This Week in Mislabeled Product for Week Ending April 13, 2019

Forgot to Add Pork to the Venison Sausage Label - Yoakum Packing Co., a Yoakum, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 12,388 pounds of smoked venison sausage that contains pork products that were not represented on the label.  The problem was discovered during routine labeling verification by FSIS on April 10, 2019.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2019/recall-045-2019-release
Yoakum Packing Co. Recalls Venison Sausage Products Due to Mislabeling
Class II Recall 045-2019
Health Risk: Low
Apr 10, 2019

TX 'Marketing' Company Recalls Sandwiches After FDA Tests Positive for Listeria

Great American Marketing Company of Houston, Texas is recalling Ready to Eat Sandwiches, Wraps and Salads after FDA tested and found Listeria monocytogenes on the processing equipment.  Recalls were released on both FDA and USDA websites since this was a dual jurisdiction facility.

These sandwiches appear to be sporting a shelf-life of at least 10 to 12 days based upon the date of recall to the last day that product was shipped.  This would provide sufficient time for Listeria growth at refrigeration temperatures.  (You wonder if people know they are buying / eating a 10 day old sandwich....perhaps the manufacturer is a great marketing company.)

Great American Marketing Company Recalls Ready To Eat Products Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
April 9, 2019

Salmonella Outbreak Associated with Pre-cut Melons

CDC is investigating a Salmonella outbreak that has been linked to precut melons - watermelon, honeydew, and cantaloupe - produced by Cato Foods, LLC.  To date, there have been 93 reported cases of Salmonella infection associated with this product.

Caito Foods recalled the fresh cut watermelon, fresh cut honeydew melon, fresh cut cantaloupe and fresh cut mixed fruit containing one of these melons, produced at the Caito Foods facility in Indianapolis.  The products were packaged in clear, plastic clamshell containers and distributed in sixteen states including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.

Caito Foods had a similar situation last summer where melon product was the source of Salmonella that caused 77 cases of illness.    Facilities packing fresh cut melon product have to have tight controls on washing process.  Facilities also have to work with suppliers.to ensure that bacterial pathogens are minimized through the use of Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) and adhere to the FSMA Produce Rule  In this case, the melons were imported, so these foreign suppliers must be working to meet US standards.  With as much produce as this company is processing, based on extent of distribution, if melons coming in have sufficient contamination and the internal washing systems do not remove the contaminate, that contamination will be passed to the consumer.

FDA Recall Notice
https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm635948.htm
Caito Foods, LLC Voluntarily Recalls Fresh Cut Melon Product Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
April 12, 2019

CDC's Preliminary Investigation Links E. coli Outbreak to Ground Beef

CDC issued a preliminary investigative report that is linking ground beef to the ongoing E. coli outbreak.  In this outbreak, there are now 109 cases with 17 hospitalizations. There have been no cases of HUS.   The last linked illness case started on March 26, 2019

There were no specific supplier, retailer, or brand of ground beef identified at this point.

As we know, there are many out there who undercook ground beef or do not use a valid method to verify cooking (yeah, a thermometer).

CDC - Investigation Notice
https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/2019/o103-04-19/index.html
Outbreak of E. coli O103
Illustration with a microscope and text reading Investigation Notice
Posted April 12, 2019 at 3:15 PM ET

FDA Issues Final Rule on Antimicrobial Hand Sanitizers

FDA released a final rule on hand sanitizers for assurance of effectiveness and safety.  Basically, they listed three benzalkonium chloride, ethyl alcohol (60 to 95 percent), and isopropyl alcohol (70 to 91.3 percent) that can be submitted for evaluation of safety and effectiveness data necessary "to make a determination regarding whether these active ingredients are generally recognized as safe and effective for use in OTC consumer antiseptic rub products." At this time, the FDA does not intend to take action to remove hand sanitizers containing these three active ingredients from the market - "less than 3% of the marketplace will be affected by the issuance of this final rule, as most OTC consumer antiseptic rubs use ethyl alcohol as the active ingredient."

"The following list includes those active ingredients addressed in the 1994 TFM for use in antiseptic hand washes or healthcare personnel hand washes and identified in the 2016 Consumer Antiseptic Rub proposed rule as having inadequate evidence of eligibility for evaluation under the OTC Drug Review for use in an OTC consumer antiseptic rub:

• Benzethonium chloride
• Chloroxylenol
• Chlorhexidine gluconate [2]  
• Cloflucarban
• Fluorosalan
• Hexachlorophene
• Hexylresorcinol
• Iodine complex (ammonium ether sulfate and polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate)
• Iodine complex (phosphate ester of alkylaryloxy polyethylene glycol)
• Methylbenzethonium chloride
• Nonylphenoxypoly (ethyleneoxy) ethanoliodine
• Phenol (equal to or less than 1.5 percent or greater than 1.5 percent)
• Poloxamer iodine complex
• Povidone-iodine 5 to 10 percent
• Secondary amyltricresols
• Sodium oxychlorosene
• Tribromsalan
• Triclocarban
• Triclosan
• Triple dye
• Undecoylium chloride iodine complex"

DA News Release
https://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm635793.htm
FDA issues final rule on safety and effectiveness of consumer hand sanitizers
Action completes a series of actions on the FDA’s review of OTC antiseptic active ingredients
For Immediate Release
April 11, 2019

USDA Posts Guide to Food Product Date Coding

USDA posted a guide for food code dating. With a push to curb food waste, uniformity in how products are coded will help consumers.

The guide can be found here
(https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/19013cb7-8a4d-474c-8bd7-bda76b9defb3/Food-Product-Dating.pdf ) and is copied below.

A few key points:

• Code dating is not required by federal regulations except for infant formula.  (the USDA does require a "pack date" for poultry products and thermally processed, commercially sterile products to help identify product lots and facilitate trace-back activities in the event of an outbreak of foodborne illness)
• FSIS recommends that food manufacturers and retailers that apply product dating use a “Best if Used By” date
• Best By dates are based on quality not safety.

USDA FSIS

Food Product Dating

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/19013cb7-8a4d-474c-8bd7-bda76b9defb3/Food-Product-Dating.pdf?MOD=AJPERES

Food Product Dating
"Best if Used By" is a type of date you might find on a meat, poultry, or egg product label. Are dates required on these food products? Does it mean the product will be unsafe to use after that date? Here is some background information answering these and other questions about product dating.

