 pounds of chicken nugget products (produced for Applegate Farms) that may be contaminated with extraneous plastic materials, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
USDA News Release
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2016/recall-023-2016-release
Perdue Foods LLC, Recalls Chicken Nugget Products Due To Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Class I Recall 023-2016
Health Risk: High Mar 5, 2016
Congressional and Public Affairs Kristen Booze (202) 720-9113 Press@fsis.usda.gov
WASHINGTON, March 5, 2016 – Perdue Foods LLC, a Gainesville, Ga. establishment, is recalling approximately 4,530 pounds of chicken nugget products (produced for Applegate Farms) that may be contaminated with extraneous plastic materials, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
Friday, February 26, 2016
NY Firm Recalls Chicken Salad Products Due to Listeria Positive Sample
A NY firm is recalling ready-to-eat chicken salad after they product tested positive for Listeria. The unit size is 4 lbs which would be considered foodservice size.
FSIS Recall Notice
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2016/recall-021-2016-release
Sally Sherman Foods Firm Recalls Chicken Salad Products Due to Possible Listeria Contamination
Class I Recall 021-2016
Health Risk: High Feb 25, 2016
FSIS Recall Notice
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2016/recall-021-2016-release
Sally Sherman Foods Firm Recalls Chicken Salad Products Due to Possible Listeria Contamination
Class I Recall 021-2016
Health Risk: High Feb 25, 2016
Monday, November 30, 2015
Bagged Celery / Salad Items Recalled after Linked to E. coli in Costco Chicken Salad
UPDATE 12/8/15 - FDA was not able to culturally confirm the E. coli in the Taylor Farms Product that was associated with the Costco Chicken Salad Product. While the PCR results were positive, the FDA was not able to isolate the organism and confirm that it was actually there (cultural confirmation). So basically, certain genes were present, but the organism was not able to found.
11/30/15
Taylor Farms is recalling a number of celery and other bagged lettuce items after chopped celery those items were identified as the source of E. coli O157:H7 in the Costco chicken salad E. coli outbreak. There have been at least 19 cases reported with two of those developing HUS (hemolytic uremic syndrome, a type of kidney failure).
Taylor Farms prepares these ready-to-eat salad items for retail as well as foodservice use. Operations such as Costco use bagged chopped celery in their food preparation area rather than having to wash and chop their own celery. Taylor Farms would be responsible for ensuring the safety of the items, often utilizing multiple wash steps with some type of sanitizer.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm474601.htm
Recall: Firm Press Release
Taylor Farms Pacific, Inc. Recalls Celery Products Because Of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
November 26, 2015
Contact Consumers Taylor Farms Pacific, Inc. (209) 830-3141
Firm Press Release
Taylor Farms Pacific, Inc. of Tracy, CA, is recalling the products listed below because they may include celery which could potentially contain E. coli 0157:H7. The products listed below are being recalled out of an abundance of caution due to a Celery and Onion Diced Blend testing positive for E. coli 0157:H7 in a sample taken by the Montana Department of Health. The Celery and Onion Diced Blend tested by the state of Montana was used in a Costco Rotisserie Chicken Salad that has been linked to a multi-state E. coli 0157:H7 outbreak.
11/30/15
Taylor Farms is recalling a number of celery and other bagged lettuce items after chopped celery those items were identified as the source of E. coli O157:H7 in the Costco chicken salad E. coli outbreak. There have been at least 19 cases reported with two of those developing HUS (hemolytic uremic syndrome, a type of kidney failure).
Taylor Farms prepares these ready-to-eat salad items for retail as well as foodservice use. Operations such as Costco use bagged chopped celery in their food preparation area rather than having to wash and chop their own celery. Taylor Farms would be responsible for ensuring the safety of the items, often utilizing multiple wash steps with some type of sanitizer.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm474601.htm
Recall: Firm Press Release
Taylor Farms Pacific, Inc. Recalls Celery Products Because Of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
November 26, 2015
Contact Consumers Taylor Farms Pacific, Inc. (209) 830-3141
Firm Press Release
Taylor Farms Pacific, Inc. of Tracy, CA, is recalling the products listed below because they may include celery which could potentially contain E. coli 0157:H7. The products listed below are being recalled out of an abundance of caution due to a Celery and Onion Diced Blend testing positive for E. coli 0157:H7 in a sample taken by the Montana Department of Health. The Celery and Onion Diced Blend tested by the state of Montana was used in a Costco Rotisserie Chicken Salad that has been linked to a multi-state E. coli 0157:H7 outbreak.
