UK Company Recalls Cheese Sold In USA

January 31, 2009

Cropwell Bishop Creamery Limited of England has recalled specific lot numbers and date codes of Blue Stilton and Shropshire Blue Cheese, because the cheese may contain Listeria monocytogenes.

The recall comes after earlier recalls announced by vendors of the cheese, both in the United States and Canada.

Cropwell has recalled the following products:

• Ilchester Shropshire Blue (12 oz): Lot #3052822700; Exp date, 2/10/09
  
• Ilchester Shropshire Blue (7 to 9 oz): Lot #3052828700; Exp date, 4/19/09
  
• Ilchester Shropshire Blue (1/8 lb): Lot #3052835200; Exp date, 4/27/09
  
• Ilchester Shropshire Blue (1/16 lb): Lot #3375821700; Exp date, julian code 8217
  
• Ilchester BabyBlue Stilton (2/5 lb): Lot #3375834000 and 3375829500; Exp date, julian codes 8340 and 8295
  
• Ilchester Blue Stilton (1/8 lb): Lot #3375828400; Exp date, julian code 8284
  
• Ilchester Blue Stilton  (2/9 lb): Lot #3375828400, 3375821700, 3375833300, 3375829400, 3375827800, 3375824500 and 3357816400; Exp date, julian codes 8284, 8217, 8333 , 8294, 8278, 8245 and 8164
  
• Ilchester Blue Stilton (1/9 lb): Lot #3375833600, 3375829400, 3375824500, 3758162000 and 3375825200; Exp date, julian codes 8336, 8294, 8245, 8162 and 8252
  
• Ilchester Blue Stilton (1/16 lb): Lot #3375825400; Exp date, julian code 8254
  
• Ilchester Blue Stilton (18/1 lb):  Lot #3052829500 and 3052830800; Exp dates, 4/19/09 and 5/2/09
  
• Ilchester Blue Silton (6/3.5 oz crock): Lot #2216832300; Exp date, 3/26/09
  
• Global Cheese Market Stilton (7 to 9 oz):  Lot #714568 and 714720; Exp dates, 3/22/09 and 3/29/09
  
• Global Cheese Market Stilton (1/5 lb): Lot #713939, 715973 and 716368; Exp dates 3/9/09, 5/3/09 and 5/17/09
  
• Trader Joe’s Blue Stilton: purchased on or before 12/31/08. Film-wrapped. 
  
• Trader Joe’s Shropshire Blue Cheese: purchased on or before 1/4/09. Film-wrapped. 
  
• Cropwell Bishop Creamery Blue Stilton: purchased on or before 12/31/08
  
• Cropwell Bishop Creamery Shropshire Blue Cheese: purchased on or before 12/31/08

The cheeses were sold in grocery stores and retail stores across the United States, including the following. Please use the live links to navigate to the store web sites for details.

• Costco Canada
  
• Kroger/Dillons
  
• Sam's Club
  
• ShopRite
  
• Trader Joe's
  

According to Cropwell, the decision to recall the cheese came as a result of "recent testing" that detected the potential for contamination. The first Canadian recall of Cropwell Blue Stilton was announced on December 10th, and affected cheese sold through Costco across Canada. UK authorities advised other countries in the European Union about the contamination on December 31, 2008.

Perhaps FDA was otherwise occupied with peanut butter, but it seems to have taken a very long time for this potentially contaminated cheese to be recalled from the US marketplace.

Allergy Alert: French-made Chocolate Recalled in UK

January 31, 2009

The UK Food Standards Agency advised consumers yesterday that a single date code of Bovetti Dark Chocolate with Cocoa Beans (100g) contains undeclared casein, a milk protein, and is being recalled.

The chocolate was made in France and imported into the UK by Trans Manche Food Ltd. The recalled bars were sold in Waitrose, and may also have been available in other retail stores in the UK.

The recalled item is described as:

• Bovetti Dark Chocolate with Cocoa Beans, 100g: Best before 30 September 2009; Product code: L246
  

Individuals who are allergic to milk protein may experience severe symptoms shortly after consuming the recalled chocolate. Consumers should return the recalled Bovetti chocolate to the store for a refund.

The UK Food Standards Agency is working with its French counterpart to determine whether any additional actions are needed.

Anatomy of a Peanut Butter Outbreak: The Investigation

January 30, 2009

The Salmonella Typhimurium outbreak began officially on September 1, 2008, when the first victim began to feel ill. Three cases were recorded in September. But the outbreak got underway in earnest in October.

According to CDC's Epidemic Curve, the number of cases began to increase during the first week of October, reaching a peak around Thanksgiving and into early December. As of January 28th, the most recent onset date for a victim's symptoms was January 16, 2009.

CDC received the first whisper of an outbreak on November 10th, when staff members received reports of 13 cases of Salmonella Typhimurium infections in 12 states. All 13 cases were caused by the identical strain. Something definitely was in the wind. But what?

By November 25th, the number of cases had grown to 35, and CDC began an epidemiological assessment of the case reports. A second cluster of 41 cases was reported on December 2nd. The two cluster strains were a genetic match. CDC compared the genetic profile of the outbreak strains to other strains in its data bank, including Salmonella Typhimurium strains isolated from cases of human and animal illnesses, and those isolated from raw meat and poultry products in the United States.

The strain of Salmonella Typhimurium responsible for this new outbreak was unique. It had never before been reported in the United States. Not from people. Not from animals. Not from food samples.

The epidemiological detective work – carried on both by CDC and by state agencies – continued. The break in the case came from Minnesota's formidable Team Diarrhea, which keyed in on small clusters of cases in two long-term care institutions and one school. Team Diarrhea determined that the only food common to all three institutions was King Nut creamy peanut butter. By January 9th, Minnesota identified outbreak cases in six additional institutions. In all cases, King Nut creamy peanut butter was served to residents.

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture sampled peanut butter from an open jar of King Nut found at one of the institutions and, on January 12th, announced that the state lab had recovered the outbreak strain of Salmonella Typhimurium from the open jar.

