Trader Joe's recalls peanut butter after linkage to Salmonella outbreak

Trader Joe’s is recalling Creamy Salted Valencia Peanut Butter due to the linkage with a Salmonella outbreak. According to the CDC, an outbreak of Salmonella Bredeney has resulted in 29 illnesses in 18 states. Four individuals were hospitalized.

 Why is Salmonella associated with Peanut Butter? While Salmonella can be easily destroyed by heat in moist products such as meat (one would cook chicken to 165F and hamburger to 160F as examples), in dry products, Salmonella becomes extremely heat resistant. According to GMA’s Handbook for Safe Processing of Nuts, temperatures in the 260F range are needed to destroy Salmonella. Additionally, Salmonella can survive for months in the dry processing plant as well as in dry finished product such as peanut butter. Manufacturers have to ensure that the processes they use achieves the necessary processing temperatures during roasting/cooking (Critical Control Point or CCP) to achieve lethality (bacterial reduction). Additionally, they must ensure that the processing environment is maintained in a way that prevents Salmonella from becoming established and thus posing a risk for post-processing contamination. (This is what occurred with the Peter Pan Peanut Butter Salmonella Outbreak in 2007).

Trader Joe’s does not make their own products, but sources items from a number of different food processors. According to the Fortune Magazine (article after break – good read), TJ’s is very secretive with who they use as their suppliers. Much of that is due to the fact that these suppliers are making product for other people and TJ is able to get deep discounting through large purchases. Also interesting is that TJ’s is own by a German retail conglomerate. TJ’s has made their niche in buying products that appeal to the hipsters (you know who you are) who are looking for unique products as well as organic or organic-like foods. (organic-like is not really organic, but it appears that way so it is still cool).

 My concern is this – if the supplier of TJ’s peanut butter is making other types of TJ’s peanut butter, or they are making it for other companies, past history would indicate that other codes or even other brands of product may be suspect. If the contamination was a one-time processing issue, then one could see it limited to one lot if there was a verifiable deviation of process during that time frame. If not, then one may expect a larger processing issue or a post-process contamination concern, in which case, other lots may be at risk.

 This will be an interesting case to follow.

FDA RELEASE
Trader Joe’s Voluntarily Recalls Creamy Salted Valencia Peanut Butter Because of Possible Health Risk
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm320579.htm?source=govdelivery

 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - September 22, 2012 - Out of the utmost caution and care for our customers, Trader Joe’s is voluntarily recalling its Creamy Salted Valencia Peanut Butter because of potential contamination with Salmonella. At this time, no confirmed illnesses directly linked to this product have been reported to Trader Joe’s.

While we have no confirmed information that suggests this peanut butter is unsafe to eat, there is nothing more important to us than the health and safety of our customers and crew, and the quality of our products.

In advance of this recall, Trader Joe’s removed the product from all store shelves.

The recalled Creamy Salted Valencia Peanut Butter was distributed to Trader Joe’s stores nationwide. The product comes in a 16 ounce, plastic jar with an expiration date of stamped below the lid. All code dates are included in this recall.

Production and distribution of the item has been suspended while the FDA and the Valencia Peanut Butter supplier continue their investigations.

Customers who have purchased this item are urged to not eat the product, and to dispose of it or return it to any Trader Joe’s for a full refund. Customers with questions may contact Trader Joe’s Customer Relations at (626) 599-3817.

Salmonella is an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
 

CDC RELEASE
Multistate Outbreak of Salmonella Bredeney Infectionshttp://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/bredeney-09-12/index.html
Posted September 22, 2012 03:30 PM ET
· A total of 29 persons infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Bredeney have been reported to PulseNet from 18 states.
· 4 ill persons have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported.
· Collaborative investigation efforts of state, local, and federal public health and regulatory agencies indicate that Trader Joe's Valencia Creamy Salted Peanut Butter made with Sea Salt is a likely source of this outbreak.
· On September 22, 2012, Trader Joe’s voluntarily recalled its Creamy Salted Valencia Peanut Butter because of potential contamination with Salmonella and urges consumers to not eat the product.
· The product comes in a 16 ounce, plastic jar. All code dates are included in this recall.
· This peanut butter product is sold at Trader Joe's grocery stores nationwide and on the internet.
· Trader Joe’s has removed all Valencia Creamy Salted Peanut Butter made with Sea Salt from sale in its stores.
· Investigations are ongoing to determine if any other foods sold primarily at Trader Joe’s grocery stores are also a source in this outbreak.
· Based on available information, CDC recommends that consumers do not eat Trader Joe’s Valencia Creamy Salted Peanut Butter made with Sea Salt and dispose of any remaining jars of peanut butter in the home or return the product to any Trader Joe’s grocery store.
· This is especially important for children under the age of 5 years, older adults, and people with weak immune systems.
· CDC will update the public on the progress of this investigation as information becomes available.