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Chicken Salad Recalled Due to Potential Link to E. coli Illnesses
Costco is recalling chicken salad in several western states due to a state health department E. coli outbreak investigation that is focusing on chicken salad purchased in its Colorado stores.
While E. coli O157:H7 has not been associated with chickens, cross contamination can occur in facilities that also handle higher risk items such as beef. It can also be found in produce items that were subject to contamination.
Colorado Department of Public Health
https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdphe
Chicken salad pulled from Colorado Costco shelves for E.coli
Mark Salley| 303-692-2013 |mark.salley@state.co.us
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Nov. 23, 2015
DENVER – The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is working with other western states and the CDC to investigate illnesses due to E. coli O157:H7 from chicken salad purchased at Colorado Costco stores in late October.
While E. coli O157:H7 has not been associated with chickens, cross contamination can occur in facilities that also handle higher risk items such as beef. It can also be found in produce items that were subject to contamination.
Colorado Department of Public Health
https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdphe
Chicken salad pulled from Colorado Costco shelves for E.coli
Mark Salley| 303-692-2013 |mark.salley@state.co.us
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Nov. 23, 2015
DENVER – The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is working with other western states and the CDC to investigate illnesses due to E. coli O157:H7 from chicken salad purchased at Colorado Costco stores in late October.
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Frozen Bagged Chicken Wings Recalled Due to Off Odor
Tyson is recalling approximately 52,000 lbs because of consumer complaints they received about an off odor. This covers two day codes - Sell by October 24, 2016 and October 25, 2016. There have been no illnesses reported.
USDA News Release
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/FSIS-Content/internet/main/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2015/recall-141-2015-release
Tyson Foods Inc. Recalls Chicken Product Due To Possible Adulteration
Class II Recall 141-2015
Health Risk: Low Nov 17, 2015
Congressional and Public Affairs Gabrielle N. Johnston (202) 720-9113
WASHINGTON, Nov. 17, 2015 – Tyson Foods Inc., a Pine Bluff, Ark. establishment, is recalling approximately 52,486 pounds of chicken wing product that may be adulterated because of having an “off odor” scent, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
USDA News Release
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/FSIS-Content/internet/main/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2015/recall-141-2015-release
Tyson Foods Inc. Recalls Chicken Product Due To Possible Adulteration
Class II Recall 141-2015
Health Risk: Low Nov 17, 2015
Congressional and Public Affairs Gabrielle N. Johnston (202) 720-9113
WASHINGTON, Nov. 17, 2015 – Tyson Foods Inc., a Pine Bluff, Ark. establishment, is recalling approximately 52,486 pounds of chicken wing product that may be adulterated because of having an “off odor” scent, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
Friday, September 18, 2015
FSIS Alerts Consumers About Raw Breaded Chicken Breasts Containing Salmonella
FSIS is alerting consumers that the Salmonella strains responsible for an foodborne illness outbreak, that resulted in stuffed chicken product being recalled by Aspen Foods in July, have been isolated from the Aspen Foods processing facility. FSIS is now worried about all product produced since the recall in July through September 17th.
While this product is only partially cooked, and provides instructions for the consumer to fully cook, FSIS feels that there are systematic issues at the facility. However the company has refused to recall the product.
While this product is only partially cooked, and provides instructions for the consumer to fully cook, FSIS feels that there are systematic issues at the facility. However the company has refused to recall the product.
FSIS News Alert
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert For Stuffed Chicken Products Due To Possible Salmonella Contamination
Congressional and Public Affairs Gabrielle N. Johnston (202) 720-9113
WASHINGTON, September 17, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is alerting consumers that frozen, raw, stuffed and breaded chicken products produced by Aspen Foods, a division of Koch Poultry Company, a Chicago, Ill. establishment have been confirmed as having the same Salmonella Enteritidis outbreak strain which was part of a July 15, 2015 recall.
Thursday, July 16, 2015
Colorado Company Recalls Raw Breaded Chicken Products due to Salmonella
Aspen Foods is recalling 2 million pounds of raw, stuffed breaded chicken products due to a link to a cluster of Salmonella infections. This recall is related to the product being recalled by Barber Foods.
Like the Barber Foods recall, the product is raw battered, stuffed chicken products. It includes chicken cordon bleu and chicken kiev products. The spreadsheet accessed through the USDA announcement, has over 2000 entries for lots/brand /sizes.