While the Minnesota finding pointed strongly to King Nut peanut butter as a source of the outbreak – especially when combined with epidemiological data gathered by CDC and other state agencies – some significant loose ends still needed to be secured. King Nut distributed its peanut butter to a limited number of states; yet the outbreak already had spread to 43 states. 

King Nut, however, did not manufacture the peanut butter. It simply distributed peanut butter manufactured for it by Peanut Corporation of America. PCA sold peanut butter, peanut paste, and other peanut products to institutions, to distributors, to food service operations and to food processors across the United States. And the company exported some products to Canada and elsewhere.

Peanut Corporation of America issued a press release on January 10th that acknowledged the outbreak, highlighted the company's cooperation with federal and state agencies in the outbreak investigation, and emphasized:

"To date, the only conclusive testing linking salmonella to PCA's product was done on an open container of the peanut butter in a large, institutional kitchen. The history of the handling of that open container is unknown at this time."

This statement was made obsolete less than one week later. Georgia's Department of Agriculture announced on January 16th that it had discovered Salmonella in a previously unopened jar of peanut butter collected from PCA's Blakely, GA processing plant. And Connecticut removed the last shred of lingering doubt on January 20th, when the state's Department of Consumer Protection announced having recovered the outbreak strain of Salmonella Typhimurium from an unopened 5-pound tub of King Nut peanut butter found in the warehouse of a West Haven distributor.

The evidence linking the outbreak to peanut butter from the Blakely plant was compelling, but it didn't account for nearly all of the reported cases. CDC initiated a further epidemiological study in mid-January. The results of that study pointed to Keebler® and Austin® brands of peanut butter sandwich crackers. The crackers contained peanut butter manufactured at PCA's Blakely facility.

Kellogg reacted with admirable haste, placing a precautionary hold on these products as soon as they came under suspicion, and initiating a full recall when that suspicion was confirmed.

PCA acted more slowly, recalling tranches of production, as additional information on the Blakely operation and history was uncovered by FDA. This piecemeal recall, doubtless, complicated the work of PCA's customers, who based their own recall decisions on PCA's announcements.

As of January 29th, CDC has received reports of 529 confirmed cases of salmonellosis caused by the outbreak strain of Salmonella Typhimurium. At least 116 people have been hospitalized. The outbreak may have contributed to the death of eight outbreak victims – all of them at least 59 years old. Five states have reported outbreak-associated deaths: Minnesota (3), Virginia (2), Idaho (1), North Carolina (1), and Ohio (1).

The agency believes that this outbreak is not yet over. It takes more than two weeks from the time an individual is infected until CDC has the genetic fingerprint of the Salmonella in its hands. This delay is due to the incubation period of the infection, the patient's delay in seeking treatment, and the time required to recover Salmonella from the patient's stool and perform the lab tests that confirm the genetic match. 

Continued in Anatomy of a Peanut Butter Outbreak: The Aftermath

Anatomy of a Peanut Butter Outbreak: The Build-Up

January 29, 2009

Peanut Corporation America is a privately held company, with operations in Texas, Virginia and Georgia. The Company was incorporated in 1983 as J.R. Britt Peanut Co., Inc. 

The following year, J.R. Britt changed its name to Georgia Food & Nut Processors, Inc. Five years later, in 1989, the name changed again – to Casey's Food Products, Inc. In 2001, the Company renamed itself once more, and became Peanut Corporation of America.

In 2006, FDA contracted with the Georgia Department of Agriculture to inspect PCA's Blakely, GA processing facility on behalf of the federal government. One assumes that FDA paid Georgia for this service.

An inspector from the GDA visited the Blakely facility twice yearly, beginning in January 2006. The inspections could hardly be called in-depth. The longest visit lasted four hours; the shortest "routine" inspection, carried out in October 2008, lasted just one hour and 40 minutes. The state drew samples for lab analysis on one occasion only – August 29, 2007. Salmonella was not detected in those samples.

During her October 2008 visit, state inspector Donna Adams recorded only two violations:

• Totes returned from a customer were intended for reuse by this customer. The totes appeared to have residual peanut butter and a black buildup.
  
• Mildew and possible static dust buildup on ceiling of peanut butter storage room.
  

The first violation was corrected on-site – the intended tote refill operation was suspended. PCA was instructed to correct the mildew and dust buildup by November 5, 2008.

Between June 2007 and continuing through September 2008, PCA received Salmonella-positive lab reports from the company's independent testing lab on 12 occasions. In all cases, the company arranged for a retesting of the contaminated product. On receiving a negative result from the repeat test, PCA shipped the product to its customer(s). 

The most recent Salmonella-positive result, obtained from a sample of peanut paste manufactured on September 25, 2008, was reported as Salmonella Typhimurium – the same serotype as the microbe responsible for the outbreak. 

There is no indication whether or not this Salmonella Typhimurium strain was a genetic match for the outbreak strain. But, according to CDC, the first outbreak victims became ill at the beginning of September 2008.

Continued in Anatomy of a Peanut Butter Outbreak: The Outbreak Investigation

Peanut Corporation of America Throws in the Towel

Company recalls all peanuts and peanut products processed in Blakely since January 1, 2007

January 28, 2009

Peanut Corporation of America (PCA) announced this evening that the company has recalled all peanuts and peanut products processed and shipped from the company's Blakely, Georgia production facility since January 1, 2007.

Today's action follows the publication of FDA's investigation report that described unsanitary conditions in the Blakely plant.

Salmonella-contaminated peanut butter processed in the Blakely plant is blamed for an outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium infections that has sickened more than 500 victims in 43 states, and one Canadian. Twenty-two percent of the victims have been hospitalized and the outbreak may have contributed to eight deaths.

PCA supplied its products to distributors and food processors across the United States, in Canada, Haiti, Korea and Trinidad. Some of the products that were manufactured using PCA products were exported to Canada and may also have been distributed overseas. Some pet treat manufacturers also purchased peanut butter products from PCA.