Ground Beef Recalled After Two Complaints of Hard Plastic

JBS Plainwell, Inc., a Plainwell, Mich. establishment, is recalling approximately 43,292 pounds of ground beef products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically, pieces of hard plastic.  The problem was discovered when the establishment received two complaints of green hard plastic in the ground beef products. FSIS was notified on April 5, 2019.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2019/recall-043-2019-release
JBS Plainwell, Inc. Recalls Ground Beef Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination 
Class II
Recall  043-2019 
Health Risk:Low
Apr 8, 2019 

Are Gluten-free Restaurant Foods Free of Gluten?

A study out of Columbia shows that gluten-free served in restaurants may contain traces of gluten.  According to FDA regulations, for a food to be considered gluten-free, it must have less than 20ppm of gluten.  "The research showed 32 percent of tests revealed detectable gluten in dishes that were supposed to be gluten-free."

Okay, but how reliable is this study?  The results were uploaded by users (diners) onto a portable device that 'may' be capable of detecting gluten below the 20ppm level.  "And most importantly, these results were voluntarily uploaded by users, who may be more likely to share results that show gluten contamination.”

So  really, we don't know what the true percentage of restaurants that are in error of calling their food gluten-free, or if the food is technically gluten-free according to the regulation.

https://www.mailman.columbia.edu/public-health-now/news/study-measures-gluten-gluten-free-labeled-restaurant-food
Chronic Disease, Food Policy and Obesity Apr. 05 2019
Study Measures Gluten in Gluten-Free Labeled Restaurant Food

USDA FSIS Calls Out Washington Post on Misleading Article on Pork Processing

On the USDA webpage, USDA FSIS posted a rebuttal to an article published in the Washington Post on April 3rd titled" Pork industry soon will have more power over meat inspections".

The main stream media loves to spin new initiatives to make it seem like the government and industry seem like they are in cahoots to make the food supply less safe.  But the reality is that our pork supply is safer and Salmonella, while a concern in all raw meats, has not been involved in major outbreaks.    It was good to see that USDA responded to this article to provide balance.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/newsroom/news-releases-statements-transcripts/news-release-archives-by-year/archive/2019/nr-040819-01
USDA’s FSIS Condemns The Washington Post for False Reporting on a Critical Public Health Issue
April 8, 2019

Study Determines via WGS that Product Contamination Issue Actually a Laboratory Cross Contamination Issue

A study in the International Journal of Food microbiology shows that a 2013 Salmonella contamination case, where Salmonella was found in finished chocolate, was determined to be a laboratory cross contamination issue.  Using whole genome sequencing (WGS), researchers matched the product contaminate with an organism from the laboratory.

WGS of contamination cases should become standard practice for commercial laboratories where their findings of a positive sample will result in large value recalls.  Laboratories should have their positive control strains tested as other positive samples recently found.  Additionally, commercial laboratories should already have an aggressive environmental monitoring program.

International Journal of Food Microbiology

Volume 298, 2 June 2019, Pages 39-43
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168160518307785
Whole genome sequencing used in an industrial context reveals a Salmonella laboratory cross-contamination

Outbreak of E. coli O103 - 73 Cases, Source Still Unknown

CDC is investigating an ongoing outbreak of E. coli O103 infection.  To this point, 72 people have become ill in 5 different states.  Eight people have been hospitalized.  While the primary symptom is bloody diarrhea, the infection can progress to cause damage to the kidney, or HUS.  This is a severe complication with loss of kidney function.  There have not been any cases progressing to HUS.

No source has been identified yet.  Historically, outbreaks such as this have been linked to leafy greens such as romaine or spinach, undercooked ground meat, sprouts, and raw flour.

https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2019/s0405-multistate-outbreak-e-coli.html
CDC Investigation Notice: Multistate Outbreak of E. coli O103 Infections

April 5, 2109

Flame Broiled Hamburgers Recalled After Complaints of Foreign Material - Soft Purple Plastic

AdvancePierre Foods, Inc., an Enid, Okla. establishment, is recalling approximately 20,373 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) beef patties (frozen RTE flame broiled beef patties). that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically soft purple plastic.  The problem was discovered on April 1, 2019 after the firm received two consumer complaints regarding soft purple plastic found in the product.

Perhaps someone confused dinosaur for beef.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2019/recall-040-2019-release
AdvancePierre Foods, Inc. Recalls Frozen Beef Patties due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Class II Recall
040-2019
Health Risk: Low
Apr 2, 2019

Stuffed Sandwiches Recalled for Foreign Material in the Form of Semi-Transparent Plastic

J & J Snack Foods Handhelds Corp., a Holly Ridge, N.C. establishment, is recalling approximately 56,578 pounds of stuffed sandwich products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically semi-transparent plastic.  The problem was discovered when the establishment received consumer complaints. FSIS was notified on April 3, 2019.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2019/recall-042-2019-release
J&J Snack Foods Handhelds Corp. Recalls Stuffed Sandwich Products due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Class I Recall
042-2019
Health Risk: High
Apr 5, 2019

This Week in Mislabeled Products for Week Ending April 6, 2019

Mislabeled Soup Results in Allergen Issue - Blount Fine Foods, a Fall River, Mass. establishment, is recalling an undetermined amount of ready-to-eat chicken soup products due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen, the product contains milk, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label. The institutional, frozen “Chicken & Poblano Pepper Soup” items, which were labeled incorrectly as “Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup,” The problem was discovered when the firm received a consumer complaint.  (Production issue  - wrong labels used when packing product...simple mistake, costly error, easy to prevent).

Crust Contains Almond Flour Which was Missed in Design of Label - Little Red Rooster Ice Cream Company, d/b/a NadaMoo! (“NadaMoo!”) announced a limited voluntary recall of approximately 26,000 pints of its Strawberry Cheesecake Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert because they contain an undeclared almond ingredient. The recall was initiated as soon as it was discovered that the pie crust inclusions in the Strawberry Cheesecake product containing almond flour as an ingredient was inadvertently filled into packaging that did not declare that ingredient, potentially exposing consumers to an undeclared allergen.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2019/recall-041-2019-release
Blount Fine Foods Recalls Ready-To-Eat Chicken Soup Product due to Misbranding and an Undeclared Allergen
Class I Recall
041-2019
Health Risk: High
Apr 4, 2019

WA Raw Pet Food Recalled After Testing Finds Listeria monocytogenes

Thogersen Family Farm, a Washington State establishment is recalling raw frozen ground pet food after the State of Washington tested and found the product was positive for Listeria monocytogenes.  While freezing will restrict growth, it does not eliminate it.  And once the food is opened and poured into Rex's bowl, the organism is in the kitchen, on the dog, and on the owner's hands.  And if Rex's owners are older, or have young children, or are immune compromised in some way, they are at an increased risk of illness.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm635396.htm
Thogensen Family Farm Recalls Raw Frozen Ground Pet Food (Rabbit; Duck; Llama; Pork) Because of Possible Listeria Monocytogenes Health Risk
For Immediate Release
April 4, 2019

Tomato Paste Recalled for Potential Can Damage That Can Result in Mold Growth

Conagra Brands, Inc. (NYSE: CAG) is recalling a particular lot of its Hunt’s Tomato Paste No Salt Added six ounce cans after complaints were received for mold.  According to the FDA release,  "After the canning process, the final product could have been damaged, creating the potential for mold.  Conagra Brands became aware of the issue after receiving calls from consumers."

