Popcorn Recalled Due to Listeria

Dale and Thomas are recalling various brands of flavored popcorn after the company discovered Listeria through finished product testing.

 A discussion this morning prompted a review of how Listeria could become an issue in popcorn. In general, we would not consider Listeria a hazard in popped or unpopped popcorn. But based on pure conjecture, we would focus on the flavoring used. First, we would assume that the popcorn itself would not be an issue. The temperature used to pop the corn would eliminate Listeria - approximately 181C (357F) to 187C (369F) (Kinetics of Popping Popcorn, Byrd and Perona, 2005). The Listeria issue would be related to the enrobing or coating process, specifically related to the ingredients they are using. Looking at the ingredients for one of the products (below), Aged White Cheddar, there are ingredients that we would consider higher risk, specifically cheese and butter milk, in that these could serve as a growth medium for Listeria. However, once these ingredients are mixed and then enrobed on the popped kernel surface, growth would be unlikely. Other ingredients such as caramel would not likely be an issue.  Being that the cheddar and buttermilk are probably dry and are probably added as a dry mixture, areas where water are introduced increase risk.  This can be residual moisture from cleaning, or water used in and around the flavor mixing process.  Of course if the flavor mix uses added water, then handling from mixing through enrobing is more an issue.








So controlling Listeria would be prior to and including the enrobing step as well as within the post-popping environment – 1) purchasing higher risk ingredients (cheese and buttermilk) with assurance that are they are Listeria free, 2) properly storing and handling these ingredients to prevent contamination, 3) cleaning and sanitizing the mixing kettles, the enrobing equipment and all transfer pipes of enrobing mixture, 4) properly cleaning finished product transfer to packaging equipment and 5) maintaining a clean environment after the heat process.  

One would focus testing efforts on conducting Listeria monitoring through the use of a sponge sampling on the flavor mixing, enrobing, and packaging equipment as well as in the post-process environment. If a niche (a spot where there was product build-up) existed somewhere from the enrobing through packaging, it would unlikely support growth of Listeria, but if it the organism was present in the enrobing mixture at the start, it could get hung up in that post-heat processing equipment and then serve as a contamination source for finished product moving through. The key however, would be the control of high risk ingredients, - specifically their purchase, receipt, storage and handling.

In addition to Listeria as a hazard, Salmonella would be considered another important pathogen that would be considered a hazard.

 

Dale and Thomas Popcorn Issues Voluntary Recall of Certain Popcorn Products Due to Possible Health Risk

SOURCE Dale and Thomas Popcorn

ENGLEWOOD, N.J., Sept. 28, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Dale and Thomas Popcorn is voluntarily recalling a limited number of ready-to-eat bags of select flavors of Popcorn, Indiana-brand popcorn products (listed below) because of possible contamination by Listeria monocytogenes. Listeria monocytogenes is 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 cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women. Anyone who is concerned about a possible health problem or illness should contact a healthcare provider immediately.

Products involved in the recall should not be consumed and may be returned to the point of purchase for a full refund or replacement.

The recalled products were distributed to various retailers, vendors, distribution centers, and consumers through the Internet on or after August 8th, 2012 with Best By dates of February 4th, 2013 through March 12th, 2013. All recalled products were packaged in red bags of various sizes. Consumers can identify if they have purchased an impacted product by looking at the Best By date located in the front, top right corner of the package and the Bag UPC (Code) located in the nutritional panel found on the back, bottom left corner of the package.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120928/NY83405 )

All other Popcorn, Indiana-brand products are safe to consume. 

The potential for contamination was noted after testing by the company revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in some ready-to-eat bags of Popcorn, Indiana-brand products.

Consumers with recalled product(s) should contact Dale and Thomas' dedicated recall hotline (866) 940-7936 Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time, or email the company at: recall@daleandthomaspopcorn.com for additional information.

Recalled Flavors - Aged white cheddar, Almond Biscoitti, American Cheese, Apple Crisp, Bacon Ranch, Black and White Drizzle, Caramel, Chocolate Roasted Peanuts, Cinnamon Sugar Drizzle, Dark Fudge Chocolate Chip Drizzle, Kettlecorn, Kettlecorn Multipack, Salat and Pepper, Wasabi


FDA News Release
Dale and Thomas Popcorn Issues Voluntary Recall of Certain Popcorn Products Due to Possible Health Risk
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm321955.htm

Peanut Butter Recall Continues to Expand

The Sunland peanut butter recall that was linked to the Trader Joe’s Peanut Butter Salmonella outbreak continues to expand. Sunland is recalling about 100 different products. This has also triggered other recalls where companies have used this product as an ingredient. To date, only the Trader Joe’s product has been linked to illnesses. From the FoodSafety.gov website – 

Sunland, Inc. today announced an expansion of its voluntary recall of its Almond Butter and Peanut Butter, to include its Cashew Butter, Tahini and Roasted Blanched Peanut Products. This recall is limited to products manufactured between May 1, 2012 and September 24, 2012.