PCA's recall includes all styles, all sizes, and all lot codes that begin with '7', '8' or '9' of Peanut Butter, Peanut Paste, Peanut Meal, Peanut Granules and Peanuts.

We can expect a new series of consumer recalls to follow.

Allergy Alert: Undeclared Walnuts In Hannaford Ice Cream

January 28, 2009

House of Flavors Ice Cream Company (Ludington, MI) has recalled lot code SR L1 26-426 08319 of Hannaford Chocolate Chip Ice Cream due to the presence of undeclared walnuts in the product.

The recalled ice cream was sold through Sweetbay Supermarkets in the state of Florida, only.

 

The problem arose when cartons of Chocolate Chip ice cream were inadvertently filled at the production plant during or after a run of Maple Walnut ice cream. 

Individuals who are allergic to nuts may experience a life-threatening allergic reaction as a result of consuming even a small amount of the walnut-contaminated ice cream. Consumers are urged to return the product to a Sweetbay Supermarket store.

Peanut Butter Roulette

January 28, 2009

The FDA today released a report summarizing the observations made by agency inspectors during their review of the operations, plant records, and compliance status of Peanut Corporation of America's Blakely production facility. 

The complete report, which has not yet been posted on FDA's web site, is available on Bill Marler's blog site.

Two weeks ago, we offered some thoughts as to how peanut butter might become contaminated with Salmonella. We mentioned poor sanitation, poor maintenance, cross-contamination, and rodent or bird infestation. According to the FDA report, all of these elements were present in the Blakely plant. And more.

FDA discovered that PCA never validated the ability of its roasting process to kill Salmonella. Nor did the company maintain proper temperature control records, making verification impossible.

PCA also routinely engaged in data shopping. On a dozen occasions, beginning in January 2008, the private lab engaged by PCA to analyze peanuts, peanut paste and peanut butter reported having found Salmonella in a sample. Each time, management retested the contaminated product, obtained a "negative" result and shipped the product – probably accompanied by a "Certificate of Analysis" giving the production batch a clean bill of health.

In all, FDA investigators noted ten adverse observations.

1. Failure to manufacture foods under conditions and controls necessary to minimize the potential for growth of microorganisms and contamination - 12 Salmonella-positive lots retested and shipped to customers
   
2. Failure to maintain equipment, containers and utensils used to convey, hold, and store food in a manner that protects against contamination - Salmonella was found in peanut paste by the company's lab in September. The company did not clean the peanut paste production line after receiving the Salmonella-positive report, and continued to manufacture peanut paste on this line until the plant ceased operations on January 9, 2009.
   
3. Failure to perform mechanical manufacturing steps so as to protect food against contamination - Effectiveness of roasting temperature/time parameters was not validated, and proper roasting temperature records not maintained.
   
4. Failure to store finished food under conditions that would protect against microbial contamination - Raw peanuts and roasted peanuts were stored next to each other. Salmonella was detected by FDA in two environmental swab samples taken in the finished product storage area, and mold was observed on the walls and ceiling of the cooler used for storing finished product.
   
5. The plant is not constructed in such a manner as to allow ceilings to be kept in good repair - There were open gaps at the air conditioner intakes on the roof, and water stains and streaks around the skylights in areas directly over the production/packaging room.
   
6. The design of equipment and utensils fails to preclude the adulteration of food with contaminants - Felt material that cannot be cleaned or sanitized on the final roller at the roaster's discharge.
   
7. Proper precautions to protect food and food-contact surfaces from contamination with microorganisms cannot be taken because of deficiencies in plant construction and design - Ventilation system does not prevent cross-contamination; raw and finished products handling areas are not segregated from one another.
   
8. Devices and fixtures are not designed and constructed to protect against recontamination of clean, sanitized hands - The hand-washing sink is also used to wash utensils and floor mops.
   
9. Failure to conduct cleaning and sanitizing operations for utensils and equipment in a manner that protects against contamination of food - Dirt build-up of various sorts on equipment, conveyors, walls and floors.
   
10. Effective measures are not being taken to protect against the contamination of food on the premises by pests - Roaches (live and dead) in the wash room adjacent to the production facility.
    

When Peanut Corporation of America announced its initial voluntary recall, the company had this to say about its corporate philosophy:

"The company prides itself on the quality and freshness of its products and strives constantly to maintain an environment in compliance with federal, state and local regulations and guidelines to provide a clean, safe product."

The statement should have read:

 "Peanut Corporation of America prides itself on hiding contamination from its customers and from federal, state and local regulators, and trusts to blind luck that its products will not cause harm to consumers."

Hygaard Recalls More Sub Sandwiches

Updated January 28, 2009

Original article posted January 27, 2009

Hygaard Fine Foods (EST 318, Sherwood Park, Alberta) has recalled two more sub sandwiches, according to a Health Hazard Alert issued today by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. The recalled products may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

Today's recall is an expansion of an initial recall, announced by Hygaard earlier this month.

The following products, distributed in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Ontario and the Northwest Territories, were recalled by Hygaard today:

• Hygaard Lumberjack Sub (312g): UPC #0 65504 49413 7; Best before January 30, 2009
  
• Hygaard Little John Sub (387g): UPC #0 65504 49446 5; Best before January 30, 2009
  
• Hygaard Mini Pizza Sub family pack (798g): UPC #0 65504 49760 2 and 0 65504 49762 6; Best before March 06, 2009
• Hygaard Mini Ham Sub family pack (738g): UPC #0 65504 49759 6 and 0 65504 49763 3; Best before March 06, 2009
• Hygaard Mini Hoagie family pack (822g): UPC #0 65504 49765 7; Best before March 06, 2009

The Best Before dates may appear in different formats – for example, JAN 30, JA 30, or 30 01 09 – on the sandwich label.

