A Washington state firm is recalling frozen vegetables after a lot of IQF organic peas and a lot of IQF organic corn tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes. The testing was completed by Ohio state health officials. There have been no injuries to report.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm497297.htm
CRF Frozen Foods Recalls Frozen Vegetables Due to Possible Health Risk
Showing posts with label produce. Show all posts
Showing posts with label produce. Show all posts
Sunday, April 24, 2016
Monday, April 11, 2016
Salad Items Recalled after Supplier Notification of Listeria Positive Ingredient
Reser's Fine Foods of Oregon is recalling refrigerated salad items (egg salad, potato salad, macaroni salad) of various sizes (3.5oz to 8lb tubs) and various brands (Sysco, Safeway, Walmart, and Resser's) after their supplier that the onions supplied to Resser's tested positive for Listeria.
This is one of those cases where the supplier must be shipping product before they have results back, or perhaps where another customer tested the incoming onions and found that they were positive. Regardless, the work now falls on the manufacturer to recall the product.
Unfortunately, there have been too many issues with Listeria in produce operations. Supplier control, especially when those items are used in RTE applications, must focus on how the supplier is controlling Listeria in their processing environment. Is the environment cleanable to the microbiological level? Are they monitoring the environment for Listeria?
Reser's Recall Notice
https://www.resers.com/images/uploads/news/Press_Release_FINAL.pdf
RESER’S FINE FOODS, INC. RECALLS REFRIGERATED SALADS BECAUSE OF POSSIBLE HEALTH RISK DUE TO ONION SUPPLIER RECALL
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
APRIL 10, 2016
MEDIA CONTACT: LINDA RIEDMAN 503-267-8373
Reser’s Fine Foods, Inc. of Beaverton, Oregon is recalling nineteen refrigerated salad items due to notification from one of our ingredient suppliers that Listeria monocytogenes may be present in one lot of onions that was used in the manufacture of these salads. Listeria monocytogenes is an organism which can cause serious and sometime fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and individuals with weakened immune systems. Healthy people may suffer only short term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant woman.
This is one of those cases where the supplier must be shipping product before they have results back, or perhaps where another customer tested the incoming onions and found that they were positive. Regardless, the work now falls on the manufacturer to recall the product.
Unfortunately, there have been too many issues with Listeria in produce operations. Supplier control, especially when those items are used in RTE applications, must focus on how the supplier is controlling Listeria in their processing environment. Is the environment cleanable to the microbiological level? Are they monitoring the environment for Listeria?
Reser's Recall Notice
https://www.resers.com/images/uploads/news/Press_Release_FINAL.pdf
RESER’S FINE FOODS, INC. RECALLS REFRIGERATED SALADS BECAUSE OF POSSIBLE HEALTH RISK DUE TO ONION SUPPLIER RECALL
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
APRIL 10, 2016
MEDIA CONTACT: LINDA RIEDMAN 503-267-8373
Reser’s Fine Foods, Inc. of Beaverton, Oregon is recalling nineteen refrigerated salad items due to notification from one of our ingredient suppliers that Listeria monocytogenes may be present in one lot of onions that was used in the manufacture of these salads. Listeria monocytogenes is an organism which can cause serious and sometime fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and individuals with weakened immune systems. Healthy people may suffer only short term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant woman.
Wednesday, February 3, 2016
Better Understanding Needed on Use of Oilfield Water to Irrigate Crops in Drought Stricken California
Questions are being raised about the use of water from oilfields for irrigation water in California. California has been in a drought since 2011 and community water systems have had to utilize more of this reclaimed water. Unfortunately for the fruit industry, activists have publically decried certain brands / producers without much information to support claims.
Clearly, there needs to be more transparency on actual use as well as more knowledge about the actual risks. One question - why was an extensive study not already completed by a government agency sooner?
Clearly, there needs to be more transparency on actual use as well as more knowledge about the actual risks. One question - why was an extensive study not already completed by a government agency sooner?
Friday, January 29, 2016
Update on Listeria Outbreak Associated with Salad
CDC provided an update on the number of listeriosis cases linked to Dole's packaged salads. There are now 15 cases and 1 death. Dole has shut down its Ohio processing facility and does not plan to restart until at least February. With regard to impacted product, Dole initially called its action a voluntary withdrawal. It changed that status to a voluntary recall on January 27th.
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
Dole Withdrawals Salad Items Linked to Listeria Outbreak
Dole is conducting a voluntary withdrawal of salad products made in their Springfield, OH facility after being linked to a Listeria outbreak. In this outbreak, 12 people have been infected with one death.
According to the CDC, the evidence indicates that packaged salads produced at the Dole processing facility in Springfield, Ohio are the likely source. From the CDC report:
According to the CDC, the evidence indicates that packaged salads produced at the Dole processing facility in Springfield, Ohio are the likely source. From the CDC report:
- Five (100%) of the five ill people who were asked about packaged salad reported eating packaged salad in the month before becoming ill. Two (100%) of two ill people who specified a brand of packaged salad reported eating various varieties of Dole brand packaged salads.