While there has been no word as to the direct cause, we know that Salmonella has been a troublesome issue for nut based products. For one, Salmonella is much more heat resistant in dry products. While in moist products such as meat and bread, Salmonella can be eliminated with lower temperatures. In dry products such as nuts, temperatures in the 230F range are needed. So there have been issues with nut processors under-processing nuts resulting in Salmonella contaminated product. Another issue is that Salmonella can survive in dry environments for extended periods of time. So if Salmonella contaminates the process environment, it can remain there for months. Being around for a long time, Salmonella can then have extended opportunity to contaminate the product. Facilities can have a difficult time eliminating Salmonella contamination once it gains a foothold in a processing plant.

So why does this recall continue to expand?    If they can't decisively link the contamination to one lot of product, it will mean there is the possibility that more product may be contaminated.  So out of abundance of caution, companies will recall any products that were made in this facility, whether as an ingredient or as a finished product. This includes all products, both nut and seed based items. The latest recalls include peanut butter crackers and Crisp Mix.  (See Below)

If consumers have any of the recalled product, they should either dispose of the product or return to the store where they purchased it.


Peanut butter recall linked to salmonella illnesses now includes major retailers
By Associated Press, Updated: Monday, October 1, 11:57 AM Printed in Washington Post.comhttp://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/peanut-butter-recall-linked-to-salmonella-illnesses-now-includes-major-retailers/2012/10/01/603224be-0bdc-11e2-97a7-45c05ef136b2_story.html

WASHINGTON — A New Mexico company has expanded its recall of peanut butter and almond butter to include cashew butters, tahini and blanched and roasted peanut products.

Sunland Inc. sells its nuts and nut butters to large groceries and other food distributors around the country. The company recalled products under multiple brand names after salmonella illnesses were linked Trader Joe’s Creamy Salted Valencia Peanut Butter, one of the brands manufactured by Sunland.

The federal Center for Disease Control and Prevention says there are now 30 illnesses in 19 states that can be traced to the Trader Joe’s peanut butter. No other foods have been linked to the illnesses, but Sunland recalled other products manufactured on the same equipment as the Trader Joe’s product.

In addition to Trader Joe’s, the recall includes nut products sold at Whole Foods Market, Target, Fresh & Easy, Giant Food, Harry and David, Stop & Shop Supermarket Company and several other stores. Some of the stores used Sunland ingredients in items they prepared and packaged themselves.

Brand names recalled include Archer Farms, Earth Balance, Fresh & Easy, Late July, Heinen’s, Joseph’s, Natural Value, Naturally More, Open Nature, Peanut Power Butter, Serious Food, Snaclite Power, Sprouts Farmers Market, Sprout’s, Sunland and Dogsbutter, among others.

Sunland’s recall includes 101 products, and several retailers have issued additional recalls including items made with Sunland ingredients.

Those sickened reported becoming ill between June 11 and Sept. 11, according to the CDC. Almost two-thirds of those who became ill were children under the age of 10. No deaths have been reported.

Salmonella can cause diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps 12 hours to 72 hours after infection. It is most dangerous to children, the elderly and others with weak immune systems.


FDA Investigates Multistate Outbreak of Salmonella Bredeney Infections Possibly Linked to Trader Joe's Valencia Creamy Salted Peanut Butter
Posted September 30, 2012 http://www.fda.gov/Food/FoodSafety/CORENetwork/ucm320413.htm

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state and local officials are investigating a multi-state outbreak of Salmonella Bredeney infections. We are moving quickly to learn as much as possible and prevent additional people from becoming ill. We recognize that people will be concerned about this outbreak, and we will continue to provide updates and advice. 

USDA Issues Alert for Meat Products from Canadian Firm XL Foods

USDA is expanding the health alert for beef products produced by a Canadian firm, XL foods. This product may have made its way to as many as 30 states and to a number of different retailers including Walmart and Safeway.

 The issue began as product samples tested at the US border were found to be E. coli O157:H7 positive. Increased testing by the US resulted in more positives and this resulted in a CFIA investigation followed by the plant recalling over 250 products.

 Also this week, steaks produced at the XL plant have been linked to 4 cases of E. coli infection in Canada. The XL steak product was purchased from Costco in Edmonton. It is interesting to note that the products were tenderized in-store by Costco. Tenderization, of course, will serve to drive any E. coli located on the surface of the steak down into the interior of the steak. Unfortunately, many people cook tenderized steaks as they would regular steaks, towards the rarer side. When cooked this way, there may be insufficient heat to destroy E. coli that had been pushed into the interior portion of the meat during tenderization. Tenderized steaks should be cooked to the same temperature as hamburger (consumer 160F, foodservice 155F).

While the CFIA has shut down the XL plant, there is criticism of the reaction time from when the first positive was seen until the time the recall took place – about 12 days. Another issue was the inaction of the plant during what is considered a high event period – a high event period is a time when higher levels of E. coli are found.


USDA News Release
FSIS Expands Public Health Alert for Imported Canadian Beef from XL Foodshttp://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/NR_092812_01/index.asp

WASHINGTON, September 28, 2012 – The USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is expanding the Public Health Alert for XL Foods (Canadian Establishment 038) to include all beef and beef products produced on August 24, 27, 28, 29 and September 5. FSIS was notified this evening that XL Foods has expanded their recall to include all beef and beef products produced on the above dates.

Information for Consumers

Because FSIS has been informed that all beef and beef products produced on the above dates are being recalled by XL Foods, the Agency is using this public health alert to make the public aware that these products are considered adulterated and should be returned to the place of purchase or destroyed. Products subject to the recall include, but are not limited to, steaks, roasts, mechanically tenderized steaks and roasts, and ground beef.

Additional information for consumers and an updated retail distribution list are posted on FSIS' website at www.fsis.usda.gov/
  

Supplier of Trader Joe's Peanut Butter Issues Recall Notice (More Brands and Lots)

Sunland Foods, maker of the Trader Joe's Peanut Butter that was recalled, has issued a recall that impacts a number of different brands and coveres a period of approximately 5 months.


FDA Recall -- Firm Press Release

Sunland, Inc. Announces Voluntarily Limited Recall of Almond Butter and Peanut Butter Products Due to Possible Health Risk

http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm320647.htm?source=govdelivery

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - September 24, 2012 - Sunland, Inc. today announced a voluntary limited recall of its Almond Butter and Peanut Butter products, manufactured between May 1, 2012 and September 24, 2012, because these products may be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and those with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experiencef ever, 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.

The voluntary recall was initiated after learning that between June 11, 2012 and September 2, 2012, twenty-nine people reported Salmonella Bredeney PFGE matching illnesses in approximately 18 states, including Washington, California, Arizona, Texas, Louisiana, Missouri, Illinois, Minnesota, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, New York, Rhode Island, North Carolina, Virginia, Connecticut, New Jersey and Maryland, according to a report issued on September 22, 2012 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

"There is nothing more important to us than the health and safety of our customers, particularly the many families who enjoy our peanut butter everyday. While FDA, CDC, and State Health Agencies investigate to confirm the cause of illnesses reported, as a precautionary step, we have decided to voluntarily recall our Almond Butter and Peanut Butter products manufactured between May 1, 2012 and September 24, 2012. If you purchased these products, do not eat them. Please return the product to your supermarket for a full refund or dispose of it."

Statement of Jimmie Shearer, President and CEO of Sunland, Inc.

The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). No other Sunland products are affected by this recall.

The products were distributed nationally to numerous large supermarket chains.

The impacted brands : Archer Farms, Earth Balance, fresh & easy,  heinen's, Joseph's, Natural Value Naturally More,  Open Nature,  Peanut Power, Serious Food, Silly Prices, Sprouts Farmers Market, Sprout's, Sunland, and Trader Joe's (SEE RECALL NOTICE ON FDA WEBSITE FOR EXACT UPC CODES WITH SIZES).

Best-If-Used-By Dates: This recall applies to the above products with Best-If-Used-By Dates between May 1, 2013 and September 24, 2013. (Stamped on the side of the jar's label below the lid of the jar.)


Consumers who have purchased Sunland's Almond Butter and Peanut Butter products with the above UPC and Best-If-Used-By-Dates are urged to discard the product immediately. Consumers can contact the company at 1-866-837-1018, which is operational 24 hours a day, for information on the recall. In addition, a consumer services representative is available Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM MT at (575) 356-6638.

Media representatives should contact Ms. Katalin Coburn, Vice President for Media Relations, Sunland, Inc., at 805-796-3368.

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