NY Company Recalls Gluten Free Cookies for Containing Gluten Due to Ingredient

Sweet Loren’s of New York, NY is voluntarily recalling a single lot code of Sweet Loren’s Sugar Cookie Dough 12oz, because it may contain traces of gluten in product labeled as gluten free.   This issue was identified through testing of the product in-house. The oat flour used was determined to have traces of gluten despite having documentation (COA) declaring it to be gluten free.

Can you rely just on a COA (certificate of analysis)?  Too often, receiving an acceptable COA is the extent of a company's supplier control program.  Clearly, this ingredient needs to be addressed with a Supplier Preventive Control.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/sweet-lorens-inc-issues-voluntary-allergy-alert-undeclared-gluten-product
Sweet Loren’s, Inc Issues Voluntary Allergy Alert On Undeclared Gluten in Product
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  July 16, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  July 18, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Bakery Product/Mix  
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared gluten
Company Name:  Sweet Loren’s
Brand Name:  Sweet Loren’s
Product Description:  Sugar cookie dough

Product Shelf-life Dating - A National Standard to Reduce Food Waste?

An article on CNN decries how food companies put shelf-life dates on their product.  The article states, "There's no national standard for how those dates should be determined, or how they must be described. Instead, there's a patchwork system — a hodgepodge of state laws, best practices and general guidelines."  Should there be a national standard?  Can there be a national standard?

The answer on both accounts is no.  For one, food companies determine their own shelf-life, and it behooves them to put it out as long as possible, but that end point is one often based on quality.  And for me as a consumer, when I buy something, or more importantly eat something, I want it to be good quality.  I realize that it is on me then, to use that food within the stated date.  I paid good money for it and how wise is it to let that food get past that date so I am eating something less than good.

Secondly, food shelf-life can vary greatly depending on ingredients used, type of packaging, how it was processed, etc.   Foods that are minimally process, or contain little to no preservatives will have a shorter shelf-life than more processed foods.  Companies must determine what date they can achieve on individual product types, which takes into account the ingredients, processing, packaging, and storage.  This is not something that can be dictated in a cookie cutter approach.

We seldom see articles that reinforce good consumership....buying what you need, using it in a timely fashion, preparing and serving an amount that will be used, utilizing left-overs, etc.  I want to use food at its best quality, not having to choke something down that is on the verge of spoilage.

https://www.cnn.com/2022/07/17/business/sell-by-dates-food-safety/index.html
The truth, and strategy, of food expiration dates
By Danielle Wiener-Bronner, CNN Business

Updated 4:38 AM ET, Sun July 17, 2022

New York (CNN Business)When you walk into a supermarket and pick up an item — anything from milk to cereal to a can of beans — you'll likely see a little date on the package preceded by "enjoy by," "sell by," or a similar phrase.

You might think that date is the absolute last day that food is safe to eat. You'd be wrong. But you wouldn't be alone in coming to that mistaken conclusion, because the system behind food label dates is an absolute mess.

Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert Recalled for Allergens After Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl Packaged in Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Containers

Lynnfield, MA, is recalling 4,481 cases of Planet Oat Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough and Planet Oat Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert with a Best By date of 12/17/22, because it may contain undeclared peanuts.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that some Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl product, which contains peanuts, was packaged in a Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough container, which does not contain the peanut allergen statement. The issue was discovered by a retail customer, which contacted Hood.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/hp-hood-llc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-peanuts-planet-oat-non-dairy-frozen-dessert-updated
HP Hood LLC Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Peanuts in Planet Oat Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert (Updated: Additional Locations)
Summary
Company Announcement Date: May 12, 2022
FDA Publish Date: May 12, 2022
Product Type: Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement: Undeclared peanuts
Company Name: HP Hood LLC
Brand Name: Planet Oat
Product Description: Planet Oat Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough and Plant Oat Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl frozen dessert

FDA Issues Warning Letters to Eight Different Food Importers for FSVP Noncompliance

Over the past 2 weeks, FDA has issued 8 Warning Letters to food importer for non-compliance with the Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP).  In all cases, programs were just not in place for food items that were being imported.  Some of these companies had received prior inspection where they were informed that they needed to have a FSVP in place.

Global Imports Inc. of Kingwood, TX did not develop, maintain, and follow an FSVP as required by section 805 of the FD&C Act and 21 CFR 1.502(a). Specifically, you did not develop an FSVP for any of the food products you import, including:
• Chopped Spinach imported from foreign supplier (b)(4), located in (b)(4)
• Cut Cauliflower imported from foreign suppliers (b)(4), and (b)(4), located in (b)(4)
• Cut Corn imported from foreign supplier (b)(4), located in (b)(4)
• Diced Yellow Peaches imported from foreign supplier (b)(4), located in (b)(4)
https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/global-imports-inc-626682-04072022

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

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

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

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

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

CT Ice Cream Company Expands Listeria Related Recall To Include all Products

The Royal Ice Cream Company, Inc. of Manchester, CT is expanding its recall of February 6 to include all products manufactured at the facility within the expiration date (as we guessed).   According to the release, "The recall was initiated by Royal Ice Cream after FDA sampling revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes on processing equipment. The company is holding future product and testing before releasing distribution of the products as FDA and the company continue their investigation as to what caused the problem."

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/royal-ice-cream-company-inc-expands-recall-all-products-within-expiry-because-possible-health-risk
The Royal Ice Cream Company, Inc. Expands Recall All Products Within Expiry Because of Possible Health Risk
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  February 11, 2022
FDA Publish Date:  February 12, 2022
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Ice Cream/Frozen Dairy  Foodborne Illness
Reason for Announcement:  Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:  The Royal Ice Cream Company, Inc.
Brand Name:  Royal Ice Cream, Batch, Ronny Brook, and Others
Product Description:  Ice Cream Products

FDA Warning Letter - GA Ice Cream Facility with Listeria Control Issues

FDA issued a Warning Letter to Greenwood Ice Cream, an ice cream manufacturing facility located in Chamblee, GA.

The biggest issue was inadequate control in the post-processing area where product is exposed.  As a RTE product, Listeria, as well as allergens, are a significant risk.  From the inspection notes, the company was not doing an very good job.  FDA "found that eight (8) of eighty-five (85) swabs were positive for L. monocytogenes. Of the positive findings, one (1) swab was collected from an area adjacent to food-contact surface where RTE ingredients were being prepared on the filling table. This was not the first time L. monocytogenes was found in environmental samples collected at your facility. In 2017, FDA detected L. monocytogenes in one (1) environmental swab of a floor drain, and in 2018 FDA detected L. monocytogenes in eight (8) environmental swabs, including from areas adjacent to food-contact surfaces."

On further analysis, "Whole genome sequencing (WGS) was conducted on the above referenced L. monocytogenes isolates obtained from the FDA environmental samples. Based on the results of the WGS analysis, the seventeen (17) isolates comprise three (3) different strains of L. monocytogenes. Of particular significance, fourteen (14) isolates derived from the environmental samples collected at your facility during our 2021, 2018, and 2017 inspections were genetically identical, representing a single strain of L. monocytogenes. Additionally, these fourteen (14) isolates were also genetically identical to three (3) environmental swabs collected by Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) during a 2016 inspection of your facility. The presence of the same strain of L. monocytogenes over multiple years is indicative of a resident pathogen or harborage site in your facility since 2016. We advised you of the importance of these WGS results via a conference call on August 3, 2021."

Along with this, there was inadequate controls for allergens, and a number of GMP issues that would have exasperated the Listeria issue.

After the Listeria outbreak associated with Blue Bell ice cream, you would think that there would be a greater level of concern for Listeria control in ice cream processing facilities. 

FDA WARNING LETTER

Greenwood Ice Cream, LLC - 616395 - 12/17/2021 | FDA
Greenwood Ice Cream, LLC
MARCS-CMS 616395 — DECEMBER 17, 2021

Pints of Butter Almond Ice Cream Pints Recalled Due to Undeclared Soy and Wheat Due to Container Mix-up

Maryland & Virginia Milk Producers Cooperative Association (MDVA) announces the immediate recall of one lot of Howling Cow Butter Almond Ice Cream Pints due to undeclared soy and wheat.  The issue was discovered when MVDA was notified by consumers that containers of the Howling Cow Butter Almond Ice Cream contained Cookie Dough Ice Cream. 

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/voluntary-recall-howling-cow-butter-almond-ice-cream-due-undeclared-soy-and-wheat

Voluntary Recall of Howling Cow Butter Almond Ice Cream Due to Undeclared Soy and Wheat
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  December 11, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  December 13, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared Soy, Wheat
Company Name:  Maryland & Virginia Milk Producers Cooperative Association
Band Name: Howling Cow
Product Description:  Howling Cow Butter Almond Ice Cream Pints

Cookie Start-up Recalls Many Products After Recognizing that Allergen Labeling is Required

Chocolate and the Chip of Los Angeles, CA is recalling various flavors (see list below) including chocolate chip cookies, cookie bundt cakes and rice crispy treats because they may contain undeclared wheat, milk, soy, and tree nuts. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to specific type of allergens run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

Basically, any of the products made with allergens.  Why?  Because I guess the owner missed the memo - distributed food products require allergen labeling.

"The recall was initiated after it was discovered that baked good products containing the allergens of wheat, milk, soy, and tree nuts were distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of said allergens. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a mistake made on the owners behalf and not having the proper protocol for distributing and labeling baked goods under the proper regulations."

After reading about this start-up, easy to see how it happens.  Company starts selling online where it is easier to go along without notice.  However, once local distribution begins, product on store shelves is much more noticeable.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/chocolate-and-chip-llc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-allergens-bakery-products

Chocolate and the Chip LLC Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Allergens in Bakery Products
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  October 05, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  October 06, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Snack Food Item
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared allergens (wheat, milk, soy, tree nuts)
Company Name:  Chocolate and the Chip
Brand Name:  Chocolate and the Chip
Product Description:  Bakery Products

Nutty Buddy Cookie Bites Sandwich Cookies Recalled for Undeclared Peanuts Due to Co-Packer Error

McKee Foods of Collegedale, Tenn., is recalling 25 cases of Little Debbie® Mini Nutty Buddy Cookie Bites Sandwich Cookies, because they may contain undeclared pecans.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product containing pecans was included in packaging that did not reveal the presence of tree nuts. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the production processes of the contract manufacturer that makes and packages the product for McKee Foods.


https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/mckee-foods-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-pecans-little-debbier-mini-nutty-buddy-cookie-bites
McKee Foods Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Pecans in Little Debbie® Mini Nutty Buddy Cookie Bites Sandwich Cookies
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  September 10, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  September 11, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Snack Food Item
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared pecans
Company Name:  McKee Foods
Brand Name:  Little Debbie®
Product Description:  Mini Nutty Buddy Cookie Bites Sandwich Cookies

Review Article - Processing Environment Monitoring in Low Moisture Food Production Facilities

In the recent edition of International Journal of Food Microbiology, there is a review article on environmental sampling in low moisture processing environments.  The "current paper aims to summarize and evaluate existing scientific information on outbreaks, relevant pathogens in low moisture foods, and knowledge on indicators, including their contribution to a “clean” environment capable of limiting the spread of pathogens in dry production environments. This paper also outlines the essential elements of a processing environment monitoring [PEM] program thereby supporting the design and implementation of better programs focusing on the relevant microorganisms.'

This paper can provide document support for your PEM program or help with the design a program.  There are many factors used in determining the PEM program including facility design, the process, and the product, so there is no cookie-cutter approach.  This paper discusses how these factors will influence sampling plans.

An important point is made with Listeria sampling in these dry processing environments for low moisture foods (LMF).  "Because the LMF category represents a very low risk for listeriosis, it is generally considered that the use of an environmental monitoring program for Listeria species, is not really a good use of food safety resources (GMA, 2014). Rather, the use of the Enterobacteriaceae as an indicator of the ingress of water, as well as hygiene and sanitation in the post-processing environment, is recommended. Furthermore, with regards to the control of L. monocytogenes in LMF manufacturing facilities, in relation to HACCP, L. monocytogenes in LMF would be considered a very low risk because it does not grow in LMF (Beuchat et al., 2013)."  

Too often we see these types of facilities add Listeria to their sampling regime.  While there are some instances where this could be a factor, perhaps in cases where the ingredient is added to a RTE high moisture food as a post process addition, there should always be careful consideration for what will be tested.

(If you have a problem accessing this paper, please contact me - mwb124@psu.edu)

International Journal of Food Microbiology
Volume 356, 16 October 2021, 109351
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S016816052100310X
Review
Processing environment monitoring in low moisture food production facilities: Are we looking for the right microorganisms?
Authors François Bourdichonab Roy Bettsc Christophe Dufourd Séamus Fanninge Jeffrey Farberf Peter McCluregDespoina Angeliki Stavropoulouh Ellen Wemmenhovei Marcel H.Zwieteringj Anett Winkle

Abstract

Processing environment monitoring is gaining increasing importance in the context of food safety management plans/HACCP programs, since past outbreaks have shown the relevance of the environment as contamination pathway, therefore requiring to ensure the safety of products. However, there are still many open questions and a lack of clarity on how to set up a meaningful program, which would provide early warnings of potential product contamination. Therefore, the current paper aims to summarize and evaluate existing scientific information on outbreaks, relevant pathogens in low moisture foods, and knowledge on indicators, including their contribution to a “clean” environment capable of limiting the spread of pathogens in dry production environments. This paper also outlines the essential elements of a processing environment monitoring program thereby supporting the design and implementation of better programs focusing on the relevant microorganisms. This guidance document is intended to help industry and regulators focus and set up targeted processing environment monitoring programs depending on their purpose, and therefore provide the essential elements needed to improve food safety.

Allergen Free Tiger Nut Flour Gains Popularity as Wheat Flour Alternative

Tiger nut flour is gaining popularity as an gluten-free alternative to wheat flour. Actually, it is not a nut either, so it is allergen free. So what is tiger nut flour?

Tiger nut or chufa is a tuber from the plant Cyperus esculentus. This tuber is ground and sifted to produce a flour said to have favorable characteristics. Chufa is an ancient food source originating in the Eastern Hemisphere, primarily Africa. In the Western Hemisphere, it has been considered an invasive weed in certain areas.

"Tiger nut flour is rich in calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, iron and zinc, vitamins C and E and folic acid, as well as unsaturated fats and proteins. It is low in carbohydrates, which makes it ideal for Paleo and Ketogenic diets, and is high in fiber and antioxidants."

"Tiger nut flour is ideal for gluten-free, grain-free, nut-free, vegan, keto and paleo diets and can be cooked, baked or fried. While the moist, chewy texture is ideal for a number of applications and recipes, the milky sugary taste is perfect for baked goods as well as sweet breads and tart shells and can be used to add ‘bulk’ to no-bake treats."

And you can even make beer from Chufa.

Forbes
https://www.forbes.com/sites/daphneewingchow/2021/08/31/five-reasons-why-tiger-nut-flour-is-the-trendiest-alternative-flour/
Five Reasons Why Tiger Nut Flour Is The Trendiest Alternative Flour

Tiger nut (or chufa nut) flour, which is ground from tubers that grow on the yellow nutsedge plant, is gaining popularity globally as the perfect substitute for wheat flour, given its gluten-free properties, its status as a super food and its natural sweet taste. The flour, which is made by grinding tiger nut tubers and sieving the powder through a fine screen, acts like almond flour, adding moisture and chewiness but with a sweeter taste.

NJ Company Recalls Cookie Cake For Undeclared Peanut After Mislabeling Issue

Jimmy’s Cookies LLC of Clifton NJ is recalling LOT# 1133 Marketside Chocolate Candy Cookie Cake from certain Walmart stores, because it may contain undeclared peanuts.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the product containing peanuts was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of peanuts. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company's processes.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/jimmys-cookies-llc-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-peanuts-marketside-chocolate-candy-cookie-cake
Jimmy’s Cookies LLC Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Peanuts in Marketside Chocolate Candy Cookie Cake Lot# 1133
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  August 12, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  August 12, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages  Bakery Product/Mix
Reason for Announcement:  May contain undeclared peanuts
Company Name:  Jimmy’s Cookies LLC
Brand Name:  Marketside
Product Description:  Chocolate Candy Cookie Cake

CDC Investigate E. coli Outbreak Linked to Cake Mix

The CDC is investigating an outbreak of pathogenic E. coli, strain O121, that has been linked to cake mix. To this point, there have been 16 illness with 7 of those being hospitalized.  Sick people range in age from 2 to 73 years, with a median age of 13, and 100% are female. 

The key here....do not eat raw cookie dough.  Cookie dough must be cooked per directions.   Along with that, carefully clean up surfaces and equipment after use.  Remember that the raw flour on surfaces can be potentially contaminated.

E. coli infection is nothing to mess with.  It can lead to bloody diarrhea, high fever, and worse, can produce a toxin that is detrimental to the kidney.

CDC Investigation Notice
E. coli Outbreak Linked to Cake Mix | CDC
E. coli Outbreak Linked to Cake Mix
Posted July 28, 2021
Fast Facts
Illnesses: 16
Hospitalizations: 7
Deaths: 0
States: 12
Recall: No
Investigation status: Active

Investigation Details
July 28, 2021
CDC, public health and regulatory officials in several states, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are collecting different types of data to investigate a multistate outbreak of E. coli O121 infections linked to cake mix.

Chocolate Chip Cookies Recalled After Packaging Filled with Cookies from a Formulation Containing Eggs

Primary Colors Design Corp of Ashland, OH is recalling Chocolate Chip Cookies Gable Box with UPC 84512050159 because it may contain undeclared egg allergen.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that Peppa Pig Chocolate Chip Cookie Gables were distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of egg. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by inadvertently filling the box with another chocolate chip cookie, potentially exposing consumers to an undeclared allergen: egg.

As part of the companies Allergen Preventive Control, there must be a preventive control component that matches the exact formulation and the label.  When a company had different formulations of a similar product, in this case, 2 different chocolate chip cookies, it is too easy to make a mistake, and a single control will not be enough to ensure the safety of that labeled product.

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/primary-colors-design-corp-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-egg-peppa-pig-chocolate-chip-cookies
Primary Colors Design Corp Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Egg on Peppa Pig Chocolate Chip Cookies Gable Box
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  May 20, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  May 20, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  Undeclared egg
Company Name:  Primary Colors Design Corp.
Brand Name:  Peppa Pig
Product Description:  Chocolate Chip Cookies

FDA Warning Letter to Another Firm Experiencing Two Allergen Related Recalls

FDA issued a Warning Letter to George DeLallo company after the company experienced two allergen related recalls in a short period of time.   Here are two different operations, but experiencing a similar issue of placing the wrong labels on the machine.

Recalled "Holiday Cookie Platter product after notification from a customer that it was mislabeled. [The] recalled Holiday Cookie Platter product contains pecans that were not declared on the label. In documentation provided to the Office of Human and Animal Food Operations Division 2 East Recall Coordinator on December 5, 2020, [the firm] indicated that a supervisor placed the wrong roll of labels on the labeling machine and that the incorrect bottom label with the ingredients statement was used."

On November 24, 2020, [the firm] recalled Provolini Antipasti product labeled as Garlic Mushrooms after notification by a customer that it was mislabeled. [the] recalled Provolini Antipasti contains milk, but the label for Garlic Mushrooms that was applied to the bag does not declare milk. In documentation provided to the Division Recall Coordinator on December 1, 2020, [the firm]indicated that a line worker placed the wrong label on one side of the labeling machine.

Here is another example of FDA taking enhanced action against a firm experiencing two allergen-related recalls.

George DeLallo Company, Inc.
MARCS-CMS 612553 — MARCH 30, 2021

CDC MMWR - 2019 Multistate Outbreak of Escherichia coli O26 Infections Linked to Raw Flour

CDC released a report in MMWR on the 2019 E. coil O26 outbreak linked to raw flour.

