Saturday, November 29, 2008

Demystifying The Melamine Muddle

When I was a youngster, my mother had a set of Melmac dishes - the unbreakable, plastic dishware that was popular in the 1950's and 1960's among families with young children. Those cups, bowls and plates were made from melamine. Unknown to Mom, as the Melmac aged, it probably released trace amounts of melamine into our food and beverages – especially into the acid beverages like sodas and orange juices.

In the 1950's researchers at Dow Chemical Company obtained the first in a series of US patents describing the use of melamine as a feed component for ruminant animals (i.e., cattle, goats and sheep). The United States does not now permit the addition of melamine to animal feeds. 

Melamine is a permitted component of adhesives in the United States and is considered an indirect food additive for that reason.

Melamine is generated by plants, goats, hens and rats as a breakdown product of the pesticide cyromazine. 

In short, there are many ways in which trace amounts of melamine can enter our food. The presence of tiny quantities of melamine – less than 1 ppm – may be undesirable, but its not necessarily the result of deliberate deception or adulteration. 

Why, then, all the fuss over trace amounts of melamine reported this week in infant formulas manufactured in the United States? Simply, we consumers don't like to be patronized or lied to by the government officials who are supposed to protect the safety of our food supply. Let's review how the story unfolded.

September 12, 2008. In response to the initial reports out of China, FDA issued its first Health Advisory statement, assuring US consumers that "... there is no known threat of contamination in infant formula manufactured by companies that have met the requirements to sell infant formula in the United States."

While FDA didn't specifically say that infant formula manufactured in the United States was melamine-free, the wording of their statement implied this to be the case. 

October 3, 2008. FDA posted an Interim Safety And Risk Assessment for melamine, concluding that, for infant formulas, "... FDA cannot establish a level of melamine and its analogues in these products that does not raise public health concerns." And in a FAQs page posted on the FDA site (no publication date indicated), FDA also said:

"There is too much uncertainty to set a level in infant formula and rule out any health concern. However, it is important to understand this does not mean that any exposure to any detectable level of melamine and melamine –related compounds in formula will result in harm to infants."

November 26, 2008. Associated Press broke the story that FDA had begun testing domestic infant formula for the presence of melamine and cyanuric acid (a related compound that often is a fellow-traveller) in September, and had found trace amounts in samples from two different manufacturers. The information was obtained by AP following their submission of a Freedom of Information request.

November 28, 2008. FDA updated its Interim Safety and Risk Assessment as a result of having found trace amounts of melamine and cyanuric acid in US-manufactured infant formulas. The revised statement says:

"Because FDA has found infant formula where just melamine or just cyanuric acid was present, it is updating the safety/risk assessment. These findings were in U.S.-manufactured infant formula products, and only extremely low levels of melamine or cyanuric acid have been detected in them."
and
"The safety/risk assessment assumes the analogues to have equal effect. Thus, levels of melamine or one of its analogues alone below 1.0 ppm in infant formula do not raise public health concerns."

Conveniently, the revised safety assessment corresponds to the 1.0 ppm limit adopted as an interim standard by other countries around the world – including China. The revised assessment gives the reader an impression that FDA established a "safe" level for melamine, only because some domestic products were found to contain trace amounts of the contaminant.

There is a lot that is still unknown about the risks to human health of trace levels of melamine and cyanuric acid in food. The World Health Organization is convening a meeting of experts this week (December 1-4, 2008) to review the available data and – one hopes – provide guidance to food safety agencies worldwide.

In the meantime, we shall all continue to be exposed to very low levels of melamine, cyanuric acid, and thousands of other chemicals – natural and man-made – that are present in the environment. 

FDA put its foot in its mouth with its initial implication that domestic infant formula was not involved in the melamine problem. The agency compounded its error by not telling the American public that it was screening domestic brands of infant formula for melamine contamination. And it stuffed a second foot into its mouth by its clumsy handling of the information release and the revised Safety and Risk Assessment. 

FDA also has been slow to alert consumers to some of the melamine-contaminated products from China that were sold in the United States. US consumers deserve better from the federal agency that has primary responsibility for the safety of the country's food supply.

Blimpie Sandwich Portions Recalled: Listeria monocytogenes

Home Market Foods, Inc. (Norwood, MA) has recalled 5,250 pounds of ready-to-eat frozen beef sandwich portions after the company's own testing uncovered the potential for Listeria monocytogenes contamination.

The sandwich portions, which were produced on November 14, 17, 18 and 20, were distributed in the Atlanta, GA metropolitan area, as well as in the states of California, Florida, Illinois and New York. They can be identified as follows:

3.5-ounce individually wrapped packages of "Blimpie FULLY COOKED SEASONED BEEF SHAVED STEAKS Thinly Sliced with Onions." Each label bear the establishment number "EST. 2727" inside the USDA mark of inspection as well as a printed Julian date of "3198," "3228" or "3238," on the products available for consumer purchase.

While no illnesses have been reported, Listeria monocytogenes can cause serious illnesses in the elderly, very young children, and immune-compromised individuals. In addition to being at risk of severe illness herself, a pregnant women may pass the infection to her unborn child, resulting in stillbirth, premature birth, or birth of a critically ill newborn infant.

Anyone who thinks they may have eaten a sandwich containing this meat and who begins to experience symptoms of a Listeria monocytogenes infection should contact a health practitioner without delay. For more information on this recall, contact the company's Customer Relations Manager, Deborah Schoeller, at (781) 948-1585.

Friday, November 28, 2008

Allergy Alert: Undeclared Sulphites in Wine

Morrisons has withdrawn Miramonte Ridge brand Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon wines due to the presence of undeclared sulphites in the wines, according to the UK Food Standards Agency.

The 75cl (750mL) bottles are being removed from store shelves. Customers who purchased these wines can return them to the store for a refund.

Individuals who are sensitive to sulphites may experience an allergic type reaction upon consuming a sulphite-containing food or beverage. Morrisons urges anyone with a sulphite sensitivity to not drink these wines.

Italian Style Bacon Recalled In UK

Richard Woodhall Ltd. has recalled one batch of traditional dry cured (smoked) Cumbrian Pancetta after low levels of Listeria monocytogenes were detected in a sample of the Italian style bacon, according to a Food Alert issued today by the UK Food Standards Agency.

Consumers who purchased 100-gram packages of Richard Woodhall Cumbrian Pancetta, Traditional Dry Cured (smoked) with a best before date of 30 November 2008 should return it to the place of purchase for a refund. Alternatively, Richard Woodhall invites its customers to return the recalled product directly to the company by mail for a full refund. For more information, please telephone the company at 01229 717237, ext 386 between the hours of 9am and 5pm.

