Aspen Foods is expanding an recall for stuffed and breaded chicken products due to potential Salmonella contamination. The initial recall issue in July was for close to 2 million pounds of product. This recall is for product produced after the company had the first recall and was issued because USDA sampling found that the responsible strain of Salmonella was still in the facility.
Facilities with a Salmonella issue can find that once it becomes endemic within the facility, it can be very difficult to eliminate.
This is not a ready-to-eat product, but one that appears to be one. Thus the concern for Salmonella being present.
USDA Recall Notice
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2015/recall-101-2015-release-expansion
Aspen Foods Recalls Frozen, Raw, Stuffed & Breaded Chicken Products Due to Possible Salmonella Enteritidis Contamination
Class I Recall 101-2015 expansion
Health Risk: High Oct 2, 2015
Congressional and Public Affairs Gabrielle N. Johnston (202) 720-9113
EDITOR’S NOTE: This release is being reissued to expand the July 15, 2015 recall to include additional products. After further analysis, Aspen Foods chose to recall products in an effort to prevent additional illness. Details of this release were also updated to reflect a change in poundage and distribution area.
WASHINGTON, October 2, 2015 – Aspen Foods, a Chicago, Ill. establishment, is recalling approximately 561,000 pounds of frozen, raw, stuffed and breaded chicken products that appear to be ready-to-eat (RTE) and may be contaminated withSalmonella Enteritidis, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
Monday, October 5, 2015
Friday, October 2, 2015
Study - Removing Pathogens from Produce by Brushing or by Peeling
In this month's Journal of Food Protection, a research article looks at removing pathogens from the surface of produce by brushing and peeling. Celery, carrots, honeydew and cantaloupes were inoculated with high does of pathogens, brushed and or peeled, and then analyzed.
In the end, it comes down to this - if, as in this study, produce is heavily contaminated with pathogens, those pathogen can be difficult to remove with either brushing or peeling, especially once the brushes or peelers become contaminated. But in reality, with very few exceptions where GAPs are not follow, pathogens are absent from produce.
A few of the findings:
A Sparta Brush
In the end, it comes down to this - if, as in this study, produce is heavily contaminated with pathogens, those pathogen can be difficult to remove with either brushing or peeling, especially once the brushes or peelers become contaminated. But in reality, with very few exceptions where GAPs are not follow, pathogens are absent from produce.
A few of the findings:
- "Pathogen removal (either E. coli O157:H7 or Salmonella) was significantly lower from contaminated cantaloupes than from other contaminated produce items". Yeah, it's the rougher surface, so it is going to stick there.
- "Both pathogens could still be detected on all produce items brushed with any of the three brush types suggest that contamination of the peeler is a likely route for transfer of pathogens from the surface to the internal tissues." Once your cleaning tools encounter contamination, they can spread it.
- "The incidence of contamination for the nylon brush was significantly lower than that for the Sparta brush, which in turn was significantly lower than that for the scouring pad." The harder to clean the brush or pad, the more that it can contaminate.
- "To reduce risk further, consumers should be advised that brushing or peeling under running water may be beneficial for limiting contamination of the utensil and thus the risk of cross contamination to noncontaminated produce items subsequently processed with the same utensil." Keep your brushes and peelers clean.
A Sparta Brush
Journal of Food Protection®, Number 9, September 2015, pp. 1624-1769, pp. 1624-1631(8)
Role of Brushes and Peelers in Removal of Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella from Produce in Domestic Kitchens
Authors: Erickson, Marilyn C.1; Liao, Jean2; Cannon, Jennifer L.2; Ortega, Ynes R.2
Abstract (bulletized)
Thursday, October 1, 2015
Using the Smartphone for Stealth Auditing
Is that person checking the score of the Steeler game....or I am getting audited?
Penn State News
http://news.psu.edu/story/372963/2015/10/01/research/phone-app-allows-researchers-conduct-concealed-food-safety
Phone app allows researchers to conduct concealed food safety observations
By Jeff Mulhollem
October 1, 2015
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- Smartphones are so ubiquitous, and text messaging and social media activities so common in public places, that no one questions what anyone does with their phone. That pervasiveness allows a phone application to be used in direct, concealed observations without alerting the people being observed.
That is the conclusion of food science researchers in Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences, who studied whether phones could be used in place of the traditional clipboards to improve the quality of data collection related to food safety observations.
Penn State News
http://news.psu.edu/story/372963/2015/10/01/research/phone-app-allows-researchers-conduct-concealed-food-safety
Phone app allows researchers to conduct concealed food safety observations
By Jeff Mulhollem
October 1, 2015
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- Smartphones are so ubiquitous, and text messaging and social media activities so common in public places, that no one questions what anyone does with their phone. That pervasiveness allows a phone application to be used in direct, concealed observations without alerting the people being observed.
That is the conclusion of food science researchers in Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences, who studied whether phones could be used in place of the traditional clipboards to improve the quality of data collection related to food safety observations.
Two PCA Operational Managers Sentenced to Time in the Big House
Sentences were handed down for the two operational managers involved in the PCA Salmonella outbreak case. Operations Manager Samuel Lightsey, 50, will serve three years in prison while Daniel Kilgore, 46, another ex-manager at the plant, will serve six. Because they agreed to testify against the owner, Steward Parnell (who received a 28 years), their sentences were shorter as part of the plea bargain agreement.
Like the Quality Manager, these two operations managers who were probably just following orders, may have never considered the implications associated with positive Salmonella test results for the product. Or the fact much of their product was destined for high risk individuals as part of thief foodservice sales. Easy to justify since the owner didn't seem to worry...it was just another day of making and shipping product that may or may not have a little Salmonella. In the end, it was a big deal. And unfortunately for these pawns, they will be spending time in the big house.
Think about it.....one of them picking up the phone and dialing the FDA about the positive results would have saved them, all the consumers who had gotten sick, and provided it was early on, would have limited impact to the owner and his company. Or hell, if they had only put forth the effort to clean the damn plant to rid the source of contamination.
USA Today
http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2015/10/01/lenient-sentences-ex-officials-salmonella-outbreak/73149204/
Lenient sentences for ex-officials in salmonella outbreak
Kevin McCoy, USA TODAY 2:50 p.m. EDT October 1, 2015
Two ex-officials of Peanut Corporation of America drew lenient sentences Thursday for their self-admitted roles in a salmonella outbreak blamed for killing nine and sickening hundreds.
Georgia U.S. District Court Judge W. Louis Sands sentenced Samuel Lightsey, 50, a former operations manager at the peanut firm's Blakely, Ga. plant, to serve three years in prison. Daniel Kilgore, 46, another ex-manager at the plant, drew a six-year sentence from the judge.
Like the Quality Manager, these two operations managers who were probably just following orders, may have never considered the implications associated with positive Salmonella test results for the product. Or the fact much of their product was destined for high risk individuals as part of thief foodservice sales. Easy to justify since the owner didn't seem to worry...it was just another day of making and shipping product that may or may not have a little Salmonella. In the end, it was a big deal. And unfortunately for these pawns, they will be spending time in the big house.
Think about it.....one of them picking up the phone and dialing the FDA about the positive results would have saved them, all the consumers who had gotten sick, and provided it was early on, would have limited impact to the owner and his company. Or hell, if they had only put forth the effort to clean the damn plant to rid the source of contamination.
USA Today
http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2015/10/01/lenient-sentences-ex-officials-salmonella-outbreak/73149204/
Lenient sentences for ex-officials in salmonella outbreak
Kevin McCoy, USA TODAY 2:50 p.m. EDT October 1, 2015
Two ex-officials of Peanut Corporation of America drew lenient sentences Thursday for their self-admitted roles in a salmonella outbreak blamed for killing nine and sickening hundreds.
Georgia U.S. District Court Judge W. Louis Sands sentenced Samuel Lightsey, 50, a former operations manager at the peanut firm's Blakely, Ga. plant, to serve three years in prison. Daniel Kilgore, 46, another ex-manager at the plant, drew a six-year sentence from the judge.
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
Salmonella Oubreak Associated with Cucumbers....671 Affected and 3 Deaths
Update on Cucumber Salmonella Outbreak.....CDC now reports that
- Since the last update on September 22, 2015, 113 more ill people have been reported from 19 states. Given the 14-day shelf life of cucumbers, it is not unexpected to continue to see illnesses reported after the recalls.
- Alabama was added to the list of states with ill people, bringing the total number of states to 34.
CDC Outbreak Notice
Multistate Outbreak of Salmonella Poona Infections Linked to Imported Cucumbers
CDC, multiple states, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Poona infections. This investigation is ongoing. CDC will provide updates when more information is available.
- 671 people infected with the outbreak strains of Salmonella Poona have been reported from 34 states, an increase of 113 cases since the last update on September 22.
- 131 ill people have been hospitalized, and three deaths have been reported from Arizona (1), California (1), and Texas (1).
- 51% of ill people are children younger than 18 years.
Monday, September 28, 2015
The Cost of Foodborne Outbreaks - And Blue Bell as an Example of Mishandling an Outbreak
Foodborne outbreaks can have a devastating effect on those who become ill, but also will huge financial impact on those companies in terms of lawsuits, recall, and loss in sales. Mishandling an outbreak can magnify those costs.
Fortune Magazine published two articles on the topic (links and excerpts below). One looked at how Blue Bell was slow to act after their product was linked to Listeria...both knowing they had an issue and not solving it, and then with the recall in terms of performing 'recall creep' - where a series of recalls are issued where each subsequent recall entails increasing scope of products. Recall creep has occurred often because companies fail to understand the extent of the risk. The downside is that it drags out the recall and gives a worse perception of the company. Comes back to the old saying - 'the first loss is your best loss'.
The other Fortune article looks the total cost of a foodborne outbreaks, which they estimated at $55.5 billion. Recalls can cost companies from $30 million to $99 million, and in 5% of the cases, greater than $100 million.
Fortune Magazine
http://fortune.com/2015/09/25/blue-bell-listeria-recall/
How ice cream maker Blue Bell blew it - Excerpts
by Peter Elkind @peterelkind September 25, 2015, 12:00 PM EDT
Fortune Magazine published two articles on the topic (links and excerpts below). One looked at how Blue Bell was slow to act after their product was linked to Listeria...both knowing they had an issue and not solving it, and then with the recall in terms of performing 'recall creep' - where a series of recalls are issued where each subsequent recall entails increasing scope of products. Recall creep has occurred often because companies fail to understand the extent of the risk. The downside is that it drags out the recall and gives a worse perception of the company. Comes back to the old saying - 'the first loss is your best loss'.
The other Fortune article looks the total cost of a foodborne outbreaks, which they estimated at $55.5 billion. Recalls can cost companies from $30 million to $99 million, and in 5% of the cases, greater than $100 million.
Fortune Magazine
http://fortune.com/2015/09/25/blue-bell-listeria-recall/
How ice cream maker Blue Bell blew it - Excerpts
by Peter Elkind @peterelkind September 25, 2015, 12:00 PM EDT
Patrons of SC Fast Food Establishment Exposed to Hepatitis After 2 Employees Test Positive
Thousands of people were potentially exposed to Hepatitis A after eating at one of two Hardees fast food restaurants in South Carolina. Notification of the potential exposure was broadcast after two employees had tested positive for the virus.
According to reports, some 5000 people had already been vaccinated. There is a window from the time of exposure to about 2 weeks out when a vaccination can prevent the disease. As we know, Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the Hepatitis A virus. It can range in severity from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a severe illness lasting several months.
A lawsuit has already been filed for those 'who may have been infected".
Food operations, especially those who work with ready-to-eat foods, should institute a Food Workers Health Hygiene Program. Information is available from FDA as well as many state government websites.
WSPA.com
http://wspa.com/2015/09/18/hepatitis-a-exposure-at-2-spartanburg-co-hardees/
Possible Hepatitis A Exposure at 2 Spartanburg Co. Hardee’s
DHEC Published: September 18, 2015, 5:27 pm Updated: September 20, 2015, 8:45 pm
For customers and staff who ate at either of these restaurants between Sep. 6 and 15, there is still time to get post-exposure treatment (the vaccine).
This first date will change daily (for e.g., for Monday, it will be Sep. 7 and 15) to reflect the 2 week post-exposure treatment window.
According to reports, some 5000 people had already been vaccinated. There is a window from the time of exposure to about 2 weeks out when a vaccination can prevent the disease. As we know, Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the Hepatitis A virus. It can range in severity from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a severe illness lasting several months.
A lawsuit has already been filed for those 'who may have been infected".
Food operations, especially those who work with ready-to-eat foods, should institute a Food Workers Health Hygiene Program. Information is available from FDA as well as many state government websites.