USDA News Release
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2015/recall-101-2015-release/
Aspen Foods Recalls Frozen, Raw, Stuffed & Breaded Chicken Products Due to Possible Salmonella Enteritidis Contamination
Class I Recall 101-2015
Health Risk: High Jul 15, 2015
Congressional and Public Affairs Gabrielle N. Johnston (202) 720-9113
WASHINGTON, July 15, 2015 – Aspen Foods, A Division of Koch Poultry Company, a Chicago, Ill. establishment, is recalling approximately 1,978,680 pounds of frozen, raw, stuffed and breaded chicken product that may be contaminated with Salmonella Enteritidis, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The frozen, raw, stuffed and breaded chicken items were produced between April 15, 2015 and July 10, 2015 with “best if used by” dates between July 14, 2016 and October 10, 2016. To view a full list of recalled products, please click here (XLS). [View Labels]
Like the Barber Foods recall, the product is raw battered, stuffed chicken products. It includes chicken cordon bleu and chicken kiev products. The spreadsheet accessed through the USDA announcement, has over 2000 entries for lots/brand /sizes.
USDA News Release
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2015/recall-101-2015-release/
Aspen Foods Recalls Frozen, Raw, Stuffed & Breaded Chicken Products Due to Possible Salmonella Enteritidis Contamination
Class I Recall 101-2015
Health Risk: High Jul 15, 2015
Congressional and Public Affairs Gabrielle N. Johnston (202) 720-9113
WASHINGTON, July 15, 2015 – Aspen Foods, A Division of Koch Poultry Company, a Chicago, Ill. establishment, is recalling approximately 1,978,680 pounds of frozen, raw, stuffed and breaded chicken product that may be contaminated with Salmonella Enteritidis, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The frozen, raw, stuffed and breaded chicken items were produced between April 15, 2015 and July 10, 2015 with “best if used by” dates between July 14, 2016 and October 10, 2016. To view a full list of recalled products, please click here (XLS). [View Labels]
Breaded Chicken Nuggets Recalled Due to Presence of Staph Enterotoxin
A PA company is recalling chicken nuggets after the CO Dept of Ag found that a sample of the product was positive for Staphylococcus enterotoxin. There have not yet been any illnesses reported.
Staphylococcus growth and toxin formation is an issue in breaded/battered product. The main issue is with the hydrated batter before it goes onto the chicken. In this scenario, the organism grows in the batter when the batter is not held at the proper temperatures. When the organism reaches sufficient numbers, toxin is produced in the batter and then that toxin ends up on the food, in this case chicken piece, during the battering process. In a typical batter operation, once the chicken is battered/breaded, then it is partially fried (par-fried) to set the coating. This heat application (dipping in hot oil) kills the Staphylococcus organism, but does not destroy the toxin since the toxin is heat stable..
To prevent this, proper temperature control of the batter is needed. FDA has recommended batter handling instructions (http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Food/GuidanceRegulation/UCM252424.pdf).
Another possible scenario is that that the chicken nugget product, once fried, is not cooled properly and the organism grows on the temperature abused nuggets.
Staphylococcus enterotoxin is fast acting, causing severe vomiting in an hour to 6 hours after consumption. The symptoms will last a day or so. When it is a batter contamination issue as described above, there would be no indication to the consumer that the product was contaminated, and no prevention. Again, cooking by the consumer would not destroy the toxin.
USDA News Release
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2015/recall-100-2015-release
Murry’s, Inc., Recalls Chicken Products Due to Staphylococcal Enterotoxin Contamination
Class I Recall 100-2015
Health Risk: High Jul 15, 2015
Congressional and Public Affairs Whitney Joy (202) 720-9113
WASHINGTON, July 15, 2015 – Murry’s, Inc., a Lebanon, Pa. establishment, is recalling approximately 20,232 pounds of gluten-free breaded chicken nugget product that tested positive for Staphylococcal enterotoxin, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
Staphylococcus growth and toxin formation is an issue in breaded/battered product. The main issue is with the hydrated batter before it goes onto the chicken. In this scenario, the organism grows in the batter when the batter is not held at the proper temperatures. When the organism reaches sufficient numbers, toxin is produced in the batter and then that toxin ends up on the food, in this case chicken piece, during the battering process. In a typical batter operation, once the chicken is battered/breaded, then it is partially fried (par-fried) to set the coating. This heat application (dipping in hot oil) kills the Staphylococcus organism, but does not destroy the toxin since the toxin is heat stable..
