FL Produce Company Recalls Bagged Organic Green Beans After Their Testing Finds Listeria in Sample

Alpine Fresh, Inc. of Doral, Florida is voluntarily recalling its 1 pound packages of "Hippie Organics" French Beans from lot# 313-626, because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.  The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing by the company revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in 1 pound packages of "Hippie Organics French Beans From lot # 313-626."  The problem has been found to be isolated to the identified lot and the company has taken corrective actions to prevent a recurrence.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/alpine-fresh-conducts-voluntary-recall-hippie-organics-french-beans-because-possible-health-risk
Alpine Fresh Conducts Voluntary Recall of “Hippie Organics French Beans” Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 21, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  April 21, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Organic Food / Home Grown
Reason for Announcement:  Listeria monocytogenes contamination
Company Name:  Alpine Fresh, Inc.
Brand Name:  Hippie Organics
Product Description:  French Beans

PA Dairy Recalls Small Amount of Chocolate Marshmallow Ice Cream Filled with Chocolate Peanut Butter Ice Cream

Turkey Hill Dairy of Conestoga, Pa., is recalling select 48 oz containers of its Chocolate Marshmallow Premium Ice Cream because the product may contain undeclared peanuts. The recalled products are limited to 385 containers of the following product and may have been purchased by consumers between 4/14/2022 and 4/19/2022:  The recall was initiated after it was discovered by a consumer who contacted Turkey Hill that select containers of Chocolate Marshmallow Premium Ice Cream may have been inadvertently filled with Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream during production

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/turkey-hill-dairy-issues-voluntary-recall-and-allergy-alert-undeclared-peanut-select-chocolate
Turkey Hill Dairy Issues Voluntary Recall and Allergy Alert for Undeclared Peanut in Select Chocolate Marshmallow Premium Ice Cream Containers
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 21, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  April 21, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Ice Cream/Frozen Dairy
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared peanuts
Company Name:  Turkey Hill Dairy
Brand Name:  Turkey Hill
Product Description:  Chocolate Marshmallow Premium Ice Cream

Still More Imported Enoki Mushrooms Recalled for Listeria

T Fresh Company of City of Industry, CA is recalling its 7.5oz (200g) enoki mushrooms, Lot #6021053 grown in China, because it has the potential to be contaminated with listeria monocytogenes.  Lot #6021053 was distributed from California and Texas to retail stores through produce distributors. The potential for contamination was noted after surveillance sampling by the CDPH revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in 7.05oz (200g) packages of enoki mushroom. Product is packaged in a Light Blue & transparent plastic packaging, with " Yes" Logo for the 200g(7.5oz). 

Are imported enoki mushrooms a risk for Listeria...Yes!

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/t-fresh-company-city-industry-ca-recalling-its-75oz-200g-yes-enoki-mushrooms-due-possible-health
T Fresh Company of City of Industry, CA is Recalling its 7.5oz (200g) Yes! Enoki Mushrooms Due to Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 20, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  April 21, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Produce
Reason for Announcement:  Listeria monocytogenes contamination
Company Name:  T Fresh Company
Brand Name:  Yes!
Product Description:  Enoki Mushrooms

CA Produce Distributor Recalls Organic Zucchini After FDA Sampling Detects Salmonella

World Variety Produce, Inc. of Los Angeles, CA is voluntarily recalling case lot #38706503 of Organic Zucchini, because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.  This recall was initiated because a single lot of imported organic zucchini tested positive for salmonella as a result of a routine FDA sampling.  No illnesses have been reported to date.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/world-variety-produce-inc-voluntarily-recalls-organic-zucchini-because-possible-health-risk
World Variety Produce, Inc. Voluntarily Recalls Organic Zucchini Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 19, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  April 19, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Organic Food / Home Grown
Reason for Announcement: Salmonella

Company Name: World Variety Produce, Inc.
Brand Name:  Organic Marketside
Product Description:  Organic Zucchini

Louisiana Bakery Issued a Warning Letter for Inadequate Allergen Controls

FDA issued a Warning Letter to Langlinais’ Baking Company, a ready-to-eat (RTE) bakery located in Lafayette, LA.  The issues found were that the company did not have allergen controls in place and did not recognize Salmonella as an issue for the RTE bakery.

The "hazard analysis did not identify and evaluate the hazard of undeclared allergens due to incorrect labeling at the packaging step to determine whether it is a hazard requiring a preventive control. [The] facility manufactures and labels products which contain wheat (e.g., French Bread and Hot Dog Buns) as well as a product which contains both wheat and milk (Sweet Roll Hamburger Buns)."  The firm "did not have such controls in place as evidenced by [the] November 2021 recall of French Bread manufactured on November 1, due to undeclared wheat. Also, during the inspection [the firm] stated that in October 2021 you manufactured the same French Bread with the same label (not declaring wheat) and distributed it to the same customer. Further, we note that your written prerequisite “Allergen Control Program” does not include monitoring, corrective action, or verification procedures to ensure control of undeclared allergens."

The firm 'did not identify and evaluate the hazard of allergen cross-contact to determine whether it is a hazard requiring a preventive control at the dough mixing and forming steps. [The firm] use butter, which contains milk, to manufacture Sweet Roll Hamburger Buns on mixing and forming equipment shared with products that do not contain this allergen (e.g., French Bread and Hot Dog Buns) on the same day. Allergen cross-contact could occur in products with different allergen profiles, without appropriate controls. Therefore, undeclared allergens due to incorrect labeling is a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard at the packaging step. Further, a knowledgeable person manufacturing/processing food in your circumstances would identify allergen cross-contact as a hazard requiring a preventive control."

The "hazard analysis did not evaluate environmental pathogens, such as Salmonella, to determine whether they are a hazard requiring a preventive control at the cooling and packaging steps, to comply with 21 CFR 117.130(c)(1)(ii). Your facility manufactures RTE bread and roll products which are exposed to the environment after being baked and until they are packaged."

The firm did " not clean and sanitize equipment in a manner that protects against allergen cross-contact and against contamination of food and food-contact surfaces, as required by 21 CFR 117.35(a). On November 2, 2021, after a “(b)(4) clean” was conducted following production of Sweet Roll Hamburger Buns, FDA investigators observed two whole loaves of French Bread wedged between food-contact rollers on an overhead conveyor belt. FDA investigators also observed food residue on Mixer (b)(4) and on the (b)(4) dough forming equipment. This equipment is shared between Sweet Roll Hamburger Buns (which contain milk) and products which do not contain milk. Your sanitation manager had checked the equipment in this room and indicated it was “Go” on the “Post Cleaning Inspection” form."

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/langlinais-baking-company-625493-03142022
WARNING LETTER
Langlinais’ Baking Company
MARCS-CMS 625493 — MARCH 14, 2022

FDA Issues Warning Letters to Two NY Importers for Not Having FSVP for Imported Food Items

FDA issued Warning Letters to two NY based importers for not having FSVP in place for the items that they import.  While they had some records required by the FSVP, these firms did not meet the requirements of FSVP.