Listeria monocytogenes causes mild flu-like or gastrointestinal illness in otherwise healthy individuals. But the elderly, the very young, and people with weakened immune systems or debilitated by a pre-existing illness may suffer very severe – possibly fatal – illness as a result of becoming infected by Listeria monocytogenes. A pregnant woman may transmit the infection to her unborn child, resulting in possible premature birth, stillbirth, or the birth of a seriously ill infant.

Anyone who may have eaten one of the recalled sandwiches and who begins to suffer symptoms of listeriosis should seek immediate medical attention.

Starbucks Drops All Peanut Butter Products

Company says its products not part of Salmonella recall

January 27, 2009

In a mysterious development, Starbucks has pulled all peanut butter products from its US and Canadian stores, even though Peanut Corporation of America is not a Starbucks supplier. According to Reuters, the company withdrew its peanut butter products as a "safety precaution."

It might be just coincidental that a Canadian customer of Starbucks claims to have suffered a near-fatal allergic reaction last spring after eating a Starbucks Peach Yogurt Parfait. The parfait contained undeclared nuts. CBC reported earlier today that the Canadian Food Inspection Agency is investigating the incident, including Starbucks' labeling practices.

Kroger Recalls Stilton Cheese

January 27, 2009

Kroger has listed two separate recall notices for Stilton Cheese that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

This recall follows a similar recall of Stilton Cheese announced earlier this month by ShopRite, and a Canadian recall of Stilton Cheese initiated in December 2008.

The Kroger and ShopRite recalls do not mention the origin of the cheese. But the Canadian recall identified the contaminated Stilton as Cropwell Bishop Creamery Finest Blue Stilton Cheese, manufactured in the United Kingdom. The UK Food Standards Agency advised other European Union countries in the first week of January of a batch of Stilton Cheese that was contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

The Kroger recalls cover the following product formats and store chains:

• ILCHSTR STILTON WEDGE (8 OZ.), SWRS STILTON CHEESE WHEEL (8 LB.): in Dillons stores; in Kroger stores located in Greater Louisville (including Indiana), Lexington, and Nashville, TN, North Carolina, Virginia, Eastern WV, Eastern Kentucky, Indiana (except SE IN, -Evansville-), Illinois, Eastern Missouri, Texas and Louisiana
  
• STILTON CHEESE - STORE CUT & WRAPPED, SWRS STILTON CHEESE WHEEL (8 LB.): in Dillons stores; in Kroger stores located in Greater Louisville (including Indiana), Lexington, and Nashville, TN, North Carolina, Virginia, Eastern WV, Eastern Kentucky, Indiana (except SE IN, -Evansville-), Illinois, Eastern Missouri, Texas and Louisiana
  

Customers who purchased the recalled cheese should return it to the store for a refund.

Botulism Risk Prompts Dessert Sauce Recall

Updated January 27, 2009 with new retail distribution information

Original article posted January 25, 2009

Stonewall Kitchen (York, ME) has recalled seven of its dessert sauces after discovering that the pH (acidity) and water activity levels did not meet the company's food safety standards. Products with a pH of 4.6 or higher, or with elevated water activity, may promote the growth of Clostridium botulinum and the production of a potent neurotoxin by the microbe.

The company has recalled all product codes and expiration dates of the following items:

• Stonewall Kitchen Chocolate Hazelnut Sauce (SKU 161312) – round glass jar, 12 oz.
  
• Stonewall Kitchen Chocolate Peanut Butter (SKU 161211) – round glass jar, 12 oz.
  
• Stonewall Kitchen Coffee Caramel Sauce (SKU 161204) – round glass jar, 13 oz.
  
• Stonewall Kitchen Dulce de Leche Sauce (SKU 161214) – round glass jar, 12.5 oz.
  
• Barefoot Contessa Espresso Dulce de Leche (SKU 542313) – round glass jar, 10.5 oz
  
• Simply Enjoy Coffee Caramel Sauce – square glass jar, 13 oz.
  
• Simply Enjoy Chocolate Peanut Butter Sauce – square glass jar, 12 oz.
  

The two Simply Enjoy items were distributed through A-Hold Corporation, the parent of Stop & Shop and Giant stores, and were sold nationally in both chains.

The Stonewall Kitchen and Barefoot Contessa sauces were also available nationally, through Stonewall Kitchen stores, through the Company's direct-sales division (catalog and internet sales) and through wholesale distribution. The Stonewall Kitchen and Barefoot Contessa sauces may have been purchased either in gift baskets or individually.

Recalled items also were available in the following retail store chains:

• Harris Teeter: Stonewall Kitchen Chocolate Peanut Butter (12 oz.), UPC #0071138102546
  
• QFC (a Kroger chain): Stonewall Kitchen Coffee Carmel Sauce
  

The Company has received no complaints or illness reports linked to these products. Nevertheless, consumers should not even taste one of the sauces, as a minuscule quantity of botulinum toxin is capable of producing severe neurological symptoms. Anyone who has sampled one of these sauces and begins to experience even mild symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.

Stonewall Kitchen asks consumers to return these products to the store for a full refund. Customers with questions can contact Stonewall Kitchen Premier Services at 1-800-826-1735.

Bits & Pieces: Black Diamond Mozzarella Slices Recalled

January 26, 2009

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency announced that Parmalat has recalled one date code batch of Black Diamond brand Fat-free Mozzarella processed cheese slices after receiving reports from two consumers, who complained of small pieces of embedded plastic mesh.

The 500g packages of processed cheese slices were produced by Parmalat in Belleville, ON and distributed across Canada. The packages are labeled with a code and Best Before date of 09 AU 09 REG1411, and UPC #0 68200 88837 8.

The plastic mesh pieces represent a choking hazard. Consumers should either discard the recalled packages of cheese slices or return them to the store for a refund.