Kroger Spinach Recalled

Kroger is recalling bagged spinach due to the potential to be contaminated with Listeria. Recall was conducted after the Ohio Dept of Ag found a positive sample. There have been no reported illnesses.

Kroger Stores in Fifteen States Ask Customers to Check for Recalled Fresh Selections Spinach Items
http://go.usa.gov/rzwR

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - September 19, 2012 - The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) Family of Stores in 15 states is asking customers to check their refrigerators for certain Kroger Fresh Selections Tender Spinach 10 ounce packages (UPC: 0001111091649) with a "best if used by" date of September 16.

This product, supplied by NewStar Fresh Foods LLC, is being recalled because the product may contain Listeria monocytogenes. Customers should return the items to stores for a full refund or a replacement. Customers can visit www.kroger.com/recall1 for more information.

Stores under the following names in 15 states are included in this recall:

Kroger stores in Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, central and eastern Tennessee, and Michigan.
Kroger, Jay C, Owen’s, Pay Less, Scott’s and Food 4 Less stores in Indiana, Illinois and eastern Missouri.
Dillons, Baker’s, and Gerbes stores in Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska. 

Stores the company operates under the following names are not included in this recall: Fry’s, Ralphs, Fred Meyer, QFC, Smith’s, King Soopers, City Market and Food 4 Less/Foods Co. in California.

What Kroger is Doing

Kroger has removed affected items from store shelves and initiated its customer recall notification system. Customers who may have purchased the affected products will receive register receipt messages and/or automated phone calls. Kroger is also placing signs in stores in produce departments.

What Customers Should Do

Kroger is asking customers to carefully check their refrigerators for this recalled Fresh Selections product because it may contain Listeria monocytogenes. Any opened or unopened products included in this recall should not be consumed and should be returned by customers to their local Kroger store for a full refund or replacement.

Listeria monocytogenes, if eaten, could result in severe illness to those individuals who are pregnant or have a weakened immune system.

Customers with additional questions can contact 1-800-KROGERS.

Ricotta Cheese recallsed due to link to Listeria outbreak

 Ricotta cheese is being recalled due to it may be linked to 14 cases of listeriosis that were reported in 11 different states.

Forever Cheese Inc. announces recall due to possible listeria contamination
Washington Post 9/11/12http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/forever-cheese-inc-announces-recall-due-to-possible-listeria-contamination/2012/09/11/8783002c-fc52-11e1-98c6-ec0a0a93f8eb_story.html

DENVER — Forever Cheese Inc. is recalling Ricotta Salata Frescolina brand cheese with the lot number T9425 and production code 441202 due to possible listeria contamination.

Colorado health department officials said Tuesday that 14 reported illnesses in 11 states, including one in Colorado, may be linked to the cheese.

Forever Cheese, based in Long Island City, N.Y., says the cheese was sold to distributors for retailers and restaurants in California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington and Washington, D.C., between June 20 and Aug. 9.

In Colorado, the cheese was shipped between July 12 and Aug. 2 to Whole Foods’ Bel-Mar, Capitol Hill, Cherry Creek, Fort Collins, Highlands Ranch, Pearl Street, Southglenn, Superior, Tamarac and Washington Park stores.

Organic Foods - No Support for Claims that it is More Healthy Compared to Convential Foods

There are many reasons people buy organic foods, but as a recent research article conducted by Stanford researchers show, the arguement that organic foods are more healthy may not be a valid one.  The research is based upon examination of  some 200 peer-reviewed studies.

I don't think that NPR article below was looking for a fight, they just cited this research study.  However, you might think otherwise after looking at the comment section.