Eli’s Manhattan Warehouse, Inc. of New York, NY did not develop, maintain, and follow an FSVP for any of the foods you import, including each the following food products: Blueberry, strawberry, cherry jams from (b)(4) located in (b)(4) Olive oil from (b)(4) located in (b)(4) Honey from (b)(4) located in (b)(4)

Agroson’s LLC, of, Bronx, NY 10474-6115 did not develop an FSVP for the following food products you import: Limes imported from (b)(4)

FDA Warning Letter Issued to Pet Food Facility for Inadequate Salmonella and Mycotoxin Controls

A pet food manufacturing facility was issued a Warning Letter by FDA for failure to adequately control two hazards associated with pet food...Salmonella and Mycotoxins.  FDA issued the Warning Letter after a series of 5 recalls associated these hazards as well as an FDA inspection.  FDA stated that the although the firm conducted "voluntary recalls to remove adulterated product from the marketplace", "recalling product does not prevent the reoccurrence of a hazard in your pet food. Recalling product is a reaction to an animal food safety system failure that has occurred. It is [the company's] responsibility to implement a robust hazard analysis and risk-based preventive controls program to prevent product adulterated with mycotoxin or Salmonella from entering the food supply."

Some of the issues cited:

• The "firm’s laboratory tested a sample of finished dog food kibble, Evolve Chicken and Rice Dog Formula (b)(4), and detected an elevated aflatoxin level of 32.7 ppb. This is an indication that [the company] failed to implement your ingredient testing preventive control Despite this, [the company] did not hold the out-of-specification dog food for determination of disposition, as required by [the] corrective actions in [the] food safety plan and SOPs. [The plan states] that any product that is determined to fall outside of [the] specifications should be placed on hold."
• The "firm failed to implement your preventive control when [the company] failed to follow the manufacturer’s mycotoxin test kit instructions, as well as [the] firm’s (b)(4) regarding sample preparation for incoming grain analysis." 
• "The Minnesota Department of Agriculture collected a routine surveillance sample of [the comany's] pet food “Sprout Sporting Dog Food” from retail and laboratory analysis detected Salmonella Johannesburg in the sample, resulting in a Class I recall described above."
• FDA inspection, investigators collected environmental swabs. Salmonella spp. was found on a compressed air nozzle, including the hose and reel, located in [the] post lethal treatment shaker screen room between Shaker Screen D and Shaker Screen E. {The] firm utilizes compressed air nozzles to blow off floors and equipment. FDA investigators observed at least two employees who were using compressed air to remove adhered food debris on equipment cause a nozzle to come in direct contact with food contact surfaces by scraping the surfaces with the nozzle."

FDA was requesting to meet and discuss what the firm's path moving forward.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/sunshine-mills-inc-618141-03072022
WARNING LETTER

Sunshine Mills, Inc
MARCS-CMS 618141 — MARCH 07, 2022

FDA Issues Warning Letter to Seafood Processor For Conditions that Led to Salmonella Outbreak

FDA issued a Warning Letter to a seafood processor located in Denver Colorado.  This inspection was 
"initiated as part of a multistate foodborne outbreak investigation of Salmonella Thompson (S. Thompson) illnesses linked to seafood." According to the CDC, 116 people from 14 states were infected with the outbreak strain of S. Thompson. On October 8, 2021, your firm recalled certain types of fresh seafood processed at your facility and distributed from May 2021 to October 7, 2021, because they had the potential of being contaminated with Salmonella."

"FDA laboratory analyses found the presence of the outbreak strain of S. Thompson, a human pathogen, in [the] facility. Additionally, FDA found serious violations of the Seafood Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) regulation, Title 21, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 123 (21 CFR Part 123) and the Current Good Manufacturing Practice, Hazard Analysis, and Risk-Based Preventive Controls for Human Food regulation (CGMP & PC rule)."

"Salmonella species are not endemic to seafood; therefore, FDA expects zero or non-detectable levels of Salmonella in seafood regardless of whether it is intended to be cooked before consumption or it is ready-to-eat (RTE). Salmonella in seafood is the result of human or animal fecal contamination of the harvest waters and/or fecal contamination during post-harvest handling and processing. The contamination can also be exacerbated by temperature abuse. Raw RTE seafood must have appropriate controls from harvest to consumption."

The facility had numerous issues relating to process control and sanitation.

FDA Warning Letter
Northeast Seafood Products, Inc. - 621620 - 03/24/2022 | FDA
Northeast Seafood Products, Inc.
MARCS-CMS 621620 — MARCH 24, 2022

FDA Issues Warning Letter to MD facility for Deviations from LACF Regulations

FDA issued a Warning Letter to a Maryland low acid canning facility for issues associated with the Low Acid Canned Food Regulation (LACF).  The deviations cited were focused on failures to ensure double seam integrity and failure to ensure  that the proper critical factors were maintained as part of the canning process specifically maintaining specified headspace.

The Low Acid Canned Food regulations require that the canning process, including proper filling, sealing and thermal process, are established and followed.  In sealing, there are specific parameters that must be continuously met to ensure integrity of the can.  The seal of the can, called a double seam, must be measured at regular intervals through several measurements, some of which require that the seam is taken apart as part of a tear-down procedure.  When tolerances around these measurements are not met, corrective action is required.

This company had numerous issues ranging from not doing the required amount of measurements, to out of spec measurements, to inadequate corrective action.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/treehouse-foods-inc-620320-01282022
WARNING LETTER
TreeHouse Foods, Inc.
MARCS-CMS 620320 — JANUARY 28, 2022

PA Establishment Recalls Bacon Marmalade After Not Having USDA Inspection

Update- 4/21/22 The recall was expanded to now include all products with production dates prior to April 18, 2022 and best used by dates through April 2024.

USDA announced that Firehouse Jams of Erwinna, PA is recalling its uncured bacon marmalade products because they were produced without USDA inspection.   

"The problem was discovered when FSIS was notified by the Office of Inspector General (OIG) of a complaint received through the OIG’s hotline. FSIS investigated the complaint and determined that the products were produced in an establishment that was not inspected by FSIS."

This is a common error of small companies who use a meat product without realizing they have ventured into USDA inspectional oversight. (And only a small percentage of meat used in a formulation (2% cooked) is sufficient to require inspection.)   In this case, the company, Eat This Yum, started in 2011 making jams, jellies and marmalades and selling at farmers' markets with a small percentage of the proceeds going to support the local fire company.  The company was featured by 'Oprah' and distribution expanded.  Of course with increased visibility, comes increased scrutiny.