"Twenty-one cases were reported from nine states. The median age of patients was 24 years (range = 7–86 years); 71% were female. Three patients were hospitalized, and none died. Among 13 patients asked about flour exposures, six reported eating, licking, or tasting raw homemade dough or batter during the week before illness onset. Three patients reported eating raw dough or batter made with the same grocery store brand of all-purpose flour, including a patient who reported eating raw dough at a bakery in Rhode Island. Overall, of 18 patients with store information, 11 reported shopping at this same grocery store chain."

"Flour is increasingly recognized as a cause of STEC outbreaks (1–5). Raw flour is not a ready-to-eat product, and this outbreak highlights the continuing risk for illness associated with consumption of flour and raw dough or batter."

https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/70/wr/mm7016a4.htm
Notes from the Field: Multistate Outbreak of Escherichia coli O26 Infections Linked to Raw Flour — United States, 2019
Weekly / April 23, 2021 / 70(16);600–601
Michael Vasser, MPH1,2; Jonathan Barkley, MPH3,4; Adam Miller, MS3,5; Ellen Gee6; Katherine Purcell7; Morgan N. Schroeder, MPH1; Colin Basler, DVM1; Karen P. Neil, MD1 (View author affiliations)

Sprinkles Recalled Due to Reaction to Undeclared Milk

Wilton Brands of Naperville, Illinois announced today a voluntary national recall of all lots of six sprinkles products and one kit containing affected sprinkles, because they may contain undeclared milk.  This recall is being initiated because of one reported allergic reaction to date associated with one of the recalled products. Wilton is recalling all affected products with a similar formulation. 

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/wilton-brands-issues-allergy-alert-undeclared-milk-7-sprinkle-products
Wilton Brands Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in 7 Sprinkle Products
Summary
Company Announcement Date:  March 03, 2021
FDA Publish Date:  March 03, 2021
Product Type:  Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:  May Contain Undeclared Milk
Company Name:  Wilton Brands
Brand Name:  Wilton, Tasty by Wilton, and Holiday Home
Product Description:  Sprinkle Products

This Week in Mislabeled Product for Week Ending December 17, 2020

Online Sales of Improperly Packaged Snack Sticks - The U.S. USDA FSIS is issuing a public health alert for ready-to-eat (RTE) pork snack stick products due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen. The product may contain milk which is not declared on the product label.   The RTE product labeled as “Country Meats HOT BBQ Flavor Smoked Pork Snack Sticks” may actually contain Chili Cheese flavor pork snack sticks and was produced on November 6, 2020. These items were sold online to individual customers who further sold the product as a fundraiser item. The problem was discovered when the producing establishment received consumer complaints reporting cheese in the Hot BBQ flavored snack sticks. 

Pecans in Cookies but Not on Label - George DeLallo Co., Inc. of Mt. Pleasant, PA is recalling Publix Bakery 20 OZ Holiday Cookie Platters because they may contain undeclared pecans.  The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the pecan-containing product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of pecans. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company's packaging processes.

Research - Desensitizing Children with Peanut Allergies Through Oral Immunotherapy

Research out of the University of British Columbia found that children with peanut allergies can be desensitized through "exposing children to a small, regular dose of an allergen (in this case, peanuts) in a real-world setting (outside of a clinical trial)" and this is "effective in reducing the risk of allergic reactions."  We are familiar with the process of preventing peanut allergies through the process of feeding infants doses of peanut allergen, but this is for those children who have developed peanut allergies.

"The treatment method, known as oral immunotherapy, involves gradually increasing the amount peanuts (or peanut products) given to the child. One treatment aim is to reach desensitization, whereby the child can ingest a full serving of peanuts without triggering a dangerous reaction. Another goal is protection in the event of an accidental exposure, and lessening or eliminating the need for epinephrine injections in response to reactions. To sustain their level of immunity, the child must continue to eat peanut products on a regular basis."

University of British Columbia

https://news.ubc.ca/2020/12/03/peanut-allergy-treatment-significantly-lowers-risk-of-life-threatening-reactions-in-preschoolers/
Peanut allergy treatment significantly lowers risk of life-threatening reactions in preschoolers
Science, Health & Technology
Dec 3, 2020 | For more information, contact Kerry Blackadar