- The Ohio Department of Agriculture collected a Dole brand Field Greens packaged salad from a retail location and isolated Listeria. Laboratory tests showed that the Listeria isolate from the packaged salad was highly related genetically to isolates from ill people. This packaged salad was produced at the Springfield, Ohio Dole processing facility.
CDC began investigating this in September of 2015, but as can be seen, there has been only a few cases coming in at a time, making the investigation process more difficult with providing a specific source.
At this point, it is difficult to comment too much without knowing more information. Did the plant have an active Listeria control program? Was it comprehensive in terms of evaluating washing systems and food contact surfaces including buildup/biofilms in those washing systems. In many facilities, there is a focus on noncontact surfaces (zones 2 and 3) and conducting of preoperational samples rather than operational, but if there was indeed an issue in the process, would it have been identified if the facility was not looking deeper? Did they know that they had an issue?
At this point, it is difficult to comment too much without knowing more information. Did the plant have an active Listeria control program? Was it comprehensive in terms of evaluating washing systems and food contact surfaces including buildup/biofilms in those washing systems. In many facilities, there is a focus on noncontact surfaces (zones 2 and 3) and conducting of preoperational samples rather than operational, but if there was indeed an issue in the process, would it have been identified if the facility was not looking deeper? Did they know that they had an issue?
CDC Outbreak Notice
Multistate Outbreak of Listeriosis Linked to Packaged Salads Produced at Springfield, Ohio Dole Processing Facility
Posted January 25, 2016 4:15 PM ET
At a Glance:
Highlights
Monday, January 4, 2016
Cucumbers Recalled in GA and FL Due to Potential for Salmonella Contamination
A Florida produce company is recalling cucumbers after a random sampling and testing conducted by FDA produced a positive Salmonella result. No illnesses have been reported. Product was distributed in Florida and Georgia.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm479661.htm
Recall: Firm Press Release
Thomas Produce Recalls Cucumbers because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
December 31, 2015
Contact
Consumers Richard Wilson 1-561-482-1111
Firm Press Release
Thomas Produce Company of Boca Raton, FL is recalling 174 bulk-packed containers of Cucumbers. This product has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella may experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
This product was sold to distributors in Florida and Georgia between 12/15/2015 and 12/16/2015. All distributors that received this product have been notified as of the time of this press release.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm479661.htm
Recall: Firm Press Release
Thomas Produce Recalls Cucumbers because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
December 31, 2015
Contact
Consumers Richard Wilson 1-561-482-1111
Firm Press Release
Thomas Produce Company of Boca Raton, FL is recalling 174 bulk-packed containers of Cucumbers. This product has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella may experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
This product was sold to distributors in Florida and Georgia between 12/15/2015 and 12/16/2015. All distributors that received this product have been notified as of the time of this press release.
Monday, November 16, 2015
FDA Releases FSMA Rules on Produce, Foreign Suppliers, and Third Party Auditors
FDA released three new rules as past of the Food Safety Modernization Act.
FDA Website
- The Produce Safety Final Rule focuses on requirements for farm activities associated with growing and harvesting produce.
- The Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP) rules sets requirements for those importing food into the US to ensure that those suppliers are following the same requirements as US food manufacturers.
- Associated with FSVP, there is the Accredited Third Party Audit Certification Rule which sets up a program for certifying third party auditors who will evaluate foreign suppliers.
FDA Website
FDA Releases Groundbreaking Rules on Produce and Imported Foods to Modernize and Strengthen Food Safety System
Constituent Update
November 13, 2015
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today took major steps to prevent foodborne illness by finalizing rules that establish enforceable safety standards for produce farms, and make importers accountable for verifying that imported food meets U.S. safety standards. The agency also issued a rule establishing a program for the accreditation of third-party certification bodies, also known as auditors, to conduct food safety audits of foreign food facilities.
Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Bags of Spinach Recalled Due to Sample Testing Positive for Salmonella
Dole Fresh Vegetables is recalling bags of Spinach after testing conducted by the Michigan Dept. of Ag detected a sample positive for Salmonella. Only two lot codes - A27409B & A27409A, with an Enjoy By date of October 15 and UPC 7143000976, are being recalled. There have been no reported illnesses.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm466811.htm
Dole Fresh Vegetables Announces Precautionary Recall of Limited Number of Spinach Salads
For Immediate Release
October 13, 2015
Contact Consumers Bil Goldfield William.Goldfield@dole.com (818) 874-4647
Consumer Response Center (800) 356-3111
Firm Press Release
Dole Fresh Vegetables is voluntarily recalling a limited number of cases of bagged salad. The product being recalled is Dole Spinach coded A27409B & A27409A, with an Enjoy By date of October 15 and UPC 7143000976 due to a possible health risk from Salmonella. Dole Fresh Vegetables is coordinating closely with regulatory officials. No illnesses have been reported in association with the recall.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm466811.htm
Dole Fresh Vegetables Announces Precautionary Recall of Limited Number of Spinach Salads
For Immediate Release
October 13, 2015
Contact Consumers Bil Goldfield William.Goldfield@dole.com (818) 874-4647
Consumer Response Center (800) 356-3111
Firm Press Release
Dole Fresh Vegetables is voluntarily recalling a limited number of cases of bagged salad. The product being recalled is Dole Spinach coded A27409B & A27409A, with an Enjoy By date of October 15 and UPC 7143000976 due to a possible health risk from Salmonella. Dole Fresh Vegetables is coordinating closely with regulatory officials. No illnesses have been reported in association with the recall.
