Quaker Oats Recalls Granola Products Due to Potential Salmonella Contamination

The Quaker Oats Company today announced the recall of specific granola bars and granola cereals listed below because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.  
The products listed below are sold throughout the 50 United States, Puerto Rico, Guam and Saipan.
To date, Quaker has received no confirmed reports of illness related to the products covered by this recall.

While the company did not specifically state the reason for the recall, outside the fact that there were no reported illnesses, this would lead one to believe that it was perhaps a positive test result.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/quaker-recalls-granola-bars-and-granola-cereals-due-possible-health-risk
Quaker Recalls Granola Bars and Granola Cereals Due to Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 15, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  December 15, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential for Salmonella contamination
Company Name:  The Quaker Oats Company
Brand Name:  Quaker
Product Description:  Granola Bars and Granola Cereals

Cases of Lead Poisoning from Apple Sauce - Could This be the Result of Intentional Contamination?

As an update on the contaminated apple puree product that resulted in over 100 reported cases of lead poisoning cases in children, FDA’s Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods Jim Jones indicated to Politico that this may be a case of intentional contamination.  “We’re still in the midst of our investigation. But so far all of the signals we’re getting lead to an intentional act on the part of someone in the supply chain and we’re trying to sort of figure that out,”  “My instinct is they didn’t think this product was going to end up in a country with a robust regulatory process,” Jones said. “They thought it was going to end up in places that did not have the ability to detect something like this.”

According to the article in Politico, the "FDA continues to investigate a number of theories for how the pouches became contaminated, and has not drawn any conclusions about the way the lead was added, why or by whom. The FDA says it currently believes the adulteration is “economically motivated.” That generally refers to ingredients being altered in order to make products appear higher in value, often so companies can produce a cheaper item and sell it at an elevated price."

Politico
https://www.politico.com/news/2023/12/14/applesauce-pouches-may-have-been-contaminated-on-purpose-fda-foods-chief-says-00131797
AGRICULTURE
Applesauce pouches may have been contaminated on purpose, FDA foods chief says

The food safety agency continues to investigate dozens of incidents of lead poisoning in U.S. children linked to three brands of cinnamon applesauce pouches.
By MARCIA BROWN and MEREDITH LEE HILL
12/14/2023 01:29 PM EST

FDA Advisory Issued for Clams Harvested from Unapproved Waters

FDA issued an advisory about not consuming Red’s Best chopped clams that were likely harvested from prohibited waters in MA on 11/25/2023 and 11/26/2023.  Clams harvested from prohibited waters may be contaminated with human pathogens, toxic elements or poisonous or deleterious substances and can cause illness if consumed. Clams are filter feeders that remove and bioaccumulate bacteria and other pathogens from the water. It is not uncommon for shellfish to be consumed raw and whole. 

https://www.fda.gov/food/alerts-advisories-safety-information/fda-advises-restaurants-and-retailers-not-serve-or-sell-and-consumers-not-eat-certain-chopped-clams
FDA Advises Restaurants and Retailers Not to Serve or Sell and Consumers Not to Eat Certain Chopped Clams Likely Harvested from a Prohibited Area in Massachusetts and Distributed by Red’s Best

Salmonella-in-Diced-Onion Outbreak Over, Investigation Finds Salmonella at Farm

CDC declared the Salmonella outbreak associated with diced onions is now over. The onion product produced in August by Gill Onions of Oxnard CA, has cased 80 illnesses with 18 hospitalizations and 1 death. The product was recalled in October.

 "FDA collected multiple water, environmental, and product samples from the farm that supplied the contaminated onions to Gills Onions. Six of the samples, three water and three environmental, were positive for Salmonella spp. Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) analysis confirmed that the strain of Salmonella found in isolates associated with three of the samples matched the same strain of Salmonella causing illnesses in this outbreak. Additional Salmonella isolates from the samples were detected, and CDC identified people who got sick with these strains of Salmonella. FDA and CDC partners reviewed the available data; however, there was not enough epidemiologic or traceback evidence to implicate a product or source of contamination for those illnesses."

Case Counts
Total Illnesses: 80
Hospitalizations: 18
Deaths: 1
Last Illness Onset: November 11, 2023
States with Cases: AZ, CA, CO, GA, ID, IL, IN, IA, KY, MA, MI, MT, NY, ND, OH, OR, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WI, WY
Foodservice Product Distribution*: Nationwide and Canada
Retail Product Distribution*: AZ, CA, ID, MT, OR, WA

https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-salmonella-onions-october-2023
Outbreak Investigation of Salmonella: Onions (October 2023)
FDA’s Investigation is complete. CDC declares outbreak over.
Current Update
December 13, 2023

WA State Establishment Recalls Beef Soup After Plant-based Chicken Label Applied

USDA FSIS issued a public health alert for ready-to-eat (RTE) product labeled as birria-inspired beef soup due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen due to mislabeling issue. The product labeled as birria-inspired beef soup may actually contain plant-based chicken noodle soup, which contains sesame,  an allergen, which is not declared on the product label.  The issue was discovered by the retailer after a store employee identified a case of RTE Plant-Based Chicken Noodle Soup product bearing the correct top label but incorrect front and back labels. 

Strange that Plant-Based Chicken Noodle Soup contains no chicken.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-beef-soup-product-due-misbranding-and-undeclared
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Beef Soup Product due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergen

FRESH FOODS OF WASHINGTON LLC

Iowa Firm Recalls Candies for Undeclared Egg Allergens

Valley View Candies of Edgewood, IA is recalling All Fudge products - Peanut Butter Fudge, Maple Nut Fudge, Chocolate Fudge, Chocolate Walnut Fudge, because it may contain undeclared eggs.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the fudge products containing egg was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of egg.   

The issue appears to be the fact that the recalled products all contain marshmallow cream, an item which will normally contains egg whites as an ingredient.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/valley-view-candies-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-egg-fudge-products
Valley View Candies Issues an Allergy Alert on Undeclared Egg in Fudge Products
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 14, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  December 14, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared eggs
Company Name:  Valley View Candies
Brand Name:  Valley View Candies
Product Description:  Peanut Butter, Maple Nut, Chocolate, and Chocolate Walnut Fudge

Colorado Company Recalls Product Due to Undeclared Allergens Again

Bobo’s of Loveland, Colorado is issuing a voluntary recall of Bobo’s Peach Oat Bars because they may contain undeclared coconut.   The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product containing coconut was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of coconut on the ingredient deck.

This is not the first boo-boo for Bobo's involving incorrect packaging leading to a allergen-related recall.  In 2021, there were two recalls, one for peanuts in Maple Pecan Bars, and the other was peanuts in Almond Butter Bars.  The well developed and implemented Allergen Preventive Control would ensure that labeling errors such as this not occur.

Bobo’s Issues a Voluntary Allergy Alert on Undeclared Coconut in Product
Summary
Company Announcement Date: December 09, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  December 12, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared coconut.
Company Name:  Bobo’s
Brand Name:  Bobo’s
Product Description:  Peach Oat Bars

Ill Dairy Recalls Non-Egg Egg Nog, Holiday Nog, for Containing Egg

Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc. of Edwardsville, ILL has initiated a voluntary recall on specific batches of private label Holiday Nog purchased in United Dairy Farmers stores between December 4th through December 6th, 2023, that may contain an undeclared egg allergen.  This specific batch may have been mis-labeled related to egg allergens

Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc. of Edwardsville, ILL has Initiated a Voluntary Recall on Specific Batches of Private Label Holiday Nog Purchased in United Dairy Farmers Stores Between December 4th Through December 6th, 2023, that May Contain an Undeclared Egg Allergen
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 08, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  December 08, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared egg
Company Name:  Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc
Brand Name:  United Dairy Farmers
Product Description:  Holiday nog

FDA Warning Letter Highlights the Requirement for Reporting Non-compliant Product to Reportable Food Registry

In December of 2022, a feed facility of Nutra Blend, LLC subsidiary of Land O’Lakes., mistakenly added drug ingredient into a non-medicated feed which resulted in deaths of multiple calves. While FDA cited the company for issues with its Preventive Controls Plan, FDA also hit on the company for failing to report the non-compliant product into the Reportable Food Registry.  And this is an important regulation that may not be well known or can be overlooked.

What is the Reportable Food Registry?

• "The Reportable Food Registry (RFR or the Registry) is an electronic portal for Industry to report when there is reasonable probability that an article of food will cause serious adverse health consequences. The Registry helps the FDA better protect the public health by tracking patterns and targeting inspections." 
• Registered Food Facilities that manufacture, process, pack, or hold food for human or animal consumption ...are required to report when there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, an article of food will cause serious adverse health consequences or death to humans or animals.
• Must provide amended reports as necessary- for example, FDA understands that it may take more than 24 hours to perform investigation activities and obtain information such as the results of any investigation of the root cause of the adulteration (when applicable) and the disposition of the reportable food.
• Portal - https://www.safetyreporting.hhs.gov/SRP2/en/Home.aspx?sid=938fc413-86cd-4670-8fe4-64e25d253c33

In this case, the company knew there was an issue, but fumbled around trying to determine how bad the issue was rather then getting notification out.  

"Furthermore, you failed to report a reportable food to the Reportable Food Registry (RFR) within twenty-four hours of determining that it is reportable (i.e., that there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, such animal food will cause serious adverse health consequences or death to animals).5 Failure to submit a required reportable food report is a prohibited act."

"You tried to justify not filing an RFR while you asked the lab to reanalyze and provide the actual amount of monensin present in the sample and continued to assess with your nutritionists, veterinarians, and published data if the elevated level of ionophores would result in an animal health issue. However, this feed was not formulated to contain any monensin (an ionophore) and you were already aware the animals appeared to have died of ionophore toxicity."

As for the improper mixing issues:

Your root cause investigation found the source of the monensin to be the weighed and staged (b)(4) of monensin intended for the next product, Accuration Finisher 44 R227. Your mixing operator occasionally combines (b)(4) from (b)(4) pallets onto a single pallet to minimize time spent moving the ingredients to the mixer. In this instance, you determined the operator combined (b)(4) from the (b)(4) different work orders, then removed all the barcode tags from all staged (b)(4) and placed them near the scanner so they would be accessible when he was ready to scan them. This action left all the micro-ingredients for (b)(4) products unidentified, causing the operator to erroneously add the monensin to the incorrect product. 

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/nutra-blend-llc-subsidiary-land-olakes-651174-05222023
Nutra Blend, LLC subsidiary of Land O’Lakes
MARCS-CMS 651174 — MAY 22, 2023

Alabama Establishment Recalls RTE Chicken Products After Complaints for Being Undercooked

Wayne Farms, LLC, a Decatur, Ala. establishment, is recalling approximately 1,377 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) chicken breast products that may be undercooked.  The problem was discovered when the firm received a customer complaint that the RTE chicken product appeared to be undercooked.  There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an illness should contact a healthcare provider.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/wayne-farms-llc-recalls-ready-eat-chicken-breast-products-may-be-undercooked-0
Wayne Farms, LLC, Recalls Ready-to-Eat Chicken Breast Products That May Be Undercooked

WASHINGTON, Dec. 7, 2023 – Wayne Farms, LLC, a Decatur, Ala. establishment, is recalling approximately 1,377 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) chicken breast products that may be undercooked, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

Missouri Company Recalls Frozen Pizza for Undeclared Wheat Allergens

Shakespeare’s Pizza of Columbia, Missouri is recalling all its frozen pizzas from grocery stores, as they contain wheat, but do not declare the presence of wheat on their labels. A routine inspection by the  government regulatory agency partners brought to light the omission of a declaration on our labeling of the presence of wheat in the pizzas.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/shakespeares-pizza-issues-allergy-alert-concerning-undeclared-wheat-its-frozen-pizzas
Shakespeare’s Pizza Issues an Allergy Alert Concerning Undeclared Wheat in Its Frozen Pizzas
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 07, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  December 08, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared wheat
Company Name:  Shakespeare’s Pizza
Brand Name:  Shakespeare’s
Product Description:  Frozen pizza

Florida Man Suffers Cardiac Arrest After Consuming Highly Caffeinated Beverages

A 46 year old Florida man suffered a fatal cardiac arrest after drinking three Charged Lemonades from a local Panera this October.  Panera's Charged Lemonade is advertised as “Plant-based and Clean with as much caffeine as our Dark Roast coffee.” with 390 milligrams of caffeine.  The Food and Drug Administration says healthy adults can safely consume 400 milligrams of caffeine a day.

The man had an unspecified chromosomal deficiency disorder, a developmental delay and a mild intellectual disability as well as suffered from hypertensive disease.  The family filed a lawsuit against the company.

A UPenn student also died after drinking the beverage. She had an underlying condition, "a heart condition called long QT syndrome type 1 and avoided energy drinks based on her doctors’ recommendation"

NBC News
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/panera-breads-charged-lemonade-blamed-second-death-lawsuit-alleges-rcna128036?utm_medium=email&utm_source=rasa_io&utm_campaign=newsletter
Panera Bread’s Charged Lemonade blamed for a second death, lawsuit alleges

Dennis Brown, 46, drank three of the highly caffeinated beverages before suffering a cardiac arrest in October, according to the suit.

Dec. 4, 2023, 11:21 PM EST

By Elizabeth Chuck

Panera Bread’s highly caffeinated Charged Lemonade is now blamed for a second death, according to a lawsuit filed Monday.

TX Establishment Recalls RTE Chicken Fried Rice After Positive Listeria Test

Garland Ventures, a Garland, Texas, establishment, is recalling approximately 13,842 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) chicken fried rice products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes.  The problem was discovered by FSIS during review of testing results, which showed the product tested positive for L. monocytogenes.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/garland-ventures-recalls-ready-eat-chicken-fried-rice-products-due-possible-listeria
Garland Ventures Recalls Ready-to-Eat Chicken Fried Rice Products due to Possible Listeria Contamination

FSIS Announcement

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dec. 6, 2023 - Details of this recall were updated to reflect the correct lot code for the product implicated in the recall.

WASHINGTON, Dec. 6, 2023 – Garland Ventures, a Garland, Texas, establishment, is recalling approximately 13,842 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) chicken fried rice products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

CA Company Recalls Noodle Product for Undeclared Peanuts

New India Bazar, Milpitas, CA is recalling 2,400 packets of Maggi 2 Minute Noodles 280g and 1,200 packets Maggi 2 Minute Noodles 560g, because it may contain undeclared Peanut allergen.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that Maggie 2-minute noodle 280 grams and 560 grams Packaging contains peanuts, which was distributed in such packaging, and the packaging didn’t reveal the presence of peanuts.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/allergy-alert-undeclared-peanut-maggi-2-minute-noodles
Allergy Alert for Undeclared Peanut in Maggi 2 Minute Noodles
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 01, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  December 04, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared peanuts
Company Name:  Undeclared peanuts
Brand Name:  Maggi
Product Description:  2 Minute Noodles

Iowa Firm Recalls Cake Products Due to Undeclared Allergens

Lara’s Bakery 3 LLC of Marshalltown, IA is recalling Pan de Racho, Panque, and Pan Surtido (Concha, Cema, Polvoron, Flan, Chocoflan, Tres Leches, Tostado de Guatemala, Pan de Guatemala, Canasta, Garibaldi, Marianas, Muffin, Pan Fino, Pastel de Glass, Pan de Trigo, Puerco, Bolillo, Telera), because it contains undeclared sesame seed, coconut, soy, wheat, milk, and egg.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that products containing sesame, coconut, soy, wheat, milk, and eggs were distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of these allergens. The product had already been distributed to retail stores in the state of Iowa and Wisconsin


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/laras-bakery-3-llc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-sesame-seed-coconut-soy-wheat-milk-and-eggs-pan
Lara’s Bakery 3 LLC, Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared (Sesame Seed, Coconut, Soy, Wheat, Milk and Eggs) in Pan de Racho, Panque, Tres Leches, Chocoflan and Pan Surtido
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 05, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  December 04, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Sesame seed, coconut, soy, wheat, milk, and egg
Company Name:  Lara’s Bakery 3, LLC.
Brand Name:  Lara’s Bakery 3
Product Description:  Pan de Racho, Panque, Tres Leches, Chocoflan, and Pan Surtido

Michigan Firm Recalls Sandwiches For Undeclared Sesame on Buns

Gaws Gourmet Foods of Marysville, MI, is recalling three varieties of 8” deli subs, and two varieties of breakfast bagel sandwiches because they may contain undeclared sesame.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the sesame-containing products were distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of sesame.  Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a breakdown in the company's labeling process.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/gaws-gourmet-foods-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-sesame-sandwiches
Gaws Gourmet Foods Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Sesame in Sandwiches
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 30, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 30, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared sesame
Company Name:  Gaws Gourmet Foods
Brand Name:  Gaws
Product Description:  Deli sub and breakfast bagel sandwiches

NJ Firm Recalls Dark Chocolate Coin Candy for Undeclared Milk Allergen Due to Mislabeling

Manischewitz, of Bayonne, NJ, is recalling Manischewitz Dark Chocolate Coins because it may contain undeclared milk.  This recall was initiated after the company was notified by their Quantity Control Department that a limited number of bags labeled as “Dark Chocolate Coins” contained Milk Chocolate Coins, which contains milk allergen that is not declared on the label. All dairy Milk Chocolate Coins are wrapped in Gold Foil within a Blue Netting and all non-dairy Dark Chocolate Coins are wrapped in Silver Foil within a Red Netting.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/manischewitz-issues-product-mislabeling-advisory-and-voluntary-recall-some-very-limited-units-their
Manischewitz Issues a Product Mislabeling Advisory and Voluntary Recall on Some Very Limited Units of their Dark Chocolate Coins
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 01, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  December 01, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk.
Company Name:  Manischewitz
Brand Name:  Manischewitz
Product Description:  Dark Chocolate Coins

NY Establishment Recalls Various RTE Poultry Products After Positive Listeria Test

Pelleh Poultry Corp., a Swan Lake, N.Y. establishment, is recalling approximately 708 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) beef and poultry products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes.  The RTE beef and poultry products were packaged on various dates from October 25, 2023, through November 20, 2023.  The problem was discovered when the establishment notified FSIS that its laboratory testing indicated the product may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/pelleh-poultry-corp--recalls-ready-eat-beef-and-poultry-products-due-possible
Pelleh Poultry Corp. Recalls Ready-To-Eat Beef and Poultry Products Due to Possible Listeria Contamination

WASHINGTON, Dec. 1, 2023 – Pelleh Poultry Corp., a Swan Lake, N.Y. establishment, is recalling approximately 708 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) beef and poultry products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

FDA Provides Updated Support Documents for Traceability Rule

FDA provided some updated materials to help companies comply to the Food Traceability Final Rule, that goes into effect on January 20, 2026.  The article in Food Safety Magazine has identified the updated material, but the exact updates are not obvious on the FDA webpage.

This only applies to certain foods that have been judged as having certain risks - Cheeses, shell eggs, nut butters, fresh cucumbers, fresh herbs, fresh and fresh cut leafy greens, fresh melons, fresh peppers, fresh spouts, fresh tomatoes, fresh tropical tree fruits, fresh cut fruits, specific fresh and raw frozen finfish, smoked finfish, fresh and frozen crustaceans and mollusks, RTE deli salads,

One useful addition is the Traceability Plan Example for Restaurants (although it is half example, half explanation, so not really a great example) - https://www.fda.gov/media/174058/download?attachment

https://www.food-safety.com/articles/9065-fda-releases-new-resources-for-food-traceability-final-rule-compliance

FDA Releases New Resources for Food Traceability Final Rule Compliance
By Food Safety Magazine Editorial Team

November 30, 2023

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently rolled out additional tools and answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) to inform stakeholders about Section 204 of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA 204), also known as the Food Traceability Final Rule, and help aid entities with compliance.

Additional Recalls for Fruit Products Using Recalled Cantaloupes, CDC Provides Case Update

Updated 12/6/23

A number of food processor / distributors are recalling fruit / cantaloupe products that were derived from cantaloupes that are involved in the recent Malachita cantaloupe recall.  In an updated CDC report, there are now 117 cases with 61 hospitalizations and 2 deaths.

• TGD Cuts, LLC has initiated a voluntary recall of the specific fresh-cut fruit cup, clamshell and tray products
• Pacific Trellis Fruit, LLC is initiating a voluntary recall of 4,872 cases of Malichita brand whole cantaloupe
• Cut Fruit Express Inc. of Inver Grove Heights, MN, is recalling Caribou Coffee Fruit Mix CHPG 6.5oz, and Cut Fruit Express Brand of 6.5oz, 15oz, 16oz, 32oz packages of Fruit Mix contains Cantaloupes and Food service packages of 5lb tray, 10lb bag, 25lb Pail,
• Bix Produce of Little Canada, MN., is issuing a voluntary recall of Grab N’ Go containers of cut cantaloupe and mixed fruit cups 
• GHGA, LLC is voluntarily recalling select fresh-cut products made from whole cantaloupe subject to a previously announced product recall initiated by Sofia Produce, LLC dba Trufresh

FDA Provides Update on Lead Contamination Issue in Apple Cinnamon Sauce Product

In the most recent update on the lead poisoning associated with cinnamon apple pouches, FDA states that there as of Nov 30, there are 57 reported cases (there were 34 reported on Nov 16). To date, confirmed complainants are aged less than 1 to 5 years of age. FDA also identified the supplier of the cinnamon, thought to be the source of the lead in the finished product. The product was produced in Ecuador by Austrofood and was distributed by Wanabana USA, the distributor of WanaBana products.  "The cinnamon used to manufacture the recalled products was supplied by Negocios Asociados Mayoristas S.A., operating as Negasmart, a third-party distribution company located in Ecuador."

"The FDA is continuing to work with Ecuadorian authorities to investigate the source of the contamination and to determine if the cinnamon in the recalled products was used in other products or distributed as a raw ingredient to other countries. FDA has confirmed that Negasmart does not import cinnamon directly into the U.S."

Adverse Event Overview
Total FDA Adverse Events: 57*
Report Date Ranges: October 17, 2023 – November 28, 2023
States with Adverse Illness Events: AL (1), AR (1), CA (1), CT (1), FL (1), GA (2) IA (1), IL (2), KY (3), LA (4), MA (3), MD (4), MI (3), MO (1), NC (5), NE (1), NH (1), NM (1), NY (8), OH (2), PA (1), SC (2), TN (1), TX (3) VA (1), WA (3)
Product Distribution: Nationwide
*Estimate based on Consumer Complaint and CFSAN Adverse Event Reporting System (CAERS) reports received by the FDA.

https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/investigation-elevated-lead-levels-cinnamon-applesauce-pouches-november-2023
Investigation of Elevated Lead Levels: Cinnamon Applesauce Pouches (November 2023)
Do not eat, sell, or serve multiple brands of recalled apple cinnamon fruit pouches. FDA’s investigation is ongoing.

Current Update
November 30, 2023

FL Company Recalls Protein Bars for Foreign Material - Items from the Trash Can?

Doctors Scientific Organica, of Rivera Beach FL, is recalling their Burn Boot Camp Afterburn Grass-Fed Whey Protein Bars (60 grams) Triple Chocolate Almond flavor products due to the potential presence of foreign material, including disposable hairnet, shrink wrap and parchment paper. Foodborne foreign objects that are flexible and not sharp may cause minor injuries such as transient choking or gastrointestinal system injury.

Did someone mistake an ingredient box for a garbage can?  Perhaps.  If so, this is why it is so important to use food containers for only food.  Non-food items must never to into food containers.  It is too easy to use containers for food, whether that be ingredient boxes or pails, for utilitarian purposes in the food plant.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/doctors-scientific-organica-announces-voluntary-recall-limited-quantity-burn-boot-camp-afterburn
Doctors Scientific Organica Announces Voluntary Recall of Limited Quantity of Burn Boot Camp Afterburn Grass-Fed Whey Protein Bars (60 grams) Due to Potential Presence of Foreign Material
Summary
Company Announcement Date:November 28, 2023FDA Publish Date:November 29, 2023Product Type:Food & BeveragesReason for Announcement:
Potential presence of foreign materialCompany Name:Doctors Scientific OrganicaBrand Name:
Burn Boot CampProduct Description:
Triple Chocolate Almond Flavored Whey Protein Bars

PA Ag Issues Food Safety Warning for Small Processor's Cheese Potentially Contaminated with Listeria

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture warns that consumers should discard "Hilltop Meadow Farm" brand '60 Day Aged Pepper Jack Raw Milk Cheese' with sell by dates of 9/21/2023 or earlier. Testing of this cheese confirmed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes bacteria.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/agriculture-department-warns-consumers-discard-hilltop-meadow-farm-brand-contaminated-60-day-aged
Agriculture Department Warns Consumers To Discard “Hilltop Meadow Farm” Brand Contaminated ‘60 Day Aged Pepper Jack Raw Milk Cheese’
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 22, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 28, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Cheese/Cheese Product
Reason for Announcement:  Presence of Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Hilltop Meadow Farm
Brand Name:  Hilltop Meadow Farm
Product Description:  Pepper Jack Raw Milk Cheese

Convenience Store Chain Recalls Fruit Cups Linked to Recalled Cantaloupe With Salmonella Potential

Kwik Trip, Inc. has initiated a voluntary recall of three varieties of fresh-cut fruit cup and tray products listed below because they contain cantaloupe from TruFresh which has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.  Products were distributed to Kwik Trip, Kwik Star, Stop-N-Go, Tobacco Outlet Plus Grocery, and Tobacco Outlet Plus convenience stores in the states of Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Michigan, Illinois, and South Dakota.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/kwik-trip-inc-recalls-specific-fruit-cups-and-trays-due-potential-salmonella-contamination
Kwik Trip, Inc. Recalls Specific Fruit Cups and Trays Due to Potential Salmonella Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 27, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 28, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
Company Name:  Kwik Trip, Inc.
Brand Name:  Kwik Trip
Product Description:  Fruit cups and trays containing cantaloupe.

Credit Cards Used to Track Customers Exposed to Botulinum Toxin Tainted Sardines in France

In a report on a 2023 botulism outbreak in France that was linked to improperly processed home canned sardines, investigators discuss the importance of credit card information in tracking additional people who may have eaten the food made with the tainted sardines.  The importance of this was that many people who ate at the restaurant had traveled into the city as part of an international event, the Rugby World Cup.   Investigators used credit card information to identify 29 people who may have been exposed.  "Between 11 and 17 September 2023, 15 suspected cases of botulism among 29 exposed individuals were identified from seven countries: UK (n = 4), Canada (n =3), Ireland (n =3), the United States (US) (n =2), France (n =1), Germany (n =1) and Greece (n =1). All cases reported consuming preserved sardines marinated in oil and herbs at Restaurant A. Several cases reported a bad taste or bad smell from this dish."  "Of the 15 cases, .......13 were hospitalised with six requiring invasive mechanical ventilation. All except for the deceased case received heptavalent ABCDEFG botulinum antitoxin [2]."

"In this outbreak investigation, rapid identification of customers exposed to the implicated food was possible through interrogation of credit card payments and retrieval of personal contact information via the credit card companies. Given the severity of botulism, the credit card companies fully cooperated with the health authorities and contacted the identified customers for approval before forwarding the contact details. This enabled contacting and urgently referring three symptomatic British citizens unaware of their illness to an emergency unit for prompt administration of botulism antitoxin."

As for the sardines, "The inspectors did not identify any deviations in food storage but noted incorrect sterilisation techniques in the preparation of canned food."

Eurosurveillance
https://www.eurosurveillance.org/content/10.2807/1560-7917.ES.2023.28.47.2300624?
Foodborne botulism outbreak involving different nationalities during the Rugby World Cup: critical role of credit card data and rapid international cooperation, France, September 2023

Turkey Gravy Recalled for Undeclared Soy Due to Mislabeling of Beef Gravy

Seneca Foods Corporation is announcing a voluntary recall of mislabeled Hy-Vee Turkey gravy in glass jars that actually contains beef gravy. This product could potentially contain a soy allergen which is not declared on the label. Seneca is now retrieving improperly labeled Hy-Vee Turkey Gravy from its distribution system. This recall only affects Hy-Vee Turkey Gravy product sold by Hy-Vee. 

Urgent – Food Recall Because of Potential Undeclared Allergen Due to Mislabel
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 21, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 22, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared soy
Company Name:  Seneca Foods Corporation
Brand Name:  Hy-Vee
Product Description:  Turkey Gravy

Gift Baskets Recalled for Undeclared Nut Allergens After Discovery of Incorrect Labeling of Hazelnut Cookies

Wine Country Gift Baskets is taking precautionary measures of voluntarily recalling all gift baskets produced with Acorn Baking Company raspberry crème filled cookies. During production, it was discovered that some packages of the raspberry crème filled cookies contained hazelnut crème filled cookies. 

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/urgent-food-recall-raspberry-creme-filled-cookie
Urgent Food Recall— Raspberry Crème Filled Cookie
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 24, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 24, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Hazelnuts
Company Name:  Wine Country Gift Baskets
Brand Name:  Acorn Baking Company
Product Description:  Raspberry crème filled cookies

CDC Provides Update on Salmonella Outbreak Associated with Cantaloupes, Now Close to 100 Infected

CDC provided an update on cases of Salmonella infection associated with cantaloupes. In the November 24th update, CDC states that there are now 99 cases of Salmonella infection with 2 deaths. This is 56 more cases than reported on November 20th. A recall of the cantaloupes from Sofia Produce of Arizona was first announced on November 9th, and then expanded on November 19th.  Additional recalls were posted on November 22nd and on November 24 for whole cantaloupes and cut cantaloups in trays (see below).

There are now 32 states with cases.



CDC Food Safety Alert
https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/sundsvall-11-23/index.html
Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Cantaloupes
Fast Facts
Illnesses: 99 (56 new)
Hospitalizations: 45 (28 new)
Deaths: 2 (2 new)
States: 32 (17 new)
Recall: Yes
Investigation status: Active (first posted on November 17, 2023)

MA Firm Recalls Brownies After Improper Labeling Results in Undeclared Peanuts

Dianne's Fine Desserts of Newburyport, MA 01950 is voluntarily recalling 512 cases (2048 trays) of Gordon Food Service (GFS) Sienna Bakery® Chocolate Decadent Brownies (GFS#226240) and Sienna Bakery® Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies (GFS#226260) due to inadvertent mislabeling of the inner tray of brownies, resulting in undeclared peanuts.  The voluntary recall was initiated after a customer complaint noting that product containing peanuts was distributed in packaging that did not have the presence of peanuts called out on the label.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/diannes-fine-desserts-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-peanut-allergen-sienna-bakeryr-chocolate
Dianne's Fine Desserts Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Peanut Allergen in Sienna Bakery® Chocolate Decadent Brownies
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 21, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 22, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Peanut
Company Name:  Dianne's Fine Desserts
Brand Name:  Sienna Bakery
Product Description:  Chocolate Decadent Brownies

Florida Retailer Recalls Egg Custard Pie for Mislabeled Allergens Because May Contain Coconut Custard Pies

Publix Super Markets, Inc. has initiated a voluntary recall on specific batches of private label Egg Custard Pie purchased Publix stores in Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward or Palm Beach counties between Octo. 20, 2023, and Nov. 16, 2023, that may contain an undeclared coconut allergen:
The Egg Custard Pie package may contain a coconut pie.

Probably an easy mistake to make, so tight controls are needed during the packaging process.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/publix-voluntarily-recalls-private-label-egg-custard-pie-may-contain-coconut-pie
Publix Voluntarily Recalls Private Label Egg Custard Pie That May Contain Coconut Pie
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 21, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 21, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Coconut
Company Name:  Publix Supermarkets Inc.
Brand Name:  Publix Supermarkets, Inc.
Product Description:  Egg Custard Pie

FDA Issues Warning Letter to Noodle Company

FDA issued a Warning Letter to Wan-Gee Foods of St. Louis MO. The company manufacturers not-ready-to-eat noodle products (i.e., wonton wrappers, egg roll wrappers, and noodles) .

Hazard Analysis and Preventive Controls

• Did not identify Staphylococcus aureus as a hazard of concern which can be an issue if noodle dough is temperature abused.
• "Did not identify and evaluate the hazard of bacterial growth and/or toxin formation {of Staphylococcus aureus] due to lack of time/temperature control as a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard to determine whether it requires a preventive control for your canton noodles during finished product storage. The canton noodles are treated as shelf stable, stored at ambient temperatures, and are not labeled to be kept refrigerated or frozen. You do not know the water activity of the finished product canton noodles, including whether it is above 0.85."
• "did not identify and evaluate the hazard of mycotoxins as a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard to determine whether they require a preventive control for your noodle products. The noodles contain wheat flour, which has been associated with mycotoxins such as deoxynivalenol (DON). Therefore, contamination with mycotoxins is a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard to be considered for these products."
• "did not implement your preventive controls procedures to significantly minimize or prevent contamination with the hazard of metal in your nRTE noodle products. Our investigators observed damage and missing pieces to your metal cutting blades used to shorten the dried noodles after the drying room step. The investigators requested monitoring records associated with the metal detector, but you did not provide them during the inspection."
• "written allergen preventive control does not include procedures, practices, and processes employed for labeling to ensure that all food allergens required to be stated are included on the label for your nRTE noodle products"  "procedure does not ensure all finished product labels declare all allergens present in the finished food to ensure finished food is not misbranded under section 403(w) of the Act (21 CFR 117.135(c)(2) because you do not document your review of finished product labels to ensure all allergens are properly declared."
• "do not maintain any monitoring or corrective action records of your review of your product labels to ensure the allergen ingredients are listed on the label for each batch produced. The only record you maintain for production is your mixing log and it does not include are view of the allergen ingredients in the finished food against the packaging label."

GMPs

• Black mold - "Apparent black mold formed on the ceiling directly over a drying canton noodle product in several locations throughout the room. The apparent mold covered approximately 30 percent of the ceiling. Further, the fans used to blow heated air ((b)(4) degrees Fahrenheit) directly onto the product to dry it were covered in approximately ¼ inch of apparent filth. In addition, the concrete floor along the walls in multiple locations throughout the drying room had what appeared to be white and greenish colored mold. The walls had apparent black mold in several different locations throughout the drying room."
• Product on floor - "Employee hanging noodles on racks (b)(4). During our inspection, our investigators observed the two bins separate, causing an approximate 2-to-3-in. gap in between. This resulted in the bottom quarter of the noodles coming into contact with the floor."
• Condensation - "heavily beaded condensation formed over and falling onto boxed wonton wrappers, lot number 05021168, in the blast storage freezer. Our investigators also observed condensation falling onto packaged finished product. Although the product is wrapped in wax paper, the packaging is made of thin cardboard that is not sealed and the product is susceptible to contamination while it is held overnight in the blast freezer. Our investigators observed ice formed in several other locations in the freezer, including the floor, freezer units, and walls."
• Facility issues / potential foreign objects - "brittle plastic in several areas on the tray was broken and/or frayed. (b)(4) trays being used in production were in similar condition.. Foam was present on the underside of the (b)(4) that comes indirect contact with the top layer of the wrappers during cutting. The foam is porous and not easily cleanable. Our investigators observed deteriorating foam on (b)(4) blade presses ((b)(4) egg roll and (b)(4) wonton), and parts of the foam were missing in several areas around the edges."
• Personal hygiene issues - did not take reasonable measures and precautions to ensure all persons working in direct contact with food, food-contact surfaces, and food-packaging materials conform to hygienic practices while on duty to the extent necessary to protect again contamination of food, as required by 21 CFR 117.10(b). Specifically, on May 2, 2023, five out of ten employees were observed in street clothes covered in apparent filth while handling dough used to manufacture wonton wrappers

Wan-Gee Foods, Inc.
MARCS-CMS 660360 — NOVEMBER 09, 2023
Recipient:
Samson Wang
CEO/President
Wan-Gee Foods, Inc.
10849 Midwest Industrial Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63132
United States

USDA Issues Public Health Alert for TX Establishment's Jerky Products for Undeclared Soy

USDA-FSIS issued a public health alert for meat and poultry jerky products produced by PRUSKI'S MARKET, INC. of Adkins, TX due to misbranding and undeclared allergen, soy, which is not declared on the product label.  A recall was not requested because the product is no longer available for purchase.  The problem was discovered by FSIS inspection personnel during a verification task where they discovered that soy was not included on the label.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-meat-and-poultry-jerky-products-due-misbranding-and
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Meat and Poultry Jerky Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergen

Illinois Establishment Recalls Ground Beef Due to Complaint for Foreign Material

Skyline Provisions, Inc., a Harvey, Ill. establishment, is recalling approximately 5,620 pounds of raw ground beef products that may be contaminated with a foreign object.  The problem was discovered after FSIS received a customer complaint reporting that a foreign object was found during food preparation.

No word on identity of the foreign object.  And it seems that it was one complaint that triggered the recall.


https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/skyline-provisions-inc--recalls-raw-ground-beef-products-due-possible-foreign-matter
Skyline Provisions, Inc. Recalls Raw Ground Beef Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination

SKYLINE PROVISIONS

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, Nov. 19, 2023 – Skyline Provisions, Inc., a Harvey, Ill. establishment, is recalling approximately 5,620 pounds of raw ground beef products that may be contaminated with a foreign object, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

FTC Cracks Down on Non-disclousre by Influencers on Social Media Discussing Nutrition Claims

Influencers, appearing on popular social media sites such as Instagram and TikTok. have become a important source of information for too many Americans (unfortunately).  FTC is beginning to crack down on paid endorsements where disclosures are not made, in this case, where industry associations paid for endorsements by influencers where disclosure of that payment was not made known by those influencers.

“It’s irresponsible for any trade group to hire influencers to tout its members’ products and fail to ensure that the influencers come clean about that relationship,” said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “That’s certainly true for health and safety claims about sugar and aspartame, especially when made by registered dieticians and others upon whom people rely for advice about what to eat and drink.”

https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2023/11/ftc-warns-two-trade-associations-dozen-influencers-about-social-media-posts-promoting-consumption
FTC Warns Two Trade Associations and a Dozen Influencers About Social Media Posts Promoting Consumption of Aspartame or Sugar
Letters say influencers failed to adequately disclose that they were paid by industry
November 15, 2023

CDC Report on Salmonella Outbreak Associated with Cantaloupes

CDC is reporting on illness associated with contaminated cantaloupes that as of "November 17, 43 people infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella have been reported from 15 states . Illnesses started on dates ranging from October 17, 2023, to November 6, 2023 (see timeline). Of 30 people with information available, 17 have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported."

Posted November 17, 2023
Fast Facts
Illnesses: 43
Hospitalizations: 17
Deaths: 0
States: 15
Recall: Yes
Investigation status: Active

Recalls have issued on product.

VT Ice Cream Company Recalls All Products After State Lab Finds Listeria Positive Sample

Wilcox Ice Cream of East Arlington, VT is recalling all flavors of Wilcox brand ice cream, yogurt, and ice cream bars, as well as Leonardo’s brand gelato after being notified by the Vermont Department of Agriculture on 11/14/23 that one lot of the Super Premium Mint Chip manufactured that day may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.  The company stated in the report, "We were notified by the Vermont Department of Agriculture, who was notified by the New Hampshire Department of Health on 11/14/23 that a routine sample collected by that agency of our Super Premium Mint Chocolate Chip manufactured on 9/15/23 tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes. As part of our investigation, we determined that preliminary testing showed that the ice cream mix purchased to make our products may contain Listeria monocytogenes."

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/wilcox-ice-cream-recalls-multiple-ice-cream-products-because-possible-health-risk
Wilcox Ice Cream Recalls Multiple Ice Cream Products Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 18, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 18, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Wilcox Ice Cream
Brand Name:  Multiple brands
Product Description:  Ice Cream, Yogurt, Ice Cream Bars and Gelato in a Variety of Flavors

Stone Fruit Recalled After Linked to Listeria Outbreak with 11 cases

The HMC Group Marketing, Inc., based in Kinsburg, CA, which does business as HMC Farms, is voluntarily recalling peaches, plums and nectarines sold in retail stores between May 1 and November 15, 2022 and between May 1 and November 15, 2023. The fruit is being recalled because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.  The recalled peaches have been linked to an outbreak of Listeriosis that has resulted in eleven illnesses.  There has been one reported death.

The age range  is from 30 to 80 years    Median age of 69    73% are 65 years or older

The source of Listeria in these cases is likely to be the facility in which the product is packed.  Product in these packages will often be washed and dried prior to filling in the bag.  These washing / drying systems are areas where investigators will likely focus sampling.



https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/hmc-farms-voluntarily-recalls-whole-peaches-plums-and-nectarines-sold-retail-stores-2022-and-2023
HMC Farms Voluntarily Recalls Whole Peaches, Plums and Nectarines Sold at Retail Stores in 2022 and 2023 Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 17, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 17, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Fruit/Fruit Product
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  The HMC Group Marketing, Inc.
Brand Name:  Multiple brands
Product Description:  Whole Peaches, Plums, and Nectarines

MA Seafood Company Recalls Salmon Burgers for Undeclared Sesame and Milk

Raw SeaFoods, Inc. of Fall River, MA is recalling Farm Raised Lightly Seasoned Atlantic Salmon Burgers due to undeclared sesame and milk allergens.   The recalled product was sold in the seafood department of Whole Foods Market stores nationwide from August 25, 2023 through November 15, 2023.  The problem was discovered after a vendor reported visible sesame seeds present on the product. An investigation is currently under way to discover the cause. No illnesses have been reported to date.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/raw-seafoods-inc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-sesame-and-milk-farm-raised-lightly-seasoned
Raw SeaFoods, Inc. Issues Allergy Alert for Undeclared Sesame and Milk in Farm Raised Lightly Seasoned Atlantic Salmon Burgers
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 16, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 16, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Sesame and Milk
Company Name:  Raw SeaFoods, Inc.
Brand Name:  Raw SeaFoods
Product Description:  Farm Raised Lightly Seasoned Atlantic Salmon Burgers

TX Pet Food Manufacturer Expands Recall to All Products Due to Salmonella

TFP Nutrition is expanding their voluntary recall that was initiated to include all dry dog, dry cat, and catfish formulas manufactured in their Nacogdoches, Texas, facility. The recall of these production codes is being conducted due to the potential for Salmonella contamination.  The recall, initially posted on October 30, 2023 and then expanded on November 13, 2023.

As indicated earlier, expansions of these recalls can occur when it is determined that the facility could not demonstrate that they had control of the pathogen over time.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/tfp-nutrition-expands-voluntary-recall-dry-dog-dry-cat-and-catfish-food-due-potential-salmonella
TFP Nutrition Expands Voluntary Recall of Dry Dog, Dry Cat, and Catfish Food Due to Potential Salmonella Health Risk. Recall Includes Dry Dog, Dry Cat, and Catfish Foods Manufactured in Nacogdoches, TX Facility
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 16, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 16, 2023
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary  Food & Beverages  Pet Food
Reason for Announcement:   Potential Salmonella contamination
Company Name:  TFP Nutrition
Brand Name:  Multiple brands
Product Description:  Dry Dog, Dry Cat, and Catfish Food

Additional Recalls Issued After AZ Company's Recall for Cantaloupe Due to Salmonella

 SOFIA PRODUCE, LLC, of Nogales, Arizona which does business under the name “Trufresh” (“Trufresh”) has expanded its recall of all sizes of fresh cantaloupes packaged in cardboard containers labeled with the “Malichita” label, to include the following additional sales order numbers distributed between October 16, 2023 and October 23, 2023 because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella

Vinyard Fruit and Vegetable Company, located in Oklahoma City, OK, has initiated a voluntary recall of all fresh-cut cantaloupe products due to the potential for contamination with Salmonella.  This comes in response to the 11/8/2023 recall of fresh, whole cantaloupes by Sophia Foods, LLC (DBA Trufresh) of Nogales, AZ, which was triggered by testing conducted by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency which found the potential contamination with Salmonella, Vinyard Fruit and Vegetable Company is issuing this recall. Cantaloupes recalled by Sophia Foods LLC were used as a raw material in Vinyard cantaloupe products listed below.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/sofia-produce-llc-dba-trufresh-expands-recall-include-additional-order-numbers-fresh-cantaloupe
Sofia Produce, LLC dba Trufresh Expands Recall to Include Additional Order Numbers of Fresh Cantaloupe Because of Possible Health Risk Due to Salmonella
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 15, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 16, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Salmonella contamination
Company Name:  Sofia Produce, LLC dba Trufresh
Brand Name: Malichita
Product Description: Fresh Cantaloupe

FDA Investigation into Lead Contamination in Apple Cinnamon Product, Cinnamon Identified as Probably Source

The FDA investigation into the lead contamination in the apple cinnamon fruit pouches continues. The product, manufactured in Ecuador, has resulted in lead poisoning in 34 reported individuals, primarily children. The company initially issued a recall on October 30, 2023, and then expanded the recall on November 13, 2023 to include additional brands of product.

To this point in time, FDA has not found lead in non-cinnamon product, which leads them to believe that the cinnamon is the source of the lead.  The FDA has not been able to test the specific cinnamon used in the product.

The importer is responsible for the safety of product brought into the United States.  As part of FSMA, companies must have FSVP (Foreign Supplier Verification Programs) in place for each imported food item.  As part of that program, importers must conduct a hazard analysis and then develop and implement verification activities for any significant hazard identified.  Foreign manufacturers must be in compliance with Preventive Controls for Human Foods regulations.  As part of that, they must conduct a hazard analysis for their operation and utilize programs that ensure GMP standards are met.

Total Adverse Events: 34*
Report Date Ranges: October 17, 2023 – November 15, 2023
States with Adverse Illness Events: AL (1), AR (1), CA (1), CT (1), FL (1), IL (1), LA (3), MD (2), MI (1), MO (1), NC (5), NE (1), NH (1), NM (1), NY (4), OH (1), PA (1), SC (2), TN (1), TX (1), VA (1), WA (1), Unknown (1)
Product Distribution: Nationwide

https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/investigation-elevated-lead-levels-cinnamon-applesauce-pouches-november-2023
Investigation of Elevated Lead Levels: Cinnamon Applesauce Pouches (November 2023)
Do not eat, sell, or serve multiple brands of recalled apple cinnamon fruit pouches. FDA’s investigation is ongoing.

Current Update
November 16, 2023

FDA, along with CDC and state and local partners, is investigating reports of elevated blood lead levels in individuals with reported exposure to Apple Cinnamon Fruit Puree pouches manufactured in Ecuador and sold under WanaBana, Weis, and Schnucks brands.

MD Firm Recalls Cooked Chicken Dish for Mislabeling and Allergen Due to Sesame Oil

JX Restaurant, Inc., a Maryland Heights, Mo. establishment, is recalling approximately 621 pounds of fully-cooked chicken product (General Tso's Chicken) due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the product contains sesame oil, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.  The problem was discovered by FSIS inspection personnel during a verification task where they discovered that sesame oil was not included on the label.

Now we know that if oils are highly refined, like soybean oil, then allergenic proteins will be absent and then soybean, in this case, does not have to be declared.  However, this is not the case with sesame oil according to FARE - Food Allergy Research and Education.

On their website, they state "*Studies show that most people with specific food protein allergies can safely eat highly refined oils made from those foods (examples include highly refined peanut and soybean oil). However, sesame oil is not highly refined and should be avoided by people who are allergic to sesame."

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/jx-restaurant-inc--recalls-chicken-products-due-misbranding-and-undeclared-allergens
JX Restaurant, Inc. Recalls Chicken Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens
FSIS Announcement

Nov. 11, 2023, Editor’s Note: Details of this recall release were updated to reflect the change in the name of the recalling firm to their corporate name, JX Restaurants, Inc.

Recall Cancelled for Granola Product After Third Party Laboratory Error Falsely Identified Coconut

Grandy Organics of Hiram Maine cancelled their recall posted on October 5, 2023, after due determining the third-party laboratory provided faulty testing and false results. Grandy Organics Honey Oat Granola deemed safe for consumption.

From the report,

"Grandy Organics provided repacked samples of the product to the potential distributor who in turn had it tested at their labs for their own Quality Assurance records. Friday November 3rd the distributor informed Grandy Organics that traces of coconut were discovered at 6 parts per million in the Gluten Free Honey Oat sample they were given. Because coconut is a dangerous allergen, Grandy moved quickly.

“I immediately contacted the FDA for guidance, visited our facility to prepare for further testing- both in house and at a certified lab and quickly prepared to notify any sales customers who had received the affected product. We issued a press release, recalled the affected cases, and informed our Direct customers immediately. The thought that Grandy’s products, which we make with such pride, could harm anyone left me sleepless for days,” said Grandy’s owner and Chief Granola Officer, Aaron Anker.

Concurrently, Grandy sent two additional batches of product out for testing to confirm there was no further contamination. What they learned from the third-party lab was incredible: There are known cross-reactivity events with certain ingredients that can cause a false positive when testing for the coconut allergen. Lab technicians are, in fact, trained to use a different testing procedure when these ingredients are present. Once the correct procedures were run, Grandy was notified that all products sent for testing were, in fact, free of allergens, as is stated on Grandy’s packaging."

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/grandy-organics-cancels-recall-gluten-free-honey-oat-granola-third-party-laboratory-error-resulted

Grandy Organics Cancels Recall of Gluten Free Honey Oat Granola. Third Party Laboratory Error Resulted in Falsley Identifying Presence of Coconut
Summary
Company Announcement Date: November 09, 2023
FDA Publish Date: November 09, 2023
Product Type: Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement: CORRECTION
Company Name: Grandy Organics
Brand Name: Grandy Organics
Product Description: Gluten Free Honey Oat Granola

Improper Chip Filling Leads to Recall for Undeclared Allergens

Frito-Lay today issued a voluntary recall of 16,100 bags of 6 ¼ oz. Off The Eaten Path Chickpea Veggie Crisps that may contain undeclared milk ingredients due to the unintended presence of caramel seasoned crisps. The recall is the result of an investigation following a consumer complaint. 

So this appears to be a product filling/labeling issue where caramel chips went into the Chickpea Veggie Chip bag.  Not a first for Frito Lay (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, etc).  FDA issued the company a Warning Letter in 2020 for allergen mislabeling issues.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/frito-lay-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-milk-eaten-path-chickpea-veggie-crisps
Frito-Lay Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in Off The Eaten Path Chickpea Veggie Crisps
Summary
Company Announcement Date: November 09, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 09, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared milk
Company Name: Frito-Lay
Brand Name:  Off the Eaten Path
Product Description:  Chickpea Veggie Crisps

Arizona Company Recalls Cantaloupe After Canadian Food Inspection Agency Testing Finds Salmonella

SOFIA PRODUCE, LLC, of Nogales, Arizona which does business under the name “Trufresh” (“Trufresh”) is recalling all sizes of fresh cantaloupes packaged in cardboard containers labeled with the “Malichita” label, sold under the following sales order numbers between October 16, 2023 and October 23, 2023 because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. The Cantaloupes were distributed directly to the following States in the United States: Arizona, California. Maryland, New Jersey, Tennessee, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, Texas, Florida and Canada.

Trufresh is performing this recall after the Canadian Food Inspection Agency announced a similar recall of cantaloupes packaged with the same Malichita label and bearing the same PLU due to possible salmonella contamination for cantaloupes sold to Fruits et Légumes Gaétan Bono. That recall was triggered by Canadian Food Inspection Agency test results. investigation has revealed that the above-listed order numbers may have been associated with the cantaloupes sold to Fruits et Légumes Gaétan Bono.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/sofia-produce-llc-dba-trufresh-recalls-fresh-cantaloupe-because-possible-health-risk-due-salmonella
Sofia Produce, LLC DBA Trufresh Recalls Fresh Cantaloupe Because of Possible Health Risk Due to Salmonella
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 08, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 09, 2023
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Salmonella
Company Name:  Sofia Produce, LLC dba Trufresh
Brand Name:  Malichita
Product Description:  Fresh Cantaloupe

TX Firm Expands Recall of Pet Food After Additional Product Tests Positive for Salmonella

Mid America Pet Food, Mount Pleasant, Texas, is expanding its October 30, 2023, voluntary recall to include additional pet food products, with Best By Dates before 10/31/24, made at its Mount Pleasant facility, due to the products’ potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.  This expanded voluntary recall is being issued due to some of the product lots testing positive for Salmonella through random and targeted sampling of finished product, including by the firm and the South Carolina Department of Agriculture. As of November 1, 2023, seven people reported Salmonella infections.

The recall was initially posted on October 30, 2023, just over a week ago.  And as predicted at that time, 
(https://pennstatefoodsafety.blogspot.com/2023/10/tx-firm-recalls-dog-food-after-testing.html), the recall was expanded as investigators found additional products positive for Salmonella.  Clearly, proper control was not in place, and in this case, most likely post-process contamination. 

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/mid-america-pet-food-expands-voluntary-recall-include-additional-dog-and-cat-food-products-due
Mid America Pet Food Expands Voluntary Recall to Include Additional Dog and Cat Food Products Due to Possible Salmonella Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  November 09, 2023
FDA Publish Date:  November 09, 2023
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary  Food & Beverages    Pet Food
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
Company Name:  Mid America Pet Food
Brand Name:  Multiple brand names
Product Description:  Dog and Cat Food