Sliced Leeks Recalled In Canada

Updated January 26, 2009

Original article posted January 21, 2009

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency advises that Les Cultures de Chez Nous Inc. (Sainte-Brigitte-des Saults, QC) has recalled two sliced leek products. The company announced the recall after learning that the products may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

The following two items – distributed in Québec, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick – have been recalled:

• Sliced, Washed Leeks, 250g: UPC #6 61999 00250 7; Best before 27-01-09
  
• Sliced Leeks, 750g: UPC #6 61999 00750 2; Best before 27-01-09
  

No illnesses have been reported. Nevertheless, the consumption of a product contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes represents a serious health risk to the elderly, the very young, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems.

Anyone who has purchased the recalled items should either discard them or return them to the store. Consumers with questions about this recall are invited to contact the company at 819-336-4846.

S. Bourassa Recalls Sliced Leeks

January 26, 2009

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency advises residents in the Province of Québec that S. Bourassa (St-Sauveur) Limited has recalled sliced leeks that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

The recalled items contain sliced leeks supplied – and recalled last week – by Les Cultures de Chez Nous, Inc.

S. Bourassa has recalled sliced leeks sold in various weight packages (approximately 250g to 400g) bearing "EMP. LE 13/01/2009 (January 13, 2009) to 20/01/2009 (January 20, 2009)", "MEIL. AV. 20/01/2009 (January 20, 2009) to 27/01/2009 (January 27, 2009)", and code 160305X.

The recalled S. Bourassa Sliced Leeks were sold only in Québec.

No illnesses have been reported. Nevertheless, Listeria monocytogenes is an especially dangerous pathogen, and is capable of causing serious – even fatal – illnesses in susceptible individuals. Consumers are urged to either discard the recalled product or return it to the store for a refund.

Allergy Alert: Marché Esposito Recalls Three Products

January 26, 2009

The Québec Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPAQ) has announced a recall of three Marché Esposito brand items due to the presence of undeclared allergens.

All packages carrying a packaging date up to and including 20 janvier 2009 (January 20, 2009) of the following items were recalled:

• Halvah pistache (Pistachio halvah): undeclared nuts and peanuts
  
• Salade de pomme de terre (Potato salad): undeclared eggs and sulfite
  
• Salade macaroni (Macaroni salad): undeclared eggs
  

The products were sold only at Marché Esposito, 340 Marcel Laurin, St-Laurent, QC.

Individuals who are allergic to eggs, peanuts or other nuts, or who are sensitive to sulfites, may experience a severe reaction after eating even a small quantity of these products. Consumers should either discard the items, or return them to Marché Esposito for a refund.

Allergy Alert: Végé-Pâté Recalled in Québec

January 26, 2009

The Québec Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPAQ) announced a recall of Bio-Bon brand Végé-Pâté, due to the presence of gluten in the product. The pâté was labeled "Sans Gluten" (gluten-free).

The vegetarian pâté was packaged in 200g containers and sold in a number of unspecified retail stores in the province. The recall covers packages labeled with a "Best before" date of 4 février 2009 (February 4, 2009), and packages that do not show a "Best before" date.

Individuals who are sensitive to gluten may experience severe gastrointestinal discomfort after eating a food that contains gluten. Consumers who purchased this mislabeled pâté should return it to the store for a refund.

Allergy Alert: Heinz BBQ Sauce Recalled in Australia

January 25, 2009

Heinz Australia has recalled a single batch of Heinz BBQ Sauce with Honey and Black Pepper due to the presence of undeclared wheat and soy.

The recalled BBQ sauce was packaged in 370 mL plastic bottles, labeled as Best Before 19/11/10. It was distributed throughout Australia.

While most individuals can consume the BBQ sauce without risk, people who are allergic to wheat or soy may experience a severe allergic reaction after consuming even a small quantity of the BBQ sauce.

Consumers are requested to return the recalled items to the store for a full refund.

Bits & Pieces: Barber Foods Recalls Frozen, Stuffed Chicken

January 25, 2009

Barber Foods (Portland, ME) announced on January 20th that the Company was recalling approximately 6,050 pounds of frozen, stuffed chicken products after learning that the food items may contain pieces of plastic. The problem was discovered as a result of a consumer complaint.

The following items were recalled by Barber:

• Market Day® Stuffed Chicken Breast Roast with Rib Meat, with Cranberry and Sage Stuffing (2.5-pound packages): Est. No. P-276, Product Code 1037, Cat. C, Date code 31881 (located at the top of the ingredient statement on the box).
  
• BARBER FOODS DISTINCTIONS Barber Carver with Cranberry and Sage Stuffing (10-pound cases): Est. No. P-276, Product Code 031484, Date code 31881 or 31882 (located on the top of the case)
  

The two recalled items were produced on November 13th. They were distributed by Market Day in the Midwest and Eastern United States, and by Barber Foods to institutional food service establishments and as samples nationwide.

As this is a Class II recall, USDA will not be posting a retail distribution list. Consumers can contact Market Day (1-877-632-7753) and Barber Foods (1-800-577-2595) directly to request more information.

Canada Recalls Sub Sandwiches

January 20, 2009

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has advised consumers that certain Hygaard brand sub sandwiches may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes and have been recalled.

The following sandwiches, sold only in Saskatchewan and northern Alberta, are included in this recall:

• Hygaard Mini Pizza Sub, 140 g: UPC 0 65504 49440 3, Best before February 10, 2009
  
• Hygaard Little John Sub, 387 g: UPC 0 65504 49446 5, Best before February 10, 2009
  

The Best before date may appear on the label as FEB 10, FE 10 or 10 02 09.

No illnesses have been reported, but Listeria monocytogenes can cause a life-threatening illness among susceptible populations, including the elderly, the very young, and individuals with weakened immunity. Pregnant women may transmit their infection to their infants in utero, resulting in premature delivery, stillbirth or the birth of an already-contaminated baby.

Any individual who has consumed one of the recalled sandwiches and begins to experience symptoms of Listeria monocytogenes infection, including mild gastrointestinal or flu-like symptoms, should seek medical advice.