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Number of Cucumber Related Salmonellosis Cases Rises
There have been an addition 61 cucumber linked cases of salmonellosis since the September 29 CDC outbreak update. This brings the total to 732 people. With a relatively short shelf-life of 14 days, CDC anticipates that there should not be too many more, if any, additional cases.
It is surprising the lack of outrage in the media. 732 cases. 4 deaths. Let's compare that to the Salmonella outbreak associated with Foster Farms raw chicken, a product that is supposed to be cooked. In that outbreak , CDC reported that "a total of 634 persons infected with seven outbreak strains of Salmonella Heidelberg were reported from 29 states and Puerto Rico from March 1, 2013 to July 11, 2014. 38% of ill persons were hospitalized, and no deaths were reported." Have we become desensitized? Or are there less deep pockets to access?
Certainly the scope is huge. 35 states. This demonstrates the impact of one initial supply hub in moving product across the county.
It also shows the inability to track an outbreak related to produce. 3 months is a long time for such a short shelf-life product.
CDC Outbreak
Multistate Outbreak of Salmonella Poona Infections Linked to Imported Cucumbers
Posted October 6, 2015 4:00 PM ET
What's New?
- Since the last update on September 29, 2015, 61 more ill people have been reported from 24 states. Given the 14-day shelf life of cucumbers and the gap between when someone gets sick and when that illness is reported to public health, it is not unexpected to continue to see illnesses reported after the recalls.
- A death has been reported from Oklahoma, bringing the total number of deaths to four.
- Maryland was added to the list of states with ill people, bringing the total number of states to 35.
Monday, October 5, 2015
Company Issues Another Recall for Green Beans After Listeria Positive Sample is Detected
Cascadian Farms, an organic division of General Mills, is recalling frozen green beans after a product sample was found to be positive for Listeria. This comes after Cascadian Farms issued a recall back in August for product produced in 2014 when that product was found to be positive for Listeria.
Proper cooking of the green beans by the consumer will eliminate the Listeria, but there is a concern that people will not follow cooking instructions. There have been no illnesses associated with this product.
The most likely source of Listeria contamination is in the processing environment. Generally, green beans are blanched by the processor before freezing. This blanching would eliminate the organism. however, Listeria is problematic in that it can establish itself within moist, cool processing environments such as those used to make green beans. Facilities work to prevent Listeria contamination through following practices such as good sanitation, controlling movement in and out of more critical areas (post blanch - freezing - packaging), and then monitoring those areas.
Freezing the product does not allow the organism to grow, but freezing will not eliminate it.
Wall Street Journal Business
http://www.wsj.com/articles/general-mills-recalls-another-batch-of-green-beans-due-to-listeria-1443815248
General Mills Recalls Another Batch of Green Beans Due to Listeria
Company says it found a pack of Cascadian Farm Cut green beans with listeria; it had seen another in August
By Josh Beckerman Oct. 2, 2015 3:47 p.m. ET
General Mills Inc. GIS 0.39 % is voluntarily recalling a small amount of frozen Cascadian Farm Cut Green Beans after a package tested positive for listeria, the second listeria-related recall for this brand of green bean this year.
The recall involves green beans produced on one day in June and is limited to 16-ounce bags with a “Better If Used By” date of 29JUNE2017.
General Mills said no related illnesses have been reported.
Proper cooking of the green beans by the consumer will eliminate the Listeria, but there is a concern that people will not follow cooking instructions. There have been no illnesses associated with this product.
The most likely source of Listeria contamination is in the processing environment. Generally, green beans are blanched by the processor before freezing. This blanching would eliminate the organism. however, Listeria is problematic in that it can establish itself within moist, cool processing environments such as those used to make green beans. Facilities work to prevent Listeria contamination through following practices such as good sanitation, controlling movement in and out of more critical areas (post blanch - freezing - packaging), and then monitoring those areas.
Freezing the product does not allow the organism to grow, but freezing will not eliminate it.
Wall Street Journal Business
http://www.wsj.com/articles/general-mills-recalls-another-batch-of-green-beans-due-to-listeria-1443815248
General Mills Recalls Another Batch of Green Beans Due to Listeria
Company says it found a pack of Cascadian Farm Cut green beans with listeria; it had seen another in August
By Josh Beckerman Oct. 2, 2015 3:47 p.m. ET
General Mills Inc. GIS 0.39 % is voluntarily recalling a small amount of frozen Cascadian Farm Cut Green Beans after a package tested positive for listeria, the second listeria-related recall for this brand of green bean this year.