The other arguement for people using organic is that it is safer.  Clearly, organic food has the same type of food safety issues as conventional food. 

One of the other primary determinants is pesticide residues on conventional produce.  USDA has stated that this is not a concern. (http://www.ams.usda.gov/AMSv1.0/getfile?dDocName=STELPRDC5049944 ).

People have the right to choose whatever type of foods they want.  Indeed it may be better for the environment, or there may be less long term impact on someone's body (although that is yet to be shown).  However, it is important that people acknowledge the research that has been done and factor this into thier risk determination.  Unfortunately, we go to great lenghts to avoid low risk issues (organic versus conventional), but overlook high risk practices (such as sunbathing).
Organic Food May Not Be Healthier For You
http://www.npr.org/blogs/thesalt/2012/09/04/160395259/why-organic-food-may-not-be-healthier-for-you?utm_source=NPR&utm_medium=facebook&utm_campaign=20120904

Yes, organics is a $29 billion industry and still growing. Something is pulling us toward those organic veggies that are grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.

But if you're thinking that organic produce will help you stay healthier, a new finding may come as a surprise. A new study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine finds scant evidence of health benefits from organic foods.

"There's a definite lack of evidence," says researcher Crystal Smith-Spangler at Stanford University School of Medicine, especially when it comes to studies of people.

She and her colleagues collected 200 peer-reviewed studies that examined differences between organic and conventional food, or the people who eat it.

A few of these studies followed people who were eating either organic or conventional food and looked for evidence that the choice made a difference in their health.

One study, for instance, looked at whether eating organic food while pregnant would influence the likelihood of eczema and other allergic conditions among children, and another looked at whether eating organic meat would influence the risk of a Campylobacter infection, a bacterial food-borne illness. When the researchers looked at the body of evidence, they found no clear benefits. But they say more research is needed.

It's important to note, though, that such studies have a really hard time uncovering subtle effects of our environment, or what we eat, on our health. Too many other powerful influences get in the way. Also, these studies only followed people for a very short time — about two years or less. That's hardly enough time to document any particular health benefit.

Most of the studies included in this collection looked at the food itself — the nutrients that it contained as well as levels of pesticide residues or harmful bacteria.

As you might expect, there was less pesticide contamination on organic produce. But does that matter? The authors of the new study say probably not. They found that the vast majority of conventionally grown food did not exceed allowable limits of pesticide residue set by federal regulations.

Some previous studies have looked at specific organic foods and found that they contain higher levels of important nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals. We've reported on one particularly ambitious experiment, which is supposed to go on for a hundred years, comparing plots of organic and conventional tomatoes. After 10 years, the researchers found that tomatoes raised in the organic plots contained significantly higher levels of certain antioxidant compounds.

But this is one study of one vegetable in one field. And when the Stanford researchers looked at their broad array of studies, which included lots of different crops in different situations, they found no such broad pattern.

Here's the basic reason: When it comes to their nutritional quality, vegetables vary enormously, and that's true whether they are organic or conventional. One carrot in the grocery store, for instance, may have two or three times more beta carotene (which gives us vitamin A) than its neighbor. That's due to all kinds of things: differences in the genetic makeup of different varieties, the ripeness of the produce when it was picked, even the weather.

So there really are vegetables that are more nutritious than others, but the dividing line between them isn't whether or not they are organic. "You can't use organic as your sole criteria for judging nutritional quality," says Smith-Spangler.

Of course, people may have other reasons for buying organic food. It's a different style of agriculture. Organic farmers often control pests by growing a greater variety of crops. They increase the fertility of their fields through nitrogen-fixing plants, or by adding compost instead of applying synthetic fertilizer.

That can bring environmental benefits, such as more diverse insect life in the field or less fertilizer runoff into neighboring streams. But such methods also cost money. That's part of what you are buying when you buy organic.

So if you really want to find the most nutritious vegetables, and the organic label won't take you there, what will?

At the moment, unfortunately, there isn't a good guide. But a lot of scientists are working on it.

They're measuring nutrient levels in all kinds of crops, and discovering some surprising things, as The Salt reported last week — such as supernutritious microgreens. They're trying to breed new varieties of crops that yield not a bigger harvest but a more nutrient-rich harvest.