Uneviscerated Mackerel Recalled in New York

January 19, 2009

K-Fat Inc. (Brooklyn, NY) has announced a recall of Golden Dragon Fish brand Frozen Cooked Mackerel Fish because the fish had not been eviscerated prior to processing.

Processing uneviscerated fish exposes consumers to a risk of Clostridium botulinum.

The problem was discovered during a routine inspection carried out by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets.

The fish is a product of Vietnam and is packaged in uncoded 250g plastic bag and basket. It was distributed in New York and New Jersey, only.

Salmonella Found In Austin® Sandwich Cracker

January 19, 2009

FDA has just announced having confirmed the presence of Salmonella in a sample of Austin® Quality Foods Toasty Crackers with Peanut Butter. This variety of sandwich cracker was one of the peanut butter products recalled by The Kellogg Company. Genetic fingerprint information was not released – probably because the analysis is still in progress.

Kellogg Company, which has behaved admirably throughout this peanut butter ordeal, released the following statement from the Company's President and CEO, David Mackay:

"We apologize to our consumers and customers, and we can't emphasize enough our disappointment and deep regret about this situation. The food industry upholds certain operating standards and we are proud that we exceed these standards in our facilities. Events of the last week suggest there was a breach in this supplier's process that is unacceptable to Kellogg, our customers and our consumers."

"Based on our learnings from this experience and consistent with our 100-year commitment to quality and food safety, Kellogg will evaluate its processes to ensure we take necessary actions to reassure consumers and rebuild confidence in these products."

This outbreak, which has been linked to peanut butter products processed and sold by Peanut Corporation of America, has grown to at least 474 confirmed cases as of January 17th. Twenty-three percent of the victims have been hospitalized. Six have died.

The list of recalled peanut butter products is growing day by day, and most of the recalled items probably are still on store shelves.

Please monitor Peanut Butter Recalls & Alerts for updated information.

PCA Peanut Butter Shipped to Canada, Korea & Haiti

January 19, 2009

In the most recent of a series of recall announcements, Peanut Corporation of America has expanded its recall once again, to include all peanut butter and peanut paste produced in its Blakely, Georgia facility on or after July 1, 2008.

According to the news release, PCA shipped the recalled products to North American customers in 24 states and the Canadian province of Saskatchewan, as well as to overseas customers in Haiti and Korea. PCA supplies its products to food service operations, institutions, distributors and food processors. 

While PCA is not sold in retail stores, snack foods that were made using the recalled peanut butter and peanut paste is widely available to consumers in supermarkets, grocery stores, convenience stores and even in vending machines.

These lot numbers of the following products have been recalled:

8183 8184 8185 8186 8187 8188 8189 8190 8191 8192 8193 8194 8195 8196 8197 8198 8199 8200 8201 8202 8203 8204 8205 8206 8207 8208 8209 8210 8211 8212 8213 8214 8215 8216 8217 8218 8219 8220 8221 8222 8223 8224 8225 8226 8227 8228 8229 8230 8231 8232 8233 8234 8235 8236 8237 8238 8239 8240 8241 8242 8243 8244 8245 8246 8247 8248 8249 8250 8251 8252 8253 8254 8255 8256 8257 8258 8259 8260 8261 8262 8263 8264 8265 8266 8267 8268 8269 8270 8271 8272 8273 8274 8275 8276 8277 8278 8279 8280 8281 8282 8283 8284 8285 8286 8287 8288 8289 8290 8291 8292 8293 8294 8295 8296 8297 8298 8299 8300 8301 8302 8303 8304 8305 8306 8307 8308 8309 8310 8311 8312 8313 8314 8315 8316 8317 8318 8319 8320 8321 8322 8323 8324 8325 8326 8327 8328 8329 8330 8331 8332 8333 8334 8335 8336 8337 8338 8339 8340 8341 8342 8343 8344 8345 8346 8347 8348 8349 8350 8351 8352 8353 8354 8355 8356 8357 8358 8359 8360 8361 8362 8363 8364 8365 8366 9001 9002 9003 9004 9005 9006 9007 9008 9009 9010 9011 9012 9013 9014 9015 9016.