The recall involves green beans produced on one day in June and is limited to 16-ounce bags with a “Better If Used By” date of 29JUNE2017.
General Mills said no related illnesses have been reported.
Friday, October 2, 2015
Study - Removing Pathogens from Produce by Brushing or by Peeling
In this month's Journal of Food Protection, a research article looks at removing pathogens from the surface of produce by brushing and peeling. Celery, carrots, honeydew and cantaloupes were inoculated with high does of pathogens, brushed and or peeled, and then analyzed.
In the end, it comes down to this - if, as in this study, produce is heavily contaminated with pathogens, those pathogen can be difficult to remove with either brushing or peeling, especially once the brushes or peelers become contaminated. But in reality, with very few exceptions where GAPs are not follow, pathogens are absent from produce.
A few of the findings:
A Sparta Brush
In the end, it comes down to this - if, as in this study, produce is heavily contaminated with pathogens, those pathogen can be difficult to remove with either brushing or peeling, especially once the brushes or peelers become contaminated. But in reality, with very few exceptions where GAPs are not follow, pathogens are absent from produce.
A few of the findings:
- "Pathogen removal (either E. coli O157:H7 or Salmonella) was significantly lower from contaminated cantaloupes than from other contaminated produce items". Yeah, it's the rougher surface, so it is going to stick there.
- "Both pathogens could still be detected on all produce items brushed with any of the three brush types suggest that contamination of the peeler is a likely route for transfer of pathogens from the surface to the internal tissues." Once your cleaning tools encounter contamination, they can spread it.
- "The incidence of contamination for the nylon brush was significantly lower than that for the Sparta brush, which in turn was significantly lower than that for the scouring pad." The harder to clean the brush or pad, the more that it can contaminate.
- "To reduce risk further, consumers should be advised that brushing or peeling under running water may be beneficial for limiting contamination of the utensil and thus the risk of cross contamination to noncontaminated produce items subsequently processed with the same utensil." Keep your brushes and peelers clean.
A Sparta Brush
Journal of Food Protection®, Number 9, September 2015, pp. 1624-1769, pp. 1624-1631(8)
Role of Brushes and Peelers in Removal of Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella from Produce in Domestic Kitchens
Authors: Erickson, Marilyn C.1; Liao, Jean2; Cannon, Jennifer L.2; Ortega, Ynes R.2
Abstract (bulletized)
Friday, September 25, 2015
Cucumber Salmonella Outbreak - Cases Now at 558 with 3 Deaths
CDC's last repost on the Salmonella outbreak associated with cucumbers had the case count at 558, with 112 requiring hospitalization and 3 deaths. This number of cases per day has begun to decrease since the two associated recalls were issued on September 4th and September 11th, however looking at the EPI curve, this duration of this outbreak is close to 3 months.
The cucumbers were said to be imported from Mexico and were then packed by US produce companies for shipment across the county...resulting in illnesses in 33 states.
In 2014, there was a Salmonella outbreak associated with cucumbers from Maryland and in 2013, an outbreak of E.coli O157:H7 associated with slice cucumber on sandwiches.
The pH of cucumbers is approximately 6. While there are limited studies on the growth of Salmonella on cut cucumbers, evidence suggests that there may be a slow increase in numbers when the product is stored at non-refrigerated temperatures. This may compound the primary issue, which is that cucumbers are grown on or near the ground, and if that ground is contaminated, such as occurs when using improperly treated manure as a fertilizer, then that contamination is transferred to the cucumbers (via direct contact, hands, splashing water, little critters, etc) could adhere to the surface of the cucumber. Using contaminated irrigation water can lead to contamination of the cucumbers. Finally, cucumbers can become contaminated during handling and rinsing / hydrocooling. Point source contamination issues in the packing house can spread that contamination to a large number of cucumbers. More study is needed on cucumbers and contamination issues associated with growing, harvesting, storage and consumer handling.
The cucumbers were said to be imported from Mexico and were then packed by US produce companies for shipment across the county...resulting in illnesses in 33 states.
In 2014, there was a Salmonella outbreak associated with cucumbers from Maryland and in 2013, an outbreak of E.coli O157:H7 associated with slice cucumber on sandwiches.
The pH of cucumbers is approximately 6. While there are limited studies on the growth of Salmonella on cut cucumbers, evidence suggests that there may be a slow increase in numbers when the product is stored at non-refrigerated temperatures. This may compound the primary issue, which is that cucumbers are grown on or near the ground, and if that ground is contaminated, such as occurs when using improperly treated manure as a fertilizer, then that contamination is transferred to the cucumbers (via direct contact, hands, splashing water, little critters, etc) could adhere to the surface of the cucumber. Using contaminated irrigation water can lead to contamination of the cucumbers. Finally, cucumbers can become contaminated during handling and rinsing / hydrocooling. Point source contamination issues in the packing house can spread that contamination to a large number of cucumbers. More study is needed on cucumbers and contamination issues associated with growing, harvesting, storage and consumer handling.