The problem is, farmers still get paid by the pound, not by the vitamin. And consumers buy their food the same way. What this really requires is a whole new food system that can track those extra-nutritious crops from farmer's field to consumer's shopping basket.

Maybe, down the road, you will actually see signs in the supermarket that advertise, for instance, iron-rich beans. Maybe they'd be organic, or maybe not.

Chain Recall Begins, Impacting Numerous Brands That Used Suspect Mangoes

The chain recall has begun as numerous firms issue recalls for products that contain the mangoes that were linked to the Salmonella outbreak (http://pennstatefoodsafety.blogspot.com/2012/08/mangoes-linked-to-73-cases-of.html.)

It is interesting to see the number of companies recalling product as well as the number of brands impacted.  It is also easy to see why consumers, such as me, will just avoid eating mangoes or products containing mangoes. 

More information on each recall can be obtained by clicking the FDA link.

F&S Produce Co., Inc. Recalls Limited Quantity of Expired Fresh-ut Mango Products Due to Possible Health Risk

http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm317995.htm?source=govdelivery

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 1, 2012 - F&S Produce Co., Inc. of Rosenhayn, NJ is initiating a voluntary recall of a limited quantity of expired products that contain fresh-cut mangoes, with a code date that is on or before August 28, 2012, as a result of a FDA recall by Splendid Products because Daniella brand mangoes distributed by this firm may be contaminated with Salmonella. Products containing fresh-cut mango products that were affected by this recall were distributed to grocery and convenience store customers in the Northeast. Products were processed between 8/9/2012 to 8/19/2012, and utilized mangoes sourced from Mexico that are associated with this current outbreak. Products produced with Use-by or Sell-By dates of August 29 or later, have been processed using mangoes sourced from Brazil, and are not associated with this recall.......Brands packed for: Walmart generic, Garden Highway, Garden Pure, Signature Cafe (Safeway and Genuardi's), Trader Joe's.

Ready Pac Announces Voluntary Recall of Fresh Cut Fruit Products Containing Mangoes Because of Possible Health Risk

http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm317952.htm?source=govdelivery

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 31, 2012 - Ready Pac Foods, Inc. of Irwindale, California is voluntarily recalling, out of an abundance of caution, packaged fruit products containing mangoes, distributed through August 30th 2012, with Use-by Dates as listed below since they contain Daniella Brand mangoes, which have been recalled by supplier Splendid Products, due to potential contamination with Salmonella Braenderup.

The voluntary recall extends only to the products with the Use-by Dates listed below and sold in the following states: Alaska, Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Washington D.C., Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and Canada......Brands Packed: Dining in, Ready Pac, Starbucks, Walmart, and Wawa

Taylor Farms New Jersey Recalls Products Containing Daniella Brand Mangoes
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm317948.htm?source=govdelivery

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - August 30, 2012 - Taylor Farms New Jersey is voluntarily recalling specific code dates of the following products due to containing Daniella Brand mangoes or potentially being processed on common equipment with the Daniella Brand mangoes. Daniella Brand mangoes were identified by the CFIA as having the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella Braenderup, and are subject to a prior recall posted by CFIA and FDA. All products are packaged in rigid plastic trays and can be identified with the following information:
These products were distributed to Wawa retail stores in the following states:
New Jersey
Maryland
Delaware
Pennsylvania
Stop & Shop Alerts Customers to Voluntary Recall of Splendid Products LLC Daniella Mangos
 http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm317857.htm?source=govdelivery


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - August 27, 2012 - The Stop & Shop Supermarket Company, LLC, following a voluntary recall by Splendid Products announced it removed from sale Daniella mangos due to possible salmonella contamination.

The following product, purchased between July 12 and August 24, 2012 is included in this recall:


Daniella mangos, PLU 495

Stop & Shop is aware of illnesses reported in Canada and associated with this recall. Customers who have purchased the product should discard any unused portions and bring their purchase receipt to Stop & Shop for a full refund.