So it appears the can had damage  which provided the opportunity for mold (and air) to get into the can.  Since the product is high acid (low pH), mold is the type type of organism that would be most likely to grow.  The damage does not have to be something that is noticeable, even as small as a pin hole will provide enough for microorganisms to get inside.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm635309.htm
Conagra Brands Announces Recall of a Limited Amount of Hunt’s Tomato Paste Cans Due to Potential Presence of Mold
For Immediate Release
April 4, 2019

CBD Oil - Illegal for Food, Science Largely Unknown

Many entrepreneurial companies have been moving forward on CBD infused food products, but from an FDA stance, these are illegal to sell.  (CBD oil is derived from hemp/no THC.)  It is hard to believe with as many items we hear about including CBD infused gummies, drinks, and other foods.  Unfortunately, many state and local agencies have taken a less stringent stand against use of CBD oil in food and dietary supplements.  Not that the FDA has taken a hard stance on the chemical.  From a Post Star article, "Until last year, there was a federal ban on CBD. Not that the FDA enforced it. Beyond firing off a few letters ordering manufacturers to stop making unproven health claims, the FDA made no efforts to stop commerce. After all, CBD never killed anyone."

A Science News article on CBD oil, it states the science behind the benefits is largely unknown.  It has been approved as a drug to treat epilepsy in children.  But how it works and the impact on the average person...there has not been enough research.

The only clear benefit in food is the mark-up in price.  Adding CBD oil to a food item allows the seller to jack up the price.  And with no standards, it is easy for the amount added to be extremely small to perhaps nonexistent.  So before stopping off to buy your CBP infused smoothie, you may want to think about what you are really buying.  A this point, just expensive, technically illegal, hype.

https://poststar.com/news/national/selling-cbd-in-food-is-illegal-fda-says-so-why/article_f3e378c4-f75d-5667-a83c-d05690ed9d43.html
Selling CBD in food is illegal, FDA says. So why are so many retailers selling it?
Sam Wood Tribune News Service
March 31, 2019

This Week in Mislabeled Product for Week Ending March 30, 2019

Pâté Missing Milk and Soy - Market of Choice, Inc., an Eugene, Ore. establishment, is recalling approximately 1,094 pounds of pork and poultry pâté products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens - The products contain milk and soy, known allergens, which are not declared on the product label.  The problem was discovered when Market of Choice reported to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Oregon Department of Agriculture the undeclared allergens. The FDA notified FSIS, which has jurisdiction over the pork and poultry pate products.

Mislabeling of Chocolate Bars - Theo Chocolate of Seattle, WA is voluntarily recalling 3oz Sea Salt 70% Dark Chocolate bars (UPC 8 74492 00325 8) because they may contain undeclared milk. The recall was initiated after it was discovered that a small number of 3oz Salted Toffee Dark Chocolate bars were mis-labeled with 3oz Sea Salt 70% Dark Chocolate labels and shipped to select distributors, retail stores and consumers. The toffee contains butter, which is a milk allergen, but the 3oz Sea Salt 70% Dark Chocolate label does not declare milk.

Forgot to Put Egg on the Label - Thomas Hammer Coffee Roasters Inc. of Spokane, WA is recalling 15 loaves of Blueberry Bread because it may contain undeclared EGG. There are no expiration dates or lot codes on label and product has a 5-day shelf life.  NO illness has been reported to date.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered during a routine inspection, the product containing EGG was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of EGG.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2019/recall-039-2019-release
Market of Choice, Inc. Recalls Pork and Poultry Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens
Class I Recall 039-2019
Health Risk: High
Mar 30, 2019

Canned Cat Food Recalled After Complaints Received for Rubber Pieces

Nestlé Purina PetCare Company is voluntarily recalling a limited amount of Muse wet cat food Natural Chicken Recipe in Gravy in three-ounce cans due to the potential for product to contain rubber pieces that are translucent yellow with a blue backing.  This may present a potential choking hazard for the cat.  The company became aware of the issue after receiving complaints from pet owners who observed the rubber pieces in the product. Corrective action was taken to prevent use from occurring again.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm634850.htm
Nestle Purina PetCare Company Voluntarily Recalls a Limited Amount of Muse Wet Cat Food Natural Chicken Recipe in Gravy in Three-ounce Cans due to the Potential Presence of Rubber Pieces
For Immediate Release
March 29, 2019

FDA Provides Leeway for Wine Grapes, Pulses, Hops, and Almonds from Produce Rule

FDA provided guidance on relaxing (allow enforcement discretion) from the Produce Rule on commodity items that have unique processing methods. The commodity group include wine grapes (that will be made into wine), hops,(made into beer), pulse crops (the seeds of legumes - dry beans, dry broad beans, dry peas, chickpeas, cow peas, pigeon peas, lentils, Bambara beans, vetches, lupins and pulses nes - which are cooked) and almonds (which are normally roasted).

"The term “pulses” is limited to crops harvested solely as dry grains, which differentiates them from other vegetable crops that are harvested while still green."(the pulses webpage)

National Law Review
https://www.natlawreview.com/article/fda-announces-enforcement-discretion-certain-commodities-related-to-produce-safety
FDA Announces Enforcement Discretion for Certain Commodities Related to Produce Safety Rule
Friday, March 29, 2019

Beef Heel and Chuck Tender Products Recalled for Potential E. coli O157:H7

Aurora Packing Company, Inc., a North Aurora, Ill. establishment, is recalling approximately 4,838 pounds of beef heel and chuck tender products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7,  The problem was discovered during traceback activities following routine FSIS testing. There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2019/recall-038-2019-release
Aurora Packing Company, Inc. Recalls Beef Products due to Possible E. coli O157:H7 Contamination 
Class I Recall
038-2019
Health Risk: High
Mar 26, 2019

Europe - Various Food Safety Issues in the News

In doing a google search on food safety news items, we see that many of the "interesting" stories are coming from other countries other than the US this week.  Reading some of the headlines, it is easy to mistake these outbreaks are closer rather than an ocean away.  I guess in today's 24hr constant news cycle, there needs to be the constant issuance of stories, perhaps helping maintain that narrative that our food is unsafe.  And perhaps it is just a matter of time before we will be reading about an investigation of 2 cases of Salmonella linked to a tofu dish served at a restaurant in India or Pakistan.