Tuesday, September 8, 2015
Cucumbers from California Recalled for Potential Link to Salmonella Outbreak
A California company is recalling cucumbers because these cucumbers might be linked to a Salmonella outbreak. It is reported that there are illnesses in 27 states.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm461382.htm
Andrew and Williamson Fresh Produce Recalls Limited Edition Brand® Cucumbers Because of Possible Health Risk
Contact: Consumer: 619-661-6004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — September 4, 2015— Andrew and Williamson Fresh Produce (“A&W”) of San Diego, California is voluntarily recalling all cucumbers sold under the Limited Edition® label during the period from August 1, 2015 through September 3, 2015 because it may be contaminated with Salmonella.
A&W is currently working with health authorities to determine if, in fact, this product is the source of an outbreak of Salmonella with illnesses being reporting in as many as 27 states.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm461382.htm
Andrew and Williamson Fresh Produce Recalls Limited Edition Brand® Cucumbers Because of Possible Health Risk
Contact: Consumer: 619-661-6004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — September 4, 2015— Andrew and Williamson Fresh Produce (“A&W”) of San Diego, California is voluntarily recalling all cucumbers sold under the Limited Edition® label during the period from August 1, 2015 through September 3, 2015 because it may be contaminated with Salmonella.
A&W is currently working with health authorities to determine if, in fact, this product is the source of an outbreak of Salmonella with illnesses being reporting in as many as 27 states.
Monday, July 20, 2015
Study - Pesticide Levels on Produce Well Below Level for Health Concern
In a recently published study in the Journal of Food Contamination, a UCDavis researcher found that pesticide levels in foods are far below the level of concern for the period 2004 - 2005. 2240 food items were evaluated and that "All estimated exposures to the 77 pesticides were well below the chronic reference dose (RfD) – the EPA’s estimate of the maximum amount of a substance that a person could be exposed to daily without risk of harm over a lifetime".
Takeaways - You can't use pesticides as a reason to avoid eating fruits and vegetables. The health benefit far outweighs any risk.
- The primary reason people buy organic produce is pesticides. Based on this data, is the added cost of organic justified?
Takeaways - You can't use pesticides as a reason to avoid eating fruits and vegetables. The health benefit far outweighs any risk.
- The primary reason people buy organic produce is pesticides. Based on this data, is the added cost of organic justified?
Thursday, February 19, 2015
2014 Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Maryland Cucumbers
In a 2014 outbreak of Salmonella, cucumbers were linked to the outbreak that has resulted in 275 cases of illness. The cucumbers were traced back to a farm on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. While environmental samples were negative, the CDC report states, "Records and interviews indicated that the farm applied poultry litter approximately 120 days before harvest, but it was not available for testing." So there is no definitive answer was found on how the product may have become contaminated.
CDC MMWR
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6406a3.htm?s_cid=mm6406a3_e
Outbreak of Salmonella Newport Infections Linked to Cucumbers — United States, 2014
Weekly
February 20, 2015 / 64(06);144-147
Kristina M. Angelo, DO1,2, Alvina Chu, MHS3, Madhu Anand, MPH4, Thai-An Nguyen, MPH2, Lyndsay Bottichio, MPH2, Matthew Wise, PhD2, Ian Williams, PhD2, Sharon Seelman, MS, MBA5, Rebecca Bell, PhD5, Marianne Fatica, PhD5, Susan Lance, DVM, PhD5, Deanna Baldwin6, Kyle Shannon3, Hannah Lee, MPH3, Eija Trees, PhD2, Errol Strain, PhD5, Laura Gieraltowski, PhD2 (Author affiliations at end of text)
In August 2014, PulseNet, the national molecular subtyping network for foodborne disease surveillance, detected a multistate cluster of Salmonella enterica serotype Newport infections with an indistinguishable pulse-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) pattern (XbaI PFGE pattern JJPX01.0061).* Outbreaks of illnesses associated with this PFGE pattern have previously been linked to consumption of tomatoes harvested from Virginia's Eastern Shore in the Delmarva region and have not been linked to cucumbers or other produce items (1). To identify the contaminated food and find the source of the contamination, CDC, state and local health and agriculture departments and laboratories, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) conducted epidemiologic, traceback, and laboratory investigations. A total of 275 patients in 29 states and the District of Columbia were identified, with illness onsets occurring during May 20–September 30, 2014. Whole genome sequencing (WGS), a highly discriminating subtyping method, was used to further characterize PFGE pattern JJPX01.0061 isolates. Epidemiologic, microbiologic, and product traceback evidence suggests that cucumbers were a source of Salmonella Newport infections in this outbreak. The epidemiologic link to a novel outbreak vehicle suggests an environmental reservoir for Salmonella in the Delmarva region that should be identified and mitigated to prevent future outbreaks.