To prevent this, proper temperature control of the batter is needed. FDA has recommended batter handling instructions (http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Food/GuidanceRegulation/UCM252424.pdf).
Another possible scenario is that that the chicken nugget product, once fried, is not cooled properly and the organism grows on the temperature abused nuggets.
Staphylococcus enterotoxin is fast acting, causing severe vomiting in an hour to 6 hours after consumption. The symptoms will last a day or so. When it is a batter contamination issue as described above, there would be no indication to the consumer that the product was contaminated, and no prevention. Again, cooking by the consumer would not destroy the toxin.
USDA News Release
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2015/recall-100-2015-release
Murry’s, Inc., Recalls Chicken Products Due to Staphylococcal Enterotoxin Contamination
Class I Recall 100-2015
Health Risk: High Jul 15, 2015
Congressional and Public Affairs Whitney Joy (202) 720-9113
WASHINGTON, July 15, 2015 – Murry’s, Inc., a Lebanon, Pa. establishment, is recalling approximately 20,232 pounds of gluten-free breaded chicken nugget product that tested positive for Staphylococcal enterotoxin, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
Sunday, July 12, 2015
Barber Foods Expands Recall of Chicken Kiev After Additional Illnesses Reported
Barber Foods is expanding its recall of frozen Chicken Kiev after 2 more cases of salmonellosis were reported. The initial recall was for 58320 lbs. This recall is for 1.7 million lbs.
While this is raw chicken and there are cooking instruction on the box, but stated in the notice, "Some case-patients reported following the cooking instructions on the label and using a food thermometer to confirm that the recommended temperature was achieved. Therefore, FSIS advises all consumers to treat these products like a raw chicken product."
USDA News Release
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2015/recall-096-2015-release
Barber Foods Recalls Stuffed Chicken Products Due To Possible Salmonella Enteritidis Contamination
Class I Recall 096-2015
Health Risk: High Jul 12, 2015
Congressional and Public Affairs Gabrielle N. Johnston (202) 720-9113
WASHINGTON, July 12, 2015 – Barber Foods, a Portland, Maine establishment, is recalling approximately 1,707,494 pounds of frozen, raw stuffed chicken products that may be contaminated with Salmonella Enteritidis, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The chicken products were produced between February 17, 2015 and May 20, 2015. To view a full list of products recalled as part of this expansion, please click here (XLS). [View Labels]
Since the original recall on July 2, 2015, two more case-patients have been identified. The scope of this recall expansion now includes all products associated with contaminated source material.
While this is raw chicken and there are cooking instruction on the box, but stated in the notice, "Some case-patients reported following the cooking instructions on the label and using a food thermometer to confirm that the recommended temperature was achieved. Therefore, FSIS advises all consumers to treat these products like a raw chicken product."
USDA News Release
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2015/recall-096-2015-release
Barber Foods Recalls Stuffed Chicken Products Due To Possible Salmonella Enteritidis Contamination
Class I Recall 096-2015
Health Risk: High Jul 12, 2015
Congressional and Public Affairs Gabrielle N. Johnston (202) 720-9113
WASHINGTON, July 12, 2015 – Barber Foods, a Portland, Maine establishment, is recalling approximately 1,707,494 pounds of frozen, raw stuffed chicken products that may be contaminated with Salmonella Enteritidis, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The chicken products were produced between February 17, 2015 and May 20, 2015. To view a full list of products recalled as part of this expansion, please click here (XLS). [View Labels]
Since the original recall on July 2, 2015, two more case-patients have been identified. The scope of this recall expansion now includes all products associated with contaminated source material.
Tuesday, July 7, 2015
Four Salmonella Outbreaks Linked to Backyard Chickens
Backyard chickens...there is an increasing trend for towns to allow for backyard chickens. Even State College, PA permits people to have backyard chickens, although there are rules. However, 4 recent outbreaks of Salmonella associated with backyard chickens remind us that there is a risk.
If raising chickens in the backyard, keep them in the backyard. Letting them in the house, cuddling with them, or smooching them is not a good idea. Wash hands after handling poultry. This is especially true for children.
If raising chickens in the backyard, keep them in the backyard. Letting them in the house, cuddling with them, or smooching them is not a good idea. Wash hands after handling poultry. This is especially true for children.
CDC Outbreak Report
Four Multistate Outbreaks of Human Salmonella Infections Linked to Live Poultry in Backyard Flocks
July 1, 2015
Highlights
CDC, public health, veterinary, and agriculture officials in many states and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS) are investigating four multistate outbreaks of human Salmonella infections linked to contact with live poultry.