BI-LO Issues Voluntary Recall on Daniella Brand Mangoes Due to Possible Health Risk

http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm317865.htm?source=govdelivery
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 31, 2112 - Today BI-LO1 announced an immediate voluntary recall on whole Daniella brand mangoes sold with a universal product code (UPC) of 0-00000-04051 in stores between July 12 and Aug. 27, 2012. The recalled mangoes, a product of Mexico, were sold as individual fruit and can be identified by the Daniella brand sticker. The product is being recalled in the states of Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee due to a potential health risk from possible contamination with Salmonella Braenderup.

Pacific Coast Fruit Company Recalls Deli Styled Fruits Salads for Potential Salmonella Braenderup Contamination

http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm317950.htm?source=govdelivery

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 30, 2012 - Pacific Coast Fruit Company, Portland, Oregon is voluntarily recalling multiple types of fresh cut processed items based on the potential contamination of Salmonella Braenderup, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes life-threatening for infants, older people, pregnant woman and people with weakened immune systems. The most common symptoms of Salmonella are diarrhea, abdominal cramps and fever, which develop within eight to 72 hours of eating contaminated food. The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days and most people recover without treatment. 
Pacific Coast Fruit utilized a portion of the mangoes that were recalled by Splendid Products LLC marked with the Daniella Label in some of our fresh cut processed items. Please see attached list for specific products entered into commerce, including UPC code, Pacific Coast Fruit Item Number, and Best If Use by Date.

Pacific Coast Fruit recalled products were distributed to various retailer groceries in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Alaska.


Winn-Dixie Issues Voluntary Recall On Cut Fruit Produced By Renaissance Food Group – Tropical Salsa, Fruit Burst, Island Medley Due To Possible Heath Riskhttp://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm317946.htm?source=govdelivery

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - August 31, 2012 - Winn-Dixie today announced an immediate voluntary recall of select cut fruit produced by Renaissance Food Group. The products are being recalled as a precaution because they contain a mango ingredient that has the potential of being contaminated with Salmonella braenderup. This recall is associated with Daniella Brand Mangoes distributed by Splendid Products.

Specific products recalled include Garden Highway-brand Tropical Salsa, and Fruit Burst and Island Medley varieties of cut fruit sold under the Winn-Dixie name. The recalled products will have a plant number of P-009 on the product label that will be located to the left of the universal product code (UPC). Winn-Dixie has received no reports of any issues associated with consumption of the cut fruit products.


Out of an abundance of caution for its customers, Winn-Dixie is immediately recalling this cut fruit produced by Renaissance Food Group from the shelves of select Florida stores. The recall is not companywide, but only for product sold in central and south Florida stores from the following counties: Brevard, Broward, Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Marion, Martin, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Saint Lucie, Sarasota, Seminole, Sumter and Volusia.

World Foods, LLC, Florida initiates voluntary recall of cut fruit and salsa products that contain Daniella Mangoes
  http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm317836.htm?source=govdelivery


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - August 30, 2012 - World Foods, LLC is initiating a voluntary, precautionary recall on various products it distributes to retail supermarkets that contain mangoes associated with the Splendid Products recall of Daniella Brand Mangoes with the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

There have been no reported illnesses attributed to the recalled items. World Foods, LLC, Florida is issuing this voluntary recall linked to Daniella Brands Mangoes to minimize risk to the public health.

A list of the brands, products, pack sizes and affected area of distribution is provided in the table below.
Brands Packed: Generic Winn Dixie and Garden Highway


Real Foods of Kent WA. and Charlie’s of Anchorage Alaska Voluntarily Recalls Products with Daniella Brand Mangos Because of Possible Health Risk
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm317949.htm?source=govdelivery

Triple B Corporation Seattle, Wa. dba Real Foods Kent WA. and Charlie’s Produce Anchorage, Alaska is recalling1336 cases of the products listed below because they contain Daniella brand mango that were recalled because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella braenderup.

This product was used in retail stores and Deli in Washington and Alaska.
Shelf life of the product is 5-7 days

Real Foods Product Use by Date 7/12/2012 to 8/29/2012

Mangoes linked to 73 cases of Salmonella infection

CA Dept of Health is reporting that 73 individuals are ill with Salmonella contracted from contaminated Mangoes imported from Mexico.  Giant of Landover, MD is recalling mangoes that may be contaminated.