CDC MMWR
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6406a3.htm?s_cid=mm6406a3_e
Outbreak of Salmonella Newport Infections Linked to Cucumbers — United States, 2014
Weekly
February 20, 2015 / 64(06);144-147
Kristina M. Angelo, DO1,2, Alvina Chu, MHS3, Madhu Anand, MPH4, Thai-An Nguyen, MPH2, Lyndsay Bottichio, MPH2, Matthew Wise, PhD2, Ian Williams, PhD2, Sharon Seelman, MS, MBA5, Rebecca Bell, PhD5, Marianne Fatica, PhD5, Susan Lance, DVM, PhD5, Deanna Baldwin6, Kyle Shannon3, Hannah Lee, MPH3, Eija Trees, PhD2, Errol Strain, PhD5, Laura Gieraltowski, PhD2 (Author affiliations at end of text)
In August 2014, PulseNet, the national molecular subtyping network for foodborne disease surveillance, detected a multistate cluster of Salmonella enterica serotype Newport infections with an indistinguishable pulse-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) pattern (XbaI PFGE pattern JJPX01.0061).* Outbreaks of illnesses associated with this PFGE pattern have previously been linked to consumption of tomatoes harvested from Virginia's Eastern Shore in the Delmarva region and have not been linked to cucumbers or other produce items (1). To identify the contaminated food and find the source of the contamination, CDC, state and local health and agriculture departments and laboratories, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) conducted epidemiologic, traceback, and laboratory investigations. A total of 275 patients in 29 states and the District of Columbia were identified, with illness onsets occurring during May 20–September 30, 2014. Whole genome sequencing (WGS), a highly discriminating subtyping method, was used to further characterize PFGE pattern JJPX01.0061 isolates. Epidemiologic, microbiologic, and product traceback evidence suggests that cucumbers were a source of Salmonella Newport infections in this outbreak. The epidemiologic link to a novel outbreak vehicle suggests an environmental reservoir for Salmonella in the Delmarva region that should be identified and mitigated to prevent future outbreaks.
Monday, January 19, 2015
Vegetable Smoothie Blends and Listeria - Recall and Controlling Risk
A Smoothie Blend is being recalled after Listeria was detected in the spinach and/or kale ingredients used in the blend. There have been no illnesses and the organism has not been detected in the finished product.
The risk associated with vegetable smoothies is that some of the vegetable ingredients may be sources of Listeria. Listeria can contaminate vegetables, such as kale or spinach, at the field level or during storage. The latter can be more of an issue because vegetable storage areas are cool and often damp, which fits the growth conditions conducive to Listeria. With longer storage times, in some cases from one packing season to the next (in order for the processors to make product throughout the year), there may be increased opportunity for Listeria contamination.
Many of these vegetables have been traditionally cooked, and so, long term storage had not been a big issue. But with smoothies, there is no cooling step to eliminate an organism like Listeria. These vegetables are blended in the raw state and then consumed. Additionally, once blended, storage of vegetable matrix could serve to enhance the numbers because the matrix would likely support growth, albeit slowly if stored at refrigeration temperatures.
Blenders may also use frozen vegetables. These vegetables are oaten produced with the intention that they will be cooked (thus they have cooking instructions), but blenders will use them without cooking.
For companies blending smoothies, supplier control is critical. Other control steps in include having a washing/sanitizing step in place prior to blending as well as a strict refrigeration and a tight shelf-life. For consumers who blend raw vegetables - use sound vegetables, wash produce well, and then consume immediately upon blending.
Of course Listeria is not the only pathogen that can be associated with produce. Produce contain bacteria pathogens, such as Salmonella or STEC E.coli, viruses, and parasites. Generally, however, the risk would be considered very low, especially when farmers follow GAP principles.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm430735.htm
Inventure Foods, Inc. Issues Voluntary Recall Of Its Rader Farms® Fresh Start Smoothie Blend, Sunrise Refresh Fusion, And Daily Power Fusion Due To Possible Health Risk
Contact
Consumer: Inventure Foods Customer Service 866-890-1004
Media: Matt Jackson Lambert, Edwards & Associates mjackson@lambert-edwards.com
616-233-0500
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – January 18, 2015 – Inventure Foods, Inc. of Phoenix, Arizona, has issued a precautionary recall of its RADER FARMS® Fresh Start Smoothie Blend, Fresh Start Sunrise Refresh Fusion, and Fresh Start Daily Power Fusion because of a potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.
The risk associated with vegetable smoothies is that some of the vegetable ingredients may be sources of Listeria. Listeria can contaminate vegetables, such as kale or spinach, at the field level or during storage. The latter can be more of an issue because vegetable storage areas are cool and often damp, which fits the growth conditions conducive to Listeria. With longer storage times, in some cases from one packing season to the next (in order for the processors to make product throughout the year), there may be increased opportunity for Listeria contamination.
Many of these vegetables have been traditionally cooked, and so, long term storage had not been a big issue. But with smoothies, there is no cooling step to eliminate an organism like Listeria. These vegetables are blended in the raw state and then consumed. Additionally, once blended, storage of vegetable matrix could serve to enhance the numbers because the matrix would likely support growth, albeit slowly if stored at refrigeration temperatures.
Blenders may also use frozen vegetables. These vegetables are oaten produced with the intention that they will be cooked (thus they have cooking instructions), but blenders will use them without cooking.