- As of June 29, 2015, 181 people infected with the outbreak strains of Salmonella have been reported from 40 states.
- 33 ill people have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported.
- Epidemiologic, laboratory, and traceback findings have linked these four outbreaks of human Salmonella infections to contact with chicks, ducklings, and other live poultry from multiple hatcheries.
Friday, July 3, 2015
Recall Summary for July 2, 2015
Here is a summary of recent recalls.
FDA Recall Notice
Boulder Dog Food Company, L.L.C. Voluntarily Recalls Seven Bags of Turkey Sprinkles, 3 oz with A "Best By" Date of "05/18/16, 05/28/2016 and 05/30/2016" Due to Possible Salmonella Health Risk
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm453661.htm
July 2, 2015
7 bags of turkey sprinkles were recalled after FDA testing found a positive test for Salmonella. So what is a turkey sprinkle?….Well it is an item you add to dog food to make it tastier for ole Chopper....well being a sprinkle, I guess it is developed for Sparkles.
USDA Recall Notice
Barber Foods Recalls Kiev Stuffed Chicken Product Due to Possible Salmonella Enteritidis Contamination
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/FSIS-Content/internet/main/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2015/recall-096-2015-release
July 2, 2015
Barber Foods of Maine is recalling 58,320 lbs of its frozen Chicken Kiev because of a link to Salmonella illnesses. Here is a product that looks like it is fully cooked, but it is not.
A stream of recalls related to nuts due to Salmonella because of FDA sampling found product positive….a big surprise.
FDA Recall Notices
Natural Grocers® issues recall on 10oz. Caribbean Nut & Fruit Mix due to possible health risk
lhttp://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm453516.htm
July 1, 2015
Grand BK Corp. Recalls Goodies By Nature Raw Cashews, Net Wt. 9oz Because Of Possible Health Risk
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm453006.htm.
June 27, 2015
Rocky Mountain Foods, Inc. Voluntarily Recalls Free Range Snack Co. Brand 16 oz. Island Fruit and Nut Trail Mix and Bulk Macadamia Nuts Because of Possible Health Risk
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm453116.htm
Whole Foods Market Voluntarily Recalls Packaged Raw Macadamia Nuts Due To Possible Health Risk
June 25, 2015
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm452905.htm
FDA Recall Notice
Boulder Dog Food Company, L.L.C. Voluntarily Recalls Seven Bags of Turkey Sprinkles, 3 oz with A "Best By" Date of "05/18/16, 05/28/2016 and 05/30/2016" Due to Possible Salmonella Health Risk
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm453661.htm
July 2, 2015
7 bags of turkey sprinkles were recalled after FDA testing found a positive test for Salmonella. So what is a turkey sprinkle?….Well it is an item you add to dog food to make it tastier for ole Chopper....well being a sprinkle, I guess it is developed for Sparkles.
USDA Recall Notice
Barber Foods Recalls Kiev Stuffed Chicken Product Due to Possible Salmonella Enteritidis Contamination
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/FSIS-Content/internet/main/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2015/recall-096-2015-release
July 2, 2015
Barber Foods of Maine is recalling 58,320 lbs of its frozen Chicken Kiev because of a link to Salmonella illnesses. Here is a product that looks like it is fully cooked, but it is not.
A stream of recalls related to nuts due to Salmonella because of FDA sampling found product positive….a big surprise.
FDA Recall Notices
Natural Grocers® issues recall on 10oz. Caribbean Nut & Fruit Mix due to possible health risk
lhttp://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm453516.htm
July 1, 2015
Grand BK Corp. Recalls Goodies By Nature Raw Cashews, Net Wt. 9oz Because Of Possible Health Risk
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm453006.htm.
June 27, 2015
Rocky Mountain Foods, Inc. Voluntarily Recalls Free Range Snack Co. Brand 16 oz. Island Fruit and Nut Trail Mix and Bulk Macadamia Nuts Because of Possible Health Risk
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm453116.htm
Whole Foods Market Voluntarily Recalls Packaged Raw Macadamia Nuts Due To Possible Health Risk
June 25, 2015
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm452905.htm
Friday, January 23, 2015
USDA Proposes Salmonella and Campylobacter Performance Standards for Poultry Parts and Ground Poultry
USDA has proposed setting performance standards for poultry processors on raw ground poultry as well as raw poultry parts (breasts, legs, breasts and wings). A performance standard for pathogens is a level of positive samples a facility can have. USDA then tests product at the facility to see whether they are in compliance. This puts pressure on the facility to put measures in place to reduce the prevalence of pathogens thus having a positive impact on safety.