Firehouse Jams, LLC Recalls Uncured Bacon Marmalade Products Produced Without Benefit of Inspection | Food Safety and Inspection Service (usda.gov)
Firehouse Jams, LLC Recalls Uncured Bacon Marmalade Products Produced Without Benefit of Inspection
FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, April 16, 2022 – Firehouse Jams, LLC, an Erwinna, Pa. establishment, is recalling approximately 709 pounds of heat-treated, shelf-stable uncured bacon marmalade products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

FDA Issues Draft Guidance on Evaluation Process for Recognition of Additional Regulated Food Allergens

FDA released a draft guidance document on how additional allergens may be added to the group of major food allergens ( milk, eggs, fish, Crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, wheat, peanuts, soybeans, and sesame).  The document )Draft Guidance for FDA Staff and Stakeholders: Evaluating the Public Health Importance of Food Allergens Other Than the Major Food Allergens Listed in the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act) provides the approach for evaluating non-listed allergens including:

• The scientific factors that we generally intend to consider when evaluating the public health importance of a non-listed food allergen;
• Other information, relevant to the labeling and production of food containing the food allergen, that we generally intend to consider when evaluating the public health importance of a non-listed food allergen; and
• Our recommendations for how to identify and evaluate the body of evidence applicable to an evaluation of the public health importance of a non-listed food allergen.

A concern from a manufacturing perspective is that with the FASTER Act of 2021 which added sesame to the list of regulated food allergens, it opened the door to potential other food allergens being added to the list.  This draft guidance provides the evaluation process for this to occur.

https://www.fda.gov/regulatory-information/search-fda-guidance-documents/draft-guidance-fda-staff-and-stakeholders-evaluating-public-health-importance-food-allergens-other
Draft Guidance for FDA Staff and Stakeholders: Evaluating the Public Health Importance of Food Allergens Other Than the Major Food Allergens Listed in the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act

APRIL 2022

TX Establishment Expands Recall of Tortillas for Undeclared Wheat and Milk

The Salsa Texan of Flower Mound, Texas is expanding an earlier recall to include all regular and burrito sized packages of tortillas labeled as Coconut Flour Tortillas and Blended Flour Tortillas because they may contain undeclared wheat and milk. The voluntary recall was initiated after it was discovered that the tortillas were distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of wheat or milk.  The initial recall was issued on March 18, 2022.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/salsa-texan-issues-allergy-alert-and-recall-expansion-undeclared-wheat-and-milk-tortillas
The Salsa Texan Issues Allergy Alert and Recall Expansion for Undeclared Wheat and Milk in Tortillas
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 15, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  April 15, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared wheat and milk
Company Name:  The Salsa Texan
Brand Name:  The Salsa Texan
Product Description:  Tortillas

EU Salmonella Outbreak in Chocolate Believed to be Due to Bad Buttermilk?

The EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) reports that there have been 150 cases (119 confirmed, 31 probable) of Salmonella Typhimurium infection in 9 different countries.   "Most cases are below 10 years of age and many children have been hospitalised."  As reported in an AP article, "Officials said “the processing step involving buttermilk” was identified by the company as the point of contamination for two products, chocolate eggs that normally have a surprise toy inside and bite-sized praline chocolates. National authorities have previously named the involved company as the Italian chocolate firm Ferrero."

https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/news-events/rapid-outbreak-assessment-multi-country-salmonella-outbreak-linked-chocolate-productsEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control
Rapid outbreak assessment: Multi-country Salmonella outbreak linked to chocolate products

On 12 April 2022, ECDC and EFSA published a rapid outbreak assessment on a multi-country outbreak of monophasic Salmonella Typhimurium linked to chocolate products made at a factory in Arlon, Belgium.

The assessment outlines the rapid evolvement of the outbreak. Most cases are children under 10 years of age, with many being hospitalised.

Update - Ferrero Includes Additional Products to Chocolate Recall for Salmonella

Ferrero U.S.A., Inc. of Parsippany, New Jersey updated their recall of Kinder® Happy Moments Chocolate Assortment and Kinder® Mix Chocolate Treats basket due to potential Salmonella contamination.   The initial US recall was issued on April 7, 2022.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/ferrero-voluntarily-recalls-kinderr-happy-moments-chocolate-assortment-and-kinderr-mix-chocolate
Ferrero Voluntarily Recalls Kinder® Happy Moments Chocolate Assortment and Kinder® Mix Chocolate Treats Basket Because of Possible Health Risk and Advises Consumers to Dispose of Certain Kinder Products Not Intended for U.S. Distribution Due to Recall of Products Made in Belgium
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 12, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  April 12, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Snack Food Item
Reason for Announcement:  Salmonella
Company Name:  Ferrero USA, Inc.
Brand Name:  Kinder
Product Description:  Multiple Products

Organic Popcorn Recalled for Undeclared Milk Allergen After Cross Contact

Snak King is voluntarily recalling 5-ounce packages of “O Organics Sea Salt Organic Popcorn” with “best if used by” dates of 9/24/2022 and 9/25/2022 due to the potential presence of an undeclared milk allergen. This product is being recalled due to cross contamination with a milk allergen.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/snak-king-corporation-issues-recall-and-allergy-alert-undeclared-milk-allergen-o-organics-sea-salt
Snak King Corporation Issues Recall and Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk Allergen in O Organics Sea Salt Organic Popcorn
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 12, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  April 12, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk
Company Name:  Snak King Corporation
Brand Name:  O Organics
Product Description:  Sea Salt Organic Popcorn

France - E. coli Outbreak Linked to Frozen Pizza

In France, health inspectors have found a link between a brand of frozen pizza and an outbreak of pathogenic E.coli.  There have been 75 E. coli infections with 2 deaths of children (although not all cases have yet been linked).  

As you may remember, in 2007 there was an E.coli outbreak in the US that was associated with frozen pizza.  In this case, it was the pepperoni topping that was an issue.  In that outbreak, 21 were infected.  Another E. coli outbreak linked to frozen foods including frozen pizza occurred in 2013

https://www.rfi.fr/en/france/20220331-frozen-pizza-blamed-for-some-e-coli-infections-sweeping-through-france-children-nestle
Frozen pizza blamed for deadly E coli infections sweeping France
Issued on: 31/03/2022 - 12:44Modified: 31/03/2022

Manufacturer of Raw Pet Food Being Forced to Shut Down

Federal regulators are temporarily shutting down Bravo Packaging of Carney's Point NJ after ongoing issues with the products containing Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes.  Last year, product from this facility was recalled after FDA testing found Salmonella and Listeria.  This company also recalled product in 2013 and 2014 and 2015

NJ.com
https://www.nj.com/salem/2022/04/nj-pet-food-maker-must-shut-down-correct-health-violations.html
N.J. pet food maker must shut down, correct health violations

Published: Apr. 06, 2022, 11:31 a.m.

By Matt Gray | For NJ.com

A South Jersey pet food company must temporarily shut down its operations and recall products after inspectors repeatedly found food samples contaminated with harmful bacteria, according to federal regulators.