73 People Sickened with Salmonella from Mangoes
California health officials are investigating
NBC New YorkTuesday, Aug 28, 2012 | Updated 4:49 PM EDThttp://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/health/73-People-Sickened-with-Salmonella-from-Mangoes-167736835.html

California health officials say they are investigating a foodborne illness outbreak associated with salmonella-tainted mangoes that has sickened 73 people.

Authorities say they are still probing what prompted the outbreak of salmonella Braenderup cases in California and trying to identify which specific mango brands or sources might be tied to the illnesses.

Romaine lettuce recalled due to Listeria

Fresh Express is recalling bags of romaine lettuce hearts due to a sample testing positive for Listeria.  The release below indicates the product was tested by FDA.  There have been no reported illnesses.  At this point, the expiration date on the product had passed so it is anticipated that there will be no product on the store shelf.

 

Why conduct a recall on expired product?  In the event product still might be on some store shelf, or in someone's refrigerator, it is important to remove it.  Especially considering that Listeria can grow at refrigerated temperatures.  Also, expired product may move through the food donation system (food banks and pantries).  Some of these outlets allow for the movement of product that has gone beyond the stated shelf-life.  Then on top of that, it is important that the company show it has taken corrective action.

Why test product about to expire?  This is probably a market survey, so product may have already traveled from the production facility to the retail level.  With a limited shelf-life product like leafy greens, there is not a big window of time.  Adding this to the time it takes for testing and positive confirmation, then it is likely that the product has already surpassed its stated shelf-life. 

But a sampling program such as this does give important information.  With little doubt, the FDA is paying a visit to this facility to see how the product may have become contaminated.  In a product such as this where there are processing steps including the removal of the outer leaves and a multiple wash step, which will include some antimicrobial agent(s), there is a good likelihood that the contamination occurred at the processing facility.

 

FDA News Release

Fresh Express Recalls Limited Quantity of Expired 10 oz. Hearts of Romaine Salad Due to Possible Health Risk

http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm316923.htm

 

Contact:
Consumer:
800-242-5472
Media:
Tiffany Breaux
704-280-5938
Barbara Hines
972-724-3049

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - August 26, 2012 - Fresh Express Incorporated is voluntarily recalling a limited quantity of expired 10 oz. Hearts of Romaine salad with the expired Use-by Date of August 23, 2012 and a Product Code beginning with "G222" as a precaution due to a possible health risk from Listeria monocytogenes.

No illnesses are reported in association with the recall. No other Fresh Express products are being recalled.

Fresh Express customer service representatives are already contacting retailers to confirm the product was removed from their inventories and store shelves in accordance with standard procedures for products that have reached their expiration date. Customers with questions may contact their Fresh Express customer service representative.

In an unlikely event that consumers may still have this expired product in their refrigerators, it should not be consumed, but discarded instead. Consumers with questions may call the Fresh Express Consumer Response Center at (800) 242-5472 during the hours of 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time.

The precautionary recall notification for the now-expired salad is being issued due to an isolated incident in which a sample of a singled package of 10 oz. Hearts of Romaine salad yielded a positive result for Listeria monocytogenes as part of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s random sample testing program. Fresh Express is continuing to coordinate closely with regulatory officials.

The limited quantity of recalled product is identified with a Product Code beginning with "G222" and a Use-by Date of August 23, which is located in the upper right-hand corner of the package. In addition, the UPC Code of 71279 26102 is located on the back of the package below the barcode. The 10 oz. Hearts of Romaine was distributed in limited quantities to predominantly eastern and southeastern states.

Listeria monocytogenes is an organism that can cause foodborne illness in a person who eats a food item contaminated with it. Symptoms of infection may include fever, muscle aches, gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or diarrhea. If it spreads to the nervous system symptoms may include headache, stiff neck or confusion. The illness primarily affects pregnant women and adults with weakened immune systems. Most healthy adults and children rarely become seriously ill.

###

Note:
The expired Fresh Express Hearts of Romaine salads being recalled display a use-by date of August 23, 2012 with a Product Code beginning with G222.

BRAND	PRODUCT NAME	SIZE	PKG TYPE	UPC	POSSIBLE DISTRIBUTION STATES
Fresh Express	Hearts of Romaine	10 oz	Bag	7127926102	AL, AR, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, OH, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV

Black licorice recalled due to high lead content

American Licorice company is recalling black licorice due to elevated levels of lead. The product was found to have 0.33 ppm of lead which could lead to ingestion of  13.2 micrograms of lead per serving. (And those of us who enjoy black licorice...much higher).  The issue was discovered by the California Dept of Public Health.  There have been no reported cases.

Lead Intoxication
An early symptom of mild lead intoxication lead is anemia, or lack of red blood cells.  In higher levels of intoxication, anemia becomes worse and effects begin on the central nervous system including hyperactivity, impulsive behavior, and slowed learning.  With increased levels, people become irritable and restless, and suffer headaches, tremors, and memory loss.  Acute toxicity can lead to kidney failure, convulsions, coma, and death.

There is a long history of lead intoxication.  It is believed that the Romans, from the year 30 to 200 or so, suffered the effects of lead toxicity from drinking wine stored in lead-containing containers.  This probably accounted for the erratic behavior of the emperors at that time.  More recently, moonshiners who used equipment with lead solder (radiators) often suffered the consequences of lead poisoning.  Because of this, they tested their 'shine' by taking a small teaspoon full of shine and lighting it on fire.  A blue flame was good, and a red flame 'makes you dead'.

In the early days of canned food when the cans were soldered with lead, products could contain lead as high as 0.5ppm.  The industry and FDA instituted the use of non-soldered cans which resulted in a marked decrease in lead levels within the population.



FDA News Relasea
American Licorice Company Announces Recall of 16 oz. Red Vines® Black Licorice Twists
 http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm316850.htm?source=govdelivery
Contact:
Consumer:
886-442-2783
Media:
Michael Kelly
831-359-1839

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - August 21, 2012 - American Licorice Company of Union City, CA is recalling 16 oz. Red Vines® Black Licorice Twists due to elevated levels of lead. Only the one pound bag (16 oz.) of Red Vines® Black Licorice Twists containing "Best Before Date" of 020413 are affected by this recall. American Licorice is notifying consumers and customers not to consume this candy.

American Licorice learned from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), that some Red Vines® Black Licorice Twists contain levels of lead that could potentially cause health problems to consumers, particularly infants, small children, and pregnant women. American Licorice immediately segregated its entire inventory of 16 oz. Red Vines® Black Licorice Twists.

Red Vines® Black Licorice Twists is a black licorice candy made from molasses, wheat flour, corn syrup, caramel coloring, licorice extract, salt, and anise flavor. The 16 oz. bag is red and white in color with a window in the package to display the black licorice twists.

Recent analysis of Red Vines® Black Licorice Twists by CDPH found that the candy contained lead levels as high as .33 parts per million (ppm). This concentration of lead could provide up to 13.2 micrograms of lead per serving and children under 6 years of age should not consume more than 6.0 micrograms of lead per day from all dietary sources. Therefore, the CDPH's position is that the sale of this lot of the 16 oz. Red Vines® Black Licorice Twists is in violation of California statutes.
American Licorice wants to ensure its products are safe. Consequently, in addition to its ongoing cooperation with the CDPH, American Licorice is voluntarily recalling all 16 oz. Red Vines® Black Licorice Twists from all of its customers with affected product. Consumers in possession of Red Vines® Black Licorice Twists with the "Best Before Date" of 020413 should not eat the candy and should return it to their place of purchase for a full refund. The "Best Before Date" is located in black ink on the rear of the package.

Pregnant women and parents of children who may have consumed any candy should consult with their physician or health care provider to determine whether further medical testing is required. For more information about lead poisoning, parents and caretakers should contact their local childhood lead poisoning prevention program or local public health department.

American Licorice will be sending recall notices to all of its affected customers. Please contact American Licorice Consumer Support at 886-442-2783 for further information.

Two Canadian firms announce recalls for sliced mushrooms because of Listeria

Highline Foods is recalling sliced and whole mushrooms distributed by Ciolino Produce of Michigan due to the fact that product tested positive for Listeria. Pure Hothouse Foods is recalling 1402 cases and 8412 individual units of grilling trays (trays of mixed vegetables) due to the fact that the mushrooms may contain Listeria. This product was shipped to 5 states within the US. It was not stated whether Highline grew the mushrooms shipped as part of the Pure Hothouse recall, but both companies are located in Leamington, Ontario.