WSPA.com
http://wspa.com/2015/09/18/hepatitis-a-exposure-at-2-spartanburg-co-hardees/
Possible Hepatitis A Exposure at 2 Spartanburg Co. Hardee’s
DHEC Published: September 18, 2015, 5:27 pm Updated: September 20, 2015, 8:45 pm
For customers and staff who ate at either of these restaurants between Sep. 6 and 15, there is still time to get post-exposure treatment (the vaccine).
This first date will change daily (for e.g., for Monday, it will be Sep. 7 and 15) to reflect the 2 week post-exposure treatment window.
Friday, September 25, 2015
Vermont Burger Joint Linked to E. coli Outbreak
A Vermont burger joint has been linked to 7 cases of E. coli.
Of course it is one of these gourmet burger joints...where they perhaps like to undercook the burgers?.. To see if this is the case, I went to the reviews.
Trip Advisor (these were within the first 20 reviews I checked)
"We went to Worthy Burgers after hearing much hype about what great burgers they served, I am always looking to a great burger. There were 4 people in our party and we all agreed that although the burgers were good, they fell short of what we would consider a great burger. One of our main complaints was the all the burgers were prepared rare. They do clearly state the burgers will be service pink in the middle, but all 4 burgers were red in the middle. My wife asked if her burger burger could be cooked more and they willing prepared another burger but that was also arrived rare. They should realize not everyone likes their burgers rare and asked how you would like it cooked.
"My rare burger was a large, almost meatball like sphere of meat centered in a dry, almost stale bun with three wilted rings of bermuda onion. Its degree of doneness was so far from rare the best color description I could say it was, was grey with no pink discernible.
Not to be outdone, L's medium rare burger was a lighter shade of pale grey than mine"
And a professional review in Seven Days:
"The burger was slightly underseasoned, a paler cousin to the world-class patties at Worthy’s closest Burlington cognate, the Farmhouse Tap & Grill. A thin strip of pink made it look juicier than it actually was. "
Yep, you need to cook that select grass fed burger to the right temperature, just like any hamburger. And for those that like that rare hamburger, or refuse to use a thermometer - is it worth the risk?
Valley News
http://www.vnews.com/news/18747830-95/vt-officials-continue-e-coli-investigation
Vt. Officials Continue E. Coli Investigation
By Jordan Cuddemi Valley News Staff Writer
Friday, September 25, 2015 (Published in print: Friday, September 25, 2015)
South Royalton — A South Royalton restaurant voluntarily closed for several days recently and switched food vendors after being contacted by state officials who are investigating an E. coli “cluster” that has sickened at least five people.
Of course it is one of these gourmet burger joints...where they perhaps like to undercook the burgers?.. To see if this is the case, I went to the reviews.
Trip Advisor (these were within the first 20 reviews I checked)
"We went to Worthy Burgers after hearing much hype about what great burgers they served, I am always looking to a great burger. There were 4 people in our party and we all agreed that although the burgers were good, they fell short of what we would consider a great burger. One of our main complaints was the all the burgers were prepared rare. They do clearly state the burgers will be service pink in the middle, but all 4 burgers were red in the middle. My wife asked if her burger burger could be cooked more and they willing prepared another burger but that was also arrived rare. They should realize not everyone likes their burgers rare and asked how you would like it cooked.
"My rare burger was a large, almost meatball like sphere of meat centered in a dry, almost stale bun with three wilted rings of bermuda onion. Its degree of doneness was so far from rare the best color description I could say it was, was grey with no pink discernible.
Not to be outdone, L's medium rare burger was a lighter shade of pale grey than mine"
And a professional review in Seven Days:
"The burger was slightly underseasoned, a paler cousin to the world-class patties at Worthy’s closest Burlington cognate, the Farmhouse Tap & Grill. A thin strip of pink made it look juicier than it actually was. "
Yep, you need to cook that select grass fed burger to the right temperature, just like any hamburger. And for those that like that rare hamburger, or refuse to use a thermometer - is it worth the risk?
Valley News
http://www.vnews.com/news/18747830-95/vt-officials-continue-e-coli-investigation
Vt. Officials Continue E. Coli Investigation
By Jordan Cuddemi Valley News Staff Writer
Friday, September 25, 2015 (Published in print: Friday, September 25, 2015)
South Royalton — A South Royalton restaurant voluntarily closed for several days recently and switched food vendors after being contacted by state officials who are investigating an E. coli “cluster” that has sickened at least five people.
Cucumber Salmonella Outbreak - Cases Now at 558 with 3 Deaths
CDC's last repost on the Salmonella outbreak associated with cucumbers had the case count at 558, with 112 requiring hospitalization and 3 deaths. This number of cases per day has begun to decrease since the two associated recalls were issued on September 4th and September 11th, however looking at the EPI curve, this duration of this outbreak is close to 3 months.
The cucumbers were said to be imported from Mexico and were then packed by US produce companies for shipment across the county...resulting in illnesses in 33 states.
In 2014, there was a Salmonella outbreak associated with cucumbers from Maryland and in 2013, an outbreak of E.coli O157:H7 associated with slice cucumber on sandwiches.
The pH of cucumbers is approximately 6. While there are limited studies on the growth of Salmonella on cut cucumbers, evidence suggests that there may be a slow increase in numbers when the product is stored at non-refrigerated temperatures. This may compound the primary issue, which is that cucumbers are grown on or near the ground, and if that ground is contaminated, such as occurs when using improperly treated manure as a fertilizer, then that contamination is transferred to the cucumbers (via direct contact, hands, splashing water, little critters, etc) could adhere to the surface of the cucumber. Using contaminated irrigation water can lead to contamination of the cucumbers. Finally, cucumbers can become contaminated during handling and rinsing / hydrocooling. Point source contamination issues in the packing house can spread that contamination to a large number of cucumbers. More study is needed on cucumbers and contamination issues associated with growing, harvesting, storage and consumer handling.
The cucumbers were said to be imported from Mexico and were then packed by US produce companies for shipment across the county...resulting in illnesses in 33 states.
In 2014, there was a Salmonella outbreak associated with cucumbers from Maryland and in 2013, an outbreak of E.coli O157:H7 associated with slice cucumber on sandwiches.
The pH of cucumbers is approximately 6. While there are limited studies on the growth of Salmonella on cut cucumbers, evidence suggests that there may be a slow increase in numbers when the product is stored at non-refrigerated temperatures. This may compound the primary issue, which is that cucumbers are grown on or near the ground, and if that ground is contaminated, such as occurs when using improperly treated manure as a fertilizer, then that contamination is transferred to the cucumbers (via direct contact, hands, splashing water, little critters, etc) could adhere to the surface of the cucumber. Using contaminated irrigation water can lead to contamination of the cucumbers. Finally, cucumbers can become contaminated during handling and rinsing / hydrocooling. Point source contamination issues in the packing house can spread that contamination to a large number of cucumbers. More study is needed on cucumbers and contamination issues associated with growing, harvesting, storage and consumer handling.
Poultry Products Recalled Due to Metal Shavings Generated by Ice Machine
A Mississippi establishment is recalling approximately 550,000 lbs of poultry products after metal shavings were found by one of their customers. The manufacturing established reported that a faulty ice machine was to blame. The product being large cases and combos, so this indicates the product was packed on ice.
The ice machine....that neglected piece of equipment. Whether packing product on ice, adding ice as an ingredient to facilitate cooling, or adding to our beverage, ice is just as much as part of the process as the other ingredients used. Ice machines have often been cited for high microbiological counts when the machines are not cleaned. Here, a malfunctioning machine had metal-on-metal contact, probably in the ice chopper/flaker that generated the metal shavings.
In these cases, ice machines are part of the process and need to identified as a source for microbiological, physical, and probably even chemical hazards. Good preventive maintenance and periodic quality checks should be included with regard to controlling metal as a physical hazard,
USDA Recall Notice
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/FSIS-Content/internet/main/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2015/recall-124-2015-release
Sanderson Farms Recalls Poultry Products Due To Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Class I Recall 124-2015
Health Risk: High Sep 24, 2015
En Español
Congressional and Public Affairs Katherine Scheidt (202) 720-9113
WASHINGTON, Sept. 24, 2015 – Sanderson Farms, a Hazlehurst, Miss. establishment, is recalling approximately 551,090 pounds of poultry products that may be contaminated with extraneous metal materials the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The ice machine....that neglected piece of equipment. Whether packing product on ice, adding ice as an ingredient to facilitate cooling, or adding to our beverage, ice is just as much as part of the process as the other ingredients used. Ice machines have often been cited for high microbiological counts when the machines are not cleaned. Here, a malfunctioning machine had metal-on-metal contact, probably in the ice chopper/flaker that generated the metal shavings.
In these cases, ice machines are part of the process and need to identified as a source for microbiological, physical, and probably even chemical hazards. Good preventive maintenance and periodic quality checks should be included with regard to controlling metal as a physical hazard,
USDA Recall Notice
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/wcm/connect/FSIS-Content/internet/main/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2015/recall-124-2015-release
Sanderson Farms Recalls Poultry Products Due To Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Class I Recall 124-2015
Health Risk: High Sep 24, 2015
En Español
Congressional and Public Affairs Katherine Scheidt (202) 720-9113
WASHINGTON, Sept. 24, 2015 – Sanderson Farms, a Hazlehurst, Miss. establishment, is recalling approximately 551,090 pounds of poultry products that may be contaminated with extraneous metal materials the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
Tuesday, September 22, 2015
PCA CEO Gets 28 Years in Prison for Selling Tainted Peanut Butter, QA Manager gets 5 Years
The CEO of PCA, Steward Parnell, received a 28 year prison sentence after being found guilty last September for knowingly selling tainted peanut butter and falsifying records to deceive customers about the safety of that product. His brother, Michael Parnell, the production supervisor, received a sentence of 20 years in prison, while the quality control manager, Mary Wilkerson, received a 5-year sentence for obstruction of justice.
While it is easy to focus on Mr. Parnell's sentence, you have to look at Mary Wilkerson, the 41 year old Quality Control Manager. She started working at PCA as a receptionist and was promoted up to the role of Quality Control Manager. Did she know better? Did she have appropriate training? Was she merely following orders? Perhaps, but in the end, she was brought down with the owner for carrying out an act that caused people to get sick. While she may not spend the entire 5 years in prison, it is still an awful cross to bear for an owner who reaped the benefits of running a shady business.
Her story goes to all the quality control, operations, and other supervisory personnel as a reminder that doing the wrong thing because someone told you to do it does not make it okay.
Washington Post
https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/former-peanut-executive-sentenced-to-28-years-in-prison-for-outbreak-that-killed-nine-people-sickened-hundreds/2015/09/21/aba7500e-60a7-11e5-8e9e-dce8a2a2a679_story.html
Former peanut executive sentenced to 28 years in prison
By Brady Dennis September 21 at 7:53 PM
Former peanut executive Stewart Parnell was sentenced Monday to 28 years in prison for his role in a nationwide salmonella outbreak that killed nine people and sickened hundreds in 2008 and 2009.
The sentence marked the most severe punishment ever for a food-related crime. Prosecutors had sought life in prison for the 61-year-old executive, and the sentence handed down by U.S. District Judge W. Louis Sands essentially could amount to that.
“These acts were driven simply by the desire to profit and to protect profits notwithstanding the known risks,” the judge said, according to the Associated Press. “This is commonly and accurately referred to as greed.”
While it is easy to focus on Mr. Parnell's sentence, you have to look at Mary Wilkerson, the 41 year old Quality Control Manager. She started working at PCA as a receptionist and was promoted up to the role of Quality Control Manager. Did she know better? Did she have appropriate training? Was she merely following orders? Perhaps, but in the end, she was brought down with the owner for carrying out an act that caused people to get sick. While she may not spend the entire 5 years in prison, it is still an awful cross to bear for an owner who reaped the benefits of running a shady business.
Her story goes to all the quality control, operations, and other supervisory personnel as a reminder that doing the wrong thing because someone told you to do it does not make it okay.
Washington Post
https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/former-peanut-executive-sentenced-to-28-years-in-prison-for-outbreak-that-killed-nine-people-sickened-hundreds/2015/09/21/aba7500e-60a7-11e5-8e9e-dce8a2a2a679_story.html
Former peanut executive sentenced to 28 years in prison
By Brady Dennis September 21 at 7:53 PM
Former peanut executive Stewart Parnell was sentenced Monday to 28 years in prison for his role in a nationwide salmonella outbreak that killed nine people and sickened hundreds in 2008 and 2009.
The sentence marked the most severe punishment ever for a food-related crime. Prosecutors had sought life in prison for the 61-year-old executive, and the sentence handed down by U.S. District Judge W. Louis Sands essentially could amount to that.
“These acts were driven simply by the desire to profit and to protect profits notwithstanding the known risks,” the judge said, according to the Associated Press. “This is commonly and accurately referred to as greed.”
Monday, September 21, 2015
Soft Cheese Listeria Outbreak Extends Back 5 Years - The Power of Whole Genome Sequencing
This past week, a California cheese company recalled cheese due to Listeria related illnesses. CDC released information that there have been 24 cases in 9 different states caused by 5 closely related strains of Listeria. The cases occurred over a five year period!
The ability to combine this data into one outbreak is incredible! Whole Genome Sequencing has become a game changer with regard to solving foodborne illness outbreaks. The entire DNA sequence from pathogens responsible for past foodborne illness cases can be evaluated and matched with those from more recent cases.
This technology also raises the ante for facilities with low level pathogen contamination issues. Just as was seen with the Blue Bell ice cream facilities, it is more than a matter of checking the environment for Listeria, but enacting a proactive strategy that when contamination is found. This includes an examination to determine if product has been exposed as well as a carrying out a seek-and-destroy mission to determine all potential sources/ contributing factors within the process environment (recognizing the fact that it is often an on-going battle of control rather than complete elimination).
This strategy also includes prevention of contamination - all of those things that come into process environment from outside - whether that is raw materials or even non-food (workers, inspectors, pallets, maintenance tools, carts, forklifts, used equipment, etc). Who knows, some of this may be coming from a facility fighting its own endemic contamination issue.
 |
| People infected with the outbreak strains of Listeria monocytogenes, by month of specimen collection* |
CDC Outbreaks
Multistate Outbreak of Listeriosis Linked to Soft Cheeses
Posted September 18, 2015 9:00 AM ET
CDC is collaborating with public health officials in several states and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate a multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections (listeriosis). Listeria can cause a serious, life-threatening illness.
- Five rare DNA fingerprints of Listeria are included in this investigation.
- Whole genome sequencing showed that the Listeria strains with the five rare DNA fingerprints are closely related genetically.
- Twenty-four people infected with one of the closely related Listeria strains have been reported from nine states since August 8, 2010.
Friday, September 18, 2015
FSIS Alerts Consumers About Raw Breaded Chicken Breasts Containing Salmonella
FSIS is alerting consumers that the Salmonella strains responsible for an foodborne illness outbreak, that resulted in stuffed chicken product being recalled by Aspen Foods in July, have been isolated from the Aspen Foods processing facility. FSIS is now worried about all product produced since the recall in July through September 17th.
While this product is only partially cooked, and provides instructions for the consumer to fully cook, FSIS feels that there are systematic issues at the facility. However the company has refused to recall the product.
While this product is only partially cooked, and provides instructions for the consumer to fully cook, FSIS feels that there are systematic issues at the facility. However the company has refused to recall the product.
FSIS News Alert
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert For Stuffed Chicken Products Due To Possible Salmonella Contamination
Congressional and Public Affairs Gabrielle N. Johnston (202) 720-9113
WASHINGTON, September 17, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is alerting consumers that frozen, raw, stuffed and breaded chicken products produced by Aspen Foods, a division of Koch Poultry Company, a Chicago, Ill. establishment have been confirmed as having the same Salmonella Enteritidis outbreak strain which was part of a July 15, 2015 recall.
California Company Recalling Cheeses Due to Potential Link to Listeria Infections
A California cheese manufacturer is recalling various cheeses after FDA and CDC notified the company that the company's product may be linked to Listeria related illnesses. Listeria has not been isolated from the product.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm462976.htm
Karoun Dairies, Inc. Issues Nationwide Voluntary Recall of Various Cheeses Because of Possible Health Risk
Contact:
Consumer:
866-272-9393
Media:
866-272-9376
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — September 16, 2015 — San Fernando, CA — Today Karoun Dairies, Inc. announced that it is voluntarily recalling a variety of cheeses it distributes due to possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. To date, no product has tested positive for Listeria but in view of the association with listeriosis cases Karoun Dairies Inc. is initiating a voluntary recall in the interest of protecting public health.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm462976.htm
Karoun Dairies, Inc. Issues Nationwide Voluntary Recall of Various Cheeses Because of Possible Health Risk
Contact:
Consumer:
866-272-9393
Media:
866-272-9376
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — September 16, 2015 — San Fernando, CA — Today Karoun Dairies, Inc. announced that it is voluntarily recalling a variety of cheeses it distributes due to possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. To date, no product has tested positive for Listeria but in view of the association with listeriosis cases Karoun Dairies Inc. is initiating a voluntary recall in the interest of protecting public health.
Consumers Warned About Dangerous Dietary Supplements
A NY dietary supplement company is recalling their supplements because they have unacceptable levels of mercury and lead. Yikes....they are so bad that FDA advices consumers who are using them to consult a medical health provider.
Dietary supplements sales are driven by people searching for the secret passage to healthy living through a pill or drink. Surely they think that there is something not in their normal diet and with the dietary supplement, it is going to make the individual feel better, look better, and live forever. Some providers of dietary supplements prey on these aspirations by concocting various potions with unique live enhancing qualities and then market them by having that unique story....that these were used by the ancients...or as in this case, the company Baidyanath connecting to Ayurveda, traditional Hindu medicine. Okay, maybe these traditional Hindu medical doctors had something going on that was great, but hopefully, high mercury and lead content in the medicines were not part of it.
Along with this recall, we have an Iowa company, Iowa Select Herbs, who was court ordered to recall a boatload of product made since the start of the year.
Unfortunately, these dietary supplemtn providers have takes advantage of an under regulated industry - whether it is terms of over-the-top health claims, product that was improperly prepared, or formulations that are dangerous. While some of these providers are nothing more than modern day snake oil salesmen, others go into the business believing that they are doing good, but do not have the necessary level of technical knowledge or capabilities. Unfortunately for consumers, it can be difficult to determine which product is going to have dangerous levels of mercury or lead. It is good to see the increased regulatory scrutiny.
FDA Consumer Advisory
FDA Consumer Advice on Shree Baidyanath Brand Ayurveda Dietary Supplements
September 17, 2015
What you need to know
Consumers who have used any of the Baidyanath brand Ayurvedic dietary supplements listed below should stop using them and consult their health care provider.
Testing by the New York Department of Health and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has found that these products contain high levels of lead and/or mercury, which can cause serious health problems.
The products are manufactured by Shree Baidyanath Ayurved Bhawan in India and sold in the United States at retail and via the Internet. One major retailer has recalled the products. The FDA is working to identify other companies that may have sold the products.
Dietary supplements sales are driven by people searching for the secret passage to healthy living through a pill or drink. Surely they think that there is something not in their normal diet and with the dietary supplement, it is going to make the individual feel better, look better, and live forever. Some providers of dietary supplements prey on these aspirations by concocting various potions with unique live enhancing qualities and then market them by having that unique story....that these were used by the ancients...or as in this case, the company Baidyanath connecting to Ayurveda, traditional Hindu medicine. Okay, maybe these traditional Hindu medical doctors had something going on that was great, but hopefully, high mercury and lead content in the medicines were not part of it.
Along with this recall, we have an Iowa company, Iowa Select Herbs, who was court ordered to recall a boatload of product made since the start of the year.
Unfortunately, these dietary supplemtn providers have takes advantage of an under regulated industry - whether it is terms of over-the-top health claims, product that was improperly prepared, or formulations that are dangerous. While some of these providers are nothing more than modern day snake oil salesmen, others go into the business believing that they are doing good, but do not have the necessary level of technical knowledge or capabilities. Unfortunately for consumers, it can be difficult to determine which product is going to have dangerous levels of mercury or lead. It is good to see the increased regulatory scrutiny.
FDA Consumer Advisory
FDA Consumer Advice on Shree Baidyanath Brand Ayurveda Dietary Supplements
September 17, 2015
What you need to know
Consumers who have used any of the Baidyanath brand Ayurvedic dietary supplements listed below should stop using them and consult their health care provider.
Testing by the New York Department of Health and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has found that these products contain high levels of lead and/or mercury, which can cause serious health problems.
The products are manufactured by Shree Baidyanath Ayurved Bhawan in India and sold in the United States at retail and via the Internet. One major retailer has recalled the products. The FDA is working to identify other companies that may have sold the products.
Wednesday, September 16, 2015
FSMA Preventive Controls Rule for Human Foods - A First Look
The FDA released the final rule for the Preventive Controls for Human Foods. For those who have been tasked with reviewing the PDF file of approximately 930 pages, it is easy to become overwhelmed. However, it is not as bad as it looks. The actual regulation, which starts around page 834, is then roughly only about 100 pages. Considering that the GMP regulation is included (formerly 21CFR part 110) and there are many pages dedicated to discussing on-farm exemptions, the meat of the regulation is rather brief In fact, this version has been skillfully streamlined compared to the last released supplemental version.
So this primer takes a look at new aspects as well as walks through the major sections of the regulation.
So this primer takes a look at new aspects as well as walks through the major sections of the regulation.
Sunday, September 13, 2015
Gourmet Spreads from Maryland Processor Found to be Positive for Listeria
A boutique food manufacturer in Maryland has been notified by Maryland Department of Health that their gourmet spreads were found to be contaminated with Listeria. This product, produced by Picnic Gourmet Foods, is sold through Whole Foods and other boutique food shops.
These types of product must be produced under tight controls to prevent Listeria contamination. According to the company website, "All of our spreads are all natural, hormone & preservative free"...too bad they were not Listeria free.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm463535.htm
Picnic Gourmet Spreads Issues Recall for Potential Health Risks
Contact: Consumer: info@picnicspreads.com
Media: Brady Marz, Picnic Gourmet Spreads 301-983-1241 brady@picnicspreads.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Sept. 21, 2015 - Potomac, MD - Out of an abundance of caution, Picnic Gourmet Spreads is issuing a recall on their yogurt cheese spreads. These spreads could potentially be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.
These types of product must be produced under tight controls to prevent Listeria contamination. According to the company website, "All of our spreads are all natural, hormone & preservative free"...too bad they were not Listeria free.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm463535.htm
Picnic Gourmet Spreads Issues Recall for Potential Health Risks
Contact: Consumer: info@picnicspreads.com
Media: Brady Marz, Picnic Gourmet Spreads 301-983-1241 brady@picnicspreads.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Sept. 21, 2015 - Potomac, MD - Out of an abundance of caution, Picnic Gourmet Spreads is issuing a recall on their yogurt cheese spreads. These spreads could potentially be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.
Spinach Recalled After Low Levels of Cadmium Detected
A California produce company is recalling spinach for Cadmium contamination after trace levels were found through testing.
Cadmium is naturally found in soil, but in low levels. Higher concentrations can be found when associated with different types of industrial practices. No maximum tolerance levels have been set and minimal concentrations are not likely to have any immediate impact, and even these levels would be unlikely to have long term impacts.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm462289.htm
Limited Precautionary Recall of 5 oz organicgirl Baby Spinach Announced
Contact: Consumer: (866) 486-4939 (831) 758-7810
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 10, 2015 – Salinas, California - organicgirl Produce is voluntarily recalling a limited quantity of 5 oz. organicgirl Baby Spinach with a Use-by Date of September 13 and Product Code B030298-001B08S due to test results indicating the presence of trace levels of the naturally-occurring element cadmium. The recall includes 1,290 cases distributed primarily to Western and Midwestern states. No other organicgirl Baby Spinach products or other organicgirl salads are included in the recall.
No illnesses are reported in association with this recall.
Cadmium is naturally found in soil, but in low levels. Higher concentrations can be found when associated with different types of industrial practices. No maximum tolerance levels have been set and minimal concentrations are not likely to have any immediate impact, and even these levels would be unlikely to have long term impacts.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm462289.htm
Limited Precautionary Recall of 5 oz organicgirl Baby Spinach Announced
Contact: Consumer: (866) 486-4939 (831) 758-7810
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 10, 2015 – Salinas, California - organicgirl Produce is voluntarily recalling a limited quantity of 5 oz. organicgirl Baby Spinach with a Use-by Date of September 13 and Product Code B030298-001B08S due to test results indicating the presence of trace levels of the naturally-occurring element cadmium. The recall includes 1,290 cases distributed primarily to Western and Midwestern states. No other organicgirl Baby Spinach products or other organicgirl salads are included in the recall.
No illnesses are reported in association with this recall.
Sliced Apple Product Recalled for Potential Listeria
A Pennsylvania company is recalling sliced apple product for potential Listeria contamination after an environmental sample was found to be positive. No illnesses have been reported.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm461959.htm
Appeeling Fruit Inc. Voluntarily Recalls Limited Production Of Sliced Apples Because Of Possible Health Risk
Contact:
Consumer:
1-866-873-0468
Media:
Stephanie Schreiber
610-926-6601 ext. 22
sschreiber@appeelingfruit.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 9, 2015 – Appeeling Fruit Inc. in Dauberville, Penn. is voluntarily recalling a limited number of consumer packages of fresh sliced apples with Best-if-Used-by dates of 09/14/15 and 09/21/15, due to the potential to 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 cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm461959.htm
Appeeling Fruit Inc. Voluntarily Recalls Limited Production Of Sliced Apples Because Of Possible Health Risk
Contact:
Consumer:
1-866-873-0468
Media:
Stephanie Schreiber
610-926-6601 ext. 22
sschreiber@appeelingfruit.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 9, 2015 – Appeeling Fruit Inc. in Dauberville, Penn. is voluntarily recalling a limited number of consumer packages of fresh sliced apples with Best-if-Used-by dates of 09/14/15 and 09/21/15, due to the potential to 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 cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
Saturday, September 12, 2015
Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Cucumbers Up to 341 Cases in 30 States
CDC reports that there are now 341 cases of salmonelloisis related to cucumbers. The California company issued a recall last week, for cucumbers, but still has no idea of how the product became contaminated. In a press release, they stated that they have ceased all operations.
CDC Website
http://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/poona-09-15/index.html
Multistate Outbreak of Salmonella Poona Infections Linked to Imported Cucumbers
Posted September 9, 2015 4:30 PM ET
Read the Recall & Advice to Consumers, Restaurants, and Retailers >>
CDC Website
http://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/poona-09-15/index.html
Multistate Outbreak of Salmonella Poona Infections Linked to Imported Cucumbers
Posted September 9, 2015 4:30 PM ET
Read the Recall & Advice to Consumers, Restaurants, and Retailers >>
- CDC, multiple states, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Poona infections.
- 341 people infected with the outbreak strains of Salmonella Poona have been reported from 30 states, an increase of 56 cases since the last update on September 4.
Tuesday, September 8, 2015
Cucumbers from California Recalled for Potential Link to Salmonella Outbreak
A California company is recalling cucumbers because these cucumbers might be linked to a Salmonella outbreak. It is reported that there are illnesses in 27 states.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm461382.htm
Andrew and Williamson Fresh Produce Recalls Limited Edition Brand® Cucumbers Because of Possible Health Risk
Contact: Consumer: 619-661-6004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — September 4, 2015— Andrew and Williamson Fresh Produce (“A&W”) of San Diego, California is voluntarily recalling all cucumbers sold under the Limited Edition® label during the period from August 1, 2015 through September 3, 2015 because it may be contaminated with Salmonella.
A&W is currently working with health authorities to determine if, in fact, this product is the source of an outbreak of Salmonella with illnesses being reporting in as many as 27 states.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm461382.htm
Andrew and Williamson Fresh Produce Recalls Limited Edition Brand® Cucumbers Because of Possible Health Risk
Contact: Consumer: 619-661-6004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — September 4, 2015— Andrew and Williamson Fresh Produce (“A&W”) of San Diego, California is voluntarily recalling all cucumbers sold under the Limited Edition® label during the period from August 1, 2015 through September 3, 2015 because it may be contaminated with Salmonella.
A&W is currently working with health authorities to determine if, in fact, this product is the source of an outbreak of Salmonella with illnesses being reporting in as many as 27 states.
Friday, September 4, 2015
Kraft Expands Sliced Cheese Product Recall Because of More Plastic Film Complaints
Kraft is expanding its recall to 335,000 cases of cheese product because they received more complaints of small pieces of plastic film remaining on the cheese product slices.
Kraft initially recalled 36,000 cases of sliced cheese product after receiving 10 complaints (3 reports of consumer choking) on the individually wrapped cheese product when the wrapping does not completely come off leaving a strip of plastic film.
Washington Post
To Your Health
Kraft cheese expands recall of American cheese singles by 10 times
http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/to-your-health/wp/2015/09/04/kraft-cheese-expands-recall-of-american-cheese-singles-by-10-times/
By Elahe Izadi September 4 at 12:22 PM
Kraft has massively expanded its voluntary recall of some American cheese singles, due to new consumer complaints about the plastic film representing a potential choking hazard, the company announced Thursday.
Kraft initially recalled 36,000 cases of sliced cheese product after receiving 10 complaints (3 reports of consumer choking) on the individually wrapped cheese product when the wrapping does not completely come off leaving a strip of plastic film.
Washington Post
To Your Health
Kraft cheese expands recall of American cheese singles by 10 times
http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/to-your-health/wp/2015/09/04/kraft-cheese-expands-recall-of-american-cheese-singles-by-10-times/
By Elahe Izadi September 4 at 12:22 PM
Kraft has massively expanded its voluntary recall of some American cheese singles, due to new consumer complaints about the plastic film representing a potential choking hazard, the company announced Thursday.
Food Truck Provider Linked to E.coli Outbreak at Farmers' Market
Mexican food sold at a farmers' market in King County, WA (Seattle) is being linked to E. coli outbreak. According to a recent report, there are now 10 illnesses.
The vendor, Los Chilangos, utilizes food trucks for providing food. Food trucks are a growing trend, especially on the west coast. While farmers' markets was the venue in this case, I think it is important to note that this is not what one would consider as the traditional farmers' market food vendor. However, both farmers' markets and food trucks are gaining additional scrutiny from food safety professionals, because both are easier markets to enter for boding food entrepreneurs.
The vendor, Los Chilangos, utilizes food trucks for providing food. Food trucks are a growing trend, especially on the west coast. While farmers' markets was the venue in this case, I think it is important to note that this is not what one would consider as the traditional farmers' market food vendor. However, both farmers' markets and food trucks are gaining additional scrutiny from food safety professionals, because both are easier markets to enter for boding food entrepreneurs.
KIROTV.com
Health investigators: E. coli cases linked to food sold at farmers markets
Updated: 11:18 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2015 | Posted: 3:54 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2015
By KIRO 7 STAFF
King County Public Health is investigating six E. coli cases that appear to be linked to a food sold at local farmers markets.
- 6 sickened
- 3 hospitalized
- Los Chilangos food service shut down
- Owners working with health department
“Through a few initial interviews with ill people, we determined that everyone who became sick had something in common – they ate food prepared by, a local food vendor called Los Chilangos,” Public Health staff said in a statement.
Los Chilangos serves food at seven farmers markets in King and Snohomish counties, operates two food trucks, and also caters events. The kitchen was told to stop producing food, as were the food trucks that used it.
Bottled Water Recalled Due to Milk Allergen
A Texas company is recalling gallons of bottled water after a quality review found that the water may have milk allergen in it.
How can something like this arise? Often times milk bottling operations will also bottle water using the same equipment (cold fill type of operation). A good sanitation regime should get rid of any residual allergens, but if something is not completed properly, residual allergens may be left in pipes or the filler.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm461121.htm
H-E-B Issues A Voluntary Recall On Hill Country Fare One Gallon Spring Water Due To The Possible Presence Of Undeclared Allergen
Voluntary recall specific only to stores in the Houston, Central Texas and the Gulf Coast areas
Contact: Consumer: Leslie Sweet, H-E-B (512) 293-1220
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 2, 2015 – Austin, TX – H-E-B has issued a voluntary recall specifically for the Hill Country Fare One Gallon Spring Water with the Best By date of December 19, 2015, due to the possible presence of a milk allergen. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product. There have been no consumer complaints or reports of illness.
H-E-B discovered the issue on September 1, 2015, during quality assurance product reviews. This recall is specific to one gallon containers of Hill Country Fare Spring Water with a Best By Date of December 19, 2015. No other H-E-B or Hill Country Fare products are impacted by this voluntary recall.
How can something like this arise? Often times milk bottling operations will also bottle water using the same equipment (cold fill type of operation). A good sanitation regime should get rid of any residual allergens, but if something is not completed properly, residual allergens may be left in pipes or the filler.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm461121.htm
H-E-B Issues A Voluntary Recall On Hill Country Fare One Gallon Spring Water Due To The Possible Presence Of Undeclared Allergen
Voluntary recall specific only to stores in the Houston, Central Texas and the Gulf Coast areas
Contact: Consumer: Leslie Sweet, H-E-B (512) 293-1220
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 2, 2015 – Austin, TX – H-E-B has issued a voluntary recall specifically for the Hill Country Fare One Gallon Spring Water with the Best By date of December 19, 2015, due to the possible presence of a milk allergen. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product. There have been no consumer complaints or reports of illness.
H-E-B discovered the issue on September 1, 2015, during quality assurance product reviews. This recall is specific to one gallon containers of Hill Country Fare Spring Water with a Best By Date of December 19, 2015. No other H-E-B or Hill Country Fare products are impacted by this voluntary recall.
Tuesday, September 1, 2015
Frozen Corn Recalled for Listeria After Positive Test Result
Another frozen vegetable product is being recalled for Listeria. In this case, it is frozen corn. Listeria was found through testing conducted by the State of Tennessee.
In making frozen cut corn, the corn is husked, cut, water blanched followed by immediate cooling, IQF freezing and then packaging. The water blanch temperature will be greater than 180F, generally 190 to boiling. Therefore, any Listeria contamination would need to come from the post-blanch environment - from cooling to packaging.
Frozen corn is generally cooked by the consumer before serving, although there may be some RTE applications (although can't think of any). Therefore, frozen corn would not have been considered a high risk product, so unsure why the State of TN decided to test this item.
Just this week, frozen green beans were recalled due to Listeria.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm460634.htm
Bonduelle USA Recalls Frozen Corn Because Of Possible Health Risk
Contact:
Consumer:
1-877-990-2662
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – August 31, 2015 – Brockport, NY – Bonduelle USA Inc. of Brockport, NY is recalling 9,335 cases of frozen corn because it has the potential to 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.
In making frozen cut corn, the corn is husked, cut, water blanched followed by immediate cooling, IQF freezing and then packaging. The water blanch temperature will be greater than 180F, generally 190 to boiling. Therefore, any Listeria contamination would need to come from the post-blanch environment - from cooling to packaging.
Frozen corn is generally cooked by the consumer before serving, although there may be some RTE applications (although can't think of any). Therefore, frozen corn would not have been considered a high risk product, so unsure why the State of TN decided to test this item.
Just this week, frozen green beans were recalled due to Listeria.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm460634.htm
Bonduelle USA Recalls Frozen Corn Because Of Possible Health Risk
Contact:
Consumer:
1-877-990-2662
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – August 31, 2015 – Brockport, NY – Bonduelle USA Inc. of Brockport, NY is recalling 9,335 cases of frozen corn because it has the potential to 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.
Thursday, August 27, 2015
CDC MMWR - An Increase in Strongyloidiasis Cases in LA
According to CDC's MMWR weekly report, there has been an increase in the number of cases of Strongyloidiasis in LA County, California. While there were none in 2012, there were 14 cases in 2013 and 29 cases in 2014.
So what the heck is strongyloidiasis? Just because you wanted to know.......
So, there you are out tending your garden (or whatever they do in LA where one has their hands in the soil), and this little parasitic worm burrows into your skin and then finds its way to your intestines where it creates a never-ending maternity ward for more parasitic worms. Isn't that a pleasant thought.
Strongyloidiasis is a disease caused by a nematode, or a roundworm, in the genus Strongyloides. While there are a number of species of this roundworm that can infect birds, reptiles and such, Strongyloides stercoralis is the primary species that infects humans. The larvae are only about 1.5mm in length and are found in the soil. "When the larvae come in contact with skin, they are able to penetrate it and migrate through the body, eventually finding their way to the small intestine where they burrow and lay their eggs and these eggs hatch into larvae in the intestine. Most of these larvae will be excreted in the stool, but some of the larvae may molt and immediately re-infect the host either by burrowing into the intestinal wall, or by penetrating the perianal skin. This characteristic of Strongyloides is termed auto-infection. The significance of auto-infection is that unless treated for Strongyloides, persons may remain infected throughout their lifetime."
"The majority of people infected with Strongyloides are without symptoms. Those who do develop symptoms tend to have non-specific, or generalized complaints. Some people develop abdominal pain, bloating, heartburn, intermittent episodes of diarrhea and constipation, a dry cough, and rashes. Rarely people will develop arthritis, kidney problems, and heart conditions."
"In the United States, Strongyloides has classically been associated with uniformed-service veterans who returned from tropical regions such as Southeast Asia and the South Pacific during World War II. Small domestic studies have shown locations of infection in rural Appalachia. The highest rates in the United States have been documented in immigrant populations."
CDC - MMWR
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6433a8.htm?s_cid=mm6433a8_e
Increase in Reports of Strongyloides Infection — Los Angeles County, 2013–2014
Weekly
August 28, 2015 / 64(33);922-923
Curtis Croker, MPH1; Rosemary She, MD2
During the 1990s, reports of infection with the nematode (roundworm) Strongyloides stercoralis submitted to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) ranged from 40 to 50 per year, but by 2000, reports had decreased to five per year; in 2006, Strongyloides infection was removed from the LACDPH reportable disease list. Currently, it is only reported at the discretion of Los Angeles County clinicians and laboratories as an unusual disease occurrence. LACDPH currently only monitors case counts and does not investigate reported Strongyloides cases. During 2013–2014, an increase in Strongyloides cases occurred, with 43 cases reported.
So what the heck is strongyloidiasis? Just because you wanted to know.......
So, there you are out tending your garden (or whatever they do in LA where one has their hands in the soil), and this little parasitic worm burrows into your skin and then finds its way to your intestines where it creates a never-ending maternity ward for more parasitic worms. Isn't that a pleasant thought.
Strongyloidiasis is a disease caused by a nematode, or a roundworm, in the genus Strongyloides. While there are a number of species of this roundworm that can infect birds, reptiles and such, Strongyloides stercoralis is the primary species that infects humans. The larvae are only about 1.5mm in length and are found in the soil. "When the larvae come in contact with skin, they are able to penetrate it and migrate through the body, eventually finding their way to the small intestine where they burrow and lay their eggs and these eggs hatch into larvae in the intestine. Most of these larvae will be excreted in the stool, but some of the larvae may molt and immediately re-infect the host either by burrowing into the intestinal wall, or by penetrating the perianal skin. This characteristic of Strongyloides is termed auto-infection. The significance of auto-infection is that unless treated for Strongyloides, persons may remain infected throughout their lifetime."
"The majority of people infected with Strongyloides are without symptoms. Those who do develop symptoms tend to have non-specific, or generalized complaints. Some people develop abdominal pain, bloating, heartburn, intermittent episodes of diarrhea and constipation, a dry cough, and rashes. Rarely people will develop arthritis, kidney problems, and heart conditions."
"In the United States, Strongyloides has classically been associated with uniformed-service veterans who returned from tropical regions such as Southeast Asia and the South Pacific during World War II. Small domestic studies have shown locations of infection in rural Appalachia. The highest rates in the United States have been documented in immigrant populations."
CDC - MMWR
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6433a8.htm?s_cid=mm6433a8_e
Increase in Reports of Strongyloides Infection — Los Angeles County, 2013–2014
Weekly
August 28, 2015 / 64(33);922-923
Curtis Croker, MPH1; Rosemary She, MD2
During the 1990s, reports of infection with the nematode (roundworm) Strongyloides stercoralis submitted to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) ranged from 40 to 50 per year, but by 2000, reports had decreased to five per year; in 2006, Strongyloides infection was removed from the LACDPH reportable disease list. Currently, it is only reported at the discretion of Los Angeles County clinicians and laboratories as an unusual disease occurrence. LACDPH currently only monitors case counts and does not investigate reported Strongyloides cases. During 2013–2014, an increase in Strongyloides cases occurred, with 43 cases reported.
Bread Recalled After Complaints of Broken Glass
A bread company is recalling loaves of bread after receiving complaints of broken glass on the outside of bread. The company said the glass is from a broken light bulb.
In today's audit-ready world, having unshielded light bulbs is very uncommon, let alone to have one break in an area where product is exposed. Being that the complaints state the glass was located on the outside of the loaves, the bulb breaking event would have had to occur after panning somewhere through baking on through to packaging.
Recognizing a bulb had broke in that area, immediate corrective action that would have included putting any product that had the potential for exposure, would have prevented this massive recall.
This is a great learning opportunity to be shared with employees on 1) keeping an eye open for anything that can present a hazard and 2) the importance of taking immediate action.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm460059.htm
Bimbo Bakeries Voluntary Regional Recall of Certain Limited Breads Produced Under the Sara Lee, Great Value, Kroger, Bimbo, Nature’s Harvest and L’Oven Fresh Brands
Contact: Consumer: 1-800-984-0989
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — August 26, 2015 — HORSHAM, PA — Bimbo Bakeries USA has initiated a voluntary regional recall of certain bread products under the Sara Lee®, Kroger®, Bimbo®, Nature’s Harvest®, Great Value and L’Oven Fresh® brands due to the possible presence of fragments of glass caused by a broken light bulb at one of its bakeries.
In today's audit-ready world, having unshielded light bulbs is very uncommon, let alone to have one break in an area where product is exposed. Being that the complaints state the glass was located on the outside of the loaves, the bulb breaking event would have had to occur after panning somewhere through baking on through to packaging.
Recognizing a bulb had broke in that area, immediate corrective action that would have included putting any product that had the potential for exposure, would have prevented this massive recall.
This is a great learning opportunity to be shared with employees on 1) keeping an eye open for anything that can present a hazard and 2) the importance of taking immediate action.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm460059.htm
Bimbo Bakeries Voluntary Regional Recall of Certain Limited Breads Produced Under the Sara Lee, Great Value, Kroger, Bimbo, Nature’s Harvest and L’Oven Fresh Brands
Contact: Consumer: 1-800-984-0989
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — August 26, 2015 — HORSHAM, PA — Bimbo Bakeries USA has initiated a voluntary regional recall of certain bread products under the Sara Lee®, Kroger®, Bimbo®, Nature’s Harvest®, Great Value and L’Oven Fresh® brands due to the possible presence of fragments of glass caused by a broken light bulb at one of its bakeries.
Frozen Green Beans, 2014 Pack Date, Recalled for Listeria
An organic frozen vegetable division of General Mills, Cascadian Farms, is recalling 2 lots of frozen cut green beans after a sample of the 18 month old product was found to be positive for Listeria. There have been no reported illnesses.
There are a number of interesting points to note:
There are a number of interesting points to note:
- The product was produced close to 18 months earlier, so it is curious why the product was just tested now.
- Beans would have been blanched, so it is likely this is a case of post-process contamination....either occurring during initial bulk packing or repacking.
- The beans would have been from the 2013 harvest and frozen in bulk until repacked or the product was imported from another country...so there would be a lot of handling.
- This type of product would likely be cooked by the consumer. The label would have instructions for cooking and provided those instructions were followed, then Listeria would be eliminated.
- Now that product from this facility was found to be positive for Listeria, will additional product be tested, including more recent product (if it hasn't been so already) and will there be a surge of attention brought to this facility (as well as other facilities that pack similar product).
- Frozen vegetables were also recalled in April after the facility had Listeria positive results for environmental samples.
General Mills News Release
http://www.generalmills.com//en/News/NewsReleases/Library/2015/July/cc-recall/3b3a9c6b-4989-464c-91f6-289a55888a27
Aug 26, 2015
General Mills voluntarily recalls a limited quantity of frozen Cascadian Farm Cut Green Beans
MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota - General Mills today announced a voluntary Class I recall of a limited quantity of frozen Cascadian Farm Cut Green Beans produced over two days in March 2014. The recall is being issued as a precaution after one package of finished product tested positive for the presence of Listeria monocytogenes. No related illnesses have been reported in connection with this product.
This voluntary recall is limited to 10-ounce bags of frozen Cascadian Farm Cut Green Beans with either of two “Better If Used By” dates printed on the package:
10APR2016
11APR2016
The recalled product was produced and packaged in 2014. No other varieties or production dates of Cascadian Farm products are affected by this recall.
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
Company Violates Federal Labeling Law for Mayo with No Egg
A small California company was producing a product that violated federal labeling standards. The label used on their plant based product, 'Just Mayo', used the term mayo. However, mayo is shorthand for mayonnaise, which is a egg based product. Just Mayo has no egg.
It is always interesting to read about the company in the hope to get a glimpse of how these mistakes can be made. In the Business Day piece (below), they linked a Business Insider article that was written about the company and its owner. A very unflattering picture of a company that appears more of a techno-business people than people I would want producing my food. To be fair, the owner had written a response to the Business Insider piece, but still, it provides a picture.
Business Day
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/08/26/business/fda-says-eggless-spread-violates-mayonnaise-and-label-rules.html
Just Mayo Spread Violates Mayonnaise and Label Rules, F.D.A. Says
By STEPHANIE STROMAUG. 25, 2015
The Food and Drug Administration has told Hampton Creek, a tiny company selling plant-based replacements for proteins derived from animals, that some of its Just Mayo products violate federal regulations related to standards for mayonnaise and proper labeling.
In a letter dated Aug. 12, the agency wrote that even the term “mayo” in the brand name and the logo, a minimalist egg “cracked” by a pea shoot, “may be misleading to consumers” by implying there are eggs in the products.
It is always interesting to read about the company in the hope to get a glimpse of how these mistakes can be made. In the Business Day piece (below), they linked a Business Insider article that was written about the company and its owner. A very unflattering picture of a company that appears more of a techno-business people than people I would want producing my food. To be fair, the owner had written a response to the Business Insider piece, but still, it provides a picture.
Business Day
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/08/26/business/fda-says-eggless-spread-violates-mayonnaise-and-label-rules.html
Just Mayo Spread Violates Mayonnaise and Label Rules, F.D.A. Says
By STEPHANIE STROMAUG. 25, 2015
The Food and Drug Administration has told Hampton Creek, a tiny company selling plant-based replacements for proteins derived from animals, that some of its Just Mayo products violate federal regulations related to standards for mayonnaise and proper labeling.
In a letter dated Aug. 12, the agency wrote that even the term “mayo” in the brand name and the logo, a minimalist egg “cracked” by a pea shoot, “may be misleading to consumers” by implying there are eggs in the products.
Farmers' Market Food Processor Cited for Improper Processing
Consumers in Michigan are being asked to check their farmers' market purchases for jars of food that may have been improperly processed.
Farmers' Markets can be considered the wild west for food processing. Because of the ease of entry into this food sales channel, many want-to-be food processors can introduce most any concoction they dream up. Luckily, as in this case, regulators are patrolling the sales tents and tailgates that populate the ever increasing number of farmers' markets.
It is one thing to sell the raw agricultural commodities, the anchor products for farmers' markets, but when people start to process and sell foods, there are additional regulatory requirements that must be met. These requirements, such as licensure and certifications, help to ensure that budding processors are producing safe food. Unfortunately, too many do not know the regulations, and more importantly, the principles and practices that these regulations require.
In this case, there is a reason why measure the pH during the acidification of a food. If a food is not properly acidified, then the potential exists for the growth of Clostridium botulinum, the causative agent of botulism poisoning. An issue in achieving proper acidification not only affects the consumer, but also the owner / operator that is selling the product who can be subject to a lawsuit. So the rules protect the consumer as well as the seller.
Those shopping at farmers' markets would be wise to make sure the foods hey purchase were processed in a licensed/inspected facility.
Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Release
http://www.michigan.gov/mdard/0,4610,7-125-1660-363109--,00.html
Consumer Advisory: Consumers Warned to Not Consume Brandy & Dutch Weigand Products Due to Potential Health Risk
Agency: Agriculture and Rural Development
Farmers' Markets can be considered the wild west for food processing. Because of the ease of entry into this food sales channel, many want-to-be food processors can introduce most any concoction they dream up. Luckily, as in this case, regulators are patrolling the sales tents and tailgates that populate the ever increasing number of farmers' markets.
It is one thing to sell the raw agricultural commodities, the anchor products for farmers' markets, but when people start to process and sell foods, there are additional regulatory requirements that must be met. These requirements, such as licensure and certifications, help to ensure that budding processors are producing safe food. Unfortunately, too many do not know the regulations, and more importantly, the principles and practices that these regulations require.
In this case, there is a reason why measure the pH during the acidification of a food. If a food is not properly acidified, then the potential exists for the growth of Clostridium botulinum, the causative agent of botulism poisoning. An issue in achieving proper acidification not only affects the consumer, but also the owner / operator that is selling the product who can be subject to a lawsuit. So the rules protect the consumer as well as the seller.
Those shopping at farmers' markets would be wise to make sure the foods hey purchase were processed in a licensed/inspected facility.
Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Release
http://www.michigan.gov/mdard/0,4610,7-125-1660-363109--,00.html
Consumer Advisory: Consumers Warned to Not Consume Brandy & Dutch Weigand Products Due to Potential Health Risk
Agency: Agriculture and Rural Development
Turkey Bacon Recalled Due to Complaints on Spoilage
Kraft Heinz is recalling Oscar Meyer turkey bacon after an investigation of consumer complaints about spoilage. This was classified as a Class 2 recall since there is a low likelihood of illness.
USDA / FSIS Recall Notice
Kraft Heinz Foods Company Recalls Turkey Bacon Products Due To Possible Adulteration
Class II Recall 113-2015
Health Risk: Low Aug 25, 2015
Congressional and Public Affairs Benjamin Bell (202) 720-9113
WASHINGTON, August 25, 2015 – Kraft Heinz Foods Company, a Newberry, S.C. establishment, is recalling approximately 2,068,467 pounds of turkey bacon products that may be adulterated because it may spoil before the “Best When Used By” date, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
Tuesday, August 25, 2015
CDC Report - Human Plague Cases in Western US
There have been 11 cases of human plague with 3 deaths. Cases are based in western US and are associated with the fleas, often those found on squirrels or other rodents.
"Plague circulates among wild rodents and their fleas in rural and semirural areas in the western United States (2). Transmission to humans occurs through the bite of infected fleas, direct contact with infected body fluids or tissues, or inhalation of respiratory droplets from ill persons or animals, including ill domesticated cats and dogs (3). The usual incubation period between exposure and illness onset is 2–6 days."
A 2012 case occurred in Oregon where a man wrestled a dead rat out of a cat's mouth. From that posting: Yersinia pestis, a gram negative organism, is one of the most pathogenic organisms known. It can infect through lesions in the skin (such as a flea bite) where it infects the lymphnodes and then invades other organs where it causes massive tissue destruction. Gangrene often sets in on the dead tissue. It can also spread through inhalation of infective respiratory particles (pneumonia). Disease is initially characterized by development of one or more inflamed, swollen lymph nodes (buboes), and then chills and fever, lethargy and confusion. Historically, the fatality rate was greater than 50%, but now with antibiotics, it is 16% (below).
CDC - MMWR
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm64e0825a1.htm?s_cid=mm64e0825a1_e
Human Plague — United States, 2015
Early Release
August 25, 2015 / 64(Early Release);1-2
Natalie Kwit, DVM1,2; Christina Nelson, MD2; Kiersten Kugeler, PhD2; Jeannine Petersen, PhD2; Lydia Plante, MSPH3; Hayley Yaglom, MPH3; Vicki Kramer, PhD4; Benjamin Schwartz, MD5; Jennifer House, DVM6; Leah Colton, PhD6; Amanda Feldpausch, MPH7; Cherie Drenzek, DVM7; Joan Baumbach, MD8; Mark DiMenna, PhD9; Emily Fisher, MD1,10; Emilio Debess, DVM10; Danielle Buttke, DVM11; Matthew Weinburke, MPH11; Christopher Percy, MD12; Martin Schriefer, PhD2; Ken Gage, PhD2; Paul Mead, MD2
Since April 1, 2015, a total of 11 cases of human plague have been reported in residents of six states: Arizona (two), California (one), Colorado (four), Georgia (one), New Mexico (two), and Oregon (one). The two cases in Georgia and California residents have been linked to exposures at or near Yosemite National Park in the southern Sierra Nevada Mountains of California. Nine of the 11 patients were male; median age was 52 years (range = 14–79 years). Three patients aged 16, 52, and 79 years died.
"Plague circulates among wild rodents and their fleas in rural and semirural areas in the western United States (2). Transmission to humans occurs through the bite of infected fleas, direct contact with infected body fluids or tissues, or inhalation of respiratory droplets from ill persons or animals, including ill domesticated cats and dogs (3). The usual incubation period between exposure and illness onset is 2–6 days."
A 2012 case occurred in Oregon where a man wrestled a dead rat out of a cat's mouth. From that posting: Yersinia pestis, a gram negative organism, is one of the most pathogenic organisms known. It can infect through lesions in the skin (such as a flea bite) where it infects the lymphnodes and then invades other organs where it causes massive tissue destruction. Gangrene often sets in on the dead tissue. It can also spread through inhalation of infective respiratory particles (pneumonia). Disease is initially characterized by development of one or more inflamed, swollen lymph nodes (buboes), and then chills and fever, lethargy and confusion. Historically, the fatality rate was greater than 50%, but now with antibiotics, it is 16% (below).
CDC - MMWR
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm64e0825a1.htm?s_cid=mm64e0825a1_e
Human Plague — United States, 2015
Early Release
August 25, 2015 / 64(Early Release);1-2
Natalie Kwit, DVM1,2; Christina Nelson, MD2; Kiersten Kugeler, PhD2; Jeannine Petersen, PhD2; Lydia Plante, MSPH3; Hayley Yaglom, MPH3; Vicki Kramer, PhD4; Benjamin Schwartz, MD5; Jennifer House, DVM6; Leah Colton, PhD6; Amanda Feldpausch, MPH7; Cherie Drenzek, DVM7; Joan Baumbach, MD8; Mark DiMenna, PhD9; Emily Fisher, MD1,10; Emilio Debess, DVM10; Danielle Buttke, DVM11; Matthew Weinburke, MPH11; Christopher Percy, MD12; Martin Schriefer, PhD2; Ken Gage, PhD2; Paul Mead, MD2
Since April 1, 2015, a total of 11 cases of human plague have been reported in residents of six states: Arizona (two), California (one), Colorado (four), Georgia (one), New Mexico (two), and Oregon (one). The two cases in Georgia and California residents have been linked to exposures at or near Yosemite National Park in the southern Sierra Nevada Mountains of California. Nine of the 11 patients were male; median age was 52 years (range = 14–79 years). Three patients aged 16, 52, and 79 years died.
Consumer Reports Ground Meat Report - Hype versus True Risk
Consumer reports released a study of pathogenic bacteria found in ground beef titled – How Safe Is Your Ground Beef . The tag line – “If you don’t know how the ground beef you eat was raised, you may be putting yourself at higher risk of illness from dangerous bacteria. You okay with that?”
So Consumer Reports bought 300 packages of ground meat and tested for E. coli (including O157 and six other toxin-producing strains), enterococcus, salmonella, and staphylococcus aureus. Plus they tested for antibiotic resistance.
Results –
· All samples contained indicator organisms – enterococcus and generic E. coli.
· C. perfringens – 20 percent of the samples.
· S. aureus – 10 percent of the samples
· Salmonella – 1 percent
· Beef from conventionally raised cows was more likely to have bacteria overall, as well as bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics, than beef from sustainably raised cows. 18 percent of conventional beef samples were contaminated with superbugs—the dangerous bacteria that are resistant to three or more classes of antibiotics—compared with just 9 percent of beef from samples that were sustainably produced.
· The rest of the article goes on to state why they believe sustainably produced is safer than conventional.
Agree – there are pathogens, namely Salmonella and STEC E. coli, that can be present in meat, and when that meat is ground, these pathogens are distributed throughout. So if you undercook ground meat (aka rare or medium rare), the pathogens, if present, can survive and then may cause illness. So it is important to cook ground meat to 160ºF. and of course, verify with a thermometer.
The fact that ALL samples contained enterococcus and generic E. coli shows that ground meat is not sterile and because the indicators are present, we know that there is always the likelihood of pathogens being present. But it is important to point out, there was a very low levels of Salmonella and that no pathogenic E. coli were able to be isolated from their samples.
The study also looked at the prevalence (absence vs presence) for S. aureus and C. perfrigens as a indicator of safety. First, these organisms only cause illness when the numbers are exceedingly high, so just being present is not as important as the number. These organisms are commonly found in the environment and in food at low numbers that have no health effect. Humans have a high prevalence of S. aureus in their nasal passage and C. perfringens in their intestines.
The antibiotic resistance numbers were not clear cut in that there are many variables. This is not anything different than has been found before. However, the prevalence of the two most important pathogens in beef related illnesses (STEC E.coli and Salmonella) were too low, so nothing could be said with regard to that. And there was no differentiation on which antibiotics (those used for humans, those used for animals, and those not really used).
Unlike studies that are published in peer-reviewed journals, this study is not peer reviewed. Also, it would have been better to look at numbers for S. aureus and C. perfringens rather than prevalence.
The other issue is determining what is more sustainable....that is, what provides the lowest carbon footprint while being able to feed a growing population.
Take home– if you want to buy organic or grass fed beef because you think it tastes better, great....if you are willing and able to pay the higher price. But saying it is safer based upon these results may be more hype than true risk. But of course the main stream media will push the hype.
Regardless, it is important to cook ground meat to the proper temperature and to handle it properly.
So Consumer Reports bought 300 packages of ground meat and tested for E. coli (including O157 and six other toxin-producing strains), enterococcus, salmonella, and staphylococcus aureus. Plus they tested for antibiotic resistance.
Results –
· All samples contained indicator organisms – enterococcus and generic E. coli.
· C. perfringens – 20 percent of the samples.
· S. aureus – 10 percent of the samples
· Salmonella – 1 percent
· Beef from conventionally raised cows was more likely to have bacteria overall, as well as bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics, than beef from sustainably raised cows. 18 percent of conventional beef samples were contaminated with superbugs—the dangerous bacteria that are resistant to three or more classes of antibiotics—compared with just 9 percent of beef from samples that were sustainably produced.
· The rest of the article goes on to state why they believe sustainably produced is safer than conventional.
Agree – there are pathogens, namely Salmonella and STEC E. coli, that can be present in meat, and when that meat is ground, these pathogens are distributed throughout. So if you undercook ground meat (aka rare or medium rare), the pathogens, if present, can survive and then may cause illness. So it is important to cook ground meat to 160ºF. and of course, verify with a thermometer.
The fact that ALL samples contained enterococcus and generic E. coli shows that ground meat is not sterile and because the indicators are present, we know that there is always the likelihood of pathogens being present. But it is important to point out, there was a very low levels of Salmonella and that no pathogenic E. coli were able to be isolated from their samples.
The study also looked at the prevalence (absence vs presence) for S. aureus and C. perfrigens as a indicator of safety. First, these organisms only cause illness when the numbers are exceedingly high, so just being present is not as important as the number. These organisms are commonly found in the environment and in food at low numbers that have no health effect. Humans have a high prevalence of S. aureus in their nasal passage and C. perfringens in their intestines.
The antibiotic resistance numbers were not clear cut in that there are many variables. This is not anything different than has been found before. However, the prevalence of the two most important pathogens in beef related illnesses (STEC E.coli and Salmonella) were too low, so nothing could be said with regard to that. And there was no differentiation on which antibiotics (those used for humans, those used for animals, and those not really used).
Unlike studies that are published in peer-reviewed journals, this study is not peer reviewed. Also, it would have been better to look at numbers for S. aureus and C. perfringens rather than prevalence.
The other issue is determining what is more sustainable....that is, what provides the lowest carbon footprint while being able to feed a growing population.
Take home– if you want to buy organic or grass fed beef because you think it tastes better, great....if you are willing and able to pay the higher price. But saying it is safer based upon these results may be more hype than true risk. But of course the main stream media will push the hype.
Regardless, it is important to cook ground meat to the proper temperature and to handle it properly.
Monday, August 24, 2015
Coriander Powder Recalled Due to Sample Testing Positive for Salmonella
A New Jersey company is recall 14.1 oz containers of coriander powder after FDA testing found a sample positive for Salmonella. No injuries have been reported.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm459332.htm
Chetak New York L.L.C. Recalls 14.1 oz. Jar of "Deep Coriander Powder" Because of Possible Health Risk
Contact: Consumer: 1-973-835-1906
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – August 20, 2015 – Edison, NJ – Chetak New York L.L.C. of Edison, NJ is recalling 300 jars of 14.1 oz "Deep Coriander Powder", Lot# LE15152, because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which 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.
The recalled "Deep Coriander Powder" jars were distributed nationwide in retail store from July 30, 2015 to August 13, 2015. The product comes in a 14.1oz clear plastic jar marked with the UPC number on the rear of the package. The lot number can be located on the bottom of the jar.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm459332.htm
Chetak New York L.L.C. Recalls 14.1 oz. Jar of "Deep Coriander Powder" Because of Possible Health Risk
Contact: Consumer: 1-973-835-1906
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – August 20, 2015 – Edison, NJ – Chetak New York L.L.C. of Edison, NJ is recalling 300 jars of 14.1 oz "Deep Coriander Powder", Lot# LE15152, because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which 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.
The recalled "Deep Coriander Powder" jars were distributed nationwide in retail store from July 30, 2015 to August 13, 2015. The product comes in a 14.1oz clear plastic jar marked with the UPC number on the rear of the package. The lot number can be located on the bottom of the jar.
Friday, August 14, 2015
Report on Antimicrobial Resistance in Salmonella and Campylobacter
The FDA released its 2012-2013 National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System (NARMS) Integrated Report. The results are mostly encouraging. From the report:
- About 80% of human Salmonella isolates are not resistant to any of the tested antibiotics.
- Salmonella multi-drug resistance (resistance to three or more classes of antibiotics) in human, cattle, and chicken isolates has not changed (~10%) in the last decade, and the numbers of multi-drug resistant Salmonella isolates in retail chicken have gone down (~3%).
- But two types of Salmonella do show some increases. Multidrug resistance (MDR) in human isolates of a common Salmonella serotype (l 4,[5],12:i:-) continues to rise. Resistance has more than doubled from 18% in 2011 to 46% in 2013. And anincrease in MDR and ceftriaxone resistance was also observed in Salmonella serotype Dublin isolated from cattle and human sources.
- Campylobacter jejuni resistance to the fluoroquinolone ciprofloxacin, the most common antibiotic used to treat human C. jejuni illness, was at its lowest level in retail chicken to date (11%).
FDA News Release
FDA Releases 2012 and 2013 NARMS Integrated Annual Report; Finds Some Improvement in Antibiotic Resistance Trends in Recent Years
August 11, 2015
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has released its 2012-2013 National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System (NARMS) Integrated Report. This report replaces FDA’s annual NARMS Executive Summary report and highlights antimicrobial resistance patterns in bacteria isolated from humans, retail meats, and animals at slaughter. Specifically, the report focuses on major foodborne pathogens that are resistant to antibiotics that are considered important to human medicine, and on multidrug resistant pathogens (described as resistant to three or more classes of antibiotics).
Sprouter Issues Third Recall Notice Due to Listeria
A Virginia company has issued a recall for soybean sprouts and mung bean sprouts after the samples of the product were found to be positive. The testing was conducted by Virginia Laboratory Services.
This is the third recall issued by this producer, with earlier recalls coming in May and June. Do you think they have a problem? One could also wonder what was required of this company before they were allowed to begin producing again.
Further, this shows how Listeria can be difficult to eliminate once it becomes established.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm458037.htm
Good Seed Inc. Recalls Soybean Sprouts & Mung Bean Sprouts Due To A Possible Health Risk
Contact: Consumer: (703) 392-0075
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – August 3, 2015 – Springfield, VA – Good Seed Inc. of Springfield, VA is voluntarily recalling all packages of soybean sprouts and mung bean sprouts because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections to individuals 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.
This is the third recall issued by this producer, with earlier recalls coming in May and June. Do you think they have a problem? One could also wonder what was required of this company before they were allowed to begin producing again.
Further, this shows how Listeria can be difficult to eliminate once it becomes established.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm458037.htm
Good Seed Inc. Recalls Soybean Sprouts & Mung Bean Sprouts Due To A Possible Health Risk
Contact: Consumer: (703) 392-0075
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – August 3, 2015 – Springfield, VA – Good Seed Inc. of Springfield, VA is voluntarily recalling all packages of soybean sprouts and mung bean sprouts because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections to individuals 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.
MMWR - Outbreaks Associated with Drinking Water - 2011-2012
We generally regard drinking water safe, and rightfully so. For the amount of water that is consumed each day, there have been relatively few issues. An MMWR article reports that in the two year period reviewed, 2011-2012, there have been 32 water related outbreaks resulting in 431 cases of illness, 102 hospitalizations, and 14 deaths.
The biggest culprit was Legionella and this was primarily related to drinking water in hospitals affecting at-risk patients. While we hear of Legionella in air conditioning systems, such as the current issue in NY where over 100 have become ill and 12 have died (Legionella grows in the cooling water systems and then is inhaled through the water vapors), evidently Legionella is an issue in hospitals (along with other HAIs (hospital acquired infections) including Clostridium difficile, MRSA, etc). "Legionella outbreaks are particularly challenging to prevent and control, in part because the organism lives and multiplies in building plumbing systems, which usually fall outside water utility and regulatory oversight (6,7). One Legionella outbreak occurred in a hotel that used point-of-entry water filters, which effectively dechlorinated all water entering the building, and illustrates the importance of maintaining sufficient residual disinfectant in plumbing systems."
EPA has a publication on Legionella in drinking water.
The other issue was non-community water systems. "All five noncommunity outbreaks originated from groundwater sources. Specifically, four occurred in outdoor camp or work settings where a source spring was contaminated directly or by inflow from a stream, and the fifth occurred at a meeting facility where a well was contaminated with septic tank overflow." In these cases, Norovirus, non-Legionella bacteria, and Giardia (a parasite) were responsible. (You are probably wondering how you ever made it through summer camp as a kid considering the pond water where you swam and that nasty spigot you drank from....and you are also then wondering why your parents sent you there.)
Here, an elk enjoys a drink of water from a spigot used for filling water bottles at Grand Canyon National Park (photo courtesy of Nika Bucknavage).
CDC MMWR
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6431a2.htm?s_cid=mm6431a2_e
Surveillance for Waterborne Disease Outbreaks Associated with Drinking Water — United States, 2011–2012
Weekly
August 14, 2015 / 64(31);842-848
Karlyn D. Beer, PhD1,2; Julia W. Gargano, PhD2; Virginia A. Roberts, MSPH2; Vincent R. Hill, PhD2; Laurel E. Garrison, MPH3; Preeta K. Kutty, MD3; Elizabeth D. Hilborn, DVM4; Timothy J. Wade, PhD4; Kathleen E. Fullerton, MPH2; Jonathan S. Yoder, MPH, MSW2
Advances in water management and sanitation have substantially reduced waterborne disease in the United States, although outbreaks continue to occur (1). Public health agencies in the U.S. states and territories* report information on waterborne disease outbreaks to the CDC Waterborne Disease and Outbreak Surveillance System (http://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/surveillance/index.html). For 2011–2012, 32 drinking water–associated outbreaks were reported, accounting for at least 431 cases of illness, 102 hospitalizations, and 14 deaths. Legionella was responsible for 66% of outbreaks and 26% of illnesses, and viruses and non-Legionella bacteria together accounted for 16% of outbreaks and 53% of illnesses. The two most commonly identified deficiencies† leading to drinking water–associated outbreaks were Legionella in building plumbing§ systems (66%) and untreated groundwater (13%). Continued vigilance by public health, regulatory, and industry professionals to identify and correct deficiencies associated with building plumbing systems and groundwater systems could prevent most reported outbreaks and illnesses associated with drinking water systems.
The biggest culprit was Legionella and this was primarily related to drinking water in hospitals affecting at-risk patients. While we hear of Legionella in air conditioning systems, such as the current issue in NY where over 100 have become ill and 12 have died (Legionella grows in the cooling water systems and then is inhaled through the water vapors), evidently Legionella is an issue in hospitals (along with other HAIs (hospital acquired infections) including Clostridium difficile, MRSA, etc). "Legionella outbreaks are particularly challenging to prevent and control, in part because the organism lives and multiplies in building plumbing systems, which usually fall outside water utility and regulatory oversight (6,7). One Legionella outbreak occurred in a hotel that used point-of-entry water filters, which effectively dechlorinated all water entering the building, and illustrates the importance of maintaining sufficient residual disinfectant in plumbing systems."
EPA has a publication on Legionella in drinking water.
The other issue was non-community water systems. "All five noncommunity outbreaks originated from groundwater sources. Specifically, four occurred in outdoor camp or work settings where a source spring was contaminated directly or by inflow from a stream, and the fifth occurred at a meeting facility where a well was contaminated with septic tank overflow." In these cases, Norovirus, non-Legionella bacteria, and Giardia (a parasite) were responsible. (You are probably wondering how you ever made it through summer camp as a kid considering the pond water where you swam and that nasty spigot you drank from....and you are also then wondering why your parents sent you there.)
Here, an elk enjoys a drink of water from a spigot used for filling water bottles at Grand Canyon National Park (photo courtesy of Nika Bucknavage).
CDC MMWR
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6431a2.htm?s_cid=mm6431a2_e
Surveillance for Waterborne Disease Outbreaks Associated with Drinking Water — United States, 2011–2012
Weekly
August 14, 2015 / 64(31);842-848
Karlyn D. Beer, PhD1,2; Julia W. Gargano, PhD2; Virginia A. Roberts, MSPH2; Vincent R. Hill, PhD2; Laurel E. Garrison, MPH3; Preeta K. Kutty, MD3; Elizabeth D. Hilborn, DVM4; Timothy J. Wade, PhD4; Kathleen E. Fullerton, MPH2; Jonathan S. Yoder, MPH, MSW2
Advances in water management and sanitation have substantially reduced waterborne disease in the United States, although outbreaks continue to occur (1). Public health agencies in the U.S. states and territories* report information on waterborne disease outbreaks to the CDC Waterborne Disease and Outbreak Surveillance System (http://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/surveillance/index.html). For 2011–2012, 32 drinking water–associated outbreaks were reported, accounting for at least 431 cases of illness, 102 hospitalizations, and 14 deaths. Legionella was responsible for 66% of outbreaks and 26% of illnesses, and viruses and non-Legionella bacteria together accounted for 16% of outbreaks and 53% of illnesses. The two most commonly identified deficiencies† leading to drinking water–associated outbreaks were Legionella in building plumbing§ systems (66%) and untreated groundwater (13%). Continued vigilance by public health, regulatory, and industry professionals to identify and correct deficiencies associated with building plumbing systems and groundwater systems could prevent most reported outbreaks and illnesses associated with drinking water systems.
Cyclospora Update - 457 reported cases
As of August 11, 2015, CDC is reporting that there have been 457 cases of Cyclospora infection. Cilantro has been identified as a potential source.
CDC News Release
Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Investigations — United States, 2015
Last Updated August 11, 2015 4:00 PM EDT
Read the related statement from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Read the Advice to Consumers
Cyclospora cayetanensis is a single-celled parasite that causes an intestinal infection called cyclosporiasis.
- As of August 10, 2015 (3pm EDT), CDC had been notified of 457 ill persons with confirmed Cyclospora infection from 29 states in 2015.
- Most of these persons—275 (60%) of 457—experienced onset of illness on or after May 1, 2015, and did not have a history of international travel within 2 weeks before illness onset. These 275 persons were from the following 22 states: Arkansas (2), California (2), Connecticut (3), Florida (11), Georgia (22), Illinois (6), Iowa (1), Kansas (2), Maryland (1), Massachusetts (9), Michigan (2), Missouri (1), Montana (3), Nebraska (1), New Jersey (6), New Mexico (1), New York (excluding NYC) (8), New York City (21), Texas (157), Utah (1), Virginia (3), Washington (2), and Wisconsin (10).
Raw Whole Pigs Recalled Due to Link to Salmonella Outbreak
A Washington slaughter facility is recalling raw whole pig carcasses due to the fact they were tied to a number of salmonellosis cases which now stands at 134.
While we know raw pig can contain Salmonella, this recall was probably issued due to the number of cases as well as the uniqueness of the Salmonella strain. The questions that will hopefully be answered - what was the level of Salmonella present, was there any contributing factors that provided opportunity for the organism to proliferate within the facility, and what can said about the virulence of this particular strain of Salmonella.
USDA News Release
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2015/recall-110-2015-release
Kapowsin Meats Recalls Pork Product Due To Possible Salmonella Contamination
Class I Recall 110-2015
Health Risk: High Aug 13, 2015
Congressional and Public Affairs Gabrielle N. Johnston (202) 720-9113
WASHINGTON, Aug. 13, 2015 – Kapowsin Meats, a Graham, Wash. establishment, is recalling approximately 116,262 pounds of whole hogs that may be contaminated with Salmonella I 4, [5],12:i:-, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The whole hogs for barbeque item were produced on various dates between April 18, 2015 and July 27, 2015. The following products are subject to recall:
Varying weights of Whole Hogs for Barbeque
While we know raw pig can contain Salmonella, this recall was probably issued due to the number of cases as well as the uniqueness of the Salmonella strain. The questions that will hopefully be answered - what was the level of Salmonella present, was there any contributing factors that provided opportunity for the organism to proliferate within the facility, and what can said about the virulence of this particular strain of Salmonella.
USDA News Release
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2015/recall-110-2015-release
Kapowsin Meats Recalls Pork Product Due To Possible Salmonella Contamination
Class I Recall 110-2015
Health Risk: High Aug 13, 2015
Congressional and Public Affairs Gabrielle N. Johnston (202) 720-9113
WASHINGTON, Aug. 13, 2015 – Kapowsin Meats, a Graham, Wash. establishment, is recalling approximately 116,262 pounds of whole hogs that may be contaminated with Salmonella I 4, [5],12:i:-, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The whole hogs for barbeque item were produced on various dates between April 18, 2015 and July 27, 2015. The following products are subject to recall:
Varying weights of Whole Hogs for Barbeque
Friday, August 7, 2015
FDA Listeria Sampling at Cantaloupe Packing Houses
In a recent sampling of cantaloupe packing houses, FDA testing results found that while Listeria was present, there was little risk in the facilities. Of 17 facilities, 8 had Listeria species present and only one had Listeria monocytogenes, (but probably not food contact). The FDA found some problems:
- food contact surfaces that were not cleanable, often due to construction with damaged, corroded, or porous materials;
- build-up of debris, dirt and damaged plant material on equipment;
- hand washing facilities in inappropriate locations; and
- drain valves left open during work hours allowing water drained from a dump tank to pool outside adjacent to a partially-enclosed packinghouse.
But these would be typical issues seen in packing houses. The concern of course, relates back to the 2011 Listeria outbreak associated with cantaloupes. In that case, unsanitary equipment lead to a buildup of Listeria in the wash water which subsequently contaminated the surface of the cantaloupes.
Facilities have been taking corrective action, but clearly, more work is needed. And with Listeria, continual vigilance is needed in order to control. One never completely rids a facility of the presence, rather it is kept in check.
The Packer
http://www.thepacker.com/news/fda-reports-cantaloupe-safety-inspections
FDA reports on cantaloupe safety inspections
By Coral Beach August 06, 2015 | 2:04 pm EDT
After inspecting 17 operations, federal officials report that fresh cantaloupe packinghouses are generally following good agriculture practices even though tests at nine of the companies showed listeria contamination.
The inspections by the Food and Drug Administration were part of the agency’s follow-up efforts after a 2011 cantaloupe-related listeria monocytogenes outbreak that sickened more than 150 nationwide and killed more than 30.
Thursday, August 6, 2015
Recent Listeria Outbreaks In Ice Cream and Carmel Apples - Time to Reassess Food Safety Systems
From time to time, there are unfortunate food related outbreaks that cause food establishments to reassess their food safety systems. The cantaloupe-Listeria outbreak was one such case that caught many off guard and prompted a new look at Listeria in fresh produce. The Salmonella outbreak associated with chicken pot pies was another case that resulted in the need to validate microwave cooking instructions for frozen food.
Along with these, we can add the Listeria in Ice Cream and Listeria in Carmel Apples.
To this point, much of the focus of Listeria was on products that would support growth. Ice cream, a frozen pasteurized product, was not viewed as risky as refrigerated products such as deli meats, or refrigerated products containing dairy like coleslaw or cheese. So while indications are that the levels of Listeria in the ice cream were low, two factors come into play....one was that the ice cream impacted individuals with underlying health issues, and that the ice cream was used to make shakes and those shakes could have been held at room temperature for some time. Research is ongoing and may provide more insight.
Camel apples weren't even on the radar. There was concern with sliced apples, where Listeria could grow on the cut surface albeit slowly, but this was whole apples. However in this case, the stick may have caused a similar action (surface damage) within the apple as the stick was inserted that may have provided conditions more apt to support growth. Or high levels of the organism were forced into the apple. Here again, research into this outbreak is ongoing.
So for products that support little or no growth potential for Listeria in their original state, we need to ask:
1) Will the level of Listeria contamination on a ready-to-eat product be high enough to impact the health of those with severe underlying health issues? Then, maintaining a clean environment is needed prevent contamination regardless of whether the product supports growth.
2) Will the properties of the product change where those changes can support growth? Such changes can occur anywhere downstream including other food operations, foodservice or retail establishments, or even by consumers.
3) Will the item be used as an ingredient in other products where those other products are more apt to support the growth of Listeria. So if apples will be added to a slaw type of salad, what will be the impact in the slaw if a small level of listeria are present on the apples?
Of course one other thing that is important to consider - will product be tested by the customer, a government agency, or some other interested party. Many recalls are started when someone tests product and find something that can be considered dangerous...including Listeria. And it could be a strain of LM that is not overly pathogenic.
Wall Street Journal
http://www.wsj.com/articles/ice-cream-recall-sends-chill-through-food-industry-1438437781
Ice-Cream Recall Sends Chill Through Food Industry
Blue Bell’s problems prompt rethinking of measures to prevent bacteria contamination
By Jesse Newman
Updated Aug. 2, 2015 7:28 p.m. ET 63 COMMENTS
As Blue Bell Creameries LP prepares to resume production of its ice cream after a sweeping recall, its mistakes are fueling broader rethinking of how to keep ice cream and other foods free of deadly bacteria.
Federal records show that Blue Bell failed to follow practices recommended by government and industry groups that might have prevented listeria contamination of ice cream at all three of its main plants. At the same time, some food-safety professionals say the crisis is indicative of insufficient attention, beyond Blue Bell, of the risks of listeria.
“It’s really been a wake-up call for the food industry, and not just for dairy but for other companies as well who thought they were in good shape but are now asking, could this happen to me,” said Joe Stout, a food-safety consultant who was previously a senior manager at Kraft Foods.
Along with these, we can add the Listeria in Ice Cream and Listeria in Carmel Apples.
To this point, much of the focus of Listeria was on products that would support growth. Ice cream, a frozen pasteurized product, was not viewed as risky as refrigerated products such as deli meats, or refrigerated products containing dairy like coleslaw or cheese. So while indications are that the levels of Listeria in the ice cream were low, two factors come into play....one was that the ice cream impacted individuals with underlying health issues, and that the ice cream was used to make shakes and those shakes could have been held at room temperature for some time. Research is ongoing and may provide more insight.
Camel apples weren't even on the radar. There was concern with sliced apples, where Listeria could grow on the cut surface albeit slowly, but this was whole apples. However in this case, the stick may have caused a similar action (surface damage) within the apple as the stick was inserted that may have provided conditions more apt to support growth. Or high levels of the organism were forced into the apple. Here again, research into this outbreak is ongoing.
So for products that support little or no growth potential for Listeria in their original state, we need to ask:
1) Will the level of Listeria contamination on a ready-to-eat product be high enough to impact the health of those with severe underlying health issues? Then, maintaining a clean environment is needed prevent contamination regardless of whether the product supports growth.
2) Will the properties of the product change where those changes can support growth? Such changes can occur anywhere downstream including other food operations, foodservice or retail establishments, or even by consumers.
3) Will the item be used as an ingredient in other products where those other products are more apt to support the growth of Listeria. So if apples will be added to a slaw type of salad, what will be the impact in the slaw if a small level of listeria are present on the apples?
Of course one other thing that is important to consider - will product be tested by the customer, a government agency, or some other interested party. Many recalls are started when someone tests product and find something that can be considered dangerous...including Listeria. And it could be a strain of LM that is not overly pathogenic.
Wall Street Journal
http://www.wsj.com/articles/ice-cream-recall-sends-chill-through-food-industry-1438437781
Ice-Cream Recall Sends Chill Through Food Industry
Blue Bell’s problems prompt rethinking of measures to prevent bacteria contamination
By Jesse Newman
Updated Aug. 2, 2015 7:28 p.m. ET 63 COMMENTS
As Blue Bell Creameries LP prepares to resume production of its ice cream after a sweeping recall, its mistakes are fueling broader rethinking of how to keep ice cream and other foods free of deadly bacteria.
Federal records show that Blue Bell failed to follow practices recommended by government and industry groups that might have prevented listeria contamination of ice cream at all three of its main plants. At the same time, some food-safety professionals say the crisis is indicative of insufficient attention, beyond Blue Bell, of the risks of listeria.
“It’s really been a wake-up call for the food industry, and not just for dairy but for other companies as well who thought they were in good shape but are now asking, could this happen to me,” said Joe Stout, a food-safety consultant who was previously a senior manager at Kraft Foods.
Wednesday, August 5, 2015
Cider Product Recalled Due to Post-Bottling Fermentation
Angry Orchards is recalling bottled cider after two lots began undergoing post-bottling fermentation. The fermentation produces gas which can cause product to overflow when opened, in some cases the caps to pop, or may even result in broken bottles.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm457397.htm
Angry Orchard Cider Company Announces Voluntary Recall of Select Cases of Angry Orchard Crisp Apple Hard Cider
Contact: Consumer: 1-800-362-7110
Media: Jessica Paar, Angry Orchard Cider Company 617-368-5060
Jessica.Paar@angryorchard.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – August 4, 2015 – Cincinnati, Ohio – Angry Orchard Cider Company, LLC, Cincinnati, Ohio, today announced that it is conducting a voluntary recall of select cases (24/12oz bottles), 12-packs and 6-packs of Angry Orchard Crisp Apple Hard Cider.
The precautionary action comes after the Company received inquiries from consumers that had experienced broken bottles or bottles overflowing when opened. After conducting follow-up quality testing, the Company determined that the affected cider is limited to two batches, produced on June 15 and June 29, 2015.
FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm457397.htm
Angry Orchard Cider Company Announces Voluntary Recall of Select Cases of Angry Orchard Crisp Apple Hard Cider
Contact: Consumer: 1-800-362-7110
Media: Jessica Paar, Angry Orchard Cider Company 617-368-5060
Jessica.Paar@angryorchard.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – August 4, 2015 – Cincinnati, Ohio – Angry Orchard Cider Company, LLC, Cincinnati, Ohio, today announced that it is conducting a voluntary recall of select cases (24/12oz bottles), 12-packs and 6-packs of Angry Orchard Crisp Apple Hard Cider.
The precautionary action comes after the Company received inquiries from consumers that had experienced broken bottles or bottles overflowing when opened. After conducting follow-up quality testing, the Company determined that the affected cider is limited to two batches, produced on June 15 and June 29, 2015.
Monday, August 3, 2015
Was Salmonella Invited to the Pig Roast?
Going to a pig roast or even hosting a pig roast? Well guess what.....pork can contain Salmonella so make sure those who are cooking the pig and then handling the cooked meat do it properly. There have been 8 illness clusters with approximately 90 reported cases in Washington State that have been associated with pig roasts.
So you get invited to a pig roast....don't be afraid to ask questions.....
Who the heck is cooking it, and have they cooked pigs before? Dr. Campbell, PhD Meat Scientist or Hogs Galore, pig-cooking specialists...great. Jimmy, lawn boy, first time pig roaster....maybe not.
Do they have equipment? A BBQ pit specifically built for cooking pigs....excellent. Jimmy's dug-out-pit in his back yard....yikes...
How big is the pig and how long are they cooking it? Jimmy is picking up the pig in the morning and serving it that afternoon....seriously?
What kind of beverages are they serving? Because if things don't look right when you get there (no thermometers being used, uncleaned surfaces, etc), be sure there are some tasty beverages........that may be all that you want to consume.
USDA Release
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Pork Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/newsroom/news-releases-statements-and-transcripts/news-release-archives-by-year/archive/2015/pha-073115
Congressional and Public Affairs Gabrielle N. Johnston (202) 720-9113
WASHINGTON, July 31, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert due to concerns about illnesses caused by Salmonella that may be associated with pork products, specifically whole pigs used for pig roasts.
So you get invited to a pig roast....don't be afraid to ask questions.....
Who the heck is cooking it, and have they cooked pigs before? Dr. Campbell, PhD Meat Scientist or Hogs Galore, pig-cooking specialists...great. Jimmy, lawn boy, first time pig roaster....maybe not.
Do they have equipment? A BBQ pit specifically built for cooking pigs....excellent. Jimmy's dug-out-pit in his back yard....yikes...
How big is the pig and how long are they cooking it? Jimmy is picking up the pig in the morning and serving it that afternoon....seriously?
What kind of beverages are they serving? Because if things don't look right when you get there (no thermometers being used, uncleaned surfaces, etc), be sure there are some tasty beverages........that may be all that you want to consume.
USDA Release
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Pork Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/newsroom/news-releases-statements-and-transcripts/news-release-archives-by-year/archive/2015/pha-073115
Congressional and Public Affairs Gabrielle N. Johnston (202) 720-9113
WASHINGTON, July 31, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert due to concerns about illnesses caused by Salmonella that may be associated with pork products, specifically whole pigs used for pig roasts.
Walnuts, Spices, Raw Pet Food and Sushi-Grade Seafood Recalled Due to Positive Salmonella Tests
What do nuts, spices, raw pet food, and chunk/ground seafood used for sushi have in common - recalls. Clearly, government agencies are paying some attention to these items by sampling and testing.
Fisher brand chopped walnuts are being recalled due to Salmonella. The recall was issued after FDA routine testing found a sample to be positive.
Kroger recalls spices due to Salmonella - The store is recalling Kroger Ground Cinnamon, Kroger Garlic Power, Kroger Coarse Ground Black Pepper and Kroger Bac'n Buds after FDA testing found the products positive for salmonella.
Raw pet food recalled due to Salmonella - Two companies, Nature's Variety and Bravo, are both recalling raw pet food after government testing found product from both companies positive for Salmonella. (Just so it is said - if there are kids in the house, feeding your dog a raw diet may not be a good idea.)
Osamu Corporation of Gardena, CA is recalling Frozen Yellow Fin Tuna Chunk Meat (Lot #68568) after the sampled product was found to be positive for Salmonella by the Minnesota Department of Health. The product, sold to AFC Corporation, was sourced from one processing plant in Indonesia.
Stories and links below:
Fisher brand chopped walnuts are being recalled due to Salmonella. The recall was issued after FDA routine testing found a sample to be positive.
Kroger recalls spices due to Salmonella - The store is recalling Kroger Ground Cinnamon, Kroger Garlic Power, Kroger Coarse Ground Black Pepper and Kroger Bac'n Buds after FDA testing found the products positive for salmonella.
Raw pet food recalled due to Salmonella - Two companies, Nature's Variety and Bravo, are both recalling raw pet food after government testing found product from both companies positive for Salmonella. (Just so it is said - if there are kids in the house, feeding your dog a raw diet may not be a good idea.)
Osamu Corporation of Gardena, CA is recalling Frozen Yellow Fin Tuna Chunk Meat (Lot #68568) after the sampled product was found to be positive for Salmonella by the Minnesota Department of Health. The product, sold to AFC Corporation, was sourced from one processing plant in Indonesia.
Stories and links below:
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