• Stock #551000: 6 ct / 5 lb; Creamy Stabilized Peanut Butter
  
• Stock #551000 AZ: 6 ct / 5 lb; Creamy Stabilized Peanut Butter with Sugar
  
• Stock #551006: 6 ct / 5 lb; Crunchy Stabilized Peanut Butter
  
• Stock #551020: 35 lb; Creamy Stabilized Peanut Butter
  
• Stock #551022: 35 lb; Natural Course Peanut Paste
  
• Stock #551025: 35 lb; Old Fashioned Creamy Peanut Butter w/ 1% Salt
  
• Stock #551026: 35 lb; Old Fashioned Crunchy Peanut Butter w/ 1% Salt
  
• Stock #551034: 35 lb; Crunchy Stabilized Peanut Butter
  
• Stock #551035: 35 lb; Crunchy Natural Peanut Butter
  
• Stock #551040: 35 lb; Creamy Natural Peanut Butter
  
• Stock #551049: 50 lb; Sugar Free Creamy Stabilized Peanut Butter
  
• Stock #551050: 50 lb; Creamy Stabilized Peanut Butter
  
• Stock #551050-PO: 50 lb; Creamy Stabilized Peanut Butter with Palm Oil
  
• Stock #551050-D: 50 lb; Dark Creamy Stabilized Peanut Butter
  
• Stock #551050-XS: 50 lb; Creamy Extra Stabilized Peanut Butter
  
• Stock #551051: 50 lb; Creamy Stabilized Peanut Butter with Monodiglyceride
  
• Stock #551053: 50 lb; Crunchy Stabilized Peanut Butter
  
• Stock #551053-OS: 50 lb; Extra Crunchy Stabilized Peanut Butter
  
• Stock #551059: 475 lb; Creamy Natural Peanut Butter with Stabilizer
  
• Stock #551060: 35 lb; Organic Natural Creamy Peanut Butter
  
• Stock #551061: 35 lb; Organic Old Fashioned Crunchy Peanut Butter
  
• Stock #551062: 35 lb; Organic Crunchy Natural Peanut Butter
  
• Stock #551063: 35 lb; Organic Old Fashioned Creamy Peanut Butter
  
• Stock #551064: 35 lb; Organic Natural Creamy Peanut Butter
  
• Stock #551072: 45 lb; Peanut Butter Variegate
  
• Stock #551080: 475 lb; Creamy Natural Redskin Peanut Butter with Salt
  
• Stock #551082: 475 lb; Creamy Natural Peanut Butter
  
• Stock #551082-DR: 475 lb; Dark Roasted Creamy Natural Peanut Butter
  
• Stock #561000: 35 lb; Pet Food Paste
  
• Stock #561000: 475 lb; Feed Grade Peanut Butter
  
• Stock #100TPASTE: 1700 lb; Creamy Natural Peanut Butter
  
• Stock #RM-PASTE: 1700 lb; Peanut Paste
  

The following lot numbers of PCA Stock #561058 (Tanker load; Coarse Natural Paste) have been recalled:

8169 8170 8172 8173 8174 8184 8185 8186 8187 8203 8204 8205 8206 8214 8215 8216 8217 8219 8220 8221 8222 8223 8225 8226 8227 8228 8259 8260 8261 8262 8263 8264 8280 8281 8282 8283 8302 8303 8304 8305 8308 8309 8310 8311 8343 8344 8345 8346 8347 8350 8351 8352.

For up-to-date information on recalls of consumer items manufactured using these PCA products, please monitor eFoodAlert's Peanut Butter Recalls and Alerts.

ShopRite Recalls Stilton Cheese

January 18, 2009

ShopRite has recalled all sizes and date codes of Global Cheese Market brand Stilton Cheese due to possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.

No illnesses have been reported, and there is no indication of where the cheese was produced.

Last month, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency alerted Canadian consumers to a recall of Cropwell Bishop Creamery Finest Blue Stilton Cheese, manufactured in the United Kingdom. That recall, also, was due to contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. 

Our email inquiry to Cropwell Bishop Creamery went unanswered. But the United Kingdom notified other countries in the European Union of a batch of blue Stilton cheese that was contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes at a level of 100 per gram.

Customers of ShopRite who purchased Global Cheese Market brand Stilton Cheese should return it to the store for a refund.

Peanut Butter-Related Recalls Multiply

January 17, 2009

Peanut Corporation of America has expanded its initial voluntary recall of peanut butter – announced just 3 days ago – to include "... all peanut butter produced on or after August 8, 2008 and peanut paste produced on or after September 26, 2008..." in its Blakely, Georgia facility.

The expanded recall comes after the states of Connecticut and Georgia both reported recovering Salmonella from previously unopened jars of King Nut peanut butter, and after Kellogg Company – to which PCA supplied peanut paste – announced its own recall of 16 Keebler®, Famous Amos® and Austin® products.

Hy-Vee Inc., a regional commercial bakery that purchased peanut butter from PCA also has initiated a recall of several items.

PCA has halted all production in its Blakely plant, and is notifying all customers who purchased peanut butter or peanut butter paste during the August 8 to September 26 time period to recall and retain all affected products.

The investigation, and the series of recalls it has spawned, was triggered by a national outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium infections that has sickened at least 453 people so far and has caused – or been associated with – six deaths.

Many more recalls are certain to follow, as customers of PCA receive notification of the recall. Please watch the eFoodAlert Peanut Butter Recalls & Alerts for updates as more information becomes available.

Kellogg Recalls Peanut Butter Snacks

Recall Includes Famous Amos®, Keebler® and Austin® Products

January 17, 2009

The Kellogg Company has initiated a voluntary recall of peanut butter sandwich crackers and cookies due to the possibility that they may be contaminated with Salmonella.

This action follows on the heels of Salmonella having been confirmed yesterday in unopened jars of King Nut peanut butter by the states of Connecticut and Georgia. 

Peanut Corporation of America, the manufacturer of King Nut peanut butter, supplied Kellogg with peanut butter paste used as an ingredient in the recalled products.

The recall announced by Kellogg covers all batches of the following products manufactured since July 1, 2008:

• Austin® Quality Foods Cheese Crackers with Peanut Butter - all sizes
  
• Austin® Quality Foods Cheese & Peanut Butter Sandwich Crackers – all sizes
  
• Austin® Quality Foods Mega Stuffed Cheese Crackers with Peanut Butter – all sizes
  
• Austin® Quality Foods PB & J Cracker Sandwiches – all sizes
  
• Austin® Quality Foods Super Snack Pack Sandwich Crackers
  
• Austin® Quality Foods Chocolate Peanut Butter Sandwich Crackers – all sizes
  
• Austin® Quality Foods Toasty Crackers with Peanut Butter – all sizes
  
• Austin® Quality Foods Reduced Fat Cheese & Peanut Butter Sandwich Crackers
  
• Austin® Quality Foods Reduced Fat Toasty Crackers with Peanut Butter Sandwich Crackers
  
• Austin® Quality Foods Cookie/Cracker Pack
  
• Austin® Quality Foods Variety Pack
  
• Keebler® Cheese & Peanut Butter Sandwich Crackers – all sizes
  
• Keebler® Toast & PB 'n J Flavored Sandwich Crackers – all sizes
  
• Keebler® Toast & Peanut Butter Sandwich Crackers – all sizes
  
• Famous Amos® Peanut Butter Cookies (2- and 3-ounce)
  
• Keebler® Soft Batch Homestyle Peanut Butter Cookies (2.5-ounce)
  

Consumers are urged to destroy or return any of these recalled products. To arrange for a refund, contact the Kellogg Consumer Response Center at 877-869-5633.

