Store Caramel Apples At Refrigeration Temperatures

Unfortunately, we are still seeing caramel apples at retail being displayed at room temperature.  Less than two years ago, a Listeria outbreak was linked to caramel apples.  It was later determined that if those apples had been stored at refrigeration temperatures, there would not likely have been an issue.

Penn State News
http://news.psu.edu/story/490097/2017/10/24/impact/caramel-apples-stored-room-temperature-extended-periods-can-pose-risk
Caramel apples stored at room temperature for extended periods can pose risk
October 24, 2017

Trader Joe's Chicken Salad Products Recalled After Complaints of Glass-like Foreign Material

Green Cusine, a CA establishment, issued a recall for 36,854 pounds of Trader Joe's chicken and turkey salad after the company received consumer complaints of glass shards / silica foreign material.

News Release
https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2017/recall-125-2017-release
Green Cuisine Recalls Poultry Products Due To Possible Foreign Matter Contamination
Class I Recall 

125-2017
Health Risk: High 

 Nov 18, 2017

Dairy Calves Linked to Outbreak of Antibiotic Resistant Strain of Salmonella

CDC has identified an ongoing Salmonella outbreak associated with dairy calves.  The calves originated in Wisconsin.  The ongoing outbreak has progressed for some time, dating back to January 2015, with now 54 people in 15 states.  It is a multidrug resistant strain of Salmonella Heidelberg.

Dairy Herd Management
https://www.dairyherd.com/index.php/article/cdc-links-salmonella-outbreak-contact-dairy-calves
CDC Links Salmonella Outbreak to Contact with Dairy Calves
John Maday
November 16, 2017 10:18 AM

CA Firm Recalls Guacamole Product Due to Listeria Positive Sample

A California firm is recalling its 9-ounce containers of "Real Guacamole" because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.  This issue was identified after FDA product sampling identified Listeria monocytogenes in the product.

Initially (11/15), one lot was recalled.  But with many Listeria related recalls, they get expanded.
Two days later (11/17), the company issued an expanded recall.  In the later recall notice, it stated, "The recall was necessitated by positive test results for Listeria monocytogenes on two packages out of many samples collected for the U. S. Food and Drug Administration random sample testing program."

Casa Sanchez Foods Recalls "Real Guacamole" Because Of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
November 15, 2017

This Week in Mislabeled Product - Ending 11/17/17

Chicken Wraps with Undeclared Peanut and Soy - A Swedesboro, N.J. establishment, is recalling approximately 46 pounds of chicken wrap products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens  The product contains peanut and soy, known allergens, which are not declared on the product label  The problem was discovered on Nov. 15, 2017 by the firm’s quality assurance supervisor while performing verification activities. After discovering the issue, the firm immediately notified FSIS.

More Dark Chocolate Products Recalled Due to Undeclared Milk - A Marshfield, WI company is recalling 2 gingersnap products that are related to the GKI FOODS LLC Dark Chocolate Products recall because it may contain undeclared milk allergen.
Lipari Foods, LLC has also issued voluntary recall of specific dark chocolate products packaged by sister company JLM due to an undeclared milk allergen.  Products were distributed under the Weis and All Natural brand names or as generic product without branding.

Chocolates With Almonds Getting in with Non-Almond Product - A Washington firm is recalling 127 cases of Costco item # 2335, Dilettante Chocolates Espresso Blend, Espresso Beans in Semisweet, Milk and White Chocolate, because it may contain undeclared almonds. The recall was initiated after the firm discovered the chocolate covered almonds were mixed and packaged with the Dilettante Espresso Blend.  Product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of almonds.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm584663.htm
Figi’s Issues Recall Alert Due to Undeclared Allergen (Milk) in Dark Chocolate Gingersnaps
For Immediate Release
November 9, 2017

Frozen Corn Recalled Due to the Potential for Listeria Contamination

Two supermarket chains are recalling frozen corn after their supplier, Bonduelle, a French food conglomerate, had discovered a Listeria issue in the frozen corn.

According to the Enforcement Report, the product was from Canada.  The Listeria testing was conducted by the Virginia Department of Agriculture.  The recall was classified as Class 2.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm585550.htm
Stop & Shop Alerts Customers to Voluntary Recall of Store Brand Frozen Whole Kernel Sweet Corn
For Immediate Release
November 15, 2017

NH Firm Expands Listeria Related Recall to Include All Products

A NH company is now recalling all of its products due to the potential to be contaminated by Listeria monocytogenes.  Earlier this week, Yorgo's recalled products with the same date code.  But like all Listeria recalls, rarely is one lot involved unless there is substantial evidence that controls were in place and the one day in question represented an event out of the ordinary.  The company also produces product for Trader Joe's (of course).

As we have seen in many past Listeria-related recalls, recalls are expanded after regulators investigate and discover that there is likely a lack of sufficient control.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm585420.htm
Yorgo’s Foods Inc Is Recalling All Flavored and Unflavored Food Products (Hommus; Tahini Sauces; Yogurt Dip, Salads, Tzatziki, Grape Leaves; Taboule) Due to Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
November 15, 2017

CA Establishment Ships Product Sampled by USDA, and Recalls After Positive Listeria Test

A Hayward, Calif. establishment specializing in Indian foods, is recalling approximately 264 pounds of cooked chicken tikka masala products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes  According to the recall notice, the problem was discovered on Nov. 13, 2017 when the UDSA district office received notification that the firm shipped product that USDA had earlier sampled (Nov 7) and confirmed to be positive with Listeria monocytogenes (Nov 13). 

In this case, the company should have held product that was sampled by USDA until the results came back.

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2017/recall-121-2017-release
Sukhi's Gourmet Indian Foods Recalls Chicken Tikka Masala Products Due To Possible Listeria Contamination 
Class I Recall 
121-2017 
Health Risk: High 
Nov 14, 2017 

PA Beef Slaughter Facility Shutdown Because of Pests

A PA slaughter facility has been temporarily shut down because of 'pests'. 

Hard to know exactly the extent of the situation, but pests like mice and rats can become incredibly embedded within facility structures if not promptly handled.  Once tunnels, runways, and nesting sites are put in place in the bowels of the structure, it creates opportunities for reinfections over time.

Reuters
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-jbs-beef/pests-force-temporary-shutdown-of-jbs-pennsylvania-beef-plant-idUSKBN1D8379
Pests force temporary shutdown of JBS Pennsylvania beef plant
Theopolis Waters
November 8, 2017 / 5:45 PM

Hommus and Baba Ghannouj Recalled After FDA Finds Listeria in NH Processing Plant

A NH company is recalling hommus and baba ghannouj after FDA sampling discovered Listeria monocytogenes in the processing environment.  "The production of the products have been suspended while FDA and the company continue to investigate the source of the problem."

Hommus and hummus are the same...which is chickpea paste mixed with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic and tahini.  (Of course, this is different than humus which is fully decomposed organic matter used for improving planting soil.)  Baba Ghannouj (aka baba ganoush) is made from mashed grilled eggplant mixed with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic and tahini.  Both hummus and baba gannoush are the types of foods where Listeria is a risk for post process contamination.

FDA Recall Notice
https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm584693.htm
Yorgo Foods Inc is Recalling Various Flavors of Hommus Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
November 10, 2017

This Week in Mislabeled Product - Week ending 11/10/17

Donated Unlabeled Hot Pockets Recalled - Nestle Prepared Foods Company, a Mount Sterling, Ky. establishment, is recalling approximately 26,400 pounds of pork and beef products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens - the product(s) contains eggs, milk, soy, and wheat, known allergens, which are not declared on the product label.   Interesting point here - These items were donated to a charitable organization, in which the product was further distributed to a food bank in Missouri. The products may have been repackaged and further distributed and sold to additional food banks in Missouri. The products do not have the USDA mark of inspection and do not identify the ingredients.

USDA Recall Notice
https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2017/recall-118-2017-release
Nestle Prepared Foods Company Recalls Pork and Beef Products Due To Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens 
Class I Recall
118-2017
Health Risk: High
Nov 8, 2017

CDC MMWR - Waterborne Disease Outbreaks from Drinking Water - 2013 to 2014

As an important raw material for most food operations, water must be evaluated as part of the hazard analysis. The source of the water as well as how that water is stored and used must be considered. In CDC's report, disease outbreaks associated with drinking water (period 2013-2014) are reviewed. By their definition, "for an event to be defined as a waterborne disease outbreak, two or more cases must be linked epidemiologically by time, location of water exposure, and illness characteristics; and the epidemiologic evidence must implicate water exposure as the probable source of illness."

A summary of key findings:

• "Legionella was implicated in 24 (57%) outbreaks, 130 (13%) cases, 109 (88%) hospitalizations, and all 13 deaths (Table 1). Eight outbreaks caused by two parasites resulted in 289 (29%) cases, among which 279 (97%) were caused by Cryptosporidium, and 10 (3%) were caused by Giardia duodenalis. Chemicals or toxins were implicated in four outbreaks involving 499 cases, with 13 hospitalizations, including the first reported outbreaks (two outbreaks) associated with algal toxins in drinking water."
• "Thirty-five (83%) outbreaks were associated with public (i.e., regulated), community or noncommunity water systems,¶ and three (7%) were associated with unregulated, individual systems. Fourteen outbreaks occurred in drinking water systems with groundwater sources and an additional 14 occurred in drinking water systems with surface water sources. The most commonly cited deficiency, which led to 24** (57%) of the 42 drinking water–associated outbreaks, was the presence of Legionella in drinking water systems"
• "All of the outbreak-associated deaths reported during this surveillance period as well as all of the outbreaks reported in hospital/health care settings or long-term care facilities, were caused by Legionella. A review of 27 Legionnaires’ disease outbreak investigations in which CDC participated during 2000–2014 identified at least one water system maintenance deficiency in all 23 investigations for which this information was available, indicating that effective water management programs in buildings at increased risk for Legionella growth and transmission (e.g., those with more than 10 stories or that house "
• "Cryptosporidium was the second most common cause of both outbreaks and illnesses, demonstrating the continued threat from this chlorine-tolerant pathogen when drinking water supplies are contaminated."

Some background from one of the references (copied below) on Legionella in water systems.

• "Legionnaires’ disease is a lung infection that is fatal for about one in 10 persons who become infected. Legionella, the bacterium that causes Legionnaires’ disease, grows well in warm water, but can be killed by disinfectants, such as chlorine. Persons can get Legionnaires’ disease when they breathe in small droplets of water contaminated with Legionella."
• "Legionella grows best in building water systems that are not well maintained, especially where levels of chlorine or other disinfectants are low and water temperatures are optimal for its growth. Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks most often occur in hotels, long-term care facilities, and hospitals. The most common sources are potable water (e.g., drinkable water used for showering), cooling towers, hot tubs, and decorative fountains."

CDC MMWR
https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/66/wr/mm6644a3.htm?s_cid=mm6644a3_e
Surveillance for Waterborne Disease Outbreaks Associated with Drinking Water — United States, 2013–2014
Weekly / November 10, 2017 / 66(44);1216–1221

PA Establishment Recalls Raw Poultry Product for Foreign Metal Contamination

A Mifflintown, Pa. poultry establishment, is recalling approximately 10,839 pounds of raw poultry products that may be contaminated with metal pieces.  According to the report, "The problem was discovered on November 2, 2017 by an establishment employee who observed metal foreign material in a chicken breast while performing routine duties. The establishment took corrective actions to recover products before reaching commerce."  So not sure why a recall needed to be issued since it appears the product did not leave the building.

USDA Recall Notice
https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2017/recall-119-2017-release
Empire Kosher Poultry Inc. Recalls Chicken Products Due To Possible Extraneous Material Contamination 
Class I Recall
119-2017
Health Risk: High
Nov 9, 2017

FDA Report - Pesticide Residue Monitoring Program FY 2015

FDA issued their 2015 Pesticide Monitoring Program Report.   Overall, the findings showed low levels of violations, and basically these numbers were similar to the previous year.   It must be remembered that this is targeted sampling...that is, FDA will focus their effort on looking on those items/locations where there is more likely to be an issue.

In comparison of domestic versus imported foods, imported products were more likely to have violative pesticide levels.

Frozen Green Beans Recalled Due to Positive Listeria Test

A Canadian firm with a US repack facility is recalling frozen green beans after Connecticut Dept of Consumer Protection found one Listeria positive sample.
Based upon information gleaned from a company write-up in Business View Magazine (Sept 2017) this product is probably not domestic.  And like all Listeria related outbreaks, it will be a question of whether more product will be pulled into the recall. Much of that will depend on the investigation into the packing facility's Listeria Control Plan.

This is the type of product that would fall under the Foreign Supplier Verification program with the foreign company being the FSVP Importer having the US facility.  And this is why the address in the announcement is the facility in Virginia.

In the Business View write-up, the following passage is interesting.  Clearly, they see their product as meeting ready-to-eat standards. As Lee Corso would say...'not so fast my friend'.

Another growing item of concern to Tentomas [company founder] is food safety. “There’s been a major shift change in both regulatory as well as consumer behavior in how we eat these products,” he states. “Consumers today are eating raw and frozen fruits and vegetables, putting them in their smoothies and putting them in their salads, and there have been some major recalls in 2016 for both frozen fruits and a massive one in frozen vegetables. So, the food safety landscape has changed significantly. And what you’re seeing is the industry looking at their product as truly ‘ready-to-eat.’ Therefore, we need to establish the food safety parameters that come with a ready-to-eat product. And we see more significant change coming in enforcing the guidelines. That’s going to be one major change that will be positive for consumers because it will result in dramatic decreases in potential contamination of frozen fruits and vegetables. As an industry, we have a tremendous responsibility in making sure that we improve the food safety profile as consumers are eating more and more of it.”

FDA Recall Notice
https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm584148.htm
Nature’s Touch Frozen Foods Voluntarily Recalls Nature’s Touch Frozen Organic Fine Whole Green Beans Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
November 7, 2017

This Week in Mislabeled Product - Ending 11/3/17

Five Whole Foods Market stores in Northern California are voluntarily recalling frosted Pumpkin Drop cookies because the products contained tree nut allergens (walnuts) that were not listed on the product label.   One reaction has been reported to date.

aylor Farms Florida, an Orlando, Fla. establishment, is recalling approximately 732 pounds of salads with chicken products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens.  The products contain fish (anchovies), a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.   The problem was discovered on Oct. 26, 2017, when Taylor Farms Florida received a consumer complaint about the taste of the salad dressing. After conducting an internal investigation, the firm determined that the products incorrectly contained Caesar salad dressing instead of Bacon Ranch salad dressing. The Caesar salad dressing contains anchovies.


Allergy Alert Issued in Five Northern California Whole Foods Market Stores for Undeclared Walnuts in Pumpkin Drop Cookies
For Immediate Release
October 27, 2017

FSMA Guidance Document - Co-manufacturers Working with Brand Owner's Suppliers

FDA released a guidance document today that allows co-manufacturing companies more time to comply with supplier preventive controls when those co-manufacturing operations are involved in packing products for a brand owner where the suppliers of ingredients for the product are under the control of the brand owner.  The co-manufacturer's food safety plan will state that which activities of the supplier approval and supplier verification are under the brand owner's control.

From the Guidance document:
"If a contract prevents a co-manufacturer from being able to review a brand owner’s documentation of supplier verification activities, the co-manufacturer would not be able to verify suppliers based on its review of that documentation. Consequently, the co-manufacturer would need to conduct supplier verification activities (e.g., on-site audits) that might otherwise not be required."  "To provide time for contracts to be revised to allow co-manufacturers to review all necessary documentation from the brand owner, FDA is announcing that, under certain circumstances and on a temporary basis, we do not intend to take enforcement action against a receiving facility that is a co-manufacturer, and that is not in compliance with certain supply-chain program requirements for food manufactured for the brand owner."

Supplier Approval
FDA does not intend to take enforcement action under the following circumstances: (1) a brand owner conducts supplier approval activities, (2) the co-manufacturer describes these activities in its food safety plan, and (3) the co-manufacturer conducts any necessary supplier approval activities not conducted by the brand owner. For example, FDA does not intend to take enforcement action when a brand owner (rather than the co-manufacturer) evaluates supplier performance as part of approving a supplier, the co-manufacturer’s food safety plan states that the brand owner will consider supplier performance before a supplier is approved, and the co-manufacturer conducts any other necessary supplier approval activities (e.g., hazard analysis of the food). The co-manufacturer is always responsible for following written procedures for receiving raw materials and other ingredients, and documenting use of the procedures (21 CFR §§ 117.420 and 507.120).

Supplier Verification
FDA does not intend to take enforcement action under the following circumstances: (1) a brand owner determines and/or conducts supplier verification activities for its co-manufacturer, (2) the
co-manufacturer describes these activities in its food safety plan, and (3) the co-manufacturer conducts any necessary supplier verification activities not conducted by the brand owner. For example, FDA does not intend to take enforcement action when an audit is determined to be the appropriate supplier verification activity but a co-manufacturer does not independently obtain a supplier audit or review the conclusions of a supplier audit obtained and reviewed by the brand owner, the co-manufacturer’s food safety plan states that the brand owner will obtain and review audits of the supplier, and the co-manufacturer conducts any other necessary supplier verification activities (e.g., sampling and testing of the raw material or other ingredient).

We do not intend to take enforcement action regarding the affected provisions until November 6, 2019.


https://www.fda.gov/downloads/Food/GuidanceRegulation/GuidanceDocumentsRegulatoryInformation/UCM583490.pdf
Guidance for Industry: Supply-Chain Program Requirements and Co-Manufacturer Supplier Approval and Verification for Human Food and Animal Food
Contains Nonbinding Recommendations
November 2017

Outbreak of E. coli Affects Hundreds of Marine Recruits

About 300 marine recruits were stricken with E. coli infection this past week, and of that, 85 are still ill.  The outbreak occurred at Marine Corps Depot San Diego along with some personnel at Camp Pendleton,  The investigation continues as to the cause.

Fox 5 News - San Diego
http://fox5sandiego.com/2017/11/02/dozens-of-marine-recruits-remain-sick-from-e-coli/
Dozens of Marine recruits remain sick from E. coli
Posted 8:51 PM, November 2, 2017, by City News Service

Airline Stops Foodservice Operations After Supplier Found with Listeria on Non-contact Surfaces

American Airlines suspended its food service for flights out of Los Angeles after it food supplier, Gates Gourmet, was found to have 'traces' of Listeria on non-food contact surfaces. including drains and floors.

It is hard to know the real risk with the the little information provided.  We would need to know much more (were food contact surfaces positive, how pervasive was the contamination throughout the operation, what trends were seen, what practices were or were not in place, the accessibility of the non-contact areas to being a risk to food, etc), to opine on the appropriateness of this action.  Just because Listeria is found in a drain, in itself, would not constitute a risk and can really be considered normal.  It seems the supplier was pretty confident in the low risk of the situation.

Business Insider
http://www.businessinsider.com/american-airlines-flights-no-food-after-listeria-outbreak-lax-catering-kitchen-2017-11
American Airlines flights are going without food after listeria found at catering kitchen
Benjamin Zhang

11/1/17

Canada: Breaded Chicken Strips Recalled Due to Staphylococcus Enterotoxin

A Canadian firm is recalling a lot of breaded chicken strips due to the potential presence of Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin.  The product was recalled after a consumer.  The recall was triggered due to a consumer complaint.

Staphylococcus enterotoxin is a heat stable toxin that is formed as the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus grows in the food when that food is temperature abused.  In this case, it could have grown in the batter as the product was made, or on the breaded strips if those strips were temperature abused.  With one complaint at this point, it is more likely the latter.  This could be a case where the consumer leaves the box of chicken strips on the counter for a long period of time, perhaps when defrosting them, and then cooks them.  In this case, the organism grows on the strips and produces toxin.  Because the strips have been par-fried (to set the coating), there is a little microbial competition present. 

If more cases are reported from a diverse area, this would more likely indicate a production issue.  In this case, the batter temperature was not properly controlled.   For the facility, they would want to demonstrate proper batter temperature throughout the production run, adequate cooling and freezing after the par-cooking step, and then proper temperature control through the shipment of that product.

NET News Ledger.com
http://www.netnewsledger.com/2017/11/02/food-recall-maple-leaf-chicken-breast-strips/
Food Recall – Maple Leaf Chicken Breast Strips
Posted 2 November 2017 by NetNewsLedger in Featured

Recall of Burrito Products After a Sample Tests Positive for Listeria

A Denver, Colo. establishment, is recalling approximately 28,064 pounds of pork and chicken burritos and wrap products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes. The company notified FSIS on Oct. 30, 2017 that one of its products, Burrito Carnitas Caliente, had tested positive for L. monocytogenes during the firm’s product testing. After a review of the ingredients used in the Burrito Carnitas Caliente, the company determined that four additional products may be affected.

The labels indicate that this is a RTE product based upon the 'heat and serve' directions.

FSIS Recall Notice
https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2017/recall-116-2017-release
Chelsea Food Services Firm Recalls Pork and Chicken Products Due To Possible Listeria Contamination 
Class I Recall 
116-2017 
Health Risk: High
Nov 1, 2017 

Health Alert Issued for Salad Items With Potential Listeria Contamination

A public health alert was issued for chicken meat products produced by Ghiringhelli Specialty Foods, a Vallejo, Calif. establishment.   may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. The Notice comes after receiving notification that the broccoli products used in the chicken salads were included in a U.S. Food & Drug Administration recall due to potential contamination with L. monocytogenes. A recall was not requested because it is believed that all products are no longer in commerce and are past their “Use by” dates.

This recall is related to the other Listeria / vegetable products from Mann packing recalled on October 20, 2017.

FSIS Health Warning Notice
https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/newsroom/news-releases-statements-transcripts/news-release-archives-by-year/archive/2017/pha-103117
FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Poultry Products Due To Possible Listeria Contamination 

CA Company Recalls Taboule Salad after Sample E. coli STEC Positive

Haig’s Delicacies of Hayward, CA is recalling 342 cases of Taboule Salad because it may be contaminated with Escherichia coli O157:H7 bacteria (E. Coli O157:H7).  The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing by the company detected the presence of E. coli O157:H7.  No illnesses have been reported to date.

FDA Recall Notice
https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm583041.htm
Haig’s Delicacies LLC Recalls Lot of Taboule Salad Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
October 30, 2017

Supplier Recall of Dark Chocolate for Undeclared Milk Allergen Triggers Customer Recalls

A number of recalls have been issued for dark chocolate products after the supplier, GKI foods, recalled the dark chocolate ingredient because it had undeclared milk.

GKI Foods LLC
Blue Marble, Roundy's Select, and HyVee

Dark Chocolate Products

CVS Gold Emblem, Ocean State Candy, Hannaford Excellent, Market Basket, & Weigels
New American Food Products, LLC
Dark Chocolate Products  

Aurora, AG Supermarkets, Belmont Market, and others
Aurora Products, Inc.
Dark Chocolate Products

Toothsome Chocolate Emporium
Rucker’s Makin’ Batch Candies, Inc.
Dark Chocolate Coffee Beans

Uncle Buck’s and Family Choice
Rucker’s Wholesale and Service Co
Dark Chocolate Peanuts

21st Century Snack Foods
21st Century Snack Foods
Dark Chocolate Almonds

Shoreline Fruit and Cherry Bay Orchards

Shoreline Fruit LLC

Dark Chocolate Covered Cherry Products

Wegmans, Alpine Valley, Circle K and others First Source

Dark Chocolate Products

Meijer
Meijer
Dark Chocolate Products

Figi
Dark Chocolate Gingersnaps


https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm582769.htm
First Source Issues Allergy Alert for Undeclared Milk in Several Dark Chocolate Products Received from our Supplier GKI Foods LLC
For Immediate Release
October 30, 2017

Camel Milk Seized in Kansas City

US Federal authorities seized 4300 16oz bottles of frozen raw camel milk, camel colostrum, and camel kefir which were stored in a Kansas City warehouse.   One issue was that they were shipped across state lines which was illegal.  Second is that the label and website health claims made are not scientifically supported (see Warning Letter).  One of those claims being that camel milk can help people with autism.   FDA issued an alert earlier this year stating that camel milk is not a treatment for autism.

I see that camel milk is also a 'thing' for putting in your coffee.  According to a Huffington Post article, camel milk is slightly sweet and creamy and slightly salty.  And even more nutritious.  The hard part may be deciding one hump or two.

http://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article179929871.html#storylink=cpy
Feds seize gallons of camel milk they allege was illegally shipped to Kansas
By Tony Rizzo  trizzo@kcstar.com
October 20, 2017 10:07 AM

This Week in Mislabeled Product (ending 10/27/17)

Earthbound Farm LLC of San Juan Bautista, CA is voluntarily recalling 1,755 cases of the Earthbound Farm Organic Chopped Asian Style Salad Kit with an expiration date of October 24, 2017 and UPC of 32601 95134, because it was discovered that some of the bags contain the dressing/toppings packets for the Southwest Chopped Salad Kit rather than for the Chopped Asian Style Kit. The Southwest dressing contains egg and milk that are not declared as ingredients on the bag of the Asian Style Salad Kit. A consumer contacted us after noticing the dressing packet declared "contains egg and milk," allergens that are not declared on the label of the Asian Style Salad Kit.

A PA retailer is recalling Giant Eagle brand Breaded Shrimp due to an undeclared egg allergen. Giant Eagle became aware of the issue during a routine label inspection. The product label for the shrimp, which contain egg, omitted egg as an allergen

Tres Latin Foods is voluntarily recalling two batches of production of Kale & Pinto Bean 10 oz. pupusas and one batch of its Black Bean & Sweet Corn pupusas due to an undeclared milk allergen.


https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm581578.htm
Earthbound Farm LLC Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk and Egg in One Batch of Earthbound Farm Organic Chopped Asian Style Salad Kit
For Immediate Release
October 21, 2017

Frozen Raw Tuna Recalled After Positive Salmonella Test

Relish Foods, Inc., a Calif., seafood distributor, is voluntarily recalling raw frozen Newport brand tuna loins and steaks (5 to 8 lb. tuna loins, 3 to 5 lb. tuna loins, 6 oz. tuna steaks, and 4 oz. tuna steaks). The recall is the result of sampling by the FDA which revealed that the product has potential to contain the bacteria Salmonella.  Product was distributed in the western states to both retail and foodservice outlets.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm582049.htm
Relish Foods, Inc. Recalls Frozen Tuna Loins Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
October 24, 2017

Follow-up for VA Chili Cook-off Salmonella Outbreak

As a follow-up to a Salmonella Outbreak associated with a volunteer fire company's chili cook-off from a few weeks back, a suspect product has been identified - Crab Shack Clam Chowder.  The County Health Department says that there have been 180 cases reported so far.

To help the restaurant from taking a big hit, the Eastern Shore Health Department director proclaimed the restaurant was fine, and demonstrated that fact by making a stop at the eatery and having lunch.  He pointed out a fact we know well, that restaurants can run into problems when they do these temporary events.

10 WAVY.com
http://wavy.com/2017/10/24/officials-180-reports-of-illness-following-chincoteague-event/
Officials: 180 reports of illness following Chincoteague event

NY Cheese Company Recalls Cheese Products After Presumptive Positive Listeria Test

A NY cheese company is recalling some of its cheese products due to Listeria after tests came back as presumptive positive for Listeria.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm582124.htm
Cooperstown Cheese Company Recalls Cheese Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
October 22, 2017

Produce Grown in Greenhouse Recalled Due to Potential E. coli Issue

BrightFarms, a company that grows produce in greenhouses, is initiating a voluntary recall of packaged produce sold in Roundy's Supermarkets due to the potential presence of E. coli at its Rochelle, Illinois greenhouse farm.   BrightFarms chose to take this action out of an abundance of caution after receiving routine lab results and discovering that certain product may have been compromised.

FDA Recall Notice
https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm581532.htm
BrightFarms Announces Voluntary Regional Recall of Produce Due to Potential Presence of E. coli
For Immediate Release
October 20, 2017

Supplier Issue with Listeria-Test-Positive Produce Items Leads to Numerous Recalls of Meals, Kits, and Salad Bar Items

(List Updated 10/25/17)
FDA Link to associated recalls - https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/MajorProductRecalls/default.htm

A number of recalls have been issued that are related to the recall of packaged vegetables by Mann Packing which originated when the CFIA (Canadian Food Inspection agency) tested and found Listeria in retail packages of Mann Packing product.  These recalls are by retailers who purchased the prepared (washed, chopped) salad items to use in meals and kits and on salad bars.

A PA establishment is recalling to-be-cooked chicken meals after the company was notified by the supplier of the broccoli, Mann Packing, used in the dishes may contain Listeria.   While this was a not-ready-to-eat product, and it had validated cooking instructions, and the product was at end of shelf-life, the firm decided to recall out of extreme caution.

Other associated recalls:

• Randalls, Tom Thumb and Albertsons stores in Texas, Louisiana and Arkansas only are voluntarily recalling Ready. Chef. Go! seafood meal bags and Cod Fillet Seafood Meal Bags.
• Meijer is announcing a recall of various packaged Meijer brand produce items
• Triple B Corporation of Seattle, Washington is voluntarily recalling salad kits and stir fry mixes 
• Triple B Corporation of Anchorage, Alaska is voluntarily recalling broccoli florette's, stir fry kit, vegie trays w/ cauliflower, and a veggie pack combos
• Whole Foods Market is voluntarily recalling some salads from ten stores in Northern California
• Albertsons, Safeway, Vons and Pak N' Save stores in eight states are voluntarily recalling certain fresh vegetable trays and cups 
• H-E-B announced today that it has issued a voluntary recall for certain H-E-B single-serving  soups made with vegetable products 
• A Portland, Ore. establishment, is issuing a public health alert for ready-to-eat (RTE) kale and broccoli slaw salad with chicken items, produced from Oct. 6, 2017 through Oct. 10, 2017.  A recall was not requested because it is believed that all products are no longer in commerce and are past their “Best by” dates.
• King Soopers said today it has recalled deli broccoli salads and coleslaw that are sold in King Soopers and City Market stores, located in Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Wyoming. The product may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.  The deli broccoli salads and coleslaw are sold from the service case in the deli department at King Soopers and City Market. King Soopers and City Market have removed these items from store shelves and initiated their customer recall notification system that alerts customers who may have purchased recalled products through register receipt tape messages and phone calls.
• Pacific Coast Fruit Company in Portland, Oregon is voluntarily recalling multiple types of bagged processed salads 
• Paragon Wholesale Foods Corp., of Warrendale, PA, is recalling several lots of 1.7 ounce Broccoli Florets.  The recalled broccoli florets were distributed to multiple schools in the Greater Pittsburgh and Butler, PA areas between 10/9/2017 and 10/16/2017.

USDA Recall Notice
https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/recalls-and-public-health-alerts/recall-case-archive/archive/2017/recall-114-2017-release
Fresh Foods Manufacturing Co. Recalls Chicken Products due to Possible Listeria Contamination 
Class I Recall  114-2017
Health Risk: High  Oct 20, 2017

Jambalaya Outbreak - 2 Different Bacterial Pathogens Responsible - Indicates Two Separate Mishandling Issues

A second bacterial pathogen, Clostridium perfringens, has been identified as part of the large outbreak in Louisiana that has been linked to jambalaya served at a softball fundraising event.  Salmonella had already been isolated, but Clostridium perfrigens has now also been identified in patient stool samples.  As of Friday, 125 cases were confirmed with 37 hospitalized.  One death may also be linked.

While Salmonella effects are due to the infection is causes, Clostridium perfringes produces a toxin that causes the symptoms of diarrhea and abdominal cramps.  It usually occurs in less than a day and those symptoms will normally last for 24 hours. 

The issues of contamination will also be different.  Salmonella is not heat resistant, so either the foods are undercooked or it will contaminate foods after cooking through cross contamination.  Clostridium perfringens is a sporeforming pathogen, and its spores are heat resistant and thus can survive normal cooking conditions such as when making jambalaya.  The key to prevention is proper cooling after the product is cooked.  Basically, the spores survive cooking, but need warmer conditions for growth.  In fact, at optimal growth temperature of 109F to 117F, C. perfringens can multiple every 10 minutes or so.

So clearly, the were some issues when people were making jambalaya....and this can be the case when people are cooking large quantities of food.  For Salmonella to be an issue, the cooks either undercooked it, or they had sloppy procedures that allowed cross contamination.  For the second bacterial pathogen - after cooking (or under-cooking), they did not properly cool the food which provided conditions for C. perfrigens growth.  By regulation, foods such as this must be cooled from 135F to 70F within 2 hours, and from 70F to 41F within 4 hours.  These conditions were established for C. perfringens.  And if large quantities were made, cooling can be difficult.

WWL TV.com
http://www.wwltv.com/news/not-just-salmonella-second-bacteria-idd-in-mass-north-louisiana-illness/485166123
Not just salmonella: Second bacteria ID'd in mass North Louisiana illness
WWLTV 10:45 AM. CDT October 22, 2017

Minimally Processed (Washed, Chopped, and Bagged) Vegetables Recalled Due to Listeria Positive Test

Mann Packing of Salinas, California is voluntarily recalling minimally processed (washed and chopped) refrigerated vegetable products because they may be contaminated with listeria monocytogenes.  The recall is in response to a single positive result found during random sampling by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.  There have been no reported illnesses associated with products.  It covers "best if used by" dates from October 12 to October 20 listed on the front of the packaging.

These items are fresh, washed vegetables to include broccoli, cauliflower, veggie trays, cole slaw and other items.  The bags indicate that items like broccoli or cauliflower can be served raw or cooked.  The product is refrigerated, and if Listeria is present, this pathogen would potentially be able to grow during the shelf-life of that product.

FDA Recall Notice
https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm581389.htm
Mann Packing Recalls Minimally Processed Vegetable Products Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
October 19, 2017