For companies blending smoothies, supplier control is critical. Other control steps in include having a washing/sanitizing step in place prior to blending as well as a strict refrigeration and a tight shelf-life. For consumers who blend raw vegetables - use sound vegetables, wash produce well, and then consume immediately upon blending.
Of course Listeria is not the only pathogen that can be associated with produce. Produce contain bacteria pathogens, such as Salmonella or STEC E.coli, viruses, and parasites. Generally, however, the risk would be considered very low, especially when farmers follow GAP principles.
This product, pictured here, is sold frozen. Freezing would prevent growth of Listeria, but once thawed, Listeria would be able to grow.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm430735.htm
Inventure Foods, Inc. Issues Voluntary Recall Of Its Rader Farms® Fresh Start Smoothie Blend, Sunrise Refresh Fusion, And Daily Power Fusion Due To Possible Health Risk
Contact
Consumer: Inventure Foods Customer Service 866-890-1004
Media: Matt Jackson Lambert, Edwards & Associates mjackson@lambert-edwards.com
616-233-0500
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – January 18, 2015 – Inventure Foods, Inc. of Phoenix, Arizona, has issued a precautionary recall of its RADER FARMS® Fresh Start Smoothie Blend, Fresh Start Sunrise Refresh Fusion, and Fresh Start Daily Power Fusion because of a potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
Serrano Chile Peppers Recalled Due to Potential Salmonella Contamination
A North Carolina Company is recalling Serrano Chile Peppers after they received notice that the Michigan Department of Agriculture found a positive Salmonella sample in a lot. No illnesses have been reported.
Salmonella on peppers can be an issue because these peppers are often raw when making fresh salsa. Case in point is the 2008 Salmonella Saint Paul Outbreak where the CDC stated "the investigation showed that jalapeño peppers were a major source of contamination and that serrano peppers also were a source". In this case, it is believed that the diced tomatoes served to support the growth of the Salmonella when that salsa was held at room temperature.
FDA Recall Notice
Bailey Farms Inc. Recalls Fresh Serrano Chile Peppers Because Of Possible Health Riskhttp://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm419894.htm
Contact: Consumer: 1-888-820-2545
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — October 21, 2014 — Bailey Farms, Inc. of Oxford, NC is voluntarily recalling 6,215 pounds of Fresh Serrano Chile Peppers, because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditic and arthritis.
Salmonella on peppers can be an issue because these peppers are often raw when making fresh salsa. Case in point is the 2008 Salmonella Saint Paul Outbreak where the CDC stated "the investigation showed that jalapeño peppers were a major source of contamination and that serrano peppers also were a source". In this case, it is believed that the diced tomatoes served to support the growth of the Salmonella when that salsa was held at room temperature.
FDA Recall Notice
Bailey Farms Inc. Recalls Fresh Serrano Chile Peppers Because Of Possible Health Riskhttp://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm419894.htm
Contact: Consumer: 1-888-820-2545
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — October 21, 2014 — Bailey Farms, Inc. of Oxford, NC is voluntarily recalling 6,215 pounds of Fresh Serrano Chile Peppers, because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditic and arthritis.
Monday, March 31, 2014
Fresh Express Recalls Packages of Salad Due to Listeria
Fresh Express is recalling 10oz and 6 oz packages of Italian Salad due to the potential to be contaminated with Listeria. The product in question is already past its stated expiration date.
There was no information on how the issue was discovered.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm391048.htm
Fresh Express Issues Recall of Limited Quantity of Already Expired Italian Salad Due to Possible Health Risk, No Illnesses Cited
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - March 28, 2014 - Salinas, California – Fresh Express Incorporated has issued a recall of a limited number of cases of 10 oz. and 6oz. Italian Salad with the already expired Use-by Date of March 26 and a Product Code of H071A11A due to a possible health risk from Listeria monocytogenes. No illnesses have been reported in association with the recall and no other Fresh Express products are being recalled.
There was no information on how the issue was discovered.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm391048.htm
Fresh Express Issues Recall of Limited Quantity of Already Expired Italian Salad Due to Possible Health Risk, No Illnesses Cited
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - March 28, 2014 - Salinas, California – Fresh Express Incorporated has issued a recall of a limited number of cases of 10 oz. and 6oz. Italian Salad with the already expired Use-by Date of March 26 and a Product Code of H071A11A due to a possible health risk from Listeria monocytogenes. No illnesses have been reported in association with the recall and no other Fresh Express products are being recalled.
Friday, March 14, 2014
Dole Fresh Vegetables Recalls Bagged Salad Due to Potential Listeria Contamination
Dole Fresh Vegetables is recalled bagged salad product due to the potential to be contaminated with Listeria. The issue was discovered after the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) found Listeria in a single random sample of product. The limited number of cases were shipped to 15 different states and 3 Canadian provinces. No illnesses have been reported.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm389296.htm
Dole Fresh Vegetables Voluntarily Recalls Limited Number of Bagged Salads Due to Possible Health Risk
Contact:
Consumer:
800-356-3111
Media:
William Goldfield
818-874-4647
William.Goldfield@Dole.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - March 13, 2014 - Dole Fresh Vegetables is voluntarily recalling a limited number of cases of bagged salad. The products being recalled are Dole Italian Blend (UPC 7143000819), Fresh Selections Italian Style Blend (UPC 1111091045), Little Salad Bar Italian Salad (UPC 4149811014) and Marketside Italian Style Salad (UPC 8113102780) coded A058201A or B, with Use-by date of March 12, 2014 due to a possible health risk from Listeria monocytogenes. Dole Fresh Vegetables is coordinating closely with regulatory officials. No illnesses have been reported in association with the recall.