Cluster of Listeria Cases Linked in 5 Countries
A linkage has been made between 18 cases of Listeria infections in 5 different countries over 4 years.
"ECDC has identified a microbiological link between an outbreak of nine Listeria monocytogenes ST1247 cases in Denmark and nine additional cases reported between 2014 and 2018 in Estonia (2 cases) Finland (2), France (1) and Sweden (4)."

Denmark Experiencing Rise in Salmonella Chicken Flocks
FSN
"Denmark found Salmonella in 2.7 percent of chicken flocks that lay eggs last year which is above the limit set by the European Commission to qualify for special conditions."

EU report finds limited controls on food sold online
FSN
"Official controls on food sold over the Internet are still limited, according to a report from the European Commission.
Controls of food sold online were limited and mainly focused on registered food business operators. Non-compliances were mostly related to labeling and health claim requirements. Online marketing of dangerous substances as food supplements was found in a few cases."

Snack mix recall expanded as patient count increases in Salmonella outbreak
FSN
"More cases of Salmonella infections have been reported in Norway with a link to imported dried fruit and coconut. Salmonella Agbeni has been detected in several samples of the snack mixes. Salmonella Gamaba was also found in two unopened packages from the same lot."

https://ecdc.europa.eu/en/news-events/multi-country-cluster-listeria-monocytogenes-st1247-five-eu-countries
Multi-country cluster of Listeria monocytogenes ST1247 in five EU countries
news epidemiological update
27 Mar 2019

This Week in Mislabeled Products for Week Ending March 22, 2019

Wrong Chicken Products in Cases - Tip Top Poultry, Inc., a Rockmart, Ga. establishment, is recalling approximately 100 pounds of frozen, fully cooked diced white chicken meat products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens - the products contain soy which is not declared on the product label. The problem was discovered after the firm received a complaint from a customer that they received fully cooked grilled chicken strips instead of fully cooked diced white chicken meat.

Potato Chips Put in Wrong Bag - Better Made Snack Foods of Detroit, MI, is recalling 10-ounce packages of Original Potato Chips because they may contain undeclared milk. The recall was initiated after it was discovered that a package of 10-ounce Original Potato Chips dated 10 AUG 2019 did not contain Original Potato Chips but instead contained Cheddar and Sour Cream Potato Chips which contain milk.

Improperly Designed Label, Misses Milk - Century Snacks, LLC of Commerce, CA is recalling all packages of 3-oz. and 5.75-oz. SNAK CLUB HONEY BLISS NUT MIX due to undeclared MILK.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product containing MILK was distributed in packaging that does not reveal its presence.

Tip Top Poultry, Inc. Recalls Fully Cooked, Diced Chicken Products due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens
Class I Recall
036-2019
Health Risk: High
Mar 23, 2019

First Tailgate? Stonehenge Site of Ancient Pig BBQ

An article in National Geographic details research into sites around Stonehedge where prehistoric pork barbecues were held as part of large social events.   Based on elemental analysis from the pig bones, it appears that travelers came from all over England.

A BBQ cook-off perhaps? 

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/culture/2019/03/stonehenge-pig-roasts-united-ancient-britain
Stonehenge-era pig roasts united ancient Britain, scientists say
A new study of bones discarded after prehistoric barbeques is providing unexpected insight into the first ‘pan-British’ gatherings.
________________________________________
BY KRISTIN ROMEY
________________________________________
PUBLISHED MARCH 13, 2019
A surprising study of leftovers from 4,500-year-old pig roasts reveals that prehistoric ceremonial sites around Stonehenge served as “pan-British” centers that helped bring together disparate populations of Neolithic peoples from across the island for the first time. The study was published today in the journal Science Advances.

FDA Issues Warning Letter to OH Bakery for Being Nasty

An Ohio bakery [located close to Ohio State University by the way] was cited for lots of bad stuff.  As we have seen in recent Warning Letters, bakeries have been slammed for many GMP issues.  The reason for this is that many have not had FDA visits.  They were often inspected only by the State and often viewed as low risk.  As we have learned more about the potential for Salmonella to be in flour and to persist in dry facilities for long periods of time, the risk in bakeries has come more to light.  In this case, the issues with improper cleaning leading to dust buildup is a concern, as well as employee hygiene issues.  Allergens are another concern where multiple allergens may be used.  Finally Staphylococcus is a concern when cream fillings are temperature abused. 

And now we are seeing here where a lack of a food safety plan (HACCP-based) is noted as well.

No Food Safety Plan - "Specifically, you did not prepare, or have prepared, and did not implement a food safety plan for the food manufactured in your central kitchen, such as RTE cream-filled eclair pastries, as required by 21 CFR § 117.126. Based on your operation, when you perform your hazard analysis you should consider hazards including contamination of products with environmental pathogens, such as Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella, and food allergens."

Equipment not food safe - "our investigator observed a stainless-steel mixing bowl with rough welds and dents on the inside of the bowl, which make it a surface that is not easily cleanable and that can harbor pathogens or allergen-containing food debris."

Improper cleaning - Dust build-up was observed 1) on the fan covers of the cooling unit in the quiche freezer, dairy cooler, pastry cooler, and bread freezer  Finished product was stored uncovered in these coolers and freezers); 2)on the blower vent of the air conditioning unit (Racks of bread were stored below the vent to cool); 3) on the air filter bracket above the rotary oven and retail prep area.  Clean pots and containers were stored below this filter.  and 4) on electrical cords and electrical outlets directly above the pastry prep table.

Employee hygiene issues -  1) An employee was observed not wearing a beard net while placing fruit on top of fruit tarts; 2)the employee's shirt was touching some of the tarts; 3) An employee was observed wearing jewelry (a bracelet made of string) while making bread dough. 4) Employees' personal items, including coffee cups and shake containers, were stored under prep tables in the manufacturing areas.  An employee was observed taking a drink of the coffee stored under the prep table and then continued prepping pastries without washing their hands. 5) An employee, who was observed filling eclairs with cream, was handed their cell phone, which was found on the floor, the employee placed the cell phone in their back pocket and continued to fill eclairs with cream, without washing their hands. 6) An employee loading a truck for delivery... picked up a cake from the tray, touched the cake with his fingers, and placed the cake into a box.  The employee did not wash their hands before touching the cake. 

Temperature Control -  Your dairy cooler is used to store dairy products, such as heavy whipping cream, pasteurized liquid egg, milk, pastry cream, chocolate ganache, and sweet dough, all of which are used to manufacture RTE pastries.  You stated you visually inspect the temperature of the cooler (b)(4) and record it on the Cooler and Freezer Temperature record.  From December 31, 2017 to June 2, 2018, your records show 104 out of 153 (b)(4) where the temperature of the cooler was recorded above _____°F, reaching as high as ____°F.

FDA Inspections, Compliance, Enforcement, and Criminal Investigations
Warning Letter
LaMarquise Inc. 2/5/19

Two Recalls Issued After Complaints of Foreign Material in the Form of Metal Pieces

There were two recalls of meat related to foreign material in the product, specifically metal pieces.  In  the recall from the NH establishment, the recall was issued after FSIS inspectors found, through their record review, that the company had received consumer complaints for metal. In the other case, complaints for metal were made directly to USDA.

North Country Smokehouse, a Claremont, N.H. establishment, is recalling approximately 2,686 pounds of ready-to-eat sausage products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically metal,  The problem was discovered on March 18, 2019 by FSIS inspection program personnel during a routine review of establishment consumer complaint records.

Tyson Foods, Inc., a Rogers, Ark. establishment, is recalling approximately 69,093 pounds of frozen, ready-to-eat chicken strip products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically pieces of metal.  The problem was discovered when FSIS received two consumer complaints of extraneous material in the chicken strip products.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2019/recall-037-2019-release
North Country Smokehouse Recalls Ready-To-Eat Sausage Products due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Class I Recall
037-2019
Health Risk: High
Mar 23, 2019

Avocados from CA Recalled After Environmental Samples Positive for Listeria

A California avocado packing house is recalling avocados "due to positive test results on environmental samples taken during a routine government inspection at its California packing facility."  Henry Avocado Corporation is voluntarily recalling California-grown whole avocados sold in bulk at retail stores.

"The recalled products – California-grown conventional and organic avocados -- were packed at Henry Avocado’s packing facility in California and distributed in Arizona, California, Florida New Hampshire, North Carolina and Wisconsin. All shipments from the packing facility are subject to the recall (Henry Avocado did not begin packing there until late January 2019). Avocados imported from Mexico and distributed by Henry Avocado are not subject to the recall and may continue to be sold and consumed."

Is the risk high?  Hard to tell because we don't know whether the avocados themselves were contaminated and if so, to what degree the contaminate on the outside of the avocado would be transferred to the internal flesh.  The concern is that someone making a product like guacamole would not properly wash the avocado and the contaminate would be transferred to the internal flesh as the person sliced and prepared the guacamole.  The potential for growth increases risk as the guacamole is more neutral in pH and would not inhibit growth.  Long storage even at refrigeration temperature also increases risk in that Listeria can grow at refrigeration temperatures albeit slower than if the product were temperature abused.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm634230.htm
Henry Avocado Recalls Whole Avocados Because Of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
March 23, 2019

Pet Food Company Expands Recall for Elevated Vitamin D

Hill’s Pet Nutrition is expanding its recall of select canned dog food products due to elevated levels of vitamin D, an issue that was caused by the same vitamin premix received from a U.S. supplier that was the issue that led to a recall in January.   "Pet Nutrition learned of the potential for elevated vitamin D levels in some of our canned dog foods after receiving a complaint in the United States about a dog exhibiting signs of elevated vitamin D levels. Our investigation confirmed elevated levels of vitamin D due to a supplier error."

From the recall notice, "Following that recall, we conducted a detailed review of all canned dog foods potentially impacted by the vitamin premix with elevated levels of vitamin D. This review included: analyzing consumer complaints; reviewing veterinarian medical consultations; auditing our supplier; and reviewing our own manufacturing and quality procedures. We then did additional product testing to ensure we had taken all appropriate action. Our review determined that there were additional products affected by that vitamin premix, and it is for that reason that we are expanding the recall. Hill’s has received a limited number of complaints of pet illness related to some of these products."

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm634087.htm
Hill’s Pet Nutrition Expands Voluntary Recall of Select Canned Dog Food for Elevated Vitamin D
For Immediate Release
March 20, 2019

USDA FSIS Releases Guidance on Responding to Consumer Complaints for Meat and Poultry Operations

USDA FSIS released a 'best practices' for handling customer complaints for meat and poultry operations.  This was issued after the numerous complaints of foreign objects 

"The purpose of this guideline is to provide industry with reference material on best practices for responding to customer complaints of adulterated and misbranded meat and poultry products.  FSIS developed this document in response to an increase in the number of recalls of meat and poultry products adulterated with foreign materials.  In many cases, the recalling establishments had received multiple customer complaints prior to these recalls." 

By regulation, firms are to notify USDA FSIS if the firm finds the product is adulterated.  So technically, if complaints are received that there is a foreign material, the product is adulterated.  This is to be done within 24hrs.

What are the notification requirements under 9 CFR 418.2? §418.2  Notification.
Each official establishment must promptly notify the local FSIS District Office within 24 hours of learning or determining that an adulterated or misbranded meat, meat food, poultry, or poultry product received by or originating from the official establishment has entered commerce, if the official establishment believes or has reason to believe that this has happened. The official establishment must inform the District Office of the type, amount, origin, and destination of the adulterated or misbranded product. 

Highlights from the document - https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/8d0a0e73-1e6f-424f-a41f-ea942247a5ff/Guideline-for-Industry-Response-Customer-Complaint.pdf?MOD=AJPERES

This Week in Mislabeled Product for Week Ending March 16, 2019

Someone Misses the Fact that Gluten is in Wheat - North Country Smokehouse, a Claremont, N.H. establishment, is recalling approximately 2,601 pounds of pork sausage products due to misbranding,The product has a gluten free claim represented on the front of the label; however, the product contains gluten in the form of wheat.  The problem was discovered on March 11, 2019 when the firm notified FSIS that they received a consumer complaint. [Marketing Dept?]

Soy Missed on Label - Carnivore Meat Company, LLC, a Franklin, Tenn. establishment, is recalling approximately 379 pounds of raw ground beef and pork sausage products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens - the products contain soy.  The problem was discovered on March 12, 2019 by FSIS personnel during a food safety assessment at the establishment.

Inspectors Find that Milk is Not Listed on Label - Choice Canning Company, Inc., a Pittston, Pa. establishment, is recalling approximately 35,459 pounds of chicken fried rice products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, - the products contain milk, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label. The problem was discovered on March 11, 2019 by FSIS personnel during routine label verification.

FDA Issues Recall Notice on Flour Recall for Salmonella

After reports of Pillsbury Flour was issued last week, FDA issued an announcement on March 12th, that Hometown Food Company initiated a limited, voluntary retail-level recall on two specific lot codes of its Pillsbury® Unbleached All-Purpose 5 lb Flour (UPC 51500-22241)because it may be contaminated with Salmonella.  There have been no reports of any illnesses associated with this recall. Product is being recalled out of an abundance of caution.

No specific information was provided on how the contamination was detected.

FDA added the reminder that flour is a raw product - "Flour is made from wheat that is minimally processed. Flour should not be considered a ready-to-eat product. It is an ingredient for baked, fried, and cooked products, and these heating processes ensure the safety of flour with proper handling. All surfaces and utensils should be properly cleaned after contact with flour or uncooked dough or batter. Consumers should wash their hands after handling flour or uncooked dough or batter. Consumers should not eat uncooked dough or batter made with raw flour. If you think you became sick from a food containing flour as an ingredient, please call your healthcare provider."

Hometown Food Company Recalls Two Production LOT Codes of Pillsbury® Unbleached All-Purpose 5lb Flour Due to Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
March 12, 2019

PR Establishment Recalls Breaded Chicken Patty Product Due to Complaint of Piece of Metal

Puerto Rico establishment, is recalling approximately 35,870 pounds of breaded chicken patty products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically pieces of metal,  The problem was discovered on March 11, 2019 after the firm received a consumer complaint from a school that received the product.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2019/recall-031-2019-release
Productos La Aguadillana, Inc. Recalls Breaded Chicken Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Class I Recall 

031-2019
Health Risk:High 

Mar 14, 2019

RTE Meat Snacks Recalled Due to Potential Product Tampering

Monogram Meat Snacks, LLC, a Martinsville, Va. establishment, is recalling approximately 191,928 pounds of ready-to-eat pork sausage products that may be adulterated due to possible product contamination, according to the report, "initiated due to product tampering, following the production process."

No further information is available at this time including how it was discovered.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2019/recall-029-2019-release
Monogram Meat Snacks, LLC Recalls Pork Sausage Products Due to Possible Product Contamination
Class I Recall
029-2019 
Health Risk:High 
Mar 13, 2019 

CDC - 2018 Incident of Botulinum Poisoning from Improperly Home Canned Peas

CDC provided an outbreak report from a June of 2018 incident where three women suffered botulinum poisoning after eating homemade potato salad using improperly processed home-canned peas.

According to the report, the woman's freezer had malfunctioned and so decided to rescue the commercially produced frozen peas by canning them.  HOWEVER, Instead of using a pressure canner, she decided to follow a peach recipe that utilizes a water bath canner, and simply substitute the peas for peaches.  When a jar lost vacuum, she refrigerated it and used that to make the potato salad.

From the report, "The patient who prepared the home-canned peas was a novice home canner. She used a peach preserves recipe with a boiling water technique, replacing the peaches with frozen vegetables. The patient was unaware that low-acid foods (e.g., vegetables) must be canned in a pressure canner rather than a boiling water canner to eliminate C. botulinum spores (1). After the jars cooled, the patient correctly checked for jar seal. One of the jars of peas was not sealed, so the patient covered and refrigerated it, and the family consumed the peas in the potato salad."

The women who had arrived at a hospital 4 hours earlier for evaluation for acute nausea, dizziness, blurred vision, slurred speech, ptosis, thick-feeling tongue, and shortness of breath. Two patients developed respiratory failure, requiring intubation and mechanical ventilation in the emergency department, and the third patient was intubated at 7 p.m. that evening. The combination of cranial nerve palsies and respiratory failure in multiple patients suggested botulism, a paralytic illness caused by botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT), most commonly produced by Clostridium botulinum.

As we know, when you have low acid foods, they must be pressure canned in order to destroy any Clostridium botulinum spores.  In peaches, the acidity is high / ph is low (<4.6) and that prevents the spores from growing, so a high heat treatment is needed.  In peas, a low acid food, the acidity is low and the pH is high (>4.6). In this product, the spores survived the milder heat treatment used in the water bath canning, and when the product cooled down, the spores germinated and grew in the peas, producing the deadly neurotoxin.


https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/68/wr/mm6810a5.htm?s_cid=mm6810a5_e
Notes from the Field: Botulism Outbreak Associated with Home-Canned Peas — New York City, 2018
Weekly / March 15, 2019 / 68(10);251–252

Ground Turkey Recalled After Linked to 5 Cases of Salmonella Infection

Butterball, LLC, a Mount Olive, N.C. establishment, is recalling approximately 78,164 pounds of raw ground turkey products that may be contaminated with Salmonella Schwarzengrund.  FSIS, CDC, and Wisconsin state agencies have been investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Schwarzengrund illnesses involving 5 case patients from 2 states

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2019/recall-030-2019-release
Butterball LLC Recalls Turkey Products Due to Possible Salmonella Schwarzengrund Contamination
Class I Recall 

030-2019
Health Risk: High 

Mar 13, 2019

This Week in Mislabeled Products for Week Ending March 9, 2019

Beef Ravioli Labeled as Chicken with Rice Conagra Brands, Inc., a Milton, Pa. establishment, is recalling approximately 2,871 pounds of chicken and rice products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens - the products may contain milk and wheat, known allergens, which are not declared on the product label. The problem was discovered by the firm after receiving consumer complaints that  bowls of microwave beef ravioli were mislabeled as “chicken with rice & vegetables.”

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2019/recall-025-2019-release
Conagra Brands, Inc. Recalls Chicken and Rice Products Due To Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens
Class I Recall
025-2019
Health Risk:High
Mar 9, 2019

Grocery Stores Report Recall of Flour Due to Potential Salmonella Contamination

According to news reports, two grocery chains are recalling Pillsbury flour in 5lb bags for potential Salmonella contamination. The chains, Publix and Winn Dixie are both in the Southeast US.

FDA has not yet posted a recall on their website, so there is limited information.

Salmonella can be found in flour and becomes an issue when items are undercooked or not cooked (like raw cookie dough) or there is cross contamination in the kitchen when the contaminated flour gets onto ready-to-eat food items.

http://www.fox13news.com/consumer/publix-winn-dixie-recalls-pillsbury-flour-due-to-salmonella-concern
Publix, Winn-Dixie recalls Pillsbury flour due to salmonella concern
By FOX 13 News staff
Posted Mar 11 2019 05:56AM EDT
Updated Mar 11 2019 07:16AM EDT

One Lot of Organic Bean Sprouts Recalled for Listeria

A Florida establishment is voluntarily recalling Organic Bean Sprouts because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes,  This recall was issued after the Florida Department of Agriculture pulled a sample from a store shelf and found Listeria (we assume).  Product was shipped to Whole Foods Markets in Florida and Freedom Fresh (a Miami distributor) on February 18, 2019 and had a sell by date of February 28, 2019, so unlikely to be in Marketplace.