USDA performance standards are in place for whole poultry, but as with the Foster Farms outbreak, numbers can increase during further processing such as cutting into parts or grinding. And these products, ground and parts, represent a big proportion of the product people buy.
These performance standards will allow some level of Salmonella and Campylobacter to still be present, but in lowering the level there, the USDA hopes to reduce the number of illnesses that occur. That being said, it still important the people handle chicken in a way to prevent cross contamination and cook it to eliminate pathogens that may be present.
USDA News Release
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentidonly=true&contentid=2015/01/0013.xml
Release No. 0013.15
Contact: Office of Communications (202)720-4623
USDA Proposes New Measures to Reduce Salmonella and Campylobacter in Poultry Products
New Standards Could Help Prevent an Estimated 50,000 Illnesses Annually
WASHINGTON, Jan. 21, 2015 -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) today proposed new federal standards to reduce Salmonella and Campylobacter in ground chicken and turkey products as well as raw chicken breasts, legs and wings. Development of these new standards is a major step in FSIS' Salmonella Action Plan, launched in December 2013 to reduce Salmonella illnesses from meat and poultry products.
USDA performance standards are in place for whole poultry, but as with the Foster Farms outbreak, numbers can increase during further processing such as cutting into parts or grinding. And these products, ground and parts, represent a big proportion of the product people buy.
These performance standards will allow some level of Salmonella and Campylobacter to still be present, but in lowering the level there, the USDA hopes to reduce the number of illnesses that occur. That being said, it still important the people handle chicken in a way to prevent cross contamination and cook it to eliminate pathogens that may be present.
USDA News Release
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentidonly=true&contentid=2015/01/0013.xml
Release No. 0013.15
Contact: Office of Communications (202)720-4623
USDA Proposes New Measures to Reduce Salmonella and Campylobacter in Poultry Products
New Standards Could Help Prevent an Estimated 50,000 Illnesses Annually
WASHINGTON, Jan. 21, 2015 -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) today proposed new federal standards to reduce Salmonella and Campylobacter in ground chicken and turkey products as well as raw chicken breasts, legs and wings. Development of these new standards is a major step in FSIS' Salmonella Action Plan, launched in December 2013 to reduce Salmonella illnesses from meat and poultry products.
Monday, September 29, 2014
Recall of grilled chicken due to positive Listeria tests
Foster Farms is recalling 40,000 lbs of grilled chicken strips due to the potential to be contaminated with Listeria. The contamination was discovered by company testing. No illnesses have been reported.
The grilled chicken was packaged in 3.25lb packages and shipped to Costco locations in ID, MT, UT, CO, TX, LA, CA, and Hawaii. According to the news report - "While some of the product was set aside and held, the product subject to this recall was inadvertently shipped," it said." Oops, that is not good.
But the Reuters article below also shoves this statement into the article - "The recall comes amid revelations that major U.S. poultry firms are administering antibiotics to their flocks far more pervasively than regulators realize, posing a potential risk to human health."
It is a long stretch to say that antibiotic usage and post process Listeria contamination are linked. Vegetative pathogens such as Salmonella and Listeria are eliminated in the cooking process. The contamination in the plant would be a post process addition, and from what we have seen in past cases, this contamination would be more likely to be a facility related issue rather than in incoming bird issue.
Huffington Post
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/09/26/chicken-recall-frozen-grilled-listeria-foster-farms_n_5890416.html
Nearly 40,000 Pounds Of Foster Farms Chicken Recalled Due To Listeria ContaminationReuters
Posted: 09/26/2014 4:12 pm EDT Updated: 09/26/2014 4:59 pm EDT
SEATTLE, Sept 26 (Reuters) - California-based poultry giant Foster Farms is recalling nearly 40,000 pounds of frozen grilled chicken due to Listeria contamination, the Department of Agriculture said on Friday.
Foster Farms shipped the breast strips produced on Aug. 5 from Farmerville, Louisiana, to many U.S. states, USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) representative, Benjamin Bell, said.
The grilled chicken was packaged in 3.25lb packages and shipped to Costco locations in ID, MT, UT, CO, TX, LA, CA, and Hawaii. According to the news report - "While some of the product was set aside and held, the product subject to this recall was inadvertently shipped," it said." Oops, that is not good.
But the Reuters article below also shoves this statement into the article - "The recall comes amid revelations that major U.S. poultry firms are administering antibiotics to their flocks far more pervasively than regulators realize, posing a potential risk to human health."
It is a long stretch to say that antibiotic usage and post process Listeria contamination are linked. Vegetative pathogens such as Salmonella and Listeria are eliminated in the cooking process. The contamination in the plant would be a post process addition, and from what we have seen in past cases, this contamination would be more likely to be a facility related issue rather than in incoming bird issue.
Huffington Post
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/09/26/chicken-recall-frozen-grilled-listeria-foster-farms_n_5890416.html
Nearly 40,000 Pounds Of Foster Farms Chicken Recalled Due To Listeria ContaminationReuters
Posted: 09/26/2014 4:12 pm EDT Updated: 09/26/2014 4:59 pm EDT
SEATTLE, Sept 26 (Reuters) - California-based poultry giant Foster Farms is recalling nearly 40,000 pounds of frozen grilled chicken due to Listeria contamination, the Department of Agriculture said on Friday.
Foster Farms shipped the breast strips produced on Aug. 5 from Farmerville, Louisiana, to many U.S. states, USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) representative, Benjamin Bell, said.
Monday, January 13, 2014
Tyson recalls mechanically seperated chicken meat due to the potential for Salmonella
Tyson Foods is recalling 33.840 pounds of mechanically separated chicken products due to the potential for contamination by Salmonella Heidelberg. This is institutional use product – 10 lb. chubs / 40 lb. cases.
The issue was discovered after seven inmates in a Tennessee correctional facility become ill with two requiring hospitalization.
Mechanically separated meat (MSM) is meat that is recovered from the bone through the use of a machine that presses the carcass against a screen or sieve, allowing the meat to be separated from the bone. The recovered meat has the appearance of a paste. This product can be reformed to make items such as chicken nuggets, or added to make chicken sausage or hot dog products.
Being a raw meat product, it has the potential to carry pathogens that are inherently present on the poultry including Salmonella and Campylobacter. USDA testing indicates that the level of Salmonella and Campylobacter tend to be high in this product type, mostly due to increased handling.
It is a low cost protein product…think sustainability or increased utilization. It is easy to see why this cheaper source of meat product is utilized by the correctional facilities, but now will there need to be consideration for pre-cooking or irradiating this product?
USDA News Release
Missouri Firm Recalls Mechanically Separated Chicken Products Due To Possible Salmonella Heidelberg Contamination
Class I Recall 001-2014
Health Risk: High Jan 10, 2014
Congressional and Public Affairs
Felicia Thompson
(202) 720-9113
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2014/recall-001-2014-release
WASHINGTON, Jan. 10, 2014 – Tyson Foods, Inc. a Sedalia, Mo., establishment, is recalling approximately 33,840 pounds of mechanically separated chicken products that may be contaminated with a Salmonella Heidelberg strain, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The mechanically separated chicken products were produced on Oct. 11, 2013. The following products are subject to recall:
40-lb. cases, containing four, 10-lb. chubs of “TYSON MECHANICALLY SEPARATED CHICKEN.”
The products subject to recall bear the establishment number “P-13556” inside the USDA mark of inspection with case code 2843SDL1412 – 18. These products were shipped for institutional use only, nationwide. The product is not available for consumer purchase in retail stores.
FSIS was notified of a Salmonella Heidelberg cluster of illnesses on Dec. 12, 2013. Working in conjunction with the Tennessee Department of Health (TDH), FSIS determined that there is a link between the mechanically separated chicken products from Tyson Foods and the illness cluster in a Tennessee correctional facility. Based on epidemiological and traceback investigations, seven case-patients at the facility have been identified with illnesses, with two resulting in hospitalization. Illness onset dates range from Nov. 29, 2013 to Dec. 5, 2013. FSIS continues to work with TDH on this investigation and will provide updated information as it becomes available.
Consumption of food contaminated with Salmonella can cause salmonellosis, one of the most common bacterial foodborne illnesses. The most common symptoms of salmonellosis are diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 12 to 72 hours after eating the contaminated product. The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days. Most people recover without treatment. In some persons, however, the diarrhea may be so severe that the patient needs to be hospitalized. Older adults, infants, and persons with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop a severe illness. Individuals concerned about an illness should contact their health care provider.