Imported Chocolate Products Recalled That Were Linked to Facility Responsible for European Salmonella Outbreak

Ferrero U.S.A., Inc. of Parsippany, New Jersey is voluntarily recalling its Kinder ® Happy Moments Chocolate Assortment and Kinder ® Mix Chocolate Treats basket, because the product may be contaminated with Salmonella Typhimurium. The products are being recalled because they were manufactured in a facility where Salmonella typhimurium was detected. While there are no reports of illness in the United States to date, Ferrero is voluntarily recalling the products out of an abundance of caution due to reported cases of Salmonella in consumers that consumed products in Europe that were manufactured at the same facility.  In Europe, there has been 125 cases linked to the chocolate egg products from Ferrero.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/ferrero-voluntarily-recalls-kinderr-happy-moments-chocolate-assortment-and-kinderr-mix-chocolate
Ferrero Voluntarily Recalls Kinder® Happy Moments Chocolate Assortment and Kinder® Mix Chocolate Treats Basket Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 07, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  April 07, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Salmonella
Company Name:  Ferrero USA, Inc.
Brand Name:  Kinder
Product Description:  Happy Moments Milk Chocolate and Crispy Wafers Assortment & Mix Chocolate Treats Basket

KY Company Recalls Chocolate Cake in-a-Mug Product After Chocolate Has Undeclared Milk Allergen

Tova Industries; LLC of Louisville, KY is voluntarily recalling Carbquik Mug Cake Double Chocolate Chunk OU-Dairy (Water and Butter Prep), because it contains an undeclared milk. "During an allergen review, our company found that the Chocolate Chips contained in the product had a small percentage (<1%) of a milk allergen, it was determined that the packaging was missing the required Milk Allergen warning, and all product was immediately removed from circulation on February 23, 2022. There is no health risk associated with this product for person who do not have a milk allergy."

Tova Industries; LLC. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in Carbquik Mug Cake Double Chocolate Chunk OU-Dairy | FDA
Tova Industries; LLC. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in Carbquik Mug Cake Double Chocolate Chunk OU-Dairy
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 01, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  April 07, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk
Company Name:  Tova Industries, LLC
Brand Name:  Carbquik
Product Description:  Double Chocolate Chunk Mug Cake

Creamy Caesar Dressing Recalled for Undeclared Allergens After Wrong Back Label Applied

Van Law Food Products Inc of Fullerton, California is issuing a voluntary recall of Whole Foods Market 365 Organic Creamy Caesar Dressing because it may contain undeclared Soy and Wheat allergens.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of Soy and Wheat allergen. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in Van Law Food Product’s labeling and packaging processes.    In this case, based upon the pictures posted on the FDA website, the wrong back label was applied...while the front label states Creamy Caesar, the back label is for Chunky Blue Cheese.   A difficulty may be that the product title back label has very small lettering placed near the bottom of the label.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/van-law-food-products-inc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-soy-and-wheat-product
Van Law Food Products, Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Soy and Wheat in Product
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 06, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  April 07, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared soy and wheat
Company Name:  Van Law Food Products, Inc.
Brand Name:  Whole Foods Market 365
Product Description:  Organic Creamy Caesar Dressing

FDA Investigating Illnesses that May Be Linked to Lucky Charms

The NY Post reports that FDA is investigating illnesses that people claim are related to Lucky Charms cereal.  On website iwaspoisoned.com, there have been over 400 reports of consumers complaining that they began vomiting and experiencing diarrhea after eating a bowl of Lucky Charms.

A few things to note.

- The illnesses from the consumer reporting website report similar symptoms and the onset time for symptoms occur soon after consumption.  This would lead one to believe it is not an issue more often associated with cereal products, namely bacterial infection from vegetative pathogens such as Salmonella.

- FDA stated that they have not had any reported cases to their web portal.  (as reported by Fox 8)

“The FDA is aware of reports and is looking into the matter. The FDA takes seriously any reports of possible adulteration of a food that may also cause illnesses or injury. Depending on the seriousness of the problem, an FDA investigator may visit the person who made the complaint, collect product samples, and initiate inspections. Complaints of a less serious nature or those that appear to be isolated incidents are monitored and the information may be used during a future inspection of a company to help the FDA identify problem areas in a production plant. The complaints are also discussed with company management during these inspections. 

As additional background, the FDA hosts its own adverse event reporting system through our Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN). The CFSAN Adverse Event Reporting System(CAERS) is a database that contains information on adverse event and product complaint reports submitted to FDA for foods, dietary supplements, and cosmetics. The database is designed to support CFSAN’s safety surveillance program. Since 2004, the FDA’s CAERS data has received 41 reports related to Lucky Charms. However, only 3 Adverse Event Reports in 2021 with only 1 of those reports appearing to be related to the complaints listed in IWasPoisoned.com. Furthermore, the agency has received no calls at the FDA’s Food and Cosmetic Information Centerrelated to Lucky Charms.”

NY Post
FDA investigating illnesses linked to Lucky Charms (nypost.com)
FDA investigating illnesses linked to Lucky Charms
By Lisa Fickenscher
April 5, 2022 3:02pm Updated

Article Summary - Outbreak Investigation of Cyclospora cayetanensis

Food Safety Magazine features an article on Cyclospora cayetanensis and the challenges it poses to the produce industry as the incidence has increased over the past decade.
Here is a summary of that article.

• C. cayetanensis is a parasite that infects the small intestine, causing watery diarrhea with frequent, sometimes explosive, bowel movements. The organism is "transmitted when feces from an infected individual contaminates food or water; however, it is not transmitted directly from person to person because after being shed, the parasite needs time (estimated one to two weeks, at least) in the environment to become infective."
• While the organism is more commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, "outbreaks of C. cayetanensis infections have been documented since the mid-1990s in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Australia, and have been associated with the consumption of fresh produce, including raspberries, basil, mesclun, lettuce, snow peas, cilantro, and green onions." Note that these are produce items that are generally more delicate, and thus more difficult to thoroughly wash.

• Outbreak numbers of the past 3 years tend to be large. [data in report goes back to 2013]

2018

Salad Mix - 511 cases in 15 states

Basil - 16 cases in 2 states

Vegetable trays - 250 cases in states

Cilantro - 53 cases in 3 states

2019

Basil - 241 cases in 11 states

2020

Bagged salad - 701 cases in 14 states

• A huge challenge has been difficulty in determining clusters of cases that can be used to identify the source.
• "WGS [whole genome sequencing] is impractical for routine use in cyclosporiasis outbreak investigations for a number of reasons. One reason is that the C. cayetanensis genome is approximately tenfold larger than a bacterial genome; rarely is enough quality DNA obtained from clinical stool specimens or produce samples to sequence the entire parasite genome. Also, unlike bacterial pathogens, this parasite cannot be propagated in the laboratory." However, "FDA has developed multi-laboratory validated methodologies that detect intact oocysts of C. cayetanensis on food matrices such as basil, cilantro, and romaine lettuce, and in agricultural water."
• Identifying the specific food can be difficult. For one, there is generally a 14 day lag between consumption and symptoms. And then diagnosis can be difficult.
• Taking these two factors into account, coupled with the difficulty of finding the organism within the environment or the food, traceback is difficult.
• C. cayetanensis is resistant to most common disinfectants used in the food industry and, therefore, also poses a challenge across the food supply to prevent and eliminate contamination.
• FDA has been conducting increased surveillance of imported produce, especially herbs such as basil and cilantro. FDA has also sampled and tested domestically grown romaine for C. cayetanensis.
• "While additional prevention and control measures are being researched and developed, basic handwashing and hygiene remain critically important in preventing the spread of cyclosporiasis. FDA recently published the "Cyclospora Prevention, Response, and Research Action Plan," which outlines actions necessary to improve prevention, enhance response activities, and fill knowledge gaps to help prevent Cyclospora contamination of foods and prepare for responding to future outbreaks."