There have been no reported illnesses. The recall is based upon positive product testing, but it was not stated who did the testing.

There are some excellent resources on mushroom food safety at http://extension.psu.edu/food-safety/producers/psu-resources/food-safety-for-mushroom-growers-and-packers.


Pure Hothouse Foods Inc, Announces a Voluntary Recall of Fresh Cut Grilling Trays Because of Possible Health Risk
FDA Release
 http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm316022.htm

Contact
Consumer:
1-866-326-8444
M-F 8am-5pm. (Eastern Standard Time)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – August 16, 2012 – Pure Hothouse Foods Inc. is voluntarily recalling a total of 1402 cases and 8,412 individually distributed units of fresh cut grilling trays, as listed below, with the Sell by dates of August 11th, 2012 through August 26, 2012 because they contain whole or sliced mushrooms which may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. Listeria monocytogenes is an organism that can cause serious or life-threatening food borne illness in a person who eats a food item contaminated with it. Symptoms of infection may include fever, muscle aches, gastro intestinal symptoms such as nausea or diarrhea. The illness primarily impacts pregnant women and adults with weakened immune systems. Most healthy adults and children rarely become seriously ill.
The voluntary recalled products were produced and distributed from Pure Hothouse Foods Inc. in Leamington, Ontario, Canada to retailers in the following states: Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Kentucky.

This voluntary recall notification is being issued due to finding Listeria monocytogenes in finished product that contained mushrooms. Pure Hothouse Foods Inc. is coordinating closely with regulatory officials.

No illnesses have been reported in association with this voluntary recall.

Pure Hothouse Foods Inc. customer service representatives have already contacted all customers impacted and are in the process of confirming that the recalled products are not in the stream of commerce. Consumers with questions may contact Pure Hothouse Foods Inc. directly at 1-866-326-8444 M-F 8am-5pm. (Eastern Standard Time)

Product Description	Use by Date	UPC Code
Meijer Brand “Grillers Mushroom with Rosemary”	August 11th – August 26th 2012	7-08820-85464-2
Meijer Brand “Grillers Steak Topper”	August 11th – August 26th 2012	7-08820-85468-0
Meijer Brand “Grillers Asparagus Blend”	August 11th – August 26th 2012	7-08820-85353-9

Only the specific products identified in the list above are included in this precautionary voluntary recall. Retailers should check their inventories and store shelves to confirm that none of the product is present or available for purchase by consumers or in warehouse inventories.

Consumers who may have purchased any of the above item(s) are asked to record the Sell by date and/or UPC code number, immediately dispose of the product in its entirety, and contact Pure Hothouse Foods Inc. toll-free at 1-866-326-8444, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Eastern Time) to obtain a full refund. Please visit our website at www.pure-flavor.com for a copy of the release.

 
Health Hazard Alert – Certain Sliced White Mushrooms May Contain Listeria Monocytogenes
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm316052.htm

 Contact
Consumer:
1-734-847-4140
(9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. ET, Monday through Saturday)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – August 14, 2012 – Ciolino Produce was notified that our Highline 8 oz. packaged Sliced White Mushrooms may be contaminated with Listeria Monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Listeria infection can also cause miscarriages and still births among pregnant women.

The grower/processor, Highline Mushrooms, Leamington, ON, is voluntarily recalling the affected products from all marketplaces. The following Sliced White Mushrooms, sold in 227 g ( 8 oz ) containers bearing lot code L410805 followed by a 4-digit time code ( e.g., L4108051420 ) and a Best Before Date of 12AU15, are affected by this alert.

Brand Highline Mushrooms

UPC  7 71163 00005 2

The product was held for sale at Ciolino Produce, Temperance, MI. / Monroe, MI, on August 10, 2012 – August 12, 2012.

Highline Mushrooms contacted Ciolinos Produce on August 14, 2012 to notify us about the recalled Mushrooms.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency ( CFIA) and Highline Mushrooms are WARNING the public not to consume the Sliced White Mushrooms described below because they may be contaminated with Listeria Monocytogenes.

There have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of these products.

Please discard all 8 oz. Sliced White Mushrooms and bring in receipt for complete refund.

For more information consumers can call Ciolinos at 1-734-847-4140 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday Eastern time.