Will Non-Chicken Chicken Nuggets Win the Day?

Impossible Chicken Nuggets (chicken nuggets without the chicken) were launched this week. These plant based products were said to be preferred by consumers (7 out of 10).  According to an article in Food Dive, "The nuggets are soy-based with sunflower oil, and do not use any of Impossible Foods' plant-based heme — the company's signature ingredient that gives meat its distinctive taste. They also do not use titanium dioxide, a controversial and common whitening ingredient. Impossible Chicken Nuggets have 40% less saturated fat and 25% less sodium than animal-based chicken nuggets, the company says."

But of course, one can bread and fry most anything and make it taste good, including egg plant and squid.

Buisnesswire
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210907005327/en/Impossible-Foods-Surpasses-Animal-Meat-With-Impossible%E2%84%A2-Chicken-Nuggets-Made-From-Plants/
Impossible Foods Surpasses Animal Meat With Impossible™ Chicken Nuggets Made From Plants

Who Knew? The Film the Forms on the Surface of Hot Tea

Have you ever made a cup of hot tea and observed a film form on the surface?  I always thought it was just some waxy material from the tea leaves.  No.  It has to do with calcium carbonate from the hard water used to make the tea reacting with components of the tea.  What a great conversational item during your tea break.    Lift you pinkie and do your best Cliff Clavin impression.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PQS2q1328M

Tea Time Gets Flavor Boost from Thin Film, Impure Water - AIP Publishing LLC
Tea Time Gets Flavor Boost from Thin Film, Impure Water
SEPTEMBER 7, 2021
PHYSICS OF FLUIDSNEWS
SHARE:
From the Journal: Physics of Fluids
Link to article: Black tea interfacial rheology and calcium carbonate
DOI: 10.1063/5.0059760

FDA Warning Letter - Food Companies Failing to Comply with FSVP for Imported Food Products

Two food importers were issued Warning Letters for failure to implement FSVP for the products these companies were importing.  The FSVP regulation requires that importers perform certain risk-based activities (a hazard analysis and appropriate approval and verification activities) to verify that human and/or animal food they import into the United States has been produced in a manner that meets applicable U.S. food safety standards.

As we often see, importers and companies who purchase importers are often unaware of these requirements.  Penn State and other trainers provide FSPCA's FSVP training, a two day event that covers the requirements of the regulation.

Akshar Sales, LLC, of Fremont, CA

While the foreign supplier provided a hazard analysis obtained for imported Chai Biscuits and Fruit Biscuits and Vermicelli, the importer did not provide documentation that these were reviewed and assessed  2) The company did not approve foreign suppliers on the basis of an evaluation of the foreign supplier’s performance and the risk posed by the food 3) The company did have not established written procedures for approving foreign suppliers for any of your imported foods.4) the importer did not document a determination or performance of appropriate supplier verification activities, did not establish written procedures for ensuring that appropriate supplier verification activities,  did not document the determination of the appropriate supplier verification activity, and did not document (or obtain documentation of) performance of one or more of the supplier verification activities

Garden Fresh Market of Buffalo Grove, IL 
The company did not develop, maintain, and follow an FSVP as required for imported pickled tomatoes, pickled tomatoes and cucumbers, and half sour pickles.  The company indicated that they were not planning to import any further product.


FDA Warning Letter
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/akshar-sales-llc-615274-08162021
Akshar Sales LLC
MARCS-CMS 615274 — AUGUST 16, 2021

Carrot Cake Recalled for Undeclared Allergens

The Baking Institute Bakery Co. of Northbrook, Illinois is recalling “Carrot Cake” because it may contain undeclared walnuts, coconut, and milk.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product containing walnuts, coconut and milk was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of walnut, coconut and milk. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company's production and packaging processes.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/baking-institute-bakery-co-issues-allergen-alert-undeclared-walnuts-coconuts-and-milk-carrot-cake
The Baking Institute Bakery Co. Issues Allergen Alert on Undeclared Walnuts, Coconuts and Milk in “Carrot Cake”
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  September 02, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  September 02, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Bakery Product/Mix
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared walnuts, coconuts and milk
Company Name:  Nicotine Nirvana
Brand Name:  The Baking Institute Bakery Co.
Product Description:  Carrot Cake

Crab Cake Meal Recalled for Undeclared Milk

Weis Markets is recalling its in-store $7 Crab Cake Meal for undeclared milk allergen on its label. The issue was discovered during a routine inspection.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/weis-markets-issues-allergy-alert-7-crab-cake-meal-due-undeclared-milk-allergen
Weis Markets Issues an Allergy Alert for $7 Crab Cake Meal Due to Undeclared Milk Allergen
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  September 02, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  September 02, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages Shellfish
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk
Company Name:  Weis Markets
Brand Name:  Weis Markets
Product Description:  Crab Cake Meal

Allergen Free Tiger Nut Flour Gains Popularity as Wheat Flour Alternative

Tiger nut flour is gaining popularity as an gluten-free alternative to wheat flour. Actually, it is not a nut either, so it is allergen free. So what is tiger nut flour?

Tiger nut or chufa is a tuber from the plant Cyperus esculentus. This tuber is ground and sifted to produce a flour said to have favorable characteristics. Chufa is an ancient food source originating in the Eastern Hemisphere, primarily Africa. In the Western Hemisphere, it has been considered an invasive weed in certain areas.

"Tiger nut flour is rich in calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, iron and zinc, vitamins C and E and folic acid, as well as unsaturated fats and proteins. It is low in carbohydrates, which makes it ideal for Paleo and Ketogenic diets, and is high in fiber and antioxidants."

"Tiger nut flour is ideal for gluten-free, grain-free, nut-free, vegan, keto and paleo diets and can be cooked, baked or fried. While the moist, chewy texture is ideal for a number of applications and recipes, the milky sugary taste is perfect for baked goods as well as sweet breads and tart shells and can be used to add ‘bulk’ to no-bake treats."

And you can even make beer from Chufa.

Forbes
https://www.forbes.com/sites/daphneewingchow/2021/08/31/five-reasons-why-tiger-nut-flour-is-the-trendiest-alternative-flour/
Five Reasons Why Tiger Nut Flour Is The Trendiest Alternative Flour

Tiger nut (or chufa nut) flour, which is ground from tubers that grow on the yellow nutsedge plant, is gaining popularity globally as the perfect substitute for wheat flour, given its gluten-free properties, its status as a super food and its natural sweet taste. The flour, which is made by grinding tiger nut tubers and sieving the powder through a fine screen, acts like almond flour, adding moisture and chewiness but with a sweeter taste.

Orange Biscuits Recalled After NY State Ag Detects Undeclared Milk Allergen

KBF Inc. of Astoria, NY, is recalling its 8.11 ounce packages of “Banoful Top Orange Biscuit” food treats because they may contain undeclared milk allergens.  The recall was initiated after routine sampling by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors and subsequent analysis by Food Laboratory personnel revealed the presence of undeclared milk allergens in the 8.11 ounce packages of “Banoful Top Orange Biscuit” which did not declare a milk ingredient on the label.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/kbf-inc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-milk-allergens-banoful-top-orange-biscuit
KBF Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk Allergens in Banoful Top Orange Biscuit
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 25, 2021
FDA Publish Date: August 31, 2021
Product Type: Food & Beverages Snack Food Item
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk
Company Name:  KBF Inc.
Brand Name:Banoful
Product Description: Banoful Top Orange Biscuit

Cherry Butter Product Recalled for Undeclared Milk Allergen

Rocky Top Farms of Ellsworth, MI, is recalling its 10-ounce jars of "Cherry Butter" fruit butter because they may contain undeclared milk.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the milk containing product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of milk.  (Wrong label on product?)  Production of the product has been suspended until FDA and the company are certain that the problem has been corrected.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/rocky-top-farms-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-milk-cherry-butter
Rocky Top Farms Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in “Cherry Butter”
Summary
Company Announcement Date:   August 26, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 30, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Fruit/Fruit Product
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk
Company Name:  Rocky Top Farms
Brand Name:  Rocky Top Farms
Product Description: Cherry Butter

NJ Company Recalls Deli Meat After CDC Links Product to Salmonella Outbreak

Fratelli Beretta USA, Inc., a Mount Olive, N.J. establishment, is recalling approximately 862,000 pounds of uncured antipasto products after CDC linked that product to an outbreak of Salmonella from two strains - Salmonella Infantis and/or Salmonella Typhimurium,

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fratelli-beretta-usa-inc.-recalls-ready-eat-uncured-antipasto-meat-products-due
Fratelli Beretta USA, Inc. Recalls Ready-to-Eat Uncured Antipasto Meat Products Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination

FRATELLI BERETTA USA, INC.

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Aug. 27, 2021 – Fratelli Beretta USA, Inc., a Mount Olive, N.J. establishment, is recalling approximately 862,000 pounds of uncured antipasto products that may be contaminated with Salmonella Infantis and/or Salmonella Typhimurium, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

UK - Intentional Contamination - Man Arrested After Injecting Food At London Markets

A 37 year old man was arrested after he was found to have been injecting food items using a hypodermic needle. The contents of the needle are reported to be blood.    The man is reported to be a lawyer / solicitor.

"Following the incident, Hammersmith and Fulham Council advised shoppers to throw away anything bought from the three shops late on Wednesday."  

Blimey, what if you had purchased a delicious steak?  Am I supposed to just throw it away?  No refund?  (Blimey - English term used to express surprise, alarm and even excitement.)

https://www.mylondon.news/news/local-news/fulham-man-leoaai-elghareeb-37-21413947
Fulham man Leoaai Elghareeb, 37, charged with contaminating food in West London supermarkets
He is due before Westminster Magistrates’ Court today
ByAlexander Britton & Chay Quinn, PADavid FlettMax Channon
01:10, 27 AUG 2021

FDA Issues Warning for Products From WA Fish Processor After Listeria Positive Environmental Samples

FDA issued a Public Health Alert on fish products manufactured by Felix Custom Smoking of Monroe, Washington.  Felix Custom Smoking is the company that manufactured Loki Smoked Salmon which was recalled earlier in the week.  "The FDA is advising consumers not to eat any of Felix’s products or products processed by Felix and to discard any remaining products they may have purchased in the past due to possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination."

The Listeria issue was identified when environmental samples collected during an FDA inspection were determined to be positive for Listeria monocytogenes.  Some of positive environmental samples were from food contact surfaces. "The FDA detected the pathogen Listeria monocytogenes and other strains of Listeria during an inspection at Felix Custom Smoking that began on July 19, 2021 and is still ongoing. As part of the inspection, on July 19, 2021, the FDA collected environmental samples from the firm which consisted of 104 samples from direct food contact surfaces and areas near direct food contact surfaces. Laboratory analysis shows that of the 104 samples collected, 19 tested positive for the pathogen Listeria monocytogenes and four tested positive for other strains of Listeria. Of the 19 samples that were positive for Listeria monocytogenes, five were collected from food contact surfaces."


https://www.fda.gov/food/alerts-advisories-safety-information/public-health-alert-concerning-possible-listeria-contamination-felix-custom-smoking-seafood-products
Public Health Alert Concerning Possible Listeria Contamination of Felix Custom Smoking Seafood Products
August 27, 2021

Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Fratelli Beretta Uncured Antipasto Trays

CDC has linked the Salmonella outbreak to Fratelli Beretta brand of prepackaged Uncured Antipasto trays.  The outbreak, fist reported by CDC on 8/24/21, has caused 36 cases of illness with 12 hospitalizations.

https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/italian-style-meat-08-21/index.html
Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Italian-Style Meats
Posted August 26, 2021

Fast Facts
Illnesses: 36
Hospitalizations: 12
Deaths: 0
States: 17
Recall: No
Investigation status: Active
Cold smoked meat plate with pork chops, prosciutto, salami and bread sticks

Raw Pet Food Recalled Due to Detection of Listeria and Salmonella

Top Quality Dog Food of Hyattsville, MD is recalling “Beef HVM” 1-pound packages due to the potential of Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes.  The contamination was noted after a state surveillance sample revealed the presence of Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, in some 1-pound. packages of Beef HVM. The remaining “Beef HVM” batch in our possession has been quarantined and we have discontinued the distribution of this batch while FDA and our company continue their investigation as to the source of the contamination.  No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with the “Beef HVM” 1-pound packages in question.

It is raw meat-based product with no HPP (high pressure processing) or heat process.  So yes, pathogens are going to be present.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/top-quality-dog-food-recalls-batch-beef-hvm-1-pound-packages-lot-number-071521-because-possible
Top Quality Dog Food Recalls Batch Of “Beef HVM” 1-Pound Packages with Lot Number 071521, Because of Possible Salmonella, Listeria Monocytogenes Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 26, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 26, 2021
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Salmonella & Listeria monocytogenes contamination
Company Name:  Top Quality Dog Food
Brand Name:  Top Quality Dog Food.com
Product Description:  Beef HVM

Bloody Mary Mix Recalled Due to Missing Allergens Contained in the Worcestershire Powder

Jimbo’s Kitchen, DBA New England Cupboard is recalling Jimbo’s Bloody Mary Mix because it contains undeclared soy, wheat and sulfites.  On the back label of the finished product, the ingredients list for Worcestershire Powder did not have all the sub-ingredients listed (e.g., corn syrup solids, salt, caramel color, garlic, sugar, spices, soy sauce solids (naturally fermented wheat and soybeans, salt, maltodextrin, caramel color), palm oil, tamarind, natural flavors, sulfiting agents).

How many times has Worcestershire Sauce (in this case powder) led to an allergen recall because somebody does not call out the allergens included in that ingredient.  In this particular Worcestershire ingredient, there is no fish (anchovies), however, there is soy, wheat, and sulfites.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/jimbos-kitchen-dba-new-england-cupboard-issues-allergy-alert-jimbos-bloody-mary-mix
Jimbo’s Kitchen, DBA New England Cupboard Issues Allergy Alert on Jimbo’s Bloody Mary Mix
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 24, 2021
FDA Publish Date:   August 25, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Soy, Wheat, & Sulfites
Company Name:  Jimbo’s
Brand Name:  Jimbo’s Kitchen dba New England Cupboard
Product Description:  Bloody Mary Mix

Smoked Salmon Product Recalled After FDA Testing Detects Listeria

Loki Fish Company of Seattle, Washington is recalling 4 oz. packages of Keta Salmon Lox (UPC code 92103 00111) after FDA testing detected Listeria monocytogenes in a sample(s).   "The possibility of contamination was discovered during the FDA inspection at our co-packer Felix Custom Smoking, of Monroe, Washington in July 2021. Loki submitted samples of the Keta Lox to Micro-Chem Laboratories for testing. Loki has ceased production, sales, and distribution of keta lox immediately and Loki will continue the investigation as to what caused the problem."

Listeria is a risk in packaged of refrigerated RTE smoked salmon due to post process contamination.  That is, after the smoking process, the filets are often sliced and then packaged.  If the post process environment is not cleaned to a point where Listeria is under control, Listeria can contaminate the product, especially if there is additional handling and preparation such as slicing.

This product was packed by another company under a co-packing arrangement, so it is important for the brand owner to ensure that the co-packer has tight Listeria controls.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/loki-fish-company-recalls-keta-salmon-lox-because-possible-health-risk
Loki Fish Company Recalls Keta Salmon Lox Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 23, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 23, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Loki Fish Company
Brand Name:  Loki Fish Co.
Product Description:  Keta Salmon Lox

CDC Investigating Two Salmonella Outbreaks That May Be Linked to Italian-Style Deli Meats

The CDC is investigating two multistate outbreaks of Salmonella infections—one involving Salmonella Typhimurium infections and one with Salmonella Infantis infections, with the likely sources of both outbreaks being Italian-style meats.  As of August 24, 2021, a total of 36 people are reported as being infected with either Salmonella outbreak strain - 23 people with Salmonella Typhimurium  and 13 people with Salmonella Infantis.

"CDC is advising people at higher risk for severe Salmonella illness to heat Italian-style meats to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot before eating."

Salmonella Outbreaks Linked to Italian-Style Meats
https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/italian-style-meat-08-21/details.html
Investigation Details

Posted August 24, 2021

Fast Facts

Illnesses: 36

Hospitalizations: 12

Deaths: 0

States: 17

Recall: No

Investigation status: Active

What to Know About Food Products Labeled as Containing Wild Mushrooms

Research out of Utah found that products claiming to contain 'wild mushrooms' often contain cultivated mushrooms.

Researchers used "DNA barcoding techniques to test what mushroom species made up 16 food products that listed “wild mushrooms” on their labels." "They found 28 species of mushrooms across all 16 food products. Almost all products that claimed to have wild mushrooms consisted of cultivated species, including oyster, shiitake, or portabella mushrooms. Only five products had contents that were accurately described on the label, and some included species that likely have yet to be described in academic literature."

"One packet of dried wild mushrooms from the online retailer contained a species from a group of fungi that includes the “Death Cap,” a notoriously poisonous mushroom known to cause renal failure in humans..... The authors contacted the online retailer to inform them of the potential dangers of the product. As of the paper’s publication, the dried mushrooms are still for sale. " Question - why didn't the researchers contact the FDA????

Regulating the practice of harvesting wild mushrooms is not easy. Much depends on the harvester being able to identify safe edible mushrooms from those that are dangerous, and even deadly.  In the end, much is left to the regulatory authority to determine.

From the US Food Code (2017)
3-201.16 Wild Mushrooms.
(A) Except as specified in ¶ (B) of this section, mushroom species picked in the wild shall not be offered for sale or service by a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT unless the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT has been APPROVED to do so.
(B) This section does not apply to: 
(1) Cultivated wild mushroom species that are grown, harvested, and processed in an operation that is regulated by the FOOD regulatory agency that has jurisdiction over the operation; or
(2) Wild mushroom species if they are in packaged form and are the product of a FOOD PROCESSING PLANT that is regulated by the FOOD regulatory agency that has jurisdiction over the plant.

Chicken Salad and Dip Products Recalled After A Complaint of Foreign Piece of Hard White Plastic

Willow Tree Poultry Farm, an Attleboro, Mass. establishment, is recalling approximately 52,022 pounds of various chicken salads and dip products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically hard white plastic.  The problem was discovered after the company received a consumer complaint and notified FSIS

That is a lot of product to recall, 26 tons, for a complaint of hard white plastic.  To me, this may be a little over the top, unless the company recognized that there was a bigger issue underlying the complaint.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/willow-tree-poultry-farm-recalls-chicken-salad-and-dip-products-due-possible-foreign
Willow Tree Poultry Farm Recalls Chicken Salad and Dip Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination

WASHINGTON, Aug. 24, 2021 – Willow Tree Poultry Farm, an Attleboro, Mass. establishment, is recalling approximately 52,022 pounds of various chicken salads and dip products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically hard white plastic the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

25 Years of HACCP Regulation for Meat and Poultry Operations

USDA issued the Pathogen Reduction/Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (PR/HACCP) in 1995,  25 years ago this summer.  While HACCP systems were in use by larger companies, a large foodborne illness outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 associated with Jack-in-the-Box restaurants served as the impetus for USDA to issue regulations requiring mandatory HACCP for all meat and poultry operations.

At that time, I was the microbiology manager for one of the more notable food laboratories / consulting companies that supported a large number of meat processors.  In this role, we supported companies as they transitioned to HACCP based systems.   What struck me at the time was the number of companies that were more bent on fighting the regulation rather than adopting this risk-based tool that provided a systematic way of identifying and controlling hazards.  Sure there was documentation requirements, but those requirements were never as burdensome as some believed them to be...at least not if they were smart about how it was all managed.  The costs of implementing these systems were often recovered through savings in having better control systems.  But as we see know, the biggest advantage was a drop in foodborne illness cases.  And we probably don't know the real reduction since our capability of seeing all the cases of illness at that time is nowhere near what it is today.

Still we have room for improvement, no doubt, but the industry has done a tremendous job in reducing foodborne illness levels.   We need to recognize those that work hard each day carrying out their tasks to support their HACCP requirements...including sanitation, processing, quality, and laboratory.


https://www.fsis.usda.gov/news-events/news-press-releases/reflecting-25-years-haccp
Reflecting on 25 Years of HACCP

JACK CONNOLLY, DIGITAL AND EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS STAFF

This year marks 25 years since FSIS issued its landmark final rule, “Pathogen Reduction/Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (PR/HACCP),” issued in the summer of 1996.

“Food safety is an ever-evolving process,” said FSIS Administrator Paul Kiecker, who began his Agency career as an inspector in a food processing establishment. “HACCP marked a dramatic change in food safety and how FSIS approached its mission of keeping food safe and role of inspecting processing establishments,” said Kiecker.

FDA Issues Warning Letter To Pet Food Company Associated with Over 100 Pet Deaths

FDA issued a corporate-wide Warning Letter for numerous issues identified during inspection.  The "manufacturing plants revealed evidence of violations, which were shared across multiple plants and were associated with the illness or death of hundreds of pets who had eaten the company’s dry dog food. Samples of dog food were found to contain high levels of aflatoxin"

• Samples of SPORTMiX were later found to contain levels of aflatoxin as high as 558 parts per billion (ppb). The FDA considers pet food to be adulterated if it contains more than 20 ppb of aflatoxin.
• In March, Midwestern recalled several brands of pet food manufactured at its Monmouth, Illinois plant after samples tested positive for Salmonella. The FDA found that Midwestern’s food safety program appears inadequate to significantly minimize or prevent Salmonella in its pet food. 
• After inspecting Midwestern’s Chickasha plant, the FDA also inspected the company’s three other manufacturing plants. These inspections revealed evidence of significant violations of the Current Good Manufacturing Practice, Hazard Analysis, and Risk-Based Preventive Controls for Food for Animals regulation

https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-brief-fda-issues-corporate-wide-warning-letter-company-associated-contaminated-pet-food-hundreds

FDA In Brief: FDA Issues a Corporate-Wide Warning Letter to Company Associated with Contaminated Pet Food, Hundreds of Adverse Events

For Immediate Release:

August 17, 2021

The following quote is attributed to Steven M. Solomon, M.P.H., D.V.M., director of the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine

Buns Recalled After Co-Packer Has Posiive Environmental Samples

Hostess Brands, LLC (“Hostess Brands”) is voluntarily recalling certain Hostess® Soft White Hamburger Buns and Soft White Hot Dog Buns due to the potential for the products to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella. Hostess Brands is recalling the impacted products out of an abundance of caution after becoming aware of this issue from its co-manufacturer, Best Harvest Bakeries, through Best Harvest Bakeries’ environmental monitoring program.

Hard to tell what exactly transpired with this copacker and their environmental sampling program.  Being that the recall was for both Salmonella and Listeria, one may think it was a rapid methodology that may give just a positive result?  This is where it is important to understand the suppliers environmental sampling program...is it accurate with ample verification.  Are third party audits digging deep enough into these testing programs?

Voluntary Recall of Hostess® Hamburger Buns & Hot Dog Buns Due to Possible Health Risks
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 13, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 16, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella
Company Name:  Hostess Brands, LLC
Brand Name:  Hostess
Product Description:  Hamburger and Hot Dog Buns

Tuna Salad Recalled After Mislabeling Results in Undeclared Allergen for Tuna

RMH Foods, LLC in Morton IL is voluntarily recalling 583 cases of Gordon Choice® Deli Style Tuna and Chicken Salads packed in 4lb rigid tubs because of undeclared wheat and tuna allergens.   The recalled product contains tuna salad, but it has two labels. The bottom container states Deli Style Chicken Salad, while the top lid label states Deli Style Tuna Salad.  The chicken salad labeling does not declare the wheat and Tuna allergens that are in the tuna salad. The product is in a white plastic 4lb tub.
The recall was initiated after discovering the incorrect bottom container had been used with the product. This error was confined to one specific product, and one specific lot. Five hundred and eighty-three (583) cases of the product were made. This recall is being made with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

This is a pretty simple error to prevent.  An Allergen Preventive Control would include a regular check of both top and bottom labels.   583 cases at 4lbs per tub would certainly be a few hours to a whole shift of production where nobody was looking at these labels.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/rmh-foods-llc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-wheat-and-tuna-gordon-choicer-deli-style-tuna-and
RMH Foods, LLC Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Wheat and Tuna in Gordon Choice® Deli Style Tuna and Chicken Salads
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 13, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 16, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared tuna and wheat
Company Name:  RMH Foods, LLC
Brand Name:  Gordon Choice
Product Description:  Deli Style Tuna and Chicken Salads

Company Expands Recall of Shrimp Due to Salmonella, Further Processors Using Recalled Shirmp Issue Recalls

Avanti Frozen Foods is expanding its June 2021 recall of frozen shrimp  after discussions with CDC and FDA.  With the expansion of this recall, additional recalls were posted by a company where this shrimp was used as part of RTE foods (sushi and sushi rolls).

This is where following recalls is important, especially where one is using ingredient from a company that just issued a recall.  Until the situation is resolved, it may be in the purchasing company's interest to change suppliers.  In this case, the company making sushi could have switched suppliers until it was clear that the contamination event was identified, clearing other product the ingredient supplier sold.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/avanti-frozen-foods-expands-recall-frozen-cooked-shrimp-because-possible-health-risk
Avanti Frozen Foods Expands Recall of Frozen Cooked Shrimp Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date: August 13, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 13, 2021
Product Type:Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:Potential to be contaminated with Salmonella
Company Name:  Avanti Frozen Foods Pvt. Ltd
Brand Name:  Various: Big River, 365, Seacove, Ahold, Censea, First Street, Meijer and others
Product Description:  Frozen cooked, peeled and deveined, tail on shrimp

Pet Food Company Recalls Product with Elevated Vitamin D Due to Supplier Misformulation

Wet Noses Natural Dog Treat Company of Monroe, Washington is recalling approximately 51,000 packages of Simply Nourish frozen dog food, due to it containing elevated levels of Vitamin D.  The recall was initiated after a routine nutrition test confirmed elevated Vitamin D levels on certain Simply Nourish frozen food products. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem arose as a result of the vitamin mix dosage being significantly reduced by the vitamin mix manufacturer, and this change was not detected or properly communicated. As a result, the dosage was not reduced. 

So it appears the supplier of the vitamin premix did not dilute the Vitamin D properly, so the level was too high.   For pet food manufacturers, a supply chain preventive control should be in place for vitamin premix with a focus on Vitamin D.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/wet-noses-natural-dog-treat-companyr-voluntarily-recalls-simply-nourish-brand-frozen-dog-food-due
Wet Noses Natural Dog Treat Company® Voluntarily Recalls Simply Nourish Brand Frozen Dog Food Due to Elevated Levels of Vitamin D

Summary

Company Announcement Date:  August 13, 2021

FDA Publish Date: August 13, 2021

Product Type: Animal & Veterinary  Food & Beverages  Pet Food

Reason for Announcement:  Due to elevated levels of Vitamin D

Company Name: Wet Noses Natural Dog Treat Company

Brand Name:Simply Nourish

Product Description: Frozen dog food

NJ Company Recalls Cookie Cake For Undeclared Peanut After Mislabeling Issue

Jimmy’s Cookies LLC of Clifton NJ is recalling LOT# 1133 Marketside Chocolate Candy Cookie Cake from certain Walmart stores, because it may contain undeclared peanuts.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the product containing peanuts was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of peanuts. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company's processes.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/jimmys-cookies-llc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-peanuts-marketside-chocolate-candy-cookie-cake
Jimmy’s Cookies LLC Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Peanuts in Marketside Chocolate Candy Cookie Cake Lot# 1133
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 12, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 12, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Bakery Product/Mix
Reason for Announcement:  May contain undeclared peanuts
Company Name:  Jimmy’s Cookies LLC
Brand Name:  Marketside
Product Description:  Chocolate Candy Cookie Cake

Potato Chips Recalled for Undeclared Milk Allergen After Customer Contact

Frito-Lay today issued a voluntary recall of a limited number – 31 bags – of 7 3/4 oz. Wavy Lay’s Original Potato Chips as they may contain undeclared milk ingredients. The recall is the result of an investigation following a consumer contact.

Frito-Lay has faced a number of allergen-related recall issues in the past few years.  

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/frito-lay-issues-limited-voluntary-recall-undeclared-milk-wavy-lays-original-potato-chips
Frito-Lay Issues Limited Voluntary Recall on Undeclared Milk in Wavy Lay’s Original Potato Chips Distributed in North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 11, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 11, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk
Company Name:  Frito-Lay
Brand Name:  Lay’s
Product Description:  Wavy Lay’s Original Potato Chips

Ohio Company Recalls BBQ Potato Chips After Supplier Detects Salmonella in Thier Spice Ingredient

Ballreich Snack Food Co. Tiffin, Ohio, is recalling its 1.5oz, 2.75oz, and 7oz packages of BAR-B-Q Potato Chips due to a potential contamination with Salmonella.  The potential for contamination was discovered after routine testing conducting by the seasoning provider.  The production of the product has been suspended while the FDA and the seasoning company continues to investigate the source of the problem.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/ballreich-snack-food-company-recalls-bar-b-q-seasoned-potato-chips-because-possible-health-risk
Ballreich Snack Food Company Recalls Bar-B-Q Seasoned Potato Chips Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 10, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 10, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Salmonella
Company Name:  Ballreich Snack Food Co.
Brand Name:  Ballreich’s
Product Description:  BAR-B-Q Potato Chips 

Hepatitis A Issues in Canada (Frozen Mangoes) and Australia (Dates)

There have been two recent reports of Hepatis A.  One report is from Canada where there have been 3 cases of Hepatitis A linked to frozen mangoes (as of July 31, 2021).  The suspect product has been recalled.

The other outbreak is from Australia where 3 cases of Hepatitis A have been linked to Medjool dates imported from Jordan.

https://healthycanadians.gc.ca/recall-alert-rappel-avis/inspection/2021/76139r-eng.php
Food Recall Warning - Various frozen mangoes recalled due to Hepatitis A
From: Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Recall date: July 30, 2021
Reason for recall:  Microbiological - Other
Hazard classification:  Class 1
Company / Firm:  Nature's Touch Frozen Food Inc.
Distribution:  Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Possibly National, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan

Breaded Chicken Product Recalled After Linked to Salmonella Outbreak

Serenade Foods, a Milford, Ind. establishment, is recalling approximately 59,251 pounds of frozen, raw, breaded and pre-browned stuffed chicken products after being linked to an outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis infection.   The frozen, raw, breaded and pre-browned, stuffed chicken items were produced on February 24, 2021 and February 25, 2021.  The issue as we have seen before is that these types of product are often not cooked properly.  They are raw products, but because of the way they are prepared by the manufacturer (par-cooking to set the dough), they appear to be cooked.  With that, consumers may be likely to heat the product enough to get hot, often through heating in the microwave (even though the package says not to do that), but not to a point of fully cooking the product (reaching 165F).  Salmonella, if present on the raw product, will surivive the lower heat used and then be able to cause infection during consumption of the product.

"FSIS has been working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and public health partners to investigate a multistate outbreak of 28 Salmonella Enteritidis illnesses in 8 states, with onset dates ranging from February 21 through June 28, 2021. Unopened intact packages of raw, frozen, breaded chicken stuffed with broccoli and cheese were collected from an ill person’s home and tested positive for the outbreak strain of Salmonella Enteritidis."

"The products of concern may appear to be ready-to-eat but are in fact raw and need to be fully cooked according to the manufacturer cooking instructions on the package before consumption. The labels for these products identify cooking instructions for preparation in an oven. The products should not be prepared in the microwave or air fryer. FSIS advises all consumers that particular attention needs to be taken to safely prepare and cook these frozen, raw poultry products to a temperature of 165 F. The only way to confirm raw poultry products are cooked to a temperature high enough to kill harmful bacteria is to use a food thermometer that measures internal temperature, as indicated in this chart. Additionally, FSIS advises all consumers to keep raw poultry away from other food that will not be cooked. Use one cutting board for raw poultry and a separate one for fresh produce and cooked foods."

USDA - FSIS Announcement

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/serenade-foods-recalls-frozen-raw-breaded-stuffed-chicken-products-due-possible
Serenade Foods Recalls Frozen Raw Breaded Stuffed Chicken Products due to Possible Salmonella Enteritidis Contamination

WASHINGTON, Aug. 9, 2021 – Serenade Foods, a Milford, Ind. establishment, is recalling approximately 59,251 pounds of frozen, raw, breaded and pre-browned stuffed chicken products that may be contaminated with Salmonella Enteritidis, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. FSIS issued a public health alert on June 2, 2021 related to these products.

Chicken Tortilla Soup Recalled After Complaints for Foreign Material - Pieces of Plastic Glove

Blount Fine Foods, a McKinney, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 6,384 pounds of Panera branded chicken tortilla soup products that may be contaminated with extraneous material, specifically pieces of gray nitrile glove.  The problem was discovered after the company notified FSIS that they received several consumer complaints reporting pieces of gray nitrile glove in the product.

Do you think someone realized they dropped a glove?

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/blount-fine-foods-corp.-recalls-chicken-soup-products-due-possible-foreign-matter
Blount Fine Foods Corp. Recalls Chicken Soup Products Due To Possible Foreign Matter Contamination

WASHINGTON, Aug. 5, 2021 – Blount Fine Foods, a McKinney, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 6,384 pounds of chicken tortilla soup products that may be contaminated with extraneous material, specifically pieces of gray nitrile glove, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

Imported Infant Formula, Sold Online, Recalled for Not Meeting FDA Requirements

Able Groupe recalling certain products used as infant formulas because they did not receive pre-approval from FDA and were below the required level for iron.  These products were imported from Europe and distributed to consumers in the U.S. via mail services through the 'little-bundle' website (tagline - "The formulas your baby deserves."  Really?)

The recalled products are infant formulas (i.e., products intended as a complete or partial substitute for human milk for children 12 months old and younger), but the required pre-market notifications for these new infant formulas have not been submitted to the FDA. In addition, the HiPP Comfort Milk Formula, HiPP Dutch Stage 1 Combiotic Infant Milk Formula, HiPP HA Germany Hypoallergenic Stage PRE Combiotic Infant Milk Formula, HiPP German Stage 1 Combiotic Infant Milk Formula, Holle Bio Stage 1 Organic Infant Milk Formula, Holle Bio Stage PRE Organic Infant Milk Formula, Lebenswert Anfangsmilch Stage 1 Organic Infant Milk Formula, and HiPP UK Stage 1 Combiotic First Infant Milk Formula products contain less than 1 milligram of iron per 100 Calories and may not provide adequate iron for some infants, particularly infants born prematurely or with a low birth weight, those who had low iron levels at birth, or those who are at risk for becoming iron deficient due to illness. Inadequate intake of iron during infancy may lead to iron deficiency anemia, which, if untreated, has irreversible cognitive and functional development outcomes. Infant formula products that contain less than 1 milligram of iron per 100 Calories are required to include a statement on the label indicating that additional iron may be necessary.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/able-groupe-recalling-products-labeled-infant-formula-formulas-have-insufficient-iron-levels
Able Groupe Recalling Products Labeled as Infant Formula Formulas Have Insufficient Iron Levels as Per Requirements for Infant Formula in The U.S., and Products Do Not Meet Other FDA Requirements

CA Company Recalls Chocolate Malt Balls After Customer Discovers Peanut Butter Balls

DSD Merchandisers, Inc. of Livermore, CA is recalling 252 individual 9 oz. Deli tubs of Dark Chocolate Malt Balls because it may contain undeclared Peanuts.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product containing Peanuts (peanut Butter) was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of Peanut. The problem was discovered when one customer reported purchasing Dark Chocolate Malt Balls found Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Malt Balls inside. Investigation is ongoing as to how the incident occurred.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/dsd-merchandisers-inc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-peanuts-dark-chocolate-malt-balls-9oz-tub
DSD Merchandisers, Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Peanuts in Dark Chocolate Malt Balls 9oz Tub
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 04, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 04, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared peanuts
Company Name:  DSD Merchandisers, Inc.
Brand Name:  DSD Merchandisers
Product Description:  Dark Chocolate Malt Balls

Meal Replacement Shake Recalled Due to Undeclared Milk

Nature’s Sunshine of Lehi, Utah is announcing that it initiated a voluntarily recall of certain lots of its Love & Peas product in April 2021 after being notified by an ingredient supplier that an ingredient used in the manufacturing of the affected product lots may contain milk. 

Nature’s Sunshine Issued Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in its "Love & Peas" Meal Replacement Shake | FDA
Nature’s Sunshine Issued Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in its "Love & Peas" Meal Replacement Shake
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 30, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 02, 2021
 Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk
Company Name:  Nature's Sunshine
Brand Name:  Nature's Sunshine
Product Description:  Love & Peas Protein Rich Meal Replacement

Bags of Dried Apricots Recalled Due to Undeclared Sulfites

Golden Natural Products, Inc. of Brooklyn, NY is recalling bags of dried apricot product because they contain undeclared sulfites.   "The recall was initiated after FDA sampling revealed that product containing sulfites was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of sulfites."

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/golden-natural-products-inc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-sulfites-two-dried-apricot-products
Golden Natural Products Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Sulfites in Two Dried Apricot Products
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 02, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 02, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared sulfites
Company Name: Golden Natural Product Inc.
Brand Name:  Golden Natural Product Inc.
Product Description:  Dried Apricot

CDC Investigate E. coli Outbreak Linked to Cake Mix

The CDC is investigating an outbreak of pathogenic E. coli, strain O121, that has been linked to cake mix. To this point, there have been 16 illness with 7 of those being hospitalized.  Sick people range in age from 2 to 73 years, with a median age of 13, and 100% are female. 

The key here....do not eat raw cookie dough.  Cookie dough must be cooked per directions.   Along with that, carefully clean up surfaces and equipment after use.  Remember that the raw flour on surfaces can be potentially contaminated.

E. coli infection is nothing to mess with.  It can lead to bloody diarrhea, high fever, and worse, can produce a toxin that is detrimental to the kidney.

CDC Investigation Notice
E. coli Outbreak Linked to Cake Mix | CDC
E. coli Outbreak Linked to Cake Mix
Posted July 28, 2021
Fast Facts
Illnesses: 16
Hospitalizations: 7
Deaths: 0
States: 12
Recall: No
Investigation status: Active

Investigation Details
July 28, 2021
CDC, public health and regulatory officials in several states, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are collecting different types of data to investigate a multistate outbreak of E. coli O121 infections linked to cake mix.

Nebraska Establishment Recalls 147 Tons of Beef After FSIS Testing Finds Pathogenic E. coli

Greater Omaha Packing, an Omaha, Neb. establishment, is recalling approximately 295,236 pounds of raw beef products intended for non-intact use that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7.  The problem was discovered when FSIS collected a routine product sample that confirmed positive for the presence of E. coli O157:H7. There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products.

There has long been a recognition that ruminants shed E. coli at a much higher rate in the summer months.  This means that there is going to be additional risk for prevelence in meat products especially ground meat.  With that, extra precaution is needed when cooking hamburgers on the grill to ensure proper cooking temperatures are met.

Greater Omaha Packing Recalls Raw Beef Products Due to Possible E. Coli O157:H7 Contamination | Food Safety and Inspection Service (usda.gov)
Greater Omaha Packing Recalls Raw Beef Products Due to Possible E. Coli O157:H7 Contamination
GREATER OMAHA PACKING CO., INC.

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, July 29, 2021 – Greater Omaha Packing, an Omaha, Neb. establishment, is recalling approximately 295,236 pounds of raw beef products intended for non-intact use that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

Dry Pet Food Recalled for Aflatoxin Concerns

Sunshine Mills, Inc. is issuing a voluntary recall of certain products due to potentially elevated levels of Aflatoxin above the acceptable limit. Aflatoxin is a naturally occurring by-product from the growth of Aspergillus flavus and can be harmful to pets if consumed in significant quantities. No illnesses have been reported in association with these products to date, and no other Sunshine Mills, Inc. pet food products are affected by this announcement.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/sunshine-mills-inc-issues-voluntary-recall-certain-products-due-potentially-elevated-levels
Sunshine Mills, Inc. Issues Voluntary Recall of Certain Products Due to Potentially Elevated Levels of Aflatoxin
Summary
Company Announcement Date: July 29, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  July 29, 2021
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary  Pet Food
Reason for Announcement:  Elevated Levels of Aflatoxin
Company Name:  Sunshine Mills, Inc.
Brand Name:  Triumph, Evolve, Nature Farms, Elm and others
Product Description:  Dog Food

Produce Company Expands Recall of Leafy Greens, Product is Already Past the Expiration Date

BrightFarms expanded their July 15th recall of packaged greens to now include additional packaged salad greens that are past expiration date and were produced in its Rochelle, Illinois (Ogle County) greenhouse farm sold in Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Indiana and Michigan due to potential contamination with Salmonella.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/brightfarms-announces-voluntary-recall-expansion-packaged-salad-greens-sold-illinois-wisconsin-iowa
BrightFarms Announces Voluntary Recall Expansion of Packaged Salad Greens Sold in Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Indiana and Michigan
Summary
Company Announcement Date: July 28, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  July 28, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Produce  
Reason for Announcement:  Potential for Salmonella
Company Name:  BrightFarms
Brand Name:  BrightFarms
Product Description:  Baby Spinach

Italian and Ranch Seasoning Blends Recalled After FDA Sampling Finds Salmonella

McCormick & Company, Inc. is initiating a voluntary recall of McCormick Perfect Pinch Italian Seasoning, McCormick Culinary Italian Seasoning and Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Ranch Seasoning due to possible contamination with Salmonella.  The potential risk was brought to McCormick’s attention by FDA during routine testing. This recall affects cases that were shipped of the affected date codes.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/voluntary-recall-notice-mccormick-italian-seasoning-products-and-franks-redhot-buffalo-ranch
Voluntary Recall Notice of McCormick Italian Seasoning Products and Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Ranch Seasoning Due to Possible Salmonella Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date: July 27, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  July 27, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential for Salmonella
Company Name:  McCormick & Company, Inc.
Brand Name:  McCormick and Frank’s
Product Description:  Italian Seasonings and RedHot Buffalo Ranch Seasoning

Cheddar Cheese Recalled After Listeria Positive Test

Cahill's a cheese manufacturer located in Ireland is voluntarily a number of cheese products after internal testing found the presence of Listeria.  "Routine testing picked up positives of Listeria Monocytogenes. Our investigation identified a single piece of equipment in our facility as the potential source of this issue and the equipment was immediately removed from our production line. All our products manufactured since have tested fully clear."

Whole Foods is recalling Cahill Cheddar Porter and Whiskey Cheddar Cheeses from 44 stores across 22 states because of a potential contamination of Listeria monocytogenes. The issue was discovered when Whole Foods Market was notified by a Cahills of the positive test result for Listeria monocytogenes. There have been no know illnesses.

Cahill’s Farm Cheese Recalls Specialty Cheddar Cheese Due to Possible Health Risk | FDA
Cahill’s Farm Cheese Recalls Specialty Cheddar Cheese Due to Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date: July 29, 2021
FDA Publish Date: July 29, 2021
Product Type: Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement: Potential Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name: Cahill’s Farm Cheese 
Brand Name: Cahill’s Farm Cheese Lidl
Product Description: Cheddar Cheese

Spice Company Recalls Spice Blend After Positive Listeria Test

Excalibur Seasoning Company of Pekin, IL is recalling 17 bottles of Haen Meats 1959 House Blend because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.   The recall is the result of routine finished product testing which found the bacteria to be present in one product. Further ingredient testing found the bacteria may be present in one lot of one ingredient. All products which used this lot of ingredient are being recalled.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/excalibur-seasoning-company-recalls-seasoning-blend-because-possible-health-risk
Excalibur Seasoning Company Recalls Seasoning Blend Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 26, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  July 26, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Spices, Flavors & Salts
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Excalibur Seasoning Company
Brand Name:  Haen Meats
Product Description:  1959 House Blend (Seasoning)
Company Announcement

Leafy Green Products Recalled After Positive Listeria Test

Old Souls Farms, LLC, located at in St. Paris Ohio is initiating a voluntary recall of greenhouse leafy green products following a positive test of Listeria monocytogenes. "The positive test for Listeria monocytogenes was from a routine facility test of rainwater holding tanks in the greenhouse facility as well as testing from a customer who received contaminated Basil product. Multiple samples of all products from multiple Lot Codes as well as additional water testing has been completed. The positive test for Listeria monocytogenes in product has been determined that it was an isolated event. However, out of an abundance of caution we decided to recall all product as stated above."

Old Soul Farms is a company that operates in controlled growing environments.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/old-souls-farms-llc-recalls-leafy-green-products-due-possible-health-risk?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
Old Soul’s Farms LLC Recalls Leafy Green Products Due to Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 26, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  July 26, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Old Soul's Farms LLC
Brand Name:  Old Soul's Farms LLC
Product Description:  Greenhouse leafy green products

Food Fraud - Operation OPSON Report Opens Our Eyes to the Level of Deceit Involving Food

Operation OPSON is a coordinated operation between Europol and Interpol to combat trafficking of counterfeit and substandard food and beverages. In the ninth operation (Dec 2019 to Jun 2020) of this type, 83 countries were involved countries, and resulted in the removal a lot of product from commerce and the arrest of a lot of bad people.

We rarely see large scale food fraud investigations for foods originating in the United States, so this report is a great opportunity to see the large scale of food fraud around the world.  These are products that are either related to substitution (one food sold in place of another ) or the sale of substandard product (such as that occurs when adulterated product is knowingly sold as safe).

For the complete report, click on this link Operation Opson IX – Analysis report | Europol (europa.eu)

Here are the highlights (or low lights):

Dairy Products - 

Participating countries: Bulgaria, Italy, France, Greece, Portugal, Switzerland
The project resulted in the seizures of 320 tonnes of smuggled or substandard dairy products. National authorities seized rotten milk and cheese which posed a threat to consumer health. Additionally, 210 tonnes of cheese were seized, which did not meet the conditions to be labelled with a protected geographic denomination.
A Bulgarian investigation into an unregistered warehouse revealed seven samples of cheese tested positive for starch and E.coli. The authorities seized 3.6 tonnes of unsafe dairy products, which were supposed to be processed into melted cheese.

Olive Oil
Participating countries: Albania, Croatia, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Iceland, Jordan, Lithuania, Norway, Portugal, Spain
A total of 149 tonnes of cooking oil was seized as a result of this targeted action led by Greece. About 88 tonnes from the seizures were olive oil and were reported by Albania, Croatia, France, Greece, Italy, Jordan, Lithuania, Portugal and Spain.
In Italy, during a check on a company producing olive oil, inspectors found a surplus of product, which was not registered in the official documents of the company, thus more than 66 tonnes of olive oil were seized.

Alcohol and Wine
Participating countries: Bulgaria, Germany, Greece, France, Italy, Croatia, Hungary, Latvia, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, UK
Law enforcement authorities, coordinated by OLAF, seized 1.2 million litres of alcoholic beverages, with the largest quantity being wine. Norwegian authorities seized more than 5 000 litres of vodka smuggled in a trailer.

Horse Meat
Participating countries: Belgium, Denmark, France, Italy, Ireland, Spain, UK
As a response to this dangerous criminal trend, Europol launched a dedicated project to support national authorities in combating the sale of illegal horse meat, led by Belgium, Ireland and the Netherlands and supported by DG SANTE.
The operational activities focused on checks of documents of more than 157 000 horses from eight countries and about 117 tonnes of horse meat. Live animals and more than 17 tonnes of horse meat were seized from several slaughterhouses in Belgium, Ireland, Italy, Spain and the Netherlands. Inspections of slaughterhouses in several countries showed that about 20% of the foreign passports used for these horses showed signs of forgery. Competition horses with forged documents were also sent to slaughterhouses.

Seafood

Illicit seafood products were reported in 79 cases, and, according to the data, the quantity seized was around 42.6  tonnes of products, estimated at around USD 591,094. Two arrests and two search warrants have been carried out in  connection with this category of product. Higher seizures were reported by Portugal, who in several higher seizures totaled about 29.8 tonnes of cod, sole, manta fish, bivalve mollusks, cuttlefish and octopus. Italy 3 tonnes of unspecified seafood, Jordan, 1.9 tonnes of unspecified fish and Belgium one ton of dried shrimp, the average for all the other seizures being somewhere at around 116 kg/seizure.

Food safety and deceiving consumers were the main infringements reported this year. The food items were seized when turned out to be species substitutions, for example Alaskan plaice instead of sole fish, various types of other fish posing as Atlantic/Pacific cod, packaging issues (adding water to frozen scallops to increase weight), mislabeling the product (generic commercial name instead of the exact species) or expired products.  In Italy, in one seizure, the authorities found in a marketplace counterfeit labels falsely stating that the fish products  were coming from a certain plant, while in South Africa the invoice of several seafood products stated personal  protection equipment (masks and gloves) related to COVID-19. The investigation revealed that the foreign citizen dealing  with the goods had no import permit and was illegally staying in South Africa.

Canada - Listeria Related Recalls in July

There were three recalls of food products due to Listeria. One for zucchini strips and the other two for cheese products.

https://healthycanadians.gc.ca/recall-alert-rappel-avis/inspection/2021/76093r-eng.php
Harvest Fresh brand Zucchini Spirals recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes
Ottawa, July 25, 2021 - Veg Pak Produce is recalling Harvest Fresh brand Zucchini Spirals from the marketplace due to possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination.
This recall was triggered by Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) test results

https://healthycanadians.gc.ca/recall-alert-rappel-avis/inspection/2021/76091r-eng.php
Cahill's brand Original Irish Porter Cheese recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes
Ottawa, July 23, 2021 - Tree of Life Canada ULC is recalling Cahill's brand Original Irish Porter Cheese from the marketplace due to possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination. Consumers should not consume the recalled products described below.
This recall was triggered by the company. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is conducting a food safety investigation, which may lead to the recall of other products.

https://healthycanadians.gc.ca/recall-alert-rappel-avis/inspection/2021/76049r-eng.php
La Bella Contadina brand Burrata Nadi con latte di bufala (cheese) recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes
Ottawa, July 17, 2021 - The food recall warning issued on July 14, 2021 has been updated to include additional product information. This additional information was identified during the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's (CFIA) food safety investigation.
Fruiterie Milano Inc. is recalling La Bella Contadina brand Burrata Nadi con latte di bufala (cheese) from the marketplace due to possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination. Consumers should not consume the recalled product described below.
This recall was triggered by CFIA test results.

FDA Warning Letter - Foreign Producer of Rice Protien

FDA issued a warning letter to Panjin Hetian Food Co of China after inspection of the rice protein powder found deficiencies.  Specifically, the firm "did not identify contamination with environmental pathogens, such as Salmonella, as a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard to determine whether it requires a preventive control for RTE rice protein powder. A hazard evaluation must include an evaluation of environmental pathogens whenever a RTE food is exposed to the environment prior to packaging and the packaged food does not receive a treatment or otherwise include a control measure (21 CFR 117.130(c)(1)(ii)). Your facility manufactures rice protein, a RTE food which is exposed to the environment after a (b)(4) treatment prior to packaging. Once packaged, the food does not receive a lethal treatment or otherwise include a control measure (such as a formulation lethal to the pathogen or control by the supply chain or a downstream customer) that would significantly minimize the pathogen."

The firm was not conducting adequate environmental monitoring and the cleaning procedures were not appropriate for a dry processing facility.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/panjin-hetian-food-co-ltd-614617-07072021
WARNING LETTER

Europe - Large Salmonella Outbreak Linked to South American Melons

Across Europe, there has been 348 cases of Salmonella (posted July 22, 2021) associated with melons.   "Based on epidemiological, microbiological and traceability investigations, the vehicles of infection are presumed to be melons imported from outside the EU/EEA and the UK. Galia melons from the batch imported from a Honduran producer are probable vehicles of infection, at least in those cases reporting having consumed Galia melons."  The strain identified as S. Braenderup.

Harvesting was completed back in April and there are no longer any of this product on the market.

I find it interesting that the food safety authority in the EU had scant information for this rather large outbreak.  

EFSA
Multi‐country outbreak of Salmonella Braenderup ST22, presumed to be linked to imported melons | European Food Safety Authority (europa.eu)
Multi‐country outbreak of Salmonella Braenderup ST22, presumed to be linked to imported melons
Published:  22 July 2021
Adopted:16 July 2021