The product code and Use-by date are in the upper right-hand corner of the package; the UPC code is on the back of the package, below the barcode. The salads were distributed in 15 U.S. states (Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia) and 3 Canadian provinces (New Brunswick, Ontario & Quebec).
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm389296.htm
Dole Fresh Vegetables Voluntarily Recalls Limited Number of Bagged Salads Due to Possible Health Risk
Contact:
Consumer:
800-356-3111
Media:
William Goldfield
818-874-4647
William.Goldfield@Dole.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - March 13, 2014 - Dole Fresh Vegetables is voluntarily recalling a limited number of cases of bagged salad. The products being recalled are Dole Italian Blend (UPC 7143000819), Fresh Selections Italian Style Blend (UPC 1111091045), Little Salad Bar Italian Salad (UPC 4149811014) and Marketside Italian Style Salad (UPC 8113102780) coded A058201A or B, with Use-by date of March 12, 2014 due to a possible health risk from Listeria monocytogenes. Dole Fresh Vegetables is coordinating closely with regulatory officials. No illnesses have been reported in association with the recall.
The product code and Use-by date are in the upper right-hand corner of the package; the UPC code is on the back of the package, below the barcode. The salads were distributed in 15 U.S. states (Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia) and 3 Canadian provinces (New Brunswick, Ontario & Quebec).
Monday, March 10, 2014
Canned and Frozen Fruits and Vegetables - Cost Effective Nutrition
When you hear anything on proper nutrition, fresh fruit and vegetables are always part of that message. But for many, fresh produce is not always available, or affordable. But what about canned and frozen produce? A recent study shows that canned and frozen are a nutritious and cost effective option, and need to be included in the choices for those families looking to prepare healthy meals.
Are there downsides - sure, some canned foods may have higher sodium levels. There are also impacts on some of the heat sensitive vitamins and other bioactive components....but these will also be impacted by the consumer's handling and preparation practices. However, in a world where the food dollar does not go as far, and we look to become more sustainable, canned and frozen produce are important options.
Medical Daily
Canned Fruits And Vegetables May Be As Nutritious As Their Fresh Counterparts
By Matthew Mientka | Mar 8, 2014 01:30 PM EDT
http://www.medicaldaily.com/canned-fruits-and-vegetables-may-be-nutritious-their-fresh-counterparts-270793
No one can deny the beauty of the native tomato. Yet in feeding a hungry world, canned fruits and vegetables are just as good as fresh or frozen produce, and in some cases even better, according to a new study.
Researchers at Michigan State University found that canned tomatoes deliver more B vitamins as well as lycopene, a carotene loosely tied to a lowered cancer risk. The canning process also makes fiber more soluble in vegetables such as beans, providing a value-added for the food staple.
Canned vegetables offer consumers a more affordable option at 20 percent of the cost of fresh vegetables — and half as much as frozen.
“Canned fruits and vegetables provide high quality nutrition to Americans regardless of income level and geography,” researcher Steven Miller said in a statement. “By increasing accessibility to key nutrients many Americans need, canned foods are a year-round solution to help families prepare healthier, balanced meals.”
Are there downsides - sure, some canned foods may have higher sodium levels. There are also impacts on some of the heat sensitive vitamins and other bioactive components....but these will also be impacted by the consumer's handling and preparation practices. However, in a world where the food dollar does not go as far, and we look to become more sustainable, canned and frozen produce are important options.
Medical Daily
Canned Fruits And Vegetables May Be As Nutritious As Their Fresh Counterparts
By Matthew Mientka | Mar 8, 2014 01:30 PM EDT
http://www.medicaldaily.com/canned-fruits-and-vegetables-may-be-nutritious-their-fresh-counterparts-270793
No one can deny the beauty of the native tomato. Yet in feeding a hungry world, canned fruits and vegetables are just as good as fresh or frozen produce, and in some cases even better, according to a new study.
Researchers at Michigan State University found that canned tomatoes deliver more B vitamins as well as lycopene, a carotene loosely tied to a lowered cancer risk. The canning process also makes fiber more soluble in vegetables such as beans, providing a value-added for the food staple.
Canned vegetables offer consumers a more affordable option at 20 percent of the cost of fresh vegetables — and half as much as frozen.
“Canned fruits and vegetables provide high quality nutrition to Americans regardless of income level and geography,” researcher Steven Miller said in a statement. “By increasing accessibility to key nutrients many Americans need, canned foods are a year-round solution to help families prepare healthier, balanced meals.”
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