Listeria monocytogenes typically produces no more than mild gastrointestinal or flu-like symptoms in healthy adults, but can cause life-threatening illness in the elderly, immune-compromised individuals, young children and pregnant women. In addition, pregnant women risk infecting their unborn children, premature birth, or stillbirth. Anyone who may have consumed the recalled product and begins to experience any symptoms of listeriosis should contact his or her primary care physician immediately.

Orijen Pet Food Recalled In Australia

In a classic illustration of the law of unintended consequences, an attempt by the Australian government to ensure the microbiological safety of a premium pet food imported from Canada may have resulted in the illness and death of a number of Australian cats.

Described by the manufacturer as a "biologically appropriate real-food kibble," Orijen pet food is processed using a proprietary low temperature (90ºC) steam-cooking procedure. The pet food is produced in Alberta, Canada and sold in 50 countries around the world.

In the 9 months since Orijen dry pet foods have been available in Australia, at least 40 cats have been stricken with a form of paralysis. Five of the cats had to be euthanized. The manufacturer (Champion Petfoods, Alberta, Canada), while recalling all outstanding Australian stock of its cat and dog foods, is pointing an accusatory finger at the government's import policies.

Because of the relatively mild heat treatment used in the production of Orijen foods, Australian import rules mandated that the pet foods be irradiated at a level of 50 kGray (5 Mrad) upon arrival. Champion claims that the high-dose radiation treatment is destroying vitamin A and promoting free-radical formation in the pet foods. According to the company, the resulting deficient diet is the cause of the symptoms that are being reported in Australian cats.

Champion cites its own tests of the effect of irradiation dosage on vitamin A depletion, and a small research study that was published last year to support its claims. The peer-reviewed study, published in Veterinary Pathology, examined the effect of an exclusive diet of gamma-irradiated food on a colony of 8 cats. The authors reported "...  a possible association [of progressive hind limb ataxia] with the long-term feeding of cats exclusively on a gamma-irradiated dry diet deficient in vitamin A."

A spokesperson for the Australian government has pointed out, in reply, that no other imported pet foods brands have experienced similar issues. And a Sydney veterinarian was skeptical of the vitamin A deficiency argument when interviewed by The Sydney Morning Herald.

Is radiation-induced vitamin A depletion the explanation, or might the problem be something else? Champion Petfoods claims that paralysis syndrome has not been reported in any other country where Orijen is sold, and that only Australia demands irradiation. The company has decided to withdraw completely from the Australian market, and promises to continue its study into the effects of irradiation on Orijen dry pet foods.

Only time, and additional research, will provide some answers.

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Salmonella-Contaminated Chili Powder Recalled in UK

Co-operative Food has recalled all date codes of Co-op Mild Chili Powder, due to the presence of Salmonella Thompson in the product, according to the UK Food Standards Agency.

The Salmonella was detected during routine testing. Anyone who has purchased a 45g or 90g container of Co-op Mild ChiliPowder should contact the company's Customer Relations, toll-free, at 0800-0686-727 to arrange a refund.

Allergy Alert: Cooked Chicken Strips Contain Undeclared Wheat

Updated Distribution Information, November 27, 2008
(original article date: November 26, 2008)

John Soules Foods, Inc. (Tyler, TX) has recalled nearly 8,500 pounds of cooked chicken strips after the company discovered that the chicken may contain undeclared wheat.

The recalled chicken was processed on Nov. 7 and Nov. 13, 2008, and was distributed to retail establishments in Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Missouri, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. advises that the recalled items were available for sale in Sam's Club stores. NEW Nov 27

The following two items are included in the recall:

  • 24-ounce bags of "John Soules Foods FULLY COOKED CHICKEN BREAST STRIPS WITH RIB MEAT, Italian Style, GLUTEN FREE." Establishment No. "P-2128" inside the USDA mark of inspection. UPC code 034695 123973 and "USE BY" date of "Dec 27 08" or "Jan 2 09" on the back of the bag.
  • 24-ounce bags of "John Soules Foods FULLY COOKED CHICKEN BREAST STRIPS WITH RIB MEAT, Rotisserie Style, GLUTEN FREE." Establishment number "P-2128" inside the USDA mark of inspection. UPC code 034695 123980 and "USE BY" date of "Dec 27 08" or "Jan 2 09" on the back of the bag.

While no illnesses have been reported, individuals who are allergic to wheat may experience a severe – possibly life-threatening – reaction after consuming the recalled items. For more information about this recall, consumers are invited to contact Mark Andersen, Director of Quality Assurance, at (903) 245-3208.

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Canned Mushrooms Recalled in UK

Prime Brand has recalled 425-gram cans of Whole Straw Mushrooms (unpeeled) due to the presence of anaerobic spore-formers that resulted in the cans becoming swollen, according to a Food Alert issued today by the UK Food Standards Agency.

The recalled mushrooms can be identified by the batch code number 20080428 854 M 3502/01009. The cans carry a Best Before date of 28 April 2011.

While most individuals consider canned foods to be "sterile," these items may, on occasion, contain spores of very heat-resistant bacteria. The contents can also become contaminated after heat-treatment if the seams leak during immersion in cooling water, or if the seams or body of the can are damaged during shipping or handling.

Anaerobic spore-formers are bacteria that may survive the typical heat-treatment to which canned foods must be subjected during manufacture. In this instance, the bacteria survived, multiplied, and produced gas while feeding on the mushrooms. Enough gas was produced to cause the cans to swell or "blow."

While some anaerobic spore-formers are harmless, others – notably, Clostridium botulinum – may cause life-threatening illness.  The toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum are destroyed by boiling for 10 minutes. But milder cooking may allow some or all of the toxin to remain active. 

The Food Standards Agency has not said that Clostridium botulinum is present in the canned mushrooms, but there is no point in taking an unnecessary risk. Under no circumstances should these canned mushrooms be eaten. Consumers are advised to return the recalled mushrooms to the store for a full refund.

For more information, Prime Brand invites its customers to call the company, toll free, at 0808 1683044.

Infant Formula Under The Microscope

The New Mexico Department of Health reports that two infants in the state have become infected with Enterobacter sakazakii, a bacterium that has been associated in the past with powdered infant formulas. One of the infants – a boy – has died, while a baby girl is being treated in hospital.

The two infants were each infected with a different strain of Enterobacter sakazakii. The state is conducting environmental and food sample analyses to try to trace the origin of the infections. FDA and CDC have been notified, and are aiding in the investigation.

In 2001, powdered infant formula used in a neonatal intensive care unit in Tennessee was responsible for the death of one infant, who developed meningitis after becoming infected with Enterobacter sakazakii. And in 2002, Wyeth Nutritionals recalled 1.5 million cans of powdered infant formula after the pathogen was detected during a special FDA sampling program involving all US manufacturers of powdered formula. 