Sixth Death Reported In Peanut Butter Outbreak

Salmonella found in unopened peanut butter jars in Georgia and Connecticut

January 16, 2009

North Carolina's Department of Health and Human Services reported today that a Catawba County resident died of "...a blood infection caused by Salmonella..." in November 2008. The victim was infected by the outbreak strain of Salmonella Typhimurium that has been linked to contaminated peanut butter manufactured at the Blakely, Georgia facility owned and operated by Peanut Corporation of America.

This report brings the death toll in the current outbreak to six – two each in Virginia and Minnesota, one in Idaho and one in North Carolina.

The state did not release any other details about the victim, but reported that there are now four confirmed outbreak cases of salmonellosis in North Carolina.

Ohio, also has released an updated list of outbreak cases, summarized by county. That state has now logged a total of 64 confirmed cases in 25 counties. Eighteen victims have been hospitalized; fortunately, there have been no fatalities.

CDC reported this evening that the number of confirmed cases has risen to 453. This new tally does not reflect the increased number of cases in Ohio, which stands at 57 in the CDC totals. Nor does today's summary include the death just reported by North Carolina.

Salmonella contamination has now been confirmed in unopened jars of peanut butter in two separate states. The Georgia Department of Agriculture, which reported a presumptive positive result yesterday, has now confirmed Salmonella in "... an unopened five-pound tub of King Nut Creamy Peanut Butter with 'Best Before 1/07/10." Additional samples are still being analyzed, and testing is underway to determine whether the genetic fingerprint of this isolate matches the outbreak strain.

Connecticut, too, has found Salmonella in an unopened container of peanut butter. The state's Department of Consumer Protection detected Salmonella Type B (the group to which Typhimurium belongs) in a jar of King Nut peanut butter obtained from City Line distributors (West Haven, CT). 

The contaminated five-pound tub was labeled with lot #8234 and a production date of 8/21/2008. Genetic fingerprinting of the isolate is underway and additional samples are being analyzed. The peanut butter is believed to have been shipped by City Line to customers in Connecticut, New York, Rhode Island and Massachusetts. City Line has provided its distribution lists to the state and is cooperating in the investigation.

There has been no further word from Kellogg on the progress of their internal investigations. The company announced a "precautionary hold" of several Austin and Keebler peanut butter sandwich cracker varieties two days ago. Nor has any other food processor announced a hold or recall of products that contain peanut butter.

According to a report carried by Associated Press, FDA is contacting approximately 30 food processing companies that may have received contaminated peanut butter or peanut butter paste from PCA, and advising those companies to test their products.

This investigation, undoubtedly, will generate a plethora of recalls, and new pressure to review and reform the country's food safety system.

Who Manufactured Aflatoxin-Contaminated Optima Dog Food?

January 16, 2009

So far, no one has owned up to having produced the aflatoxin-contaminated Optima brand dog food that has been linked to at least 20 dog deaths in China.

Media reports have variously described the dog food as having been manufactured in Australia by Doane International Pet Products, or having been imported into China from the United States via a Taiwan company.

China's government agency denies having authorized the importation of Optima pet food, and the Australian government has corroborated China's claim. Australia states that Optima pet food never was exported from Australia to China. Furthermore, there is no Australian corporate registration record for Doane International Pet Products. This confirms our Wednesday report that Doane is not registered in Australia.

Was the Optima dog food manufactured in the United States? Mars denies having manufactured the offending dog food – or having authorized manufacture by a third party. We have had no response from Mars to our emailed request for comment.

Perhaps this "imported" dog food actually was "Made in China."

Toxin Alert: Arsenic in Fangocur mineral drink

January 16, 2009

The UK Food Standards Agency has alerted consumers to the presence of dangerous levels of arsenic in Fangocur mineral supplement drink, a product of Austria.

Fangocur is sold only over the Internet, and is not available in stores in the UK.

The UK government has received two reports of illness in the Chelsea area that appear to be linked to consumption of these drinks. Reported symptoms included dizziness, heart palpitations and stomach cramps.

Arsenic is a naturally occurring mineral with several industrial uses. Acute arsenic poisoning can produce gastrointestinal upsets, kidney failure and liver damage. Arsenic also is a know carcinogen. 

The Food Standards Agency offers the following advice to consumers:

"You should not drink this product. If you have consumed this product and feel ill as a result, contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or speak to your doctor."

Singapore Recalls Canned Broth From Thailand

January 16, 2009

The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AFVS) has announced a recall of New Moon Brand Premium Abalone Broth (Concentrated), imported from Thailand by Goh Joo Hin Pte Ltd.

Singapore took this action after receiving information that the product had a "bad smell" on opening. AFVS is investigating the cause of the problem.

The agency warns that the public should avoid consuming the following product:

• New Moon brand Premium Abalone Broth (Concentrated), 400-gram can
  
• Product of Thailand
  
• Identification codes: SPF PRO: 10/10/2008, ABB EXP: 09/10/2011
  

There are several possible explanations for off-smell in a canned product, including the use of spoiled or substandard ingredients, inadequate heat-processing, and leaky can seams. Any of these conditions may result in food that is hazardous to health.

Sliced Apples Contaminated With Listeria monocytogenes

January 15, 2009

Sunset Orchards/Richland Hills (Richland Center, WI) has recalled several sliced apple products that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, according to information released today by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

The sliced apple products, which are labeled with "Use By" dates of Jan 26-30, were distributed mainly to restaurants and to institutions such as schools, nursing homes and hospitals.

The company has recalled the following list of sliced apple products:

• Richland Hills Sliced Apples in 2-ounce, 2.4-ounce, 3-ounce, 2-pound and 10-pound packages
  
• Richland Hills Honeycrisp Sliced Apples in 4-ounce packages
  
• Richland Hills Organic Sliced Apples in 4-ounce and 6-ounce packages
  
• Crunch Pak Organic Sliced Apples in 6-ounce packages
  
• Richland Hills Apple Nibblers in 2-ounce packages
  
• Richland Hills Diced Apples in 2-pