Colorado Noodle Company Receives FDA Warning Letter

FDA issued a Warning Letter to a Colorado based RTE noodle company for not have a food safety plan in place, and with that any of the controls needed as part of that plan.  As you may know, FDA also published another Warning Letter in this same week for a Missouri noodle company Warning Letter in this same week for a Missouri noodle company with many similar issues.  Hopefully other noodle companies are noting the coming attention and are prepared with a well written Food Safety Plan.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/ng-zheng-inc-dba-kwan-sang-noodle-company-672206-04232024
Ng Zheng Inc. DBA Kwan Sang Noodle Company

FDA Issues Warning Letter to Missouri RTE Noodle Company for Many Issues

FDA issued a Warning Letter to  JX Restaurants, Inc  located in Maryland Heights, MO a manufacturer of ready-to-eat (RTE) rice and noodle-based meals and RTE rice and noodle-based under USDA jurisdiction.

This is a lengthy Warning Letter, but here are the highlights:

1. The firm did not identify and with that, have preventive controls in place for environmental pathogens including Listeria.  And as proof to this point, FDA conducted swabbing and found Listiera.

"FDA laboratory analysis of environmental sample 1216621 collected on August 9, 2023, from various areas in your processing facility during production found that eight (8) out of 111 swabs were confirmed positive for L. monocytogenes. These positive swabs were recovered in all areas of your facility including where the RTE meals are packaged, exposed to the environment, and (b)(4) by employees. Specifically, L. monocytogenes was found on a surface above your (b)(4) sink used to store utensils near the noodle and rice (b)(4) in the production area, on the wheels of multiple carts and racks located in the production area and packaging room, and the floor in the production area."

Interesting is that USDA testing had found Listeria.

"In addition, this is not the first time L. monocytogenes had been found in your facility. L. monocytogenes has also been recovered in samples collected by USDA FSIS, as follows:
May 18, 2023, your finished product, RTE Chicken Lo Mein. This product was held and not distributed to the public.
August 30, 2023, non-food contact environmental swabs collected from your facility."

This is an important point that a Preventive Controls approach forces the firm to do more in terms of controlling environmental pathogens.

2. The firm did not identify allergens as a hazard requiring a Preventive Control even though there were plenty areas for cross contact and did not follow thier own procedures for preventing allergen cross contact.

3. The firm did not recognize vegetative pathogens such as Salmonella in the raw materials, and with that, did not establish cooking as a kill step (although in making the product, they probably well exceeded the needed level.  Also, did not identify mycotoxins in wheat and peanuts.

4. Did not control chilling step.

"Your practice for chilling RTE fried rice is to spread cooked rice on a tray, which is then placed into a rolling rack. You continue to cook batches, fill trays, and load trays onto the rack to cool. Throughout the inspection, the investigator noted the ambient air temperature of the production room to be (b)(4)°F or higher."

5.  Plenty of GMP issues including employees not washing hands, poor facility cleanliness, improper cleaning of utensils, and improper use of high pressure hoses (which is a huge issue when you have Listeria contamination in the plant).

6.  Misbranding - numerous issues.

7. Reportable Food Registry - Failure to report.

"Specifically, you informed our investigator that on April 3, 2023, your customer conducted a recall on LuLu Chinese Express brand Korean Noodles with Vegetables with a Sell By date of April 11, 2023, due to an undeclared major food allergen, egg. Therefore, you became aware that the affected batches of this food contained undeclared egg on or about April 3, 2023, but you have not submitted a report to the Reportable Food Registry as of March 13, 2024".

Warning Letter
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/jx-restaurants-inc-669669-03192024

Recall Expanded of White-Coated Confectionary Items

More than ten days after the initial recall of white confectionary products for potential Salmonella, Palmer expanded the recall to include additional products. Palmer Candy was notified by its liquid coating supplier that there was a potential for contamination with salmonella from an ingredient that was potentially contaminated from one of their suppliers.  

So a supplier's supplier issue.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/update-palmer-candy-company-recall-white-confectionary-products-because-possible-health-risk
Update to Palmer Candy Company Recall of White Confectionary Products Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 17, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 18, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Contamination with Salmonella
Company Name:  Palmer Candy Company
Brand Name:  Multiple brands
Product Description:  Various Confectionary Products

Dog Food Recalled for Potential Metal Pieces in Bag

Mars Petcare US is voluntarily recalling 315 bags of PEDIGREE® Adult Complete Nutrition Grilled Steak & Vegetable Flavor Dry Dog Food in the 44 lb. bag size only, due to the potential presence of loose metal pieces in the bag.  There have been no reports of pet injury or illness regarding the potentially impacted product.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/mars-petcare-us-inc-voluntarily-recalls-315-bags-pedigreer-adult-complete-nutrition-grilled-steak
Mars Petcare US, Inc. Voluntarily Recalls 315 Bags of PEDIGREE® Adult Complete Nutrition Grilled Steak & Vegetable Flavor Dry Dog Food, 44 lb. Bag Size
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 17, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 18, 2024
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Presence of Loose Metal Pieces
Company Name:  Mars Petcare US, Inc.
Brand Name:  Pedigree
Product Description:  Adult Complete Nutrition Grilled Steak & Vegetable Flavor Dry Dog Food

Macaroni Salad Recalled After Labeling Error Results in Undeclared Wheat Allergen

Reser’s Fine Foods is voluntarily recalling a single item with a specific use by date, produced at a regional facility and distributed to ALDI. The product is the Aldi Deli Macaroni Salad 32 oz, with a Use By Date of Jun/03/24 due to an incorrect label. The incorrect label does not include an allergen callout for wheat.

So in this case, the bottom ingredient label stated coleslaw, which did not match the macaroni product in the container of the top label.  What controls would you put in place to prevent this very simple error?

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/resers-fine-foods-announces-voluntary-recall-single-batch-aldi-macaroni-32-oz-salad-use-date-jun0324
Reser’s Fine Foods Announces Voluntary Recall of Single Batch of Aldi Macaroni 32 oz Salad with Use By Date of Jun/03/24 Due to Unlabeled Wheat Allergen
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 17, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 17, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Due to Unlabeled Wheat Allergen
Company Name:  Reser’s Fine Foods
Brand Name:  Aldi
Product Description:  Macaroni Salad

Hawaii Firm Recalls Noodle Cups After Missing Egg Contributed by an Ingredient

Sun Noodle, of Honolulu, HI, is recalling approximately 37,158 cases of S&S CUP SAIMIN manufactured from May 9, 2023 – May 8, 2024, because the product may contain undeclared egg white powder.  This frozen product is sold in ready-to-heat cups as noodles with a separate fish cake that contains the allergen in question.  During Sun Noodle’s routine quality checks, the validation of supplier ingredients showed the use of egg white powder not disclosed on the labeling of the final assembled product.  

As part of the Allergen Control, it is critical to evaluate supplied ingredients for allergens and then ensure the design of the label includes those allergens.  In this case, it sounds as though the company did not design the cup labels with clear knowledge of what was in the purchased ingredients.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/sun-noodle-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-egg-ss-frozen-cup-saimin
Sun Noodle Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Egg in S&S Frozen Cup Saimin
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 16, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 17, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  May contain undeclared egg white powder
Company Name:  Sun Noodle
Brand Name:  S&S Cup
Product Description:   Saimin Noodles with Soup & Garnishes

Additional Recall Associated with White Confectionary with Potential Salmonella

United Supermarkets is advising guests about a recall by its supplier Palmer Candy of its white coated confectionary items due to possible Salmonella contamination. Palmer Candy was notified by its liquid coating supplier that there was a potential for contamination with Salmonella from an ingredient that was potentially contaminated from one of their suppliers. 

The Palmer recall was published on May 6, 2024.  So here is a delay of 10 days from that until this recall.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/united-supermarkets-advises-guests-new-mexico-and-texas-palmer-candys-voluntary-recall-white-coated
United Supermarkets Advises Guests in New Mexico and Texas of Palmer Candy’s Voluntary Recall of White Coated Confectionary Items Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 17, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 17, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Possible Salmonella contamination.
Company Name:  United Supermarkets
Brand Name:  United Supermarkets
Product Description:  Chocolate Caramel Corn and Candy Tray

Imported Organic Chia Seeds Recalled Due to Potential Salmonella

Natural Sourcing International is recalling of one lot of imported Great Value Organic Black Chia Seeds 32 oz. due to the potential presence of Salmonella that may be in some of the finished products. The product was imported from Uganda.

There are no reported illness and from the statement, it would seem to follow that the recall was due to testing.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/voluntary-recall-select-great-value-organic-black-chia-seeds-due-possible-presence-salmonella
Voluntary Recall of Select Great Value Organic Black Chia Seeds Due to The Possible Presence of Salmonella
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 10, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 13, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential Presence of Salmonella
Company Name:  Natural Sourcing International
Brand Name:  Great Value
Product Description:  Organic Chia Seeds

NIH Study - CWD Prions From Infected Deer Not Likely Transmitted to Humans

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in deer has been a huge concern for those who consume venison.  A recently released study found that the prions associated with CWD in deer did not transfer to humans in laboratory studies.

"In the new CWD study, the bulk of which was done in 2022 and 2023, the research team validated the study model by successfully infecting human cerebral organoids with human CJD prions (positive control). Then, using the same laboratory conditions, they directly exposed healthy human cerebral organoids for seven days with high concentrations of CWD prions from white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk, and normal brain matter (negative control). The researchers then observed the organoids for up to six months, and none became infected with CWD."

"This indicates that even following direct exposure of human central nervous system tissues to CWD prions there is a substantial resistance or barrier to the propagation of infection, according to researchers. The authors acknowledge the limitations of their research, including the possibility that a small number of people may have genetic susceptibility that was not accounted for, and that emergence of new strains with a lesser barrier to infection remains possible. They are optimistic that the inference of these current data is that humans are extremely unlikely to contract a prion disease because of inadvertently eating CWD-infected cervid meat."

"Prion diseases are degenerative diseases found in some mammals. These diseases primarily involve deterioration of the brain but also can affect the eyes and other organs. Disease and death occur when abnormal proteins fold, clump together, recruit other prion proteins to do the same, and eventually destroy the central nervous system. Currently, there are no preventive or therapeutic treatments for prion diseases."

https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-study-shows-chronic-wasting-disease-unlikely-move-animals-people
NIH study shows chronic wasting disease unlikely to move from animals to people
Study of cerebral organoids reinforces evidence for substantial species barrier

Friday, May 17, 2024

Beethoven's Deafness May Be Result of Lead Poisoning

A study provided insight on how Beethoven may have lost his hearing and suffered other ailments.  A study found high levels of lead as well as high levels of arsenic and mercury through analysis of his hair and this could have accounted for his health conditions.  "For example, one lock contained 380 micrograms of lead per gram of hair, while the second had 258 micrograms per gram of hair. (Normal levels today would be closer to 4 micrograms or less.) His hair also contained 13 times the normal level of arsenic and four times the typical level of mercury."  He also suffered from Hepatitis B which didn't help.

"One theory involves his penchant for wine; he often consumed an entire bottle in a single day. It wasn't uncommon during that time for wine producers to include lead acetate in their concoctions as a preservative and sweetener. Back then, glass bottles also contained traces of lead. The "Fifth Symphony" composer also ate a lot of fish caught in the Danube, which was known for containing arsenic and mercury, CNN reported."

So to what degree did his tortured condition lead him to writing his highly regarded music?

https://www.livescience.com/archaeology/heavy-metals-in-beethovens-hair-may-explain-his-deafness-study-finds
Heavy metals in Beethoven's hair may explain his deafness, study finds
News
By Jennifer Nalewicki 

May 14, 2024

California Bakery Cited for Failure to Comply with Any Regulations

FDA issued a Warning Letter to a California Bakery.  To make the long notice short [I really don't want to type this one out], the firm operated as if they had no knowledge of regulations.  There was no food safety plan, and with that, no controls for allergens, environmental pathogens, etc.  The firm lacked GMPs including pest control, personal hygiene, proper cleaning, etc.  They also had issues with using unapproved color additives and improper labeling.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/sheng-kee-california-inc-dba-sheng-kee-bakery-668255-04242024
Sheng Kee of California, Inc dba Sheng Kee Bakery
MARCS-CMS 668255 — APRIL 24, 2024

Canning Firm in China Cited by FDA for Failure to Meet LACF Regulations

FDA issued a Warning Letter to a low acid canned food (LACF) facility, located on Huarong County, Yueyang, Hunan, China. 

• Did not process a food in conformity with at least the scheduled process filed with FDA as required by 21 CFR 108.35 including: products produced in 2023 were processed at a different time and temperature than the scheduled process filed with the FDA
• The heat distribution study does not adequately support the scheduled process filed with the FDA.
• The firm’s retorts did not have an accurate temperature-recording device as required by 21 CFR 113.40(b)(2)
• The processing and production records for products failed to document the specific product variety, approximate number of containers per coding interval, initial product temperature, temperature-indicating device readings, and temperature recording device readings. Additionally, as these USA products are produced in a horizontal still water (b)(4) retort, the firm failed to document time steam on, time temperature up to processing temperature, time steam off, and venting time and temperature to which vented. The abovementioned data is also not documented or recorded on processing and production records for any of the LACF products the firm produces for the USA market.
• The firm did not use or document any form of heat-sensitive indicators or other effective means to ensure the baskets have been processed in the horizontal still water (b)(4) retorts used to process the USA low-acid canned food products.
• The firm’s only printed identification code for  USA hermetically sealed pouches consists of a 10-month best by date, which does not adequately identify the establishment where packed, the product in the container, year packed, day packed, or period during which packed
• The firm did not reference  (b)(4) thermometer to document the retort processing temperature. By the admission of your Equipment & Maintenance Manager, the firm relies on the (b)(4) digital temperature control probe display to document the processing temperatures on the horizontal still water (b)(4) retorts ((b)(4)) used to process LACF products for the USA market.
• The General Manager, Assistant Quality Control Manager, and the Equipment & Maintenance Manager, and none of the processing system or retort operators have ever attended training for thermally processing low-acid canned foods, such as a Better Process Control School, nor are they under the supervision of anyone who has completed such training.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/hunan-gagazui-food-co-ltd-673799-02092024
Hunan Gagazui Food Co., Ltd.
MARCS-CMS 673799 — FEBRUARY 09, 2024

Warning Letter Issued to Spanish Seafood Processor for Inadequate HACCP Plan

The FDA issued a Warning Letter after conducting a Foreign Regulatory Assessment (FRRA) of a  seafood processing facility, located in Sevilla, Spain on October 2 through October 11, 2023. During that assessment, FDA found that the company had serious violations of the seafood Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) regulation.  This included that the firm’s HACCP plan for green olives stuffed with anchovy or tuna did not list the food safety hazard of scombrotoxin (histamine) formation, Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) growth and toxin formation, and allergens associated with the tuna and anchovies; and the food safety hazard of S. aureus growth and toxin formation associated with the olives cooked and fermented at your facility.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/jolca-sa-677664-03212024
Jolca, S.A.
MARCS-CMS 677664 — MARCH 21, 2024

FDA Warning Letter to Foreign Supplier Highlights the Need for Supplier Preventive Controls

FDA issued a Warning Letter to a Chinese manufacture of RTE soy protein isolate.  FDA inspected the food manufacturing facility, located in Ye County, Pingdingshan, Henan, 467200, China from August 15 to 17, 2023. Soy protein isolate is used as a protein source in a number of food items including as an ingredient in smoothie mixes, pancake mixes, and breakfast ceral.

This is a great demonstration for the need of a tight Supplier Preventive Control as part of the Preventive Controls for Human Foods OR as part of a FSVP.  Note the issue with Certificates of Analysis (COAs).   A good reason to always verify COA with one's own testing.  This is especially important since this is considered a RTE ingredient.

Issues included:

• 'The hazard analysis covering the RTE Soy Protein Isolate did not identify the hazard of recontamination with environmental pathogens (e.g., Salmonella) as requiring a preventive control.'   
• 'Further, after employees completed and documented cleaning of the packing room, the investigator visually observed apparent soy protein powder residue on food-contact surfaces including the manual hand scoop, powder filling spout, and air removal probes.  The also visually observed soy protein powder residue on food-contact surfaces including the manual hand scoop, powder filling spout, and air removal probes.' 
• 'The production manager also informed the investigator that the only method of sanitization for the equipment in the packaging room is turning on the ceiling-mounted ultraviolet light for (b)(4) minutes before starting packaging. Of course, the company must ensure that the sanitization system is effective in reducing environmental pathogens on food-contact packaging surfaces to a safe level (including those far from the light source, those where the light might not reach, and those with organic residues.)'
• The firm did not take effective measures to exclude pests from the processing, packing, and holding areas and to protect against the contamination of food on the premises by pests, including a live insect was observed crawling inside the facility’s post-heat treatment packaging room for the RTE soy protein products; three live crawling insects and two dead insects were observed on the floor of the spray dryer room, which is directly adjacent and connected to the post-heat treatment packaging room; and a gap was observed at the bottom of the packaging room entry doors.
• Failed to properly store equipment, remove litter and waste, and cut weeds and grass within the immediate vicinity of the plant thus constituting an attractant, breeding place, or harborage for pests, as required by 21 CFR 117.20(a)(1). Specifically, the exterior ground along the south side of the facility was overgrown with weeds and being used as a storage area for scrap metal and old equipment. This area is directly outside the soy packaging room.
• The firm provided the investigator with certificates of analysis (COAs) for outgoing shipments of Soy Protein Isolate to U.S. customers which included results for Salmonella and E. coli testing. However, the firm had no original testing data to support the results on the COA. According to the Laboratory Manager and Food Safety Plan Systems manager, the firm sends their U.S. customers COAs with data that is not supported by actual results but creates the COA with values to satisfy the customer specifications. The firm then performs testing after the batches are sent to the U.S.; however, the testing does not include Salmonella or E. coli.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/pingdingshan-tianjing-plant-albumen-co-ltd-675567-04172024
Pingdingshan Tianjing Plant Albumen Co., Ltd.
MARCS-CMS 675567 — APRIL 17, 2024

CA Firm Recalls Yogurt Covered Pretzels After Yogurt Coating Supplier Finds Salmonella

Western Mixers Produce & Nuts, Inc. of Ontario, CA is recalling Yogurt Covered Pretzels, because the yogurt coating has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella,  The recall was as the result of a routine sampling program by the source supplier of the yogurt coating, which revealed that the finished products contained the bacteria. The company has ceased the production and distribution of the product as FDA and the company continue their investigation as to what caused the problem.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/western-mixers-produce-nuts-inc-recalls-yogurt-covered-pretzels-because-possible-health-risk
Western Mixers Produce & Nuts, Inc. Recalls Yogurt Covered Pretzels Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 10, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 10, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Salmonella
Company Name:  Western Mixers Produce and Nuts
Brand Name:  First Street, Gelson’s, bulk at Down Home Goods and Thorp Fruit
Product Description:   Yogurt covered pretzels

Washington State Firm Recalls Goat Milk Infant Formula Kit After Adverse Event in Infant

Healthwest Minerals, Inc. d/b/a Mt. Capra Products of Chehalis, Washington, is recalling 1,506 boxes of Goat Milk Formula Recipe Kit on the recommendation of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and advises consumers to immediately discontinue use of the product as infant formula. The FDA is concerned that the formula does not meet all FDA requirements for infant formula, does not provide sufficient nutrition when used as an infant formula, and the storage instructions may be insufficient for the product. Infants consuming the recalled product without additional iron supplementation can develop iron deficiency anemia and feeding intolerance.

FDA notified Mt. Capra of an adverse event report of anemia in one infant. FDA determined that while the caregivers were using the Goat Milk Formula Recipe Kit and recipe, the caregivers substituted some ingredients with a different brand of multivitamin, which created a product deficient in vitamin B12 as well as folate and ultimately resulted in the development of anemia.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/healthwest-minerals-inc-dba-mt-capra-products-recalls-goat-milk-formula-recipe-kit-and-warns
Healthwest Minerals Inc. DBA Mt Capra Products Recalls Goat Milk Formula Recipe Kit and Warns Consumers Against the Use of Product as Infant Formula
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 10, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 10, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Product does not provide sufficient nutrition when used as an infant formula
Company Name:  Healthwest Minerals, Inc. dba Mt. Capra Products
Brand Name: Mt. Capra
Product Description:  Goat Milk Formula Recipe Kit

Japan - Rat Parts Found in Bread

In Japan, a major food company issued a recall for over 100,000 packs of sliced white bread after rat parts were found in the product.  In a statement on Wednesday, Pasco Shikishima Corporation said it was investigating how parts of “a small animal” [a rat] found its way into two packets of sliced bread, adding that no one has fallen sick so far after consuming the product."  "They were found in a batch of white “chojuku” bread — or super fermented bread, known for its extra chewy texture — manufactured by a factory based in western Tokyo prefecture, according to the company."

Perhaps a name change is in order....ratachewy.

CNN

https://www.cnn.com/2024/05/09/food/japan-bread-rat-parts-recall-intl-hnk
Rat parts found in sliced white bread in Japan, sparking recall
By Chris Lau and Himari Semans, CNN
Updated 2:38 AM EDT, Thu May 9, 2024
Tokyo

Texas Nut Company Recalls All Products for Never Having Adhered to Allergen Regulations

Texas Pecan of Dallas TX is recalling 1 Lb and 8 oz products because it may contain an undeclared allergens - cashews, filberts, macadamias, pistachios, pecans, pine nuts, walnuts, soy, dairy (milk), sesame and wheat.

According to the company, "The problem came about with a routine check from the Texas Department of state and Health Services. When they inspected the packaging machine they decided that cross contamination was possible as our labels do states tree nut but each tree nut was not named individually. Our packaging machine is cleaned properly however our written documentation did not clearly state that."  They further state, "his company has been in business for over 40 years and no sickness or allergic reaction has ever been reported to us."

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/texas-pecan-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-tree-nuts-not-named-individually-soy-dairymilk-sesame
Texas Pecan Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Tree Nuts (Not Named Individually), Soy, Dairy(Milk), Sesame and Wheat Not Named in Product
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 08, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 08, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared peanut, tree nuts, soy, milk, sesame, and wheat allergens
Company Name:  Texas Pecan
Brand Name:  Texas Pecan Company
Product Description:  1 lb and 8 oz nuts, snack mixes, seeds, snack sticks

Iowa Retailer Recalls Cream Cheese Spread and Cookies and Cream Mix for Salmonella After Co-manufacturers Issue Notification

Hy-Vee, Inc., based in West Des Moines, Iowa, is voluntarily recalling two varieties of its Hy-Vee Cream Cheese Spread  and bulk-packaged Cookies & Cream Mix out of an abundance of caution due to the potential for contamination with Salmonella.  These products are manufactured at different third-party facilities around the Midwest and are sold under HyVee’s private label and bulk packaging programs. The manufacturers of these products notified Hy-Vee of the potential issue.

No illnesses have been reported.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/recall_supplier-recalls-impact-two-hy-vee-products-third-party-manufacturers-alert-retailer
Recall_Supplier Recalls Impact Two Hy-Vee Products Third-Party Manufacturers Alert Retailer of Potential for Contamination; No Illnesses Reported
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 06, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 06, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Salmonella
Company Name:  Hy-Vee Inc
Brand Name:  HyVee
Product Description:  Plain Whipped Cream Cheese, Plain Cream Cheese, and Cookies & Cream Mix

Whoa....PSU Food Safety Ranked as One of Best Food Safety Blogs for 2024

Very excited to see our blog ranked in the Best Food Safety Blogs for 2024, coming in at #11.

Thanks to all for your readership!

https://food.feedspot.com/food_safety_blog/
45 Best Food Safety Blogs and Websites
Here are 45 Best Food Safety Blogs you should follow in 2024

11. Penn State Food Safety Blog

Penn State Food Safety Blog....Providing news and commentary on important food safety issues. Penn State Food Safety is a work group in the College of Agricultural Sciences with members from the Department of Food Science, Department of Animal Science, and Cooperative Extension.

White Chocolate Candy Product Recalled After Notification by Supplier of Potential Salmonella Contamination in Ingredient

Palmer Candy Company, Sioux City, Iowa, is recalling its “White Coated Confectionary Items” because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.  Palmer Candy was notified by its liquid coating supplier that there was a potential for contamination with salmonella from an ingredient that was potentially contaminated from one of their suppliers.
The recalled confectionary items were distributed nationwide 

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/palmer-candy-company-recalls-white-confectionary-products-because-possible-health-risk
Palmer Candy Company Recalls White Confectionary Products Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 05, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 06, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Salmonella
Company Name:  Palmer Candy Company
Brand Name:  Freshness Guaranteed, Palmer, Sweet Smiles, Snackin’ With The Crew, Casey’s, Sconza Chocolates, Favorite Day Bakery, Sunny Select, Urge!, Kwik Trip Inc.
Product Description:  Various Confectionary Products

Peanuts Recalled for Potential Listeria Contamination

Hormel Foods Sales, LLC is voluntarily recalling a limited number of two PLANTERS® products that were produced at one of its facilities in April because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.  The products were shipped to Publix distribution warehouses in Florida, Georgia, Alabama and North Carolina and to Dollar Tree distribution warehouses in South Carolina and Georgia.

While no reason was stated for the recall, one could guess that testing of product or food contact surfaces may be the reason.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/hormel-foods-sales-llc-recalls-limited-number-plantersr-honey-roasted-peanuts-4-oz-and-plantersr
Hormel Foods Sales, LLC Recalls a Limited Number of Planters® Honey Roasted Peanuts 4 Oz. and Planters® Deluxe Lightly Salted Mixed Nuts 8.75 Oz. Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 03, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  May 03, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Nuts & Nut Products
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  Hormel Foods Sales, LLC
Brand Name:  Planters
Product Description:  Honey Roasted Peanuts and Deluxe Lightly Salted Mixed Nuts

Chocolate Covered Potato Chips Recalled Due to Inadvertent Addition of Hazelnuts

Chuao Chocolatier, a Carlsburg, CA firm, is voluntarily recalling a single production of Potato Chip mini bar .39oz/11 gram LOT 4022 because some packages may contain undeclared hazelnut.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered hazelnuts were inadvertently added to the product during manufacturing and the lot produced was distributed in packaging that does not reveal the presence of hazelnuts. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by cross contamination on a piece of share equipment.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/chuao-chocolatier-recalls-its-39-oz-11-gram-potato-chip-mini-bar-lot-4022-due-undeclared-hazelnuts
Chuao Chocolatier Recalls Its: .39 oz /11 Gram Potato Chip Mini Bar Lot 4022 Due to Undeclared Hazelnuts

Onion Rings Recalled for Potential Staphylococcus Aureus

In the FDA Enforcement Reports, a recall of fried onion rings due to the potential growth of Staphylococcus aureus.  While the information on the Enforcement Reports is limited, one would guess that the issue was related to temperature control of the batter during manufacturing.  If this is the case, teh concern would be that Staphylococcus aureus may have grown, produced toxin, and now that toxin would be heat stable.  Another possibility was that there could have been a high staph count on the finished product, and if the consumer temperature abused the product, Staphylococcus would grow.

FDA Enforcement Report

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/ires/index.cfm
Product Details
Product Description:
FRENCH S CRISPY FRIED ONIONS ORIG 240/26.5 OZ PDM
Reason for Recall:  Potential growth of Staphylococcus aureus
Product Quantity:  26.5 ounce - 720 Pouches
Recall Number:  F-1214-2024
Code Information:  UPC: 041500959030

Classification:  Class II
Event Details
Event ID:  94282
Voluntary / Mandated:  Voluntary: Firm initiated
Product Type:  Food
Initial Firm Notification of Consignee or Public:  Two or more of the following: Email, Fax, Letter, Press Release, Telephone, Visit
Status:  Ongoing
Distribution Pattern:  The product was distributed to the following States: AZ, IL
Recalling Firm:  McCormick & Company, Inc.- Consumer Product Division
11100 Mccormick Rd
Hunt Valley, MD 21031-1107
United States

Press Release URL(s):
Recall Initiation Date:  3/18/2024
Center Classification Date:   5/2/2024

FDA Publishes Final Rule for Use of Agricultural Water on FSMA Covered Produce

FDA released their final rule on agricultural water for produce. "Farms are required to conduct assessments of their pre-harvest agricultural water annually, and whenever a significant change occurs, to identify any conditions likely to introduce known or reasonably foreseeable hazards into or onto covered produce or food contact surfaces."   The rule provides the various factors that go into the evaluation.  

 "The final rule replaces certain pre-harvest agricultural water requirements for covered produce (other than sprouts) in the 2015 produce safety rule with requirements for systems-based agricultural water assessments to determine and guide appropriate measures to minimize potential risks associated with pre-harvest agricultural water."  It "establishes requirements for agricultural water assessments that evaluate a variety of factors that are key determinants of contamination risks associated with pre-harvest agricultural water. This includes an evaluation of the water system, water use practices, crop characteristics, environmental conditions, potential impacts on water from adjacent and nearby land, and other relevant factors."


https://www.fda.gov/food/cfsan-constituent-updates/fda-publishes-landmark-final-rule-enhance-safety-agricultural-water?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
FDA Publishes Landmark Final Rule to Enhance the Safety of Agricultural Water
Constituent Update
May 2, 2024

Public Health Alert for Chorizo After Consumer Complaints Filed for Hard Plastic and Metal in Product

USDA-FSIS issued a public health alert due to concerns of raw pork chorizo products that may be contaminated with a foreign material, specifically hard plastic and metal.  The product was produced by San Antonio Packing Company of San Antonio, TX.   The problem was discovered after the firm notified FSIS that it had received a consumer complaint reporting that pieces of hard plastic and metal were found in the raw pork chorizo product.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-raw-pork-chorizo-products-due-possible-foreign
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Raw Pork Chorizo Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination

WASHINGTON, May. 2, 2024 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert due to concerns of raw pork chorizo products that may be contaminated with a foreign material, specifically hard plastic and metal. FSIS is issuing a public health alert to ensure that consumers are aware that this product should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because the product is no longer available for purchase.

Raw Ground Beef Recalled for E. coli O157:H7 After Segregated Product Mistakenly Used

Cargill Meat Solutions, a Hazleton, Pa., establishment, is recalling approximately 16,243 pounds of raw ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7.  The establishment reported the issue to FSIS after they identified that previously segregated product had been inadvertently utilized in the production of ground beef.  These items were shipped to Walmart retail locations nationwide.

Ouch.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/cargill-meat-solutions-recalls-ground-beef-products-due-possible-e--coli-o157h7
Cargill Meat Solutions Recalls Ground Beef Products Due to Possible E. coli O157:H7 Contamination

WASHINGTON, May 1, 2024 - Cargill Meat Solutions, a Hazleton, Pa., establishment, is recalling approximately 16,243 pounds of raw ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

NJ Establishment Updated Their Recall of RTE Prosciutto

ConSup North America Inc., a Lincoln Park, N.J. firm, is updating an earlier recall of ready-to-eat (RTE) sliced prosciutto ham product produced in Germany without the benefit of equivalent inspection.  The initial recall was posted on April 24, 2024.  According to the USDA, the "details of this recall were updated to reflect that the product was shipped to retail locations nationwide."

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/consup-north-america-inc--recalls-ready-eat-sliced-prosciutto-product-produced
ConSup North America Inc. Recalls Ready-To-Eat Sliced Prosciutto Product Produced Without Benefit of Inspection
Editor's Note: April 30, 2024 - Details of this recall were updated to reflect that the product was shipped to retail locations nationwide.

VT Company Recalls Frozen Meat Pizza Due to Undeclared Soy

802 VT Frozen, a Newport, Vt. establishment, is recalling approximately 8,221 pounds of frozen meat pizza due to misbranding and undeclared allergens.  The description is 802 VT Frozen MEAT!!! CRISPY WOOD-FIRED CRUST HAND MADE PIZZA” with “best if used by” dates of April 25, 2024, through April 25, 2025The problem was discovered during routine FSIS verification activities. FSIS determined that the product contained soy, which was not declared on the label.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/802-vt-frozen-recalls-frozen-meat-pizza-products-due-misbranding-and-undeclared
802 VT Frozen Recalls Frozen Meat Pizza Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens

WASHINGTON, April 26, 2024 – 802 VT Frozen, a Newport, Vt. establishment, is recalling approximately 8,221 pounds of frozen meat pizza due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product contains soy, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.

Organic Walnuts from CA Firm Linked to E. coli Outbreak

FDA is reporting that an E. coli outbreak has been linked to Organic Walnuts produced by Gibson Farms, Inc. of Hollister, California.  To this point, 12 people have become ill with 7 hospitalizations.  Of 10 people interviewed, all 10 (100%) reported eating walnuts, and almost all reported buying organic walnuts from bulk bins in food co-ops or natural food stores.

Gibson Farms recalled Organic Light Halves and Pieces shelled walnuts after Gibson Farms received information that they may have the potential to be contaminated with E. Coli 0157:H7.  The Organic Light Halves and Pieces shelled walnuts were sold to distributors located in CA and WA.  Gibson Farms, Inc. has voluntarily recalled the product(s) after being notified by the CDC of 12 recorded illnesses allegedly linked to the consumption of organic halves and pieces shelled walnuts. A full investigation is currently under way to determine the potential source of the contamination.

https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-e-coli-o157h7-bulk-organic-walnuts-april-2024

Outbreak Investigation of E. coli O157:H7: Bulk Organic Walnuts (April 2024)

Do not eat, sell, or serve recalled organic walnuts sold in bulk bins at natural food and co-op retailers in multiple states. FDA’s investigation is ongoing.

Case Counts

Total Illnesses: 12

Hospitalizations: 7

Deaths: 0

Last Illness Onset: April 4, 2024

States with Cases: CA, WA

Product Distribution*: AK, AR, AZ, CA, CO, HI, ID, KS, LA, MT, NE, NM, NV, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA, and WY

Ice Cream Cups Recalled for Potential Metal Contamination

H-E-B is voluntarily issuing a recall for 12-count packages of 3-ounce cups of Creamy Creations ice cream in select flavors for potential metal. To date, there have been no injuries related to this recall. All product related to this recall has been removed from store shelves.

While there is no reason stated for how the metal was determined to be in the product, it is interesting to see that there is close to two weeks of production involved in the recall.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/h-e-b-issues-voluntary-recall-3-ounce-cups-creamy-creations-ice-cream-select-flavors
H-E-B Issues Voluntary Recall for 3-Ounce Cups of Creamy Creations Ice Cream in Select Flavors
Summary
Company Announcement Date: April 27, 2024
FDA Publish Date: April 29, 2024
Product Type: Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement: Potential presence of metal fragments
Company Name: H-E-B
Brand Name: H-E-B
Product Description: Creamy Creations ice cream

Imported Soft Cheese is Recalled After Positive Listeria Tests

Tama Corporation of Doral FL is recalling 24-ounce containers of "Queso de Mano PAISA" have contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.  "The recall was initiated after one laboratory analysis came out suspicious of that lot sample being contaminated. After a second analysis, this was confirmed. No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem."

Queso de Mano is a soft, fresh cheese typical of a Venezuelan cheese.   PAISA is a Venezuelan company.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/tama-corporation-recalls-product-because-possible-health-risk
Tama Corporation Recalls Product Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 25, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  April 26, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  TAMA Corporation
Brand Name:  PAISA
Product Description:  Queso de Mano PAISA

USDA Finalizes Rule on Control of Salmonella in Raw Breaded Stuffed Chicken Products

USDA FSIS issued final declaration that Salmonella is considered an adulterant in raw breaded stuffed chicken product when "they exceed a specific threshold (1 colony forming unit (CFU) per gram or higher) for Salmonella contamination."  According to USDA, "This final determination marks the first time that Salmonella is being declared an adulterant in a class of raw poultry products. This policy change is important because it will allow us to stop the sale of these products when we find levels of Salmonella contamination that could make people sick.”  It is important to note that "FSIS will consider to be adulterated any raw breaded stuffed chicken products that include a chicken component that tested positive for Salmonella at 1 CFU per gram or higher."  

Raw breaded stuffed chicken products are pre-browned and may appear cooked, but the chicken is raw. The products are typically cooked by consumers from a frozen state, which increases the risk of the product not reaching the internal temperature needed to destroy Salmonella. Despite FSIS’ and industry’s efforts to improve labeling, these products continue to be associated with Salmonella illness outbreaks.

Will need to review the 78 pages to get the finer points of this.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media_file/documents/FSIS-2022-0013F.pdf

https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2024/04/26/usda-finalizes-policy-protect-consumers-salmonella-raw-breaded
USDA Finalizes Policy to Protect Consumers from Salmonella in Raw Breaded Stuffed Chicken Products

Press Release
Release No. 0072.24
Contact: USDA Press
Email: press@usda.gov

WASHINGTON, April 26, 2024 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) today announced its final determination to declare Salmonella an adulterant in raw breaded stuffed chicken products when they exceed a specific threshold (1 colony forming unit (CFU) per gram or higher) for Salmonella contamination.

Warning Letters Issued to Two CA Food Importers for Issues on FSVP

Warning Letters were issued to two CA food importers.

La Sucursal Produce Inc. located at 1318 E 7th St, Ste 40, Los Angeles, CA 90021-1125 did not develop, maintain, and follow an FSVP for any of the foods that you import, including:  Husk Tomato imported from (b)(4) in (b)(4);  Green Onion imported from (b)(4) in (b)(4);  and Peas imported from (b)(4) in (b)(4).

New India Bazar, Inc., Milpitas, CA  received an inspection in response to the recent recall event associated with MAGGI Noodles imported by the company. Specifically, the product labels imported from the foreign supplier were examined and found to contain undeclared allergens. The label listed “hydrolyzed groundnut protein” as an ingredient without clarifying that this referred to peanuts, and without declaring peanuts on the product label.

In the FSVP inspection, the company did not develop an FSVP for the foods from the foreign suppliers indicated in the attached FSVP011 list, as well as the following foods:  Masala Munch Snack, imported from (b)(4), located in India  Chat Papri, imported from (b)(4), located in India  Gujarati Chavana (snack), imported from (b)(4), located in India

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/la-sucursal-produce-inc-673621-03012024
La Sucursal Produce Inc.
MARCS-CMS 673621 — MARCH 01, 2024

FDA Issues Warning Letter to MO Animal Feed Company

FDA issued a Warning Letter to Appleton City Feed Service LLC of Appleton City, MO for violations to Preventive Controls for Animal Feeds regulations as well as the Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD).
The company did not have a Preventive Control Plan for its animal feed product.  There were GMP issues including the lack of control focused on mycotoxins.  There were also issues with separation of feeds for different animal types.  And issues associated with the proper control of medications used in feed.

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/appleton-city-feed-service-llc-662279-11012023
Appleton City Feed Service LLC
MARCS-CMS 662279 — NOVEMBER 01, 2023

Ohio Seafood Facility Issued Warning Letter for Inadequate HACCP Controls

FDA issued a Warning Letter to Euro USA Inc seafood processing facility in Cleveland Ohio.

In brief, the facility failed to set and maintain critical limits for temperature control.  The storage coolers for mollusks and pasteurized crab meat did not have proper temperature settings.  The

receiving CCP for the Combined Molluscan Shellfish HACCP plan that includes reduced oxygen packaged shucked raw, scallops in cans, lists a critical limit that fails to ensure the products were held at adequate temperatures continuously during transit to your facility.  The CP for the Scombroid fish HACCP plan, lists a critical limit that is not adequate to control histamine formation. 

FDA Warning Letter
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/euro-usa-inc-666173-11222023
Euro USA Inc
MARCS-CMS 666173 — NOVEMBER 22, 2023

Imported Prosciutto Ham Recalled for Being Produced Without Equivalent Inspection

ConSup North America Inc., a Lincoln Park, N.J. firm, is recalling approximately 85,984 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) sliced prosciutto ham product produced in Germany without the benefit of equivalent inspection.  The problem was discovered when Germany’s Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety notified FSIS that H. Klümper GmbH & Co. KG, a Germany establishment, produced a portion of the identified lots without the benefit of equivalent inspection and exported them to the U.S. for distribution.


https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/consup-north-america-inc--recalls-ready-eat-sliced-prosciutto-product-produced
ConSup North America Inc. Recalls Ready-To-Eat Sliced Prosciutto Product Produced Without Benefit of Inspection

FSIS Announcement

WASHINGTON, April 24, 2024 – ConSup North America Inc., a Lincoln Park, N.J. firm, is recalling approximately 85,984 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) sliced prosciutto ham product produced in Germany without the benefit of equivalent inspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

FDA Warning Letter Issued to MI Company with Nut Labeling Issues

JLM Manufacturing LLC, of Warren, MI, an operating company of Lapiri Foods, was issued a Warning Letter for having consecutive labeling errors that resulted in undeclared nut allergens, thus clearly demonstrating a lack of allergen control at the labeling step.  

• "On August 1, 2023, after being notified of a complaint from a retail store, your firm recalled tubs of the IO Inspired Organics brand Organic Raw Walnut Halves & Pieces. The product was mislabeled with a bottom label identifying the product as cashews in the name, ingredient, and contains statements. The bottom label did not declare walnuts in the ingredient statement or the "Contains” statement."
• "On September 6, 2023, after being notified of a complaint from a retail store, your firm recalled raw filberts/hazelnuts that were mislabeled as “JLM brand Roasted Salted Pecan Halves.” The product was mislabeled with a principal display panel that incorrectly identified the product as Roasted Salted Pecan Halves, while the package contained raw filberts/hazelnuts and the principal display panel did not declare filberts/hazelnuts."
• "On September 9, 2023, after being notified of a complaint by a retail store, your firm recalled the cashews that were mislabeled as “IO Inspired Organics Raw Walnuts.” The product was mislabeled in the pouch for Raw Walnuts while the package contained cashews. The pouch did not declare cashews."

https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/lipari-foods-operating-company-llc-669083-04092024

Lipari Foods Operating Company, LLC
MARCS-CMS 669083 — APRIL 09, 2024

Firm Recalls Avocado Oil Due to Potential Breakage of Glass Package

Primal Kitchen is announcing a voluntary recall of approximately 2,060 cases of three code dates of Primal Kitchen Avocado Oil (750mL) because the glass may be prone to breakage, causing the product to spill.   This is a voluntary recall that comes after we discovered the issue through monitoring of the Primal Kitchen warehouse. It was noticed that avocado oil had leaked in shipping containers. No consumer injuries or illnesses have been reported to date.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/primal-kitchen-issues-voluntary-recall-primal-kitchen-avocado-oil-750ml-glass-due-packaging-issue
Primal Kitchen Issues Voluntary Recall of Primal Kitchen Avocado Oil (750mL Glass) Due to Packaging Issue
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 19, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  April 22, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Glass prone to breakage, causing product to spill
Company Name:  Primal Kitchen
Brand Name:  Primal Kitchen
Product Description:  Avocado oil

Nebraska Establishment Recalls Ground Beef Products After Inadvertently Using Product on Hold for E. coli

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for ground beef products produced by Greater Omaha Packing Co that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7. The problem was discovered by the establishment while conducting an inventory of product that was on hold because it was found positive for E. coli O157:H7. The company notified FSIS that they inadvertently used a portion of the contaminated beef to produce ground beef products that they subsequently shipped into commerce.

The raw ground beef items were produced on March 28, 2024.  The products have a “Use/Freeze by” date of April 22, 2024, and packaging date of “032824.”  FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers are aware that these products should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because the products are no longer available for purchase.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-ground-beef-products-due-possible-e--coli-o157h7-0
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Ground Beef Products Due to Possible E. Coli O157:H7 Contamination
GREATER OMAHA PACKING CO., INC.
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Ground Beef Products Due to Possible E. Coli O157:H7 Contamination

CA Firm Recalls Goat Milk Toddler Formula Due To Concerns for Infant Use

Sammy's Milk, Newport Beach, California, has been asked by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to provide a warning against the use of its Goat Milk Toddler Formula as an infant formula because the FDA is concerned that the formula may not meet all FDA requirements for infant formula and may be unsafe and not provide sufficient nutrition when used as an infant formula. These concerns were provided to Sammy’s Milk in a meeting with FDA this week that identified representations on the Sammy’s Milk website and social media platforms that could be interpreted to indicate the product is safe for infants to consume.

While Sammy’s Milk is specifically formulated for children between the ages of 12 and 36 months. it does not recommend the use of Goat Milk Toddler Formula for infants under 12 months of age.  However, the concern is that people may use it as a formula for this younger age group.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/sammys-milk-providing-warning-against-use-goat-milk-toddler-formula-infant-formula
Sammy’s Milk Providing a Warning Against the Use of Goat Milk Toddler Formula as Infant Formula
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 18, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  April 18, 2024
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Infant Formula & Foods
Reason for Announcement:  Product does not provide sufficient nutrition when used as an infant formula
Company Name:  Sammy’s Milk
Brand Name:  Sammy’s Milk
Product Description:  Goat Milk Toddler Formula

Imported Fresh Basil Linked to Salmonella Outbreak, Importer Recalling Product

An outbreak of Salmonella has been linked to fresh organic basil sole through Trader Joe's and Fruit Center Marketplace.  There have been 12 cases so far reported with one hospitalization occurring in 7 states, although the product had been shipped to close to 30 states.  The product was imported by Infinite Herbs LLC of Miami, Florida, from Columbia, and the company is now recalling the 2.5-ounce packages of Infinite Herbs fresh organic basil sold between February 1 and April 6, 2024, and bearing the UPC 8 18042 02147 7.

https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-salmonella-organic-basil-april-2024
Outbreak Investigation of Salmonella: Organic Basil (April 2024)
Do not eat recalled organic basil sold at certain retail stores in 29 states and D.C. FDA’s investigation is ongoing.
Current Update
April 19, 2024

The FDA and CDC, in collaboration with state and local partners are investigating an outbreak of Salmonella linked to recalled organic basil.

Imported Honey Still a Concern for Economically Motivated Adulteration

US FDA released results of economic adulteration of imported honey.   Between April 2022 and July 2023, FDA collected 107 samples of imported honey and found 3 samples (3%) to be violative. In 2021-2022, the agency collected and tested 144 imported honey samples, and found 10% of those samples to be violative. The two assignments were not designed for statistical comparison of violation rates.  The countries with violative samples - Dominican Republic (1), Mexico (1), and Yemen (1).

"“Honey” commonly refers to the thick, sweet, syrupy substance that bees make from the nectar of plants or their secretions and store in honeycombs (see FDA’s Proper Labeling of Honey and Honey Products: Guidance for Industry). Economically motivated adulteration occurs when products labeled as “honey” contains undeclared sweeteners that are less expensive than honey, such as syrups derived from cane, corn, rice, or sugar beets."

"The FDA used Stable Carbon Isotope Ratio Analysis (SCIRA) to analyze the organic composition of each honey sample. When the agency found a subsample to have carbon isotope values atypical to those of authentic honey, the agency classified the associated sample as violative/noncompliant."

https://www.fda.gov/food/cfsan-constituent-updates/fda-releases-report-economically-motivated-adulteration-honey
FDA Releases Report on Economically Motivated Adulteration in Honey
Constituent Update
April 8, 2024

Banning Food Ingredients - The Problem with State-by-State Approach

A commentary in Food Technology Magazine addresses the ongoing issue of various States issuing ingredient bans.   They address the current four chemicals in the crosshairs of health activists and state that these actions "stem from a fundamental misunderstanding of the science of toxicology, the linchpin of food additive safety, and the meticulous regulatory oversight by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)."  Basically, this approach to eliminating chemicals from the food supply goes around having scientific consensus at the national level.  Rather, it lays responsivity in the hands of  State legislatures who act with more sentiment than science.

As this approach continues to win, what other food ingredients will be next? And what impact will it have on our ability to produce foods?

FOOD TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE | DIALOGUE
https://www.ift.org/news-and-publications/food-technology-magazine/issues/2024/april/columns/dialogue-what-food-additive-bans-overlook
What Food Additive Bans Overlook
Two toxicologists reflect on the impact of California’s ban of four food additives.
By James R. Coughlin, Craig Llewellyn

Illinois Facility to be Closed Following December 2023 Recall

In December of 2023, Quaker Oats began recalling various granola products due to potential Salmonella contamination.  This month, the company has decided to permanently close this facility citing extensive facility modernization that would be needed.  “After a detailed review, we determined that meeting our future manufacturing needs would require an extended closure for enhancements and modernization,” Chicago-based Quaker Oats said. “In order to continue the timely delivery of Quaker products trusted by consumers since 1877, we determined production would need to permanently shift to other facilities."

The facility had been in operation for 55 years employing over 500 people.

Baking Business
https://www.bakingbusiness.com/articles/61258-quaker-closing-illinois-facility-after-recall
Quaker closing Illinois facility after recall
04.09.2024By Jeff Gelski

CHICAGO — The Quaker Oats Co., a business of PepsiCo, Inc., is permanently closing its facility in Danville, Ill., following a recall in December 2023 that led Quaker to cease production at the facility.

Chicken Feed Recalled for Misformulation That Left Out Vitamin D

Cargill’s animal nutrition business is conducting a voluntary recall of Nutrena® Country Feeds® Meat bird 22% Crumble (RV) due to non-inclusion of Vitamin D. Lack of Vitamin D in meat bird diets can lead to mineral deficiencies and bone issues, including rickets in growing birds. Symptoms include lameness and rubbery bones.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/cargill-conducts-voluntary-recall-nutrenar-country-feedsr-meatbird-22-crumble-due-non-inclusion
Cargill Conducts Voluntary Recall of Nutrena® Country Feeds® Meatbird 22% Crumble Due to Non-inclusion of Vitamin D
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  April 13, 2024
FDA Publish Date:  April 13, 2024
Product Type:  Animal & Veterinary  Animal Feed
Reason for Announcement:  Non-inclusion of Vitamin D
Company Name:  Cargill
Brand Name:  Nutrena Country Feeds
Product Description:  Meat bird 22% Crumble (RV)