While Enterobacter sakazakii was first discovered to be a pathogen in 1961, there is still a lot that is unknown about its pathogenesis (i.e., the way in which it develops disease), about the way in which it contaminates powdered dairy products, and even how infants become infected.

There are certain actions that parents can take to minimize the risk of their infants developing an Enterobacter sakazakii infection. The New Mexico Department of Health summarizes these as follows:

  • The best option for your baby is to breastfeed if possible.
  • Talk to your health-care provider before trying or changing to a new formula.
  • Prepare a small amount of formula for each feeding to reduce the amount and time that formula is at room temperature before your baby drinks it.
  • If you have prepared formula and your baby has not had any, throw the formula away within two hours of preparation. If your baby drank out of the bottle, throw away any leftover formula within one hour.
  • Always wash your hands before preparing formula or any food for yourself or family members.
  • Prepared formula in a refrigerator should be used within 24 hours.


Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Mars Petcare US Extends Latest Voluntary Recall

On October 27th, Mars Petcare announced a voluntary recall of a "limited number of bags" of SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Blend dry cat food. The cat food was available only in Wal-Mart stores in 15 states, and just one day's production was affected. Mars took pains to reassure pet owners that there were "... no complaints or reports of illness..." associated with the recalled production lot of cat food.

Four days later, the West Virginia Department of Agriculture advised consumers that its lab had found Salmonella in the recalled cat food AND in "... samples of Ol' Roy Meaty Chunks 'N Gravy dog food." The state issued a "stop-sale" order for both products, and alerted FDA to their findings.

eFoodAlert contacted the WVDA and obtained additional information about their findings, which we published – with permission – on November 18th. In our exclusive report, we revealed that the cat food and dog food were contaminated with different types of Salmonella, that WVDA had initiated their investigation after receiving complaints from pet owners that their dogs had been made ill, purportedly after eating the Ol' Roy dry dog food. WVDA also told us that the contaminated pet foods had been manufactured in two different facilities.

This evening, November 25th, Mars Petcare announced an expansion of its October 27th recall. According to the company's news release, the original recall was triggered by the detection of Salmonella in "... an additional sample of SPECIAL KITTY® made on September 25, 2008." The original contaminated lot was produced on August 11, 2008. 

As a result of this new finding, Mars Petcare has recalled all dry dog and cat food manufactured at its Allentown, PA production facility that are labeled with a Best By date of August 11, 2009 to October 3, 2009, inclusive.

The following list of recalled pet foods were sold at BJ's Wholesale Club, ShopRite Supermarkets (the chain has stores in Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania), and Wal-Mart stores in Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, Vermont and West Virginia.

  • Berkley & Jensen Bistro Blend Premium Cat Food,  21.6 lb. (UPC 00000 20052)
  • Berkley & Jensen Small Bites & Bones Dog Food,  52 lb. (UPC 00000 14958)
  • Ol' Roy Puppy Complete Premium Dog Food,  4 lb. (UPC 81131 79078)
  • Ol' Roy Puppy Complete Premium Dog Food,  20 lb. (UPC 81131 79080)
  • Ol' Roy Complete Nutrition Premium Dog Food,  4 lb. (UPC 81131 17550)
  • Ol' Roy Complete Nutrition Premium Dog Food,  4.4 lb.  (UPC 81131 69377)
  • Ol' Roy Complete Nutrition Premium Dog Food,  8 lb. (UPC 05388 67144)
  • Ol' Roy Complete Nutrition Premium Dog Food,  20 lb. (UPC 81131 17549)
  • Ol' Roy Complete Nutrition Premium Dog Food,  22 lb. (UPC 05388 60342)
  • Ol' Roy Complete Nutrition Premium Dog Food,  44.1 lb. (UPC 81131 17551)
  • Ol' Roy Complete Nutrition Premium Dog Food,  50 lb. (UPC 78742 01022)
  • Ol' Roy High Performance Premium Dog Food, 20 lb. (UPC 05388 60345)
  • Ol' Roy High Performance Premium Dog Food,  50 lb. (UPC 78742 05815)
  • Ol' Roy Meaty Chunks & Gravy Premium Dog Food,  22 lb. (UPC 81131 69630)
  • Ol' Roy Meaty Chunks & Gravy Premium Dog Food,  50 lb. (UPC 81131 69631)
  • ShopRite Crunchy Bites, Bones and Healthy Squares Dog Food,  20 lb. (UPC 41190 04521)
  • Special Kitty Original Premium Cat Food,  3.5 lb. (UPC 81131 17557)
  • Special Kitty Original Premium Cat Food,  7 lb. (UPC 81131 17562)
  • Special Kitty Original Premium Cat Food,  18 lb. (UPC 81131 17559)
  • Special Kitty Gourmet Blend Premium Cat Food,  3.5 lb. (UPC 81131 17546)
  • Special Kitty Gourmet Blend Premium Cat Food,  7 lb. (UPC 81131 17547)
  • Special Kitty Gourmet Blend Premium Cat Food,  18 lb. (UPC 81131 17548)
  • Special Kitty Kitten Premium Cat Food,  3.5 lb. (UPC 81131 17553)
  • Special Kitty Kitten Premium Cat Food,  7 lb. (UPC 81131 17554)

Mars is asking consumers who purchased the recalled items to return them to the store for a full refund. The company has posted a widget on its web site to enable customers to determine whether the specific bag of dog or cat food that they purchased is included in the recall.

There's still been no news on the progress of the investigation into the second production facility that WVDA implicated in its initial report. The FDA investigation into that second manufacturing plant may still be in progress. If so, another Mars Petcare recall could be in the works.

Consumers with questions about this recall should contact Mars Petcare directly, toll-free, at 1-877-568-4463.

Insect-Infested Nougat Recalled In UK

TK Maxx and HomeSense are recalling two brands of nougat due to insect infestation, according to an Alert issued by the UK Food Standards Agency.

The recall encompasses all varieties, sizes and dates of Properzi Nougat and Valentino Nougat. Customers are requested to return the items to the place of purchase for a full refund.


Monday, November 24, 2008

New Jersey Meat Company Recalls Hamburgers

USDA is advising consumers that Dutch Prime Foods, Inc. (Long Branch, NJ) has recalled approximately 345 pounds of ground beef products after the agency detected E. coli O157:H7 during routine sampling of the meat.

The recalled product is described as follows:
5-pound and 10-pound vacuum sealed plastic bags of "DUTCH PRIME FOODS HAMBURGER."

The hamburger, which was produced on November 18th and bears establishment number 5206 inside the USDA inspection seal, was distributed to restaurants in New Jersey.

E. coli O157:H7 infections usually produce stomach cramps and watery diarrhea. Often, the diarrhea is bloody. Young children are especially susceptible to developing potentially life-threatening complications – notably hemolytic uremic syndrome – as a result of an infection with E. coli O157:H7.

No illnesses have been associated with this recall. Nevertheless, consumers who ordered hamburger – especially rare hamburger – in a New Jersey restaurant after November 18th and who develop symptoms of gastroenteritis should seek immediate medical attention. 

Southern Ontario E. coli O157:H7 Outbreak – Lettuce Liaison

For the second time this year, California lettuce is suspected of causing an outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 in Southern Ontario.

ThePacker.com, a produce industry news service, reports that FDA and the California Department of Public Health are investigating the possibility that romaine lettuce from one or more California farms may be linked to the current Ontario outbreak of E. coli O157:H7. The US action was triggered by epidemiological evidence from the Canadian outbreak investigation that pointed a finger at California romaine.

The outbreak has now spread to five different health units in Southern Ontario. As of Friday, November 21, 153 cases – 30 of them confirmed – have been reported. The cases are restaurant-associated, and the identical outbreak strain has been identified in all five health units.

Officials from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, the Public Health Agency of Canada, the Ontario Ministry of Health and the five individual health units have all played a role in the investigation. CFIA told ThePacker.com that other possible food items are still under scrutiny, even as FDA and CDPH follow up on the lettuce lead.

As is so often the case in restaurant outbreak investigations, none of the food samples, environmental swab samples, or water samples have yielded the outbreak strain. Even if California romaine lettuce was the source of this outbreak, the odds are long that US authorities will be able to uncover the outbreak strain "down on the farm."


Allergy Alert: Canadian Recall of Cakes From Taiwan

Updated November 24th with new distribution information.
(First reported November 23, 2008)

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has alerted consumers to the presence of undeclared sulfites in two flavours of Six Fortune brand cakes imported from Taiwan. The cakes were distributed in Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia. 

CFIA updated this alert to advise consumers that the recalled cakes may have been distributed nationally. NEW Nov 24

While there have been no illnesses reported, individuals who are sensitive to sulfites may experience severe allergic-type reactions as a result of consuming a food that contains the food additive. 

The importer has recalled the following items:
  • Six Fortune brand Papaya Cake, 250g; UPC 0 79763 11100 1
  • Six Fortune brand Strawberry Cake, 250g; UPC 0 79763 11098 1

Consumers who have questions about this recall should contact CFIA, toll-free, at 1-800-442-2342 between 8:00am and 8:00pm, Monday through Friday.

Allergy Alert: Stop & Shop Recalls Butternut Squash

Stop & Shop has recalled 24-ounce sides of butternut squash packaged as part of its Thanksgiving meals after being advised of quality problems by its vendor, Simmering Soup, Inc.

According to the grocery chain, the prepared squash was included in the prepared turkey and ham holiday dinners. Simmering Soup recalled the squash due to the possible presence of undeclared egg and "quality concerns."

Individuals who are allergic to egg may experience a severe reaction upon consuming the prepared squash. Stop & Shop is asking its customers who have already picked up their meals to return just the prepared squash, in exchange for a $12 refund. Customers who have not yet called for their meals will receive a package from which the squash has been removed – and a $12 reduction in the price of the prepared meal.

Stop & Shop advises that none of the other components of the meal are affected by this recall. Prepared butternut squash available from the grocery's prepared foods department also is unaffected.

For more information about this recall, consumers are invited to contact Stop & Shop's customer service number, toll-free, at (800) 767-7772 between the hours of 9am and 5pm, Monday through Friday.

Sunday, November 23, 2008

Oklahoma E. coli O111 Outbreak: A Final Report

The Oklahoma State Department of Health has issued a final report on the E. coli O111 outbreak that struck the northeastern part of the state this past summer. 

The outbreak sickened 341 people, including 56 children (under 18 years old). The youngest victim was 3 months; the oldest was 88 years. Seventy-two (21%) of the victims were hospitalized, and one person died as a result of his infection.

The outbreak was traced to the Country Cottage restaurant in Locust Grove, OK, and included individuals who patronized the restaurant between August 15 and August 24th.

The outbreak investigation was unable to trace the source of the pathogen. Neither environmental sampling of working surfaces in the restaurant, nor water samples from the well on the property, nor samples of the restaurant's food supplies yielded E. coli O111. And exhaustive interviews of victims and healthy restaurant patrons failed to point to a specific food item. The conclusion?

"While no single food item was found to be the source of illness at the restaurant, the Oklahoma State Department of Health believes several different foods became contaminated with the E. coli 0111 bacteria, leading to exposure of restaurant customers Aug. 15-24."
The Country Cottage has been given permission to reopen, following a successful inspection on November 12th and after meeting a series of conditions that included, among others:

  • disconnecting the on-site well from the restaurant's water supply;
  • not permitting employees with diarrhea to work in the restaurant;
  • installing additional hand-washing sinks;
  • ensuring that all bathrooms are operational and monitoring employee hand-washing;
  • requiring each employee to complete a food handler's class; and
  • requiring the kitchen manager and owner to obtain a Food Service Manager's Certificate.

The tone and content of the list of requirements for reopening the restaurant, together with the DOH conclusion that "... several different foods became contaminated..." leads me to believe that an infected food handler was the source of the contamination. Inattention to appropriate food handling and sanitation practices, and poor temperature control – as detected in an earlier inspection – allowed the contamination to spread. Inadequate cleaning and sanitation of food contact surfaces and utensils enabled the pathogen to linger. 

This, of course, is pure speculation. I have no proof. But nothing else makes sense.


Saturday, November 22, 2008

Allergy Alert: Vegan Cheese Substitute May Contain Milk

Panos brand Vegan Rella Cheddar Block has been recalled by the manufacturer due to the possible presence of undeclared milk. The recall was announced after a consumer reported suffering an allergic reaction.

The 8-ounce packages labeled with UPC 0 37983 00015 4 and a "Sell by" date of 12/09/2008. No other production lots or varieties are affected by the recall. The cheese substitute was sold across the United States through the company's retail stores.

While most people can safely eat the cheese substitute, individuals who are allergic to milk may experience a life-threatening allergic reaction after consuming this product. The company is urging its customers to return the recalled cheese to the store for a full refund.

For more information, contact the company toll-free at (800) 494-8839, ext 425.

Mars Petcare & Pedigree Retail Recall List

UPDATED NOVEMBER 22, 2008

Mars Petcare announced yesterday evening that it was recalling all dry dog and cat foods produced in its Everson, PA facility between February 18, 2008 and July 29, 2008, due to the presence of Salmonella Schwarzengrund. The recalled items were distributed only in the United States

Dry dog food and dry cat food packaged under the following brand names are part of this recall:

  • Country Acres, Doggy Bag, Members Mark, Natural, Ol' Complete, Ol' Roy, Paws & Claws, Pedigree, Pet Pride, PMI Nutrition, Red Flannel, Retriever, Special Kitty, Wegman's.

The company advises that these brands also are produced at other Mars Petcare facilities in the United States. It's essential, therefore, to verify the specific product and date code information contained in the Mars news release in order to determine whether a specific bag of pet food has been recalled. Mars Petcare has posted on its web site a widget that consumers can use to determine whether the Pedigree pet food in their possession has been recalled.

Following is a preliminary list of retail store chains that carry one or more of the recalled items. This list will be updated as more information becomes available.

  • Dillons (all locations): Pet Pride Indoor Cat Food, 3.5 lb. and 18 lb.; Pet Pride Weight Management Dog Food, 17.6 lb. Includes all products with Best Before dates of 2/2009 or earlier.
  • Food 4 Less (all locations): Pedigree® Large Breed Dog Food, 20 lb. and 30 lb.; Pedigree® Small Chunky Bites, 32 lb.; Pet Pride Indoor Cat Food, 3.5 lb. and 18 lb.; Pet Pride Weight Management Dog Food, 17.6 lb. Includes all products with Best Before dates of 2/2009 or earlier.
  • Giant Food LLC (all 181 Giant Food supermarkets in VA, MD, DE, and DC): All sizes of Pedigree® Small Crunchy Bits and Pedigree® Large Breed Complete Nutrition pet foods identified by the initials PAE contained within the Best Before date code on the package. 
  • Kroger (Greater Cincinnati, including N. KY; southeast IN and Dayton; IN; IL; eastern MO; GA; SC; AL; Knoxville, TN area; Greater Louisville (including IN); Lexington and Nashville, TN): Pedigree® Large Breed Dog Food, 20 lb. and 30 lb.; Pedigree® Small Chunky Bites, 32 lb. Includes all products with Best Before dates of 2/2009 or earlier.
  • Kroger (TX; LA; MI; Greater Louisville (including IN); Lexington and Nashville, TN; central OH and northern WV panhandle; Greater Memphis, TN; AR; MS; Greater Cincinnati, including N. KY, southeast IN and Dayton; IN; IL and E. MO; GA; SC; AL; Knoxville, TN area): Pet Pride Indoor Cat Food, 3.5 lb. and 18 lb.; Pet Pride Weight Management Dog Food, 17.6 lb. Includes all products with Best Before dates of 2/2009 or earlier.
  • Kroger (Dallas/Fort Worth area, east Texas, Shreveport and Alexandria, LA): Pet Pride Indoor Cat Food, 3.5 lb. and 18 lb.; Pet Pride Weight Management Dog Food, 17.6 lb. Includes all products with Best Before dates of July 29, 2009 or earlier. NEW Nov 22nd.
  • Martin's Food Markets (MD, NJ, NY, OH, PA, VA, WV): All date codes of Pedigree® Large Breed Original (20 lb.), Pedigree® Mealtime Crunchy Bites Small (4.4 lb.), Pedigree® Small Crunchy Bites Beef (32 lb.), and Pedigree® Small Crunchy Bites (20 lb.).
  • Petco (169 stores in 10 primarily mid-Atlantic states): Pedigree® Small Crunchy Bites, 40# (SKU 1157612), Pedigree® Large Breed 36.4# (SKU 1157620), Pedigree® Small Crunchy Bites 20# (SKU 1087045), Pedigree Mealtime Small Bite 8.8# (SKU 147168). Contact your local Petco store to determine whether it is one of the 169 affected stores.
  • PetSmart ("fewer than 150 stores"): Pedigree® Small Crunch Bites Adult Nutrition, 40 lb. bags. According to the retailer, a limited number of recalled products were sold in "fewer than 150 stores" in May and June. PetSmart is participating in the recall as a "precautionary measure". 
  • Piggly Wiggly: We contacted Piggly Wiggly to find out whether they carried any of the recalled items. We received the following reply by email today: "Thanks for contacting Piggly Wiggly, LLC. However, we only license the rights to the name and do not operate any stores. The stores are all independently owned and operated and we have no way of knowing or controlling what each store offers. The stores each deal with different suppliers so to get accurate information about the pet food available at your store; please contact the local Piggly Wiggly store for information about what they carry." 
  • Price Chopper (stores in CT, MA, NH, NY, PA, VT): Pedigree® Small Crunchy Bites Complete Nutrition (4.4 lb., 32 lb.); Pedigree® Large Breed Food For Dogs (20 lb.). Products can be identified by the initials "PAE" within the Best Before ID code. 
  • Publix (no details on affected stores): Pedigree® Large Breed Dog Food (30 lb.). According to TCPalm.com, Publix has removed the recalled item from store shelves. There is no mention of the recall on the Publix web site. 
  • Sam's Club stores (locations not specified): All Pedigree® products identified by the initials "PAE" within the Best Before ID code; all Sam's Club Member's Mark dog and cat food items identified by the numbers "17" as the first two digits of the second line within the Best Before ID code.
  • ShopRite (200+ stores in New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Delaware): Pedigree® Small Crunchy Bites Adult Nutrition (4.4 lb., 20 lb., 32 lb.); Pedigree® Large Breed Adult Nutrition (20 lb.). 
  • Stop & Shop Supermarket Company LLC (all Stop & Shop stores in MA, CT, RI, ME, NH, NY, and NJ): All sizes of Pedigree® Small Crunchy Bits and Pedigree® Large Breed Complete Nutrition pet foods identified by the initials PAE contained within the Best Before date code on the package.
  • TOPS Markets (NY and PA): Pedigree® SM Crunchy Bites Beef, 32 lb. (UPC 2310031483); Pedigree® MLTM Crunchy Bite Small, 4.4 lb. (UPC 2310005104); Pedigree® Large Breed Original, 20 lb. (UPC 2310029158); Pedigree® Small Crunchy Bites, 20 lb. (UPC 2310014719). All date codes are included. 
  • Walmart stores (locations not specified): All Pedigree® products identified by the initials "PAE" within the Best Before ID code; all Ol' Roy and Special Kitty Walmart private label brand items and all Sam's Club Member's Mark dog and cat food items identified by the numbers "17" as the first two digits of the second line within the Best Before ID code.
  • Wegmans (all Wegmans Supermarkets in MD, NJ, NY, PA, and VA): All code dates of Pedigree® Dry Small Crunchy Bites Adult Nutrition 4.4 lb., Pedigree® Small Crunchy Bites Adult Nutrition 32 lb., Pedigree® Large Breed Complete Nutrition 20 lb.
  • Wegmans (all Wegmans Supermarkets in MD, NJ, NY, PA, and VA): All code dates of Buju & Ziggie Complete Formula (3.5 lb. and 18 lb. sizes), Buju & Ziggie Indoor (3.5 lb.), Buju & Ziggie Indoor Formula (18 lb.), Buju & Ziggie Kitten Formula (3.5 lb.), Buju & Ziggie Original Medley (18 lb.), and Buju & Ziggie Gourmet Recipe (3.5 lb.)
  • Winn-Dixie Stores (no details on affected stores): Joshua Whitton, the Communications Manager, told TCPalm.com that "Upon receiving information about potential health risks associated with these products, we immediately implemented a voluntary recall in our stores." There is no mention of the recall on the Winn-Dixie web site. Anyone who purchased a Mars Petcare/Pedigree dry pet food from Winn-Dixie should contact the store to determine whether or not the specific product was included in the recall. 

The recalled products were distributed in 31 states and the District of Columbia. If you learn of any retail-level recall announcements in your area that are not on this list, please post a comment, below.

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Allergy Alert: Goat Cheese From Québec May Contain Penicillin

The Québec Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPAQ) announced that Dion Fromagerie brand goat cheeses may contain penicillin and have been recalled.

The cheeses, which were sold at Chèvrerie Dion (128 route 101, Rouyn-Noranda, QC) and at other retailers in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region, are described as follows:

  • Délice-Nature (plain), 125 g; Best before December 22-26, inclusive
  • Délice-Fines herbes (herbs), 125 g; Best before December 22-26, inclusive
  • Délice-Ail (garlic), 125 g; Best before December 22-26, inclusive
  • Délice-Poivre (pepper), 125 g; Best before December 22-26, inclusive
  • Délice-Ciboulette (chives), 125 g; Best before December 22-26, inclusive
  • Roulé-Nature (plain), 100 g; Best before December 9-12, inclusive
  • Roulé-Ail (garlic), 100 g; Best before December 9-12, inclusive
  • Roulé-Poivre (pepper), 100 g; Best before December 9-12, inclusive
  • Roulé-Fines herbes (herbs), 100 g; Best before December 9-12, inclusive
  • Roulé-Ciboulette (chives), 100 g; Best before December 9-12, inclusive
  • Fin Gourmet, 125 g; Best before December 22-26, inclusive

Individuals who are allergic to penicillin (or to other, similar antibiotics) can suffer a life-threatening reaction soon after consuming a food that contains penicillin. MAPAQ advises consumers to return the recalled products to the retailer.

Cadbury Recalls Boost Totally Nuts Bars

Cadbury Schweppes Pty. Ltd. has recalled a single production lot of Cadbury Boost Totally Nuts 60g bars due to the presence of plastic pieces.

The recall covers only bars that are labeled with a Best Before date of 15-06-09. The recalled bars were distributed throughout Australia and also were exported to Singapore, Tahiti (Papeete) and Papua New Guinea.

Consumers in Australia who purchased these bars should contact Cadbury Schweppes consumer services department at 1800 250 260 to arrange for a return and refund.

Allergy Alert: Wegmans Recalls Tomato Sauce

Wegmans Food Markets has issued a recall notice for Wegmans Italian Classics Seasoned Tomato Sauce (24-ounce size) after a store employee discovered that the sauce contained undeclared milk, according to an FDA news release posted today.

The recalled sauce, which is sold in 24-ounce clear flexible pouches, is labeled with a "use by" date of 11/26/08 and UPC 77890 79010. The sauce was sold in the prepared foods sections of Wegmans stores in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Maryland between Saturday, November 15 and Thursday, November 20.

While no illnesses have been reported so far, individuals who are allergic to milk may experience a severe reaction after consuming this product. Wegmans has invited its customers to return the mislabeled product to the store for a full refund.

Consumers in search of more information on this recall are encouraged to call the company's consumer affairs department at 1-800-WEGMANS, ext. 4760.

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Allergy Alert: Chocolate Milk Recalled

Model Dairy (Reno, NV) has recalled approximately 400 half-gallon bottles of 2% chocolate milk after determining that the milk may contain undeclared egg protein.

The recalled milk – distributed in northwest Nevada and Portola, California – is labeled with a "Best by" date of Nov 27 or Nov 28, and UPC 7140600127.

The recall was announced to the local media, and also was publicized on Wal-Mart's web site. Neither FDA, the Nevada Department of Health, nor the Nevada Department of Agriculture has posted the recall information on their respective web sites.

No illnesses or reactions have been reported. Nevertheless, individuals who are allergic to egg protein may experience a severe reaction after consuming the recalled milk.

For information on this recall, consumers should contact Model Dairy at 800-433-2030.


West Indies Bitters Recalled in Australia

island2island Beverage Comp. Pty Ltd. has recalled Angostura brand Lemon Lime and Bitters and Angostura brand Lemon Lime and Bitters light due to the presence of glass fragments in the product. The Bitters are a product of Trinidad and Tobago.

The recalled items were sold throughout Australia in 330mL glass bottles. The bottles carry Best Before dates of 250809 – 131109 and 210109. As these were imported into Australia, the same items may also have been distributed in other countries.

Australian consumers who purchased the recalled items should return them to the store for a full refund. Consumers outside Australia who purchased these bitters should check with the distributor for their country.

Alabama Company Recalls Listeria-Contaminated Hot Dogs

Updated Retail Distribution List Issued by USDA November 19, 2008

R. L. Zeigler Co., Inc. (Selma, AL) has recalled more than 28,000 pounds of hot dogs after the Georgia Department of Agriculture found Listeria monocytogenes in a sample of the September 22nd production batch during a routine sampling program.

The voluntary recall covers the following items:
  • 12-ounce packages of Zeigler Wieners Made With Chicken And Pork, Artificially Colored.  Use-by date Nov. 26, 2008. Establishment number "P-9156S" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
  • 12-ounce packages of Vacuum Packed Par-Ti Pups. Use-by date Nov. 26, 2008. Establishment number "P-9156S" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
  • 12-ounce packages of Zeigler Original Recipe Wieners, Artificially Colored. Use-by date Nov. 26, 2008. Establishment number "EST. 9156S" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
  • 16-ounce packages of Zeigler Jumbo Franks. Use-by date Nov. 21, 2008. Establishment number "P-9156S" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
  • 12-ounce packages of Zeigler Hot Dogs. Use-by date of Nov. 26, 2008. Establishment number "P-9156S" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
  • 10-pound bulk boxes of Skinless Wieners, 8 Wieners Per LB. Package code PK 092208A. Establishment number "EST. 9156S" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
  • 10-pound bulk boxes of Skinless Wieners, Artificially Colored, 10 Wieners Per LB. Package code PK 092208A. Establishment number "EST. 9156S" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
  • 10-pound bulk boxes of Skinless Wieners, 10 Wieners Per LB. Package code PK 092208A. Establishment number "EST. 9156S" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
  • 10-pound bulk boxes of Skinless Wieners, 12 Wieners Per LB. Package code PK 092208A. Establishment number "EST. 9156S" inside the USDA mark of inspection.

The hot dogs were distributed to retail outlets and food service institutions in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee and Texas. USDA has posted a retail distribution list for the recalled items. The 44-page list is sorted by state, then by city. Here are some of the highlights, but please check the list to determine whether stores in your area carried any of the recalled products.

  • Alabama: 775 stores across the state, including Bruno's, Calhoun Foods, Cost Plus Food Outlet, Food Giant, Food Outlet, Food World, Giant Foods, Greer's, Kroger, Pic N Sav, Piggly Wiggly, Publix, SF Market, Super Target, Wal-Mart and Winn Dixie
  • Arkansas: 7 Wal-Mart stores
  • Florida: 110 stores across the state, including Bruno, Food World, Grocery Outlet, Pic N Sav, Piggly Wiggly, Smiths, Wal-Mart and Winn Dixie
  • Georgia: 163 stores across the state, including Brumby Foods, C & J Supermarket, Casey's, Foodland, Grocery Outlet, Pic N Sav, Publix, Shannon Grocery, Smith's, Wal-Mart and Winn Dixie
  • Kentucky: 2 Wal-Mart stores
  • Mississippi: 138 stores across the state, including Food Giant, Greers, McPhail Supermarket, Piggly Wiggly, Wal-Mart and Winn Dixie
  • Missouri: 4 Wal-Mart stores
  • Tennessee: 49 stores across the state, including Piggly Wiggly and Wal-Mart
  • Texas: Maxwells Big Star in Bolivar and More for Less Food Store in Jackson

Consumers with questions about this recall should contact Zeigler's Controller, Ken Fitzgerald, at (800) 326-6328.

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

EXCLUSIVE REPORT: Mars Petcare's Latest Salmonella Problems

Anyone who thinks that Mars Petcare's Salmonella problems ended with the shutdown of its Everson, PA production facility is in for a disappointment.

Last month, the West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA) found Salmonella in samples of Special Kitty® Gourmet Blend dry cat food and Ol' Roy® Meaty Chunks 'N Gravy dry dog food. Both products were sold at Wal-Mart, and were manufactured for Wal-Mart by Mars Petcare. WVDA issued a "stop-sale" order for both products, and advised FDA of their findings.

As a result of the WVDA actions, Mars Petcare voluntarily recalled a "limited number" of bags of the Special Kitty Gourmet Blend cat food on October 27th. Wal-Mart posted a recall notice for the cat food on its website on October 27th, but removed it within a few days.

According to Catherine Bowyer, Assistant Director, Regulatory and Environmental Affairs Division of WVDA, the state analyzed samples of the Mars Petcare dry pet food as a result of receiving consumer complaints that some dogs had become sick after purportedly eating the Mars dog food. At least two of the dogs were seen by veterinarians, but Bowyer is unaware of any lab tests having been carried out.

Ms. Bowyer told eFoodAlert that the dry cat food was contaminated with Salmonella Senftenberg; the dog food contained Salmonella Typhimurium. The two pet foods were manufactured in different production facilities.

FDA has confirmed that they are looking into West Virginia's dog food findings, but an agency spokesman said that FDA does not comment on investigations that are in progress.

If you have purchased a Mars Petcare product – from Wal-Mart or any other store – and you, your pet or a family member has experienced any symptoms of Salmonella, you should contact your family physician, your veterinarian, and your local health authority. And please tell eFoodAlert readers about your experience by posting a comment.

Non-Dairy Creamer Recalled for Undeclared Milk

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is warning consumers about the presence of undeclared milk in non-dairy creamer products imported from Korea and sold under several different brand names.

The importer is cooperating in a recall of the following products:

  • Maxim Coffee Mix Original, 1200 g (12 g x 100); UPC 8 801037 019476
  • Maxim Coffee Mix Mocha Gold Mild, 1200 g (12 g x 100); UPC 8 801037 019667
  • Maxim Coffee Mix Mocha Gold Mild, 1800 g (12 g x 150); UPC 8 801037 032581
  • Maxim Coffee Mix Mocha Gold Mild, 240 g (12 g x 20); UPC 8 801037 006391
  • Maxim Coffee Mix Mocha Gold Mild Well-Being ½ Calories, 186 g (9.3 g x 20); UPC 8 801037 034134
  • Maxim Coffee Mix Ice, 183 g (18.3 g x 10); UPC 8 801037 038972
  • Maxim Cappuccino Mocha, 360 g (18 g x 20); UPC 8 801037 031300
  • Maxim Cappuccino Hazelnut, 360 g (18 g x 20); UPC 8 801037 031317
  • Maxim Cappuccino Vanilla, 360 g (18 g x 20); UPC 8 801037 031324
  • Maxwell House Coffee Mix Original, 240 g (12 g x 20); UPC 8 801037 035650
  • Maxwell House Coffee Mix Original, 600 g (12 g x 50); UPC 8 801037 035667
  • Taster’s Choice Coffee Mix, 240 g (12 g x 20); UPC 8 801055 126316
  • Taster’s Choice Coffee Mix, 1.2 kg (12 g x 100); UPC 8 801055 126606
  • Taster’s Choice Coffee Mix Mocha, 1.2 kg (12 g x 100); UPC 8 801055 126538
  • Taster’s Choice Well-Being Milk Coffee, 189 g (12.6 g x 15); UPC 8 801055 028672

The creamers were distributed in the provinces of British Columbia, Albert, Saskatchewan and Ontario. 

Individuals who are allergic to milk may experience a severe reaction to these "non-dairy" creamers. Consumers are advised to return the recalled products to the place of purchase for a refund.

A Backward Glance, One Year Later

One year ago today, eFoodAlert made its first appearance with a posting titled "Food Safety - An Oxymoron?"

During the last 760+ posts, I've tried to keep my promise to share with you my perspective on food safety news and issues. In doing so, I've talked about everything from candy to cholera, Myanmar to melamine, and E. coli to eggnog. Some of my posts have been part travelogue, as I toured Southeast Asia, France and the Netherlands. But food always was part of the travel scene.

Looking ahead to Year Two, I plan to continue my international perspective on food safety. I'll be following and writing about events in Asia, Africa, Europe, Oceania and the Americas. I hope you'll continue to travel the world of food safety with me.

Phyllis Entis

Monday, November 17, 2008

Confused Flour Beetle Stumbles Into Quaker Oats

The UK Food Standards Agency is advising consumers that Quaker Oats has recalled some 1.5Kg cartons of Quaker Oats Original and 1.0Kg cartons of Quaker 'Jumbo' Rolled Oats due to the possible presence of Tribolium confusum (a.k.a. "confused flour beetle"). The recalled packages were distributed only to Tesco stores.

The recalled packages bear the "Best Before" date of 11/07/2009 and "Durability" codes of 191, 192, or 193. No other packages are implicated in the recall.

Tribolium confusum is a grain pest, often infesting flour mills and grocery stores. The insect was awarded its unusual name, so the story goes, as a result of it having been confused with another species of Tribolium.

Quaker is advising its customers not to eat the recalled cereals. For more information, consumers can call the company's consumer care desk at 0800 032 4490.

Typhoid Outbreak Strikes Quezon

Last month, the British Columbia (Canada) Centre for Disease Control published a Health Alert to warn travelers about the risk of acquiring typhoid while visiting certain South Asian countries, including India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

The warning should have extended beyond South Asia to the Philippines.

The Philippines Department of Health reported earlier today that it is investigating 150 cases of typhoid in the towns of Infanta and Real in Quezon province. Residents have been told to boil their water until further notice.

The BCCDC recommended that individuals who are planning to travel to areas where typhoid occurs should be vaccinated before their trip. The typhoid vaccine is only 70-90% effective against Salmonella Typhi, and offers no protection whatsoever against other food-borne or water-borne diseases. Travelers, therefore, must still take all the usual precautions – drinking only bottled water (or other bottled beverages), and avoiding ice, raw vegetables, raw fruit and foods prepared by street vendors.

Typhoid is spread in contaminated food or water. Individuals may become infected without experiencing any symptoms, or may continue to shed the pathogen periodically in their stool even years after their symptoms have disappeared. These carriers can contaminate food or serving utensils, and pass the pathogen to unsuspecting consumers.

Traveling in less developed countries can be fascinating and educational. And sampling local cuisine is part of the fun. It's a wise traveler, though, who thinks twice before tasting.

Food Safety Deserves Seat At Presidential Table

In 1993, US Vice President Gore recommended that the nation's food industry and regulators move towards a preventative system for ensuring food safety. 

In 1994, USDA established the Office of the Under Secretary for Food Safety. 

In 1995, FDA introduced a compulsory HACCP program for the seafood industry. 

In 1996, USDA introduced a compulsory HACCP program (the "MegaReg") for the meat and poultry industry. CDC introduced the FoodNet surveillance system, and President Clinton signed both the Safe Drinking Water Act and the Food Quality Protection Act. 

In 1997, the Clinton Administration introduced its National Food Safety Initiative, the "Food Safety from Farm to Table" program, and the "Partnership for Food Safety Education." And approved the irradiation of meat.

In 1998, PulseNet knitted together a network of public health laboratories to speed the detection and identification of disease outbreaks. The Joint Institute for Food Safety Research sought to bring together expertise from government, academia and industry to coordinate research activities. The Administration established the President's Food Safety Council.

In 1999, FDA and the Treasury Department began to tackle the problem of unsafe imported foods. 

In 2000, George W. Bush took office. 

The President's Council on Food Safety issued its Food Safety Strategic Plan in January 2001. The Plan contained the following recommendations:
  • The Council recommends the development of near-term legislative proposals to strengthen the existing food safety statutes enabling stronger prevention, enforcement, and record keeping activities.
  • The Council recommends near-term efforts to strengthen agency coordination to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of Federal food safety activities.
  • The Council recommends the development of comprehensive, unifying legislation, followed by the development of a corresponding organizational reform plan that protects the public's health by allowing risk-based allocation of resources and utilization of science-based regulation, enforcement, and education. This comprehensive framework should address food safety standard setting, inspection, enforcement, research, and education.

Earlier today, the Produce Safety Project at Georgetown University – a Pew Charitable Trusts initiative – issued its assessment of the government's response to this year's outbreak of Salmonella Saintpaul. The report highlights:

  • the failure of federal and state agencies to communicate clearly with the public during the outbreak; 
  • the lack of organization, capacity and coordination in the government's response to the outbreak;
  • and the failure of the federal government (i.e., the FDA) to establish and implement mandatory preventative safety standards for fresh product, even though the agency has the statutory authority to implement those standards.

What happened to all of the Clinton initiatives?

President-Elect Obama is inheriting a full plate from the Bush Administration. But he cannot afford to ignore the pent up problems in our food safety system. Reactivating the President's Council on Food Safety might be a good place to start.

Sunday, November 16, 2008

Cholera Runs Rampant in Africa

Another month, another cholera outbreak. Or two. Or three.

November has seen its share of disasters in Africa. And cholera – the ultimate "disease of disaster" – is taking its usual toll on the continent's devastated population.

Foremost on the list of disaster areas is the Democratic Republic of Congo, where fighting in the eastern part of the country has displaced more than 800,000 people. The World Health Organization reports that cholera cases in Kivu province have tripled since the beginning of October, with more than 1,800 cases having been logged in the province. WHO is working with non-governmental organizations such as Doctors Without Borders, UNICEF and the International Red Cross to furnish food, clean water, and medicines to the refugee camps, in an attempt to contain disease outbreaks.

Zimbabwe, too, is a man-made disaster that has become a breeding ground for cholera. The dysfunctional political situation in this once-prosperous British colony has resulted in a collapse of the existing water and sewage treatment systems. And the cholera bacteria that are endemic in the region have spread through the population. 

According to WHO, more than 2,800 Zimbabweans have become infected with cholera since August. There have been 115 reported deaths. At least some of those deaths could have been prevented if the country's hospitals had been adequately stocked and staffed.  

Finally, cholera has killed at least 53 people in a remote area of Mozambique, and has sickened as many as 180. The area is in one of four provinces that experienced severe flooding earlier this year. It's a fairly safe bet that the floodwaters contaminated the lake and river water used – without treatment – by the local population for drinking, cooking and washing. 

Whether the disaster that triggers an outbreak of cholera is man-made or natural, the outcome is the same – death and devastation for the innocent population. It takes an adequate supply of clean drinking water and a safe means of disposing of human waste to avoid adding disease on top of disaster.