Like many other recalls involving Listeria where only the tested positive lot is recalled,  these recalls are often expanded as it is discovered that the facility did not have adequate controls in place.  For ensuring public health, recalls of these natures should initially begin with a broad recall unless the company can show that they have had adequate controls in place.   Hard to say in this case, unless over this recall is expanded over the next week.

Fullei Fresh Recalls Organic Bean Sprouts Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
March 8, 2019

FDA Release Guidance on Food Defense - Mitigation Strategies to Protect Food Against Intentional Adulteration

The FDA published a draft guidance for food defense titled Mitigation Strategies to Protect Food Against Intentional Adulteration: Guidance for Industry in support of the Prevention of Intentional Adulteration rule. The draft guidance provides ways to meet the requirements in the rule specifically conducting the vulnerability assessment and putting mitigation strategies in place for ‘actionable process steps’ or APS. These APS are defined as “a point, step, or procedure in a food process where a significant vulnerability exists and at which mitigation strategies can be applied and are essential to significantly minimize or prevent the significant vulnerability”.

To summarize the 159 page document - a Food Defense Plan is essentially conducting a HACCP type of analysis where the goal is to find steps in the process where significant vulnerability exists and to put in measures, or the mitigation strategies’ to reduce the vulnerabilities. These vulnerable points are points where there is access to product where the product can then be contaminated.

There is flexibility in how one conducts a vulnerability assessment, but the guidance provides some basic ways. The elements that must be considered include 1) the potential public health impact (e.g., severity and scale) if a contaminant were added, 2) the degree of physical access to the product; and 3) the ability of an attacker to successfully contaminate the product. The analysis must consider an attack by an insider, a person working in the company. The written assessment must document why each step was considered, or not considered, an APS.

For steps designated as an APS, mitigation strategies are put in place. These strategies may limit access to the step, or may reduce the likelihood that someone can contaminate product at that step. Like critical controls points, each mitigation strategy must have monitoring, verification, and corrective action.

While many may ask about facility wide measures – items such as exterior fencing, employee access to the facility and such – these are not included within the plan unless they can be tailored to impact a specific Actionable Process Step. Sure, they are important, but many have these in place already for other purposes and in reality, they are harder for regulators to regulate.

USDA Issuing Guidelines to Increase Attention to Foreign Material Complaints

Over the past few years, food companies, specifically meat and poultry processors, have issued a large number of recalls related to foreign objects.  Now USDA is issuing guidelines for food companies to respond more aggressively with foreign material complaints.  The USDA wants "food makers to start internal investigations when they receive customer complaints and to notify the government within 24 hours if contaminated products are in the marketplace".

Are foreign material issues an increasing issue?  I would argue that it is not.   Certainly the visibility of these issues is new.  Within the past few years, the Reportable Food Registry and Consumer Complaint portals were introduced and the use has increased.  So while in the past, consumer complaints for foreign materials were received by companies and handled internally without  much federal intervention.  Recalls were issued for serious foreign material issues.  What has changed isn't as much there are more foreign material issues, but USDA is paying close attention.  And much of this started as consumers were able to complain directly to USDA, and with that, inspectors began paying more attention to foreign material issues.  As issues were seen within the complaint records, more recalls were issued.

 Is a more aggressive response prudent? Not being involved directly in these investigations, it is difficult to know exactly.  From the recall notices, it appears that many recalls are issued after one complaint.  But what did the investigation show?   It is important that complaints are well investigated before wasting resources on a recall.  I have seen where complaints were made by consumers in order to get a replacement product (free product).  There were other cases where the consumer improperly cut the package with a part of that package unknowingly falling into the product only to be viewed by the consumer as a foreign object.  People have assumed the food was a source of a foreign object when that food was used in a recipe. 

Perhaps some of us come from a different era that when we found a piece of plastic in a food item, we accepted that as 'something that can happen', and threw the piece of plastic out.  Not saying that is right and that food companies should do a better job, but if no injury than no foul.

We are already seeing people pay less heed to recalls.  As we add more and more recalls to the weekly list, it is bound to increase the consumer ambivalence.  So at the very least, time should be allowed for an investigation and companies should be allowed input on the determination of whether the recall is necessitated.  In the end, they will pay for the real issues.

https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/new-food-safety-guidelines-expected-after-spike-meat-poultry-recalls-n979161
New food safety guidelines expected after spike in meat and poultry recalls
More food prepared by machines contributes to more parts breaking off and contaminating food, consumer advocates say.
March 4, 2019, 5:53 PM EST
By Reuters

Washington State Firm Recalls Ground Beef Chubs After Complaint of Hard Plastic

WASHINGTON, March 2, 2019 – Washington Beef, LLC, a Toppenish, Wash. establishment, is recalling approximately 30,260 pounds of ground beef chubs products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically hard plastic and metal.  The problem was discovered by a consumer complaint to the company on February 28, 2019.  There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products.

https://origin-www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2019/recall-024-2019-release
Washington Beef, LLC Recalls Ground Beef Products due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination 
Class I Recall 
024-2019 
Health Risk:High 
Mar 2, 2019 

Salmonella Outbreak Associated with Tahini Appears to Be Over

As of February 27, 2019, FDA and CDC are saying that the multistate outbreak of Salmonella Concord illnesses linked to tahini imported from an Israeli manufacturer, Achdut Ltd., located in Ari’el, Israel appears to be over.  In all, there were 8 cases of salmonellosis. 

February 8 Update
https://pennstatefoodsafety.blogspot.com/2019/02/fda-investigating-multistate-salmonella.html

FDA Investigated a Multistate Outbreak of Salmonella Concord Linked to Tahini Produced by Achdut Ltd.
Update: February 27, 2019

Case Counts
Total Illnesses: 8
Hospitalizations: 0
Deaths: 0
Last illness onset: April 21, 2018 to January 3, 2019
States with Cases: HI (1), MA (1), MI (1), NY (5)

This Week in Mislabeled Products for Week Ending March 2, 2019

Sulfites Missing from Label - Joy Gourmet Foods Inc. of Maspeth, NY is recalling its Joy Brand Chutneys and Pastes products because they contain undeclared sulfites.  The recall was initiated after a routine inspection by a United States of America Food and Drug Administration(FDA) Food Inspector, which revealed that the sulfites containing product was distributed in packages that did not declare their presence.  [Label design issue - failure to recognize sulfites, used to protect against fruit oxidation/discoloration, need to be on the label...may have been using more a processing aid).