FSIS advises all consumers to safely prepare their raw meat products, including fresh and frozen, and only consume poultry products that has been cooked to a temperature of 165 °F. The only way to confirm that poultry products are cooked to a temperature high enough to kill harmful bacteria is to use a food thermometer that measures internal temperature, http://1.usa.gov/1cDxcDQ.
Consumers with questions about the recall should contact Tyson Foods’ consumer relations department at 866-886-8456. Media with questions should contact Worth Sparkman, Tyson Foods’ public relations manager, at 479-290-6358.
Consumers with food safety questions can "Ask Karen," the FSIS virtual representative available 24 hours a day at AskKaren.gov or via smartphone at m.askkaren.gov. The toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) is available in English and Spanish and can be reached from l0 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day. The online Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System can be accessed 24 hours a day at: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/reportproblem.
The issue was discovered after seven inmates in a Tennessee correctional facility become ill with two requiring hospitalization.
Mechanically separated meat (MSM) is meat that is recovered from the bone through the use of a machine that presses the carcass against a screen or sieve, allowing the meat to be separated from the bone. The recovered meat has the appearance of a paste. This product can be reformed to make items such as chicken nuggets, or added to make chicken sausage or hot dog products.
Being a raw meat product, it has the potential to carry pathogens that are inherently present on the poultry including Salmonella and Campylobacter. USDA testing indicates that the level of Salmonella and Campylobacter tend to be high in this product type, mostly due to increased handling.
It is a low cost protein product…think sustainability or increased utilization. It is easy to see why this cheaper source of meat product is utilized by the correctional facilities, but now will there need to be consideration for pre-cooking or irradiating this product?
USDA News Release
Missouri Firm Recalls Mechanically Separated Chicken Products Due To Possible Salmonella Heidelberg Contamination
Class I Recall 001-2014
Health Risk: High Jan 10, 2014
Congressional and Public Affairs
Felicia Thompson
(202) 720-9113
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2014/recall-001-2014-release
WASHINGTON, Jan. 10, 2014 – Tyson Foods, Inc. a Sedalia, Mo., establishment, is recalling approximately 33,840 pounds of mechanically separated chicken products that may be contaminated with a Salmonella Heidelberg strain, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The mechanically separated chicken products were produced on Oct. 11, 2013. The following products are subject to recall:
40-lb. cases, containing four, 10-lb. chubs of “TYSON MECHANICALLY SEPARATED CHICKEN.”
The products subject to recall bear the establishment number “P-13556” inside the USDA mark of inspection with case code 2843SDL1412 – 18. These products were shipped for institutional use only, nationwide. The product is not available for consumer purchase in retail stores.
FSIS was notified of a Salmonella Heidelberg cluster of illnesses on Dec. 12, 2013. Working in conjunction with the Tennessee Department of Health (TDH), FSIS determined that there is a link between the mechanically separated chicken products from Tyson Foods and the illness cluster in a Tennessee correctional facility. Based on epidemiological and traceback investigations, seven case-patients at the facility have been identified with illnesses, with two resulting in hospitalization. Illness onset dates range from Nov. 29, 2013 to Dec. 5, 2013. FSIS continues to work with TDH on this investigation and will provide updated information as it becomes available.
Consumption of food contaminated with Salmonella can cause salmonellosis, one of the most common bacterial foodborne illnesses. The most common symptoms of salmonellosis are diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 12 to 72 hours after eating the contaminated product. The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days. Most people recover without treatment. In some persons, however, the diarrhea may be so severe that the patient needs to be hospitalized. Older adults, infants, and persons with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop a severe illness. Individuals concerned about an illness should contact their health care provider.
FSIS advises all consumers to safely prepare their raw meat products, including fresh and frozen, and only consume poultry products that has been cooked to a temperature of 165 °F. The only way to confirm that poultry products are cooked to a temperature high enough to kill harmful bacteria is to use a food thermometer that measures internal temperature, http://1.usa.gov/1cDxcDQ.
Consumers with questions about the recall should contact Tyson Foods’ consumer relations department at 866-886-8456. Media with questions should contact Worth Sparkman, Tyson Foods’ public relations manager, at 479-290-6358.
Consumers with food safety questions can "Ask Karen," the FSIS virtual representative available 24 hours a day at AskKaren.gov or via smartphone at m.askkaren.gov. The toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) is available in English and Spanish and can be reached from l0 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day. The online Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System can be accessed 24 hours a day at: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/reportproblem.
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