Food Safety Magazine  (April / May 2022)
https://digitaledition.food-safety.com/april-may-2022/feature-regreport
Outbreak Investigations of Cyclospora cayetanensis Infections 2013–2020: Progress Made and Challenges Remaining
Recurring outbreaks of cyclosporiasis underscore the need for a comprehensive understanding of how Cyclospora cayetanensis contaminates water and produce

By Stelios Viazis, Ph.D., Fazila K. Shakir, M.H.S., Anne Straily, D.V.M., Adrienne Goodrich-Doctor, Ph.D., Jeffery L. Sumter, Dr.P.H., and Socrates Trujillo, Ph.D.

EU - 125 Cases of Salmonella Infection Linked to Belgium Chocolate Operation

In Europe, 125 cases of salmonella food poisoning across several countries are being linked to chocolate eggs made at a Ferrero factory in Belgium.  "The 125 cases are spread across France, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Ireland and Sweden, with the BBC reporting 63 cases in the U.K. alone, mostly in young children."

Politico
https://www.politico.eu/article/125-salmonella-cases-ferrero-factory-belgium/
125 salmonella cases linked to Ferrero chocolate factory in Belgium
Multiple countries have asked for Kinder products to be recalled pending further probes.

FDA Warns About Oysters from Canada Potentially Contaminated with Norovirus

The FDA is advising to avoid oysters harvested in the south and central parts of Baynes Sound, British Columbia because they have been linked to a norovirus outbreak in Canada.  FDA has confirmed that these potentially contaminated raw oysters  were distributed to restaurants and retailers in CA, CO, FL, HI, IL, MA, MN, NJ, NV, NY, OR, TX, and WA. It is possible that additional states received these oysters through further distribution within the U.S.

From the Canadian Public Health agency - "As of March 30, 2022, there have been 279 cases of norovirus and gastrointestinal illness linked to consumption of B.C. oysters reported in the following provinces: B.C. (262), Alberta (1), Saskatchewan (1), and Ontario (15). Individuals became sick between mid-January and late March 2022, and no deaths have been reported. Although not all cases of illness have been tested, testing of several cases has confirmed the presence of a norovirus infection."

Oysters are filter feeds and is Norovirus gets into the water, it can be picked up by the oysters.  Eating contaminated oysters can result in illness, especially when eaten raw.


https://www.fda.gov/food/alerts-advisories-safety-information/fda-advises-restaurants-and-retailers-not-serve-or-sell-potentially-contaminated-raw-oysters-canada
FDA Advises Restaurants and Retailers Not to Serve or Sell Potentially Contaminated Raw Oysters from Canada (April 2022)

FDA Closes the Book on the Listeria Outbreak Linked to Salad - December 2021

FDA said the the December 2021 Listeria outbreak linked to Dole vegetable salad products is officially over.  In this outbreak, there were a "total of 18 people infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria monocytogenes were reported from 13 states".  

The "investigation conducted by Dole detected the presence of Listeria on a piece of equipment in their Yuma, AZ, facility. FDA conducted WGS analysis of an isolate shared by Dole, and the results confirmed that this isolate of Listeria matched the strain causing illness in this outbreak and also matched the strain of Listeria found in a positive product sample collected by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, as reported on December 23, 2021. Dole decommissioned and later dismantled this piece of equipment."

Additionally, as "reported on February 1, 2022, following the initial voluntary recall issued by Dole on December 22, 2021, Dole detected the presence of Listeria monocytogenes on equipment used in the harvesting of the iceberg lettuce that was also used in finished products processed in the Dole Springfield, OH, and Soledad, CA, facilities. This finding prompted a subsequent voluntary recall on January 7, 2022"

"FDA analyzed the positive samples collected by Dole from the harvesting equipment. Results from FDA’s Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) analysis showed that the strain of Listeria found on the harvesting equipment matched the strain causing illnesses in this outbreak. Dole decommissioned the harvester and it was later dismantled. Product on hold that was included in the December 2021 recall was later tested by Dole and tested positive for the strain of Listeria monocytogenes that caused illnesses in this outbreak."


https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-listeria-monocytogenes-dole-packaged-salad-december-2021
Outbreak Investigation of Listeria monocytogenes: Dole Packaged Salad (December 2021)

FDA’s investigation is complete. CDC declares outbreak over.

CT Dairy Recalls Milk After Sanitizer-tainted Milk Sickens School Children

A Connecticut dairy issued a recall for cartons of milk after 45 students and one staff member  from a NJ school were sent to hospitals for evaluation after consuming sanitizer-tainted milk.
"The investigation started Wednesday after an early childhood development center in Camden County, NJ called 911 to report that 25 children had ingested milk that had an "antiseptic-like odor," according to county officials. A similar report was made by another early childhood development center in New Jersey."

Cases like this are good reminders of the importance of evaluating processes as part of the Hazard Analysis for residual sanitizers, especially where CIP systems are used and where there are opportunities for residual to remain in piping/tank systems.  These cases are also useful in training sanitation staff and line operators.

https://patch.com/connecticut/across-ct/guidas-dairy-investigated-over-contaminated-milk-incident

Guida's Dairy Investigated Over Contaminated Milk Incident

Connecticut-based Guida's Dairy is being investigated after children in New Jersey ingested milk that contained diluted sanitizer.