Ingredients Listed for Wrong Salad Dressing - Russ Davis Wholesale – Crazy-Fresh, an Eagan, Minn. establishment, is recalling approximately 702 pounds of chicken Caesar salad products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the product contains milk and anchovies, known allergens, which are not declared on the product label. The problem was discovered on February 24, 2019, when FSIS was notified that the establishment discovered the misbranding of product while performing a label review.  [Clearly a design issue...this one gets chalked up as a marketing department error or the nutritionist]

Cashews in Marinara Sauce - B&G Foods announced today it is voluntarily recalling 1,280 cases of a single date code of 40 oz. Victoria Marinara Sauce, with a “best by” date of 03/06/2022, after learning that the product may contain cashew allergens that are not declared on the product’s ingredient statement. B&G Foods discovered this issue when it received one consumer complaint alleging a cashew allergic reaction. B&G Foods initiated the recall of this product based on the results of its investigation and testing that indicated the possible presence of cashew allergens in up to 1,280 cases of this product with this particular “best by” date. [Looks to be an improper line clean-out]

Wrong Bag for Pretzels - Utz Quality Foods, LLC., is voluntarily recalling a specific expiration date code of Bachman® 10 oz Twist Pretzel packages due to undeclared milk. This recall was initiated after reviewing production records which identified a small number of packages were mislabeled.


https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm632223.htm
Joy Gourmet Foods LLC Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Sulfites
For Immediate Release
February 27, 2019

FDA Issues Warning Letters to Two Egg Facilities - NY and AL

FDA issued Warning Letters to two different egg production facilities with a focus on inadequate controls for Salmonella enteriditis.  For one of the facilities, the investigation came after a Salmonella outbreak.

Our handling and cooking of eggs has become dependent on egg farmers controlling Salmonella in their flocks.  We generally eat eggs with minimal cooking (over easy, poached, or we go Rocky), but there is a risk.  For facilities with good controls in place, the Salmonella risk is minimal, but for those farms that don't have good controls, Salmonella can be present in the eggs.

Gravel Ridge Farms, Alabama - Because of a Salmonella outbreak associated with eggs in September, FDA conducted an inspection of egg facility in Alabama.  The issues were:

• There was not control program for Salmonella Enteritidis (SE).
• Inadequate cleaning to prevent cross contamination.
• There were no biosecurity measures in place
• There was no pest control program
• They did not clean the facility to remove pest harborage sites.

In the Notice it was noted that the facility was shut down by owners with no plans on reopening.

FDA issued a warning letter to  Pitcher Road Farm of Ovid, NY, 14521 after an inspection that took place from August 1 through August 2, 2018.  The farm had failed to implement thier SE plan including not testing the environment for SE or implementing measures for preventing cross contamination.

Cincinnati District Office
6751 Steger Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45237
Telephone: (513) 679-2700
FAX: (513) 679-2772

February 12, 2019

WARNING LETTER 566836

Bagged RTE Green Beans and Squash Recalled After Supplier Test Reveals Listeria

Southern Specialties Inc. of Pompano Beach, Florida is voluntarily recalling select bags of Marketside brand green beans and butternut squash because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.  This recall was voluntarily issued after a raw material supplier notified the company that it was issuing a recall after a routine test of a food contact surface tested positive for the bacterium. As a precautionary measure, Southern Specialties is recalling all products that were repacked at its facility on the same repacking line as the supplier’s product.

The bagged product is labeled as a fresh ready-to-eat product.  It would be sold refrigerated.

The statement said that "Although most of the product was retrieved before distribution to retail stores, some product shipped on February 17th may have reached select stores in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia."

Southern Specialties is a vertically integrated produce company with operations in North, South, and Central America.  They have a network that can supply fresh bagged produce year round.  Produce would be washed prior to packaging in bags to be labeled as RTE.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm632027.htm
Southern Specialties Voluntarily Recalls Bagged Green Beans and Butternut Squash Distributed in Southeast because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
February 25, 2019

FDA Releases Report on Strategy for Imported Food

FDA released a report on their strategy for ensuring the safety of food imported into this country.  Full report can be found here.

First, a few facts

• There is a continued 15 year trend of increasing importation of food 
• Annually, the US imports:
• 32 percent of the fresh vegetables, 
• 55 percent of the fresh fruit, and 
• 94 percent of the seafood 
• US imports food from more than 200 countries or territories and approximately 125,000 exporting food facilities plus farms
• In 2019, between 14 and 15 million shipments of imported food are expected to enter the United States
• Mexico accounts for the largest percentage of shipments followed by Asia.

FDA applies the same U.S. food safety requirements to all food consumed in the United States, regardless of whether the facility or farm that produces the food is located within the United States or half way across the globe.  But the strategy for overseeing this is different than for domestic product.  Much of this is based upon a risk based approach with focus on highest risk items with a continued optimization of the process.  It also utilizes partnerships as well as pre-approvals.

GOAL 1: Food Offered for Import Meets U.S. Food Safety Requirements

Objectives

1. Optimize use of foreign inspections
2. Ensure importer use of verified foreign suppliers through effective implementation of the Foreign Supplier Verification Programs final rule
3. Take into account the public health assurances of reliable audits such as those issued under FDA’s Accredited Third-Party Certification Program or pursuant to other assurance programs aligned with FDA food safety requirements
4. Incentivize importers to use verified suppliers of safe food through the Voluntary Qualified Importer Program
5. Leverage the oversight efforts of regulatory counterparts with strong food safety systems
6. Increase awareness of and training on food safety requirements and strengthen the capacity of foreign suppliers to produce safe food

GOAL 2: FDA Border Surveillance Prevents Entry of Unsafe Foods

Objectives

1. Continue to enhance and refine FDA’s import screening and entry review processes
2. Optimize use of physical examination and sampling of imported food
3. Strategically utilize import alerts and import certifications
4. Improve testing methodologies and tools used to determine admissibility of food offered for import
5. Maximize the benefit to border surveillance from state and other partnerships

GOAL 3: Rapid and Effective Response to Unsafe Imported Food

1. Maximize effectiveness of FDA response to an event involving an imported food
2. Enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of imported food safety recalls
3. Use information-sharing opportunities to prepare for and respond to the entry of unsafe imported food

GOAL 4: Effective and Efficient Food Import Program

1. Optimize resource allocation by developing a comprehensive global inventory of food facilities and farms and assessing the cumulative oversight applied to the global inventory
2. Ensure effectiveness of import activities through performance assessment and continuous improvement