Rich Scinto,

Patch Staff

|

Updated Thu, Mar 31, 2022 at 4:30 pm ET

USDA FSIS Issues Health Alert for Chicken Meal Kits With Wrong Spice Blend

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert due for salad kits produced by Taylor Farms New England.  The alert was issued to concerns that the chicken breast component of ready-to-eat (RTE) chicken breast meal kits may contain wheat and soy, known allergens, which are not declared on the product labels.  The problem was discovered when the producing establishment notified FSIS that they observed different seasonings than usual on the product labeled as grilled chicken breast while preparing the chicken meal kits.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-ready-eat-chicken-meal-kits-due-misbranding-and
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Ready-to-Eat Chicken Meal Kits Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens
TAYLOR FARMS NEW ENGLAND INC

USDA FSIS Issue Warning for Salad items For Undeclared Allergens Due to Incorrect Salad Dressing Packets

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for salad items produced by an Alaska company.  This was due to concerns that the salad dressing component of ready-to-eat (RTE) salad products containing meat and poultry may contain egg, milk, peanut or wheat, known allergens, which are not declared on the product labels.  The problem was discovered when the producing establishment notified FSIS that it received a consumer complaint that incorrect salad dressing was included in the salad packaging.  There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-ready-eat-salad-containing-meat-and-poultry-products
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Ready-To-Eat Salad Containing Meat and Poultry Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens

Cheese Crackers Recalled After Co-packer Mistakenly Fills the Boxes with Animal Crackers

B&G Foods announced today it is voluntarily recalling 1,855 cases of a single date code of 6 oz. Back to Nature Cheddalicious Cheese Flavored Crackers, with a “best by” date of SEP 05 2022, after learning that a limited number of the cracker boxes were inadvertently filled with foil wrapped pouches of animal shaped crackers, which contain egg and milk, allergens that are not declared on the box label.  B&G Foods discovered this issue when it received a consumer complaint that a foil pouch within a single box of Back to Nature Cheddalicious Cheese Flavored Crackers contained animal shaped crackers. The third-party co-packer that produces the product inadvertently filled a limited number of Back to Nature Cheddalicious Cheese Flavored Crackers product boxes with another food company’s animal shaped crackers.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/bg-foods-issues-voluntary-allergy-alert-undeclared-egg-and-milk-limited-number-boxes-back-naturer
B&G Foods Issues Voluntary Allergy Alert for Undeclared Egg and Milk in a Limited Number of Boxes of Back to Nature® Cheddalicious® Cheese Flavored Crackers Mistakenly Containing Animal Shaped Crackers
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 02, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  April 02, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Milk and Egg
Company Name:  B&G Foods
Brand Name:  Back to Nature
Product Description:  Cheese Flavored Crackers

Store Recalls Happy Face Cookies for Undeclared Allergen After Audit Finds Wrong Ingredient Used

Giant Eagle, Inc. has issued a voluntarily recall of “Happy Face Cookies” sold in bakery departments at two Ohio Giant Eagle supermarkets in Geneva and Ashtabula due to the possibility the product may contain an undeclared milk allergen.  Giant Eagle was made aware of the issue during a routine audit of store-made product recipes and discovered the wrong ingredient was being used.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/two-giant-eagle-stores-recall-cookies-due-undeclared-milk-allergen
Two Giant Eagle Stores Recall Cookies Due to Undeclared Milk Allergen
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 31, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  April 01, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Milk
Company Name:  Giant Eagle, Inc.
Brand Name:  Happy Face Cookies
Product Description:  Cookies

Peanut Butter Recalled After Potential Metal Contamination Issue Discovered by Facility

Skippy Foods, LLC is voluntarily recalling 9,353 cases, or 161,692 total pounds, of a limited number of code dates of SKIPPY® Reduced Fat Creamy Peanut Butter Spread, SKIPPY® Reduced Fat Chunky Peanut Butter Spread and SKIPPY® Creamy Peanut Butter Blended With Plant Protein due to the possibility that a limited number of jars may contain a small fragment of stainless steel from a piece of manufacturing equipment.  There have been no consumer complaints associated with this recall to date, and all retailers that received the affected product have been properly notified.  The manufacturing facility’s internal detection systems identified the concern.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/voluntary-class-ii-recall-announced-limited-number-jars-skippyr-reduced-fat-creamy-peanut-butter
Voluntary Class II Recall Announced for a Limited Number of Jars of Skippy® Reduced Fat Creamy Peanut Butter Spread, Skippy® Reduced Fat Chunky Peanut Butter Spread and Skippy® Creamy Peanut Butter Blended with Plant Protein
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 30, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  March 30, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  May contain a small fragments (stainless steel)
Company Name:  Skippy Foods, LLC
Brand Name:  Skippy
Product Description:  Reduced Fat Creamy and Chunky Peanut Butter

KS Firm Recalls Fruit Trays Containing Cantaloupe After FDA Testing Finds Salmonella

Liberty Fruit Company, Inc. is recalling certain packages containing cantaloupe because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.  The potential for contamination was noted after a routine collection sample and analysis by the FDA resulted in a positive test for Salmonella.  To date, no illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/liberty-fruit-company-inc-recalls-processed-cantaloupe-possible-health-risk
Liberty Fruit Company, Inc. Recalls Processed Cantaloupe For Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 28, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  March 29, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Fruit/Fruit Product
Reason for Announcement:  Potential for Salmonella
Company Name:  Liberty Fruit Company, Inc.
Brand Name:  Carol's Cuts
Product Description:  Fruit Trays Containing Cantaloupe

Chocolate Cookie Bunny Hutch Kits Recalled After Allergen 'Contains Statement' Misses Milk Although Listed in Ingredients

Wilton Industries, Inc. of Naperville, Illinois is initiating a voluntary recall of Ready to Build Chocolate Cookie Bunny Hutch Kit due to a milk allergen missing from the “Contains” statement. The ingredient list on the package lists “Skim Milk Powder” as an ingredient, however the “Contains” statement did not include “Milk” as required. This labeling oversight was brought to the company's attention as a result of a consumer inquiry. Following our own internal review, we confirmed “Skim Milk Powder” was included in the ingredient list, but was not listed in the “Contains” statement.

So this is a label design issue.  While the ingredient statement lists the milk powder, someone forgot to add it in the allergen 'Contains' statement.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/wilton-industries-inc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-milk-ready-build-chocolate-cookie-bunny-hutch

Wilton Industries, Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in Ready to Build Chocolate Cookie Bunny Hutch Kit
Summary
Company Announcement Date: March 25, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  March 28, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Milk
Company Name:  Wilton Industries, Inc.
Brand Name:  Wilton
Product Description:  Ready to Build Chocolate Cookie Bunny Hutch Kit

AZ Firm Recalls Dried Strawberries Due to Undeclared Sulfites

SunTree Snack Foods LLC, of Phoenix, AZ, is recalling Good & Gather Dried Sweetened Strawberries, because the product contains undeclared sulfite.  The recall was initiated due to Florida's Department of Agriculture performing a sampling. The results of the sampling indicated the above lots contained sulfites that were not declared on the label.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/suntree-snack-foods-llc-issues-voluntary-recall-dried-sweetened-strawberries-due-potential
SunTree Snack Foods, LLC. Issues Voluntary Recall of Dried Sweetened Strawberries Due to Potential Undeclared Sulfites
Summary
Company Announcement Date:   March 23, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  March 24, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Sulfites
Company Name:  SunTree Snack Foods
Brand Name:  Good & Gather
Product Description:  Dried Sweetened Strawberries

NY State Ag Commissioner Issues Alert for High Sulfite Levels in Licorice Flavored Olives and Dried Plums

New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball today alerted consumers that A&C Best Food Trading Inc., of Long Island City, New York 11101, is recalling “Licorice Flavor Olive” and Wife Plum due to the presence of undeclared sulfites. Routine sampling by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets food inspectors and subsequent analysis of the product by New York State Food Laboratory personnel revealed the product contained high levels of sulfites which were not declared on the label. The consumption of 10 milligrams of sulfites per serving has been reported to elicit severe reactions, including anaphylactic shock, in some asthmatics and sensitive individuals.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/consumer-alert-undeclared-sulfites-licorice-flavor-olive
Consumer Alert: Undeclared Sulfites in "Licorice Flavor Olive"
Summary
Company Announcement Date: March 22, 2022
FDA Publish Date: March 23, 2022
Product Type: Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement: Undeclared Sulfite
Company Name: A&C Best Food Trading Inc.
Brand Name: A&C Best Food Trading Inc.
Product Description: Licorice Flavor Olive

Company Recalls Airborne Gummies Due to Container Caps Going Airborne

Reckitt is recalling over 3 million bottles of their famous Airborne Gummies after receiving 70 reports of the seals and caps popping off when opening.  This has resulting in 18 minor injuries.  It seems the jars are over pressurized resulting in the seals and caps popping off the bottles.

Airborne is formulated to support the immune system, but the immune system is not much help against a flying cap (unless to fight infection from the infliction caused by the flying cap).

https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2022/Reckitt-Recalls-More-than-Three-Million-Bottles-of-Airborne-Gummies-Due-to-Injury-Hazard
Reckitt Recalls More than Three Million Bottles of Airborne Gummies Due to Injury Hazard

Name of Product: Airborne Gummies (63 and 75 count bottles)  
Hazard: When opened for the first time, pressure build up in the bottle can cause the cap and underlying seal to pop off with force, posing an injury hazard.

FDA Warning Letter for Raw Dog Food Operation For Not Controlling Pathogenic Bacteria

FDA issued a Warning Letter to a California based manufacturer of 'raw dog food'.  In a nutshell, the facility was not really controlling pathogens such as Salmonella or Listeria...in the raw product or from the environment.  Their supposed control for the raw product was intermittently spraying a chemical on the frozen meat at the chipper.  There was improper validation support for efficacy of this procedure (what they were doing was different than the study parameters).  In the environment, Salmonella and Listeria were recovered including from product contact surfaces. 

You can read more about OC Raw Dog from their website. https://ocrawdog.com/testimonials/faqs/

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/oc-raw-dog-llc-615550-02232022

WARNING LETTER
OC Raw Dog LLC
MARCS-CMS 615550 — FEBRUARY 23, 2022

FDA Releases 483 Reports for Infant Formula Manufacturer of Recalled Dried Powder Formula

FDA released its recent inspectional report (FDA 483 Inspectional Observations) dated 1/31-22 to 3/18-22 for Abbott Laboratories' Sturgis Michigan facility. This facity recently recalled baby formula after being linked to 4 infant deaths due to Cronobacter sakazakii. C. sakazakii is a bacterial hazard in baby formula because it can lead to severe infection in death in infants, especially those born prematurely.

From the CDC: "Cronobacter germs can cause a dangerous blood infection (sepsis) or make the linings surrounding the brain and spinal cord swell (meningitis). Infants 2 months of age and younger are most likely to develop meningitis if they get sick from Cronobacter. Other infants more likely to get sick are those born prematurely and those less able to fight germs and sickness because of illness or medical treatment, such as infants receiving chemotherapy for cancer."

A few items from the 483 Report

• FDA found C. sakazakii in the medium and high cares areas on Zone 2 and 3 samples, (with Zone 2 being surfaces adjacent to product contact surfaces and Zone 3 being further away such as floor samples).
• The firm also had positive environmental samples and finished product over a 2.5 year period.
• During inspection, there was a water leak issue in the dryer area, which is supposed to be a dry area. Water issues had been a long identified issue in the facility
• Product contact surfaces were not adequately protected from contamination. (Obs 2)
• Inadequate follow up on consumer complaints (Obs 3)
• Poor adherence to Personal Hygiene program for wearing protective gear (Obs 4) including people failing to sanitize designated work (captive) shoes as they move from area to area.

If you are unfamiliar with a 483 report and the type of issues noted on a report, you may want to check this out.

One thing that stands out is the lack of root cause analysis for issues experienced over time coupled with lax protocols.

More Food Importers Failing to Meet Regulatory Requirements for FSVP- March 22 Version

Over the past two weeks, FDA has issued Warning Letters to a half dozen food importers for not have the required FSVP in place for the items those companies were importing.

Euphrates Foods, LLC dba Labeeb Alani Inc. of Elk Grove Village, IL.did not develop, maintain, and follow an FSVP as required by section 805 of the FD&C Act and 21 CFR 1.502(a) for their imported food including Roasted white pumpkin seeds and nuts in-shell imported from (b)(4)  and Pistachio toffee imported from (b)(4)

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/euphrates-foods-llc-dba-labeeb-alani-inc-618723-12232021

FELLA GROUP LLC, of  Irvine, CA did not develop an FSVP for each of the following foods:  Mayocoba Beans imported from (b)(4)  Chick Peas (Garbanzo Beans) imported from (b)(4), Rustic Salad Dressing imported from (b)(4) and other imported foods

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/fella-group-llc-625512-02252022

Keeler Family Farms of  Deming, NM.did not develop an FSVP for any foods imported, including whole, fresh onions imported from foreign suppliers, (b)(4), located in Chihuahua, Mexico.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/keeler-family-farms-624666-03022022

Global LC Inc DBA Rice Chicken, of San Diego, CA 9212  did not develop an FSVP for any of the  imported food, including  Batter mix imported from (b)(4) located in (b)(4) and b. Yang Neum sauce (Mild taste marinade) and roasted seasoning imported from (b)(4) located in (b)(4)

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/global-lc-inc-dba-rice-chicken-623004-02042022

SERGIO CARRANZA DBA MR CHESCOS, of Houston, Texas. did not develop an FSVP for any of the imported foods, including the following:

• Cola flavored carbonated soft drinks imported from foreign supplier (b)(4)

• Grape flavored carbonated soft drinks imported from foreign supplier (b)(4)

• Banana flavored carbonated soft drinks imported from foreign supplier (b)(4)

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/sergio-carranza-dba-mr-chescos-619398-02032022

All Good Foods, Inc. of Industry, CA 91745-1814. did not develop, maintain, and follow an FSVP for any of the imported foods, including each the following food products:

Frozen Tiny Red Chili imported from your foreign supplier, (b)(4) in (b)(4)

Frozen Chopped Lemon Grass imported from your foreign supplier, (b)(4) in (b)(4)

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/all-good-foods-inc-624303-02072022

NY Firm Recalls All Fresh Cut Fruit and Vegetable Products and RTE Dips After Sampling Program Discovers Listeria On Equipment Surfaces

Fruit Fresh Up, Inc. is voluntarily recalling from the market all fresh cut fruit and vegetable products and ready to eat dips, as listed below, processed at its Depew, NY production facilities, due to a possible health risk from Listeria monocytogenes.  Products subject to the voluntary recall of fresh cut fruits and vegetables are packaged in clear plastic containers with a tamper evident seal and identified with a “Best if Used By” date between March 5, 2022, and March 23, 2022. Ready-to-eat dips are provided in 7oz clear plastic clamshell containers with a Best if Used By date of March 15, 2022 to March 31, 2022.  This voluntary recall notification is being issued after results from the environmental program found surfaces where products are packaged into containers to contain Listeria monocytogenes.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/fruit-fresh-inc-recalls-products-due-possible-health-risk
Fruit Fresh Up, Inc Recalls Products due to Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 20, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  March 20, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Fruit Fresh Up, Inc.
Brand Name:  

• Wegmans
• Fresh Harvest
• Lexington Co-op
• Tops

Product Description: Fresh cut fruit and vegetable products

CA Firm Recalls French Vanilla Yogurt After Mislabeling Issue Results in Undeclared Egg Allergen

St. Benoit Creamery of Sonoma, CA is recalling French Vanilla Yogurt, lot code # 2054, best by date 8/22/2022, because it may contain undeclared EGG allergen.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the Organic Desserts Pot De Crème Vanilla was mis-labeled as French Vanilla Yogurt and it did not reveal the presence of the EGG allergen.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/st-benoit-creamery-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-egg-french-vanilla-yogurt
St. Benoit Creamery Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Egg in French Vanilla Yogurt
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 19, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  March 19, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared egg
Company Name:  St. Benoit Creamery
Brand Name:  St. Benoit Creamery
Product Description:  French Vanilla Yogurt

More Enoki Mushrooms Recalled Due to Listeria Risk

(Updated 3-22-22) Four companies are recalling enoki mushrooms due to Listeria.

Jan Fruits Inc. of VERNON, CA is recalling all its cases of its 200g/7.05oz packages of ENOKI MUSHROOM (Product of Taiwan) because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. The recalled Enoki Mushroom product was distributed in CA to produce distributors or wholesalers for further distribution to retail stores.

T Fresh Company of City of Industry, CA is recalling its 5.25oz (150g) enoki mushrooms, Lot #6021053 grown in China & 7.5oz (200g) Lot # 6021052 grown in China, because it has the potential to be contaminated with listeria monocytogenes Lot #6021053 was distributed from California and Texas to retail stores through produce distributors.

Farm Fresh Produce LLC of Vernon, CA, is recalling all of the 14.11 ounce packages of "TWA AGRICULTURE MIXED MUSHROOMS" [which contain enoki mushrooms)

Top Quality Produce of Irwindale CA is recalling all cases of 200g/7.05oz package of Enoki Mushroom, product of Taiwan sold during 3/1/22-3/16/22 due to the Listeria contamination of Enoki mushrooms was discovered.

In all cases, the potential for contamination was discovered after a retail sample collected and analyzed by California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in 7.05 oz. package of Enoki mushroom.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/jan-fruits-inc-recalls-enoki-mushrooms-because-possible-health-risk-0
Jan Fruits Inc. Recalls Enoki Mushrooms Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date: March 18, 2022
FDA Publish Date: March 18, 2022
Product Type: Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement: Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name: Jan Fruits, Inc.
Brand Name: Taiwan Best Quality
Product Description: Enoki Mushrooms

Gluten-Free Coconut Flour Tortillas Recalled After Wheat-containing Product in Packages

The Salsa Texan of Flower Mound, Texas is voluntarily recalling its regular and burrito sized packages of Coconut Flour Tortillas because they may contain undeclared wheat. The voluntary recall was initiated after it was discovered that the wheat containing product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of wheat. 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/salsa-texan-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-wheat-contamination-gluten-free-coconut-flour-tortillas
The Salsa Texan Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Wheat Contamination in “Gluten Free Coconut Flour Tortillas”
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 18, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  March 18, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared wheat
Company Name:   The Salsa Texan
Brand Name:  The Salsa Texan
Product Description:   Coconut Flour Tortillas

Pancake Mix Recalled After Fragments of Cable From Processing Line Found in Product

Continental Mills has issued a recall of Kroger Buttermilk Pancake & Waffle Mix, AND Walmart Great Value Buttermilk Pancake & Waffle Mix, UPC 078742370828, Lot code KX2063, Best By Date of 09/01/2023  due to a potential foreign material contamination. Fragments from a cable used to clear the processing line were discovered in a limited amount of product.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/continental-mills-recalls-kroger-buttermilk-pancake-waffle-mix-due-possible-foreign-material
Continental Mills Recalls Kroger Buttermilk Pancake & Waffle Mix Due to Possible Foreign Material Contamination
https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/continental-mills-recalls-kroger-Buttermilk-pancake-waffle-mix-due-possible-foreign-material
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 18, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  March 18, 2022
Product Type:   Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential foreign material contamination
Company Name:  Continental Mills
Brand Name:  Kroger
Product Description:  Buttermilk Pancake & Waffle Mix

Hash Browns Recalled for Undeclared Wheat After Supplier Labeling Issue

Cavendish Farms Corporation of Dieppe, New Brunswick, Canada, is recalling 441 cases of its 42.3 oz packages of Original Hash Brown Patties because they may contain undeclared wheat.   No confirmed illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered the product contained wheat and was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of wheat. Cavendish Farms was notified by a supplier that an ingredient it provided was mislabeled and did not identify the presence of wheat.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/cavendish-farms-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-wheat-original-hash-brown-patties
Cavendish Farms Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Wheat in Original Hash Brown Patties
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 17, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  March 17, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared wheat
Company Name:  Cavendish Farms Corporation
Brand Name:  Cavendish Farms
Product Description:   Hash Brown Patties

Lancaster Farmer Fights the Courts on Food Safety Rules

There is an ongoing court action involving Lancaster, PA farmer Amos Miller as he tries to write his own rules for food safety.  Our good friend George Lapsley took the Justice Department's assignment for verifying that the Miller Organic Farm would adhere to the court order, but  Miller's refusal to work with George has landed Miller back in court.  Miller claims sovereign citizen rights, that is, that he has the right to set his own rules....but the court is not having any of it.   


https://lancasteronline.com/news/local/lancaster-farmer-agrees-again-to-follow-court-order-after-refusing-to-allow-food-safety-expert/article_dc563262-9feb-11ec-9847-eb35032cf6e9.html
Lancaster farmer agrees, again, to follow court order after refusing to allow food safety expert to inspect farm
DAN NEPHIN | Staff Writer Mar 10, 2022

A month ago, a federal judge appointed an expert to work with Upper Leacock farmer Amos Miller to make sure he complied with food safety laws and court orders — something he’s shown an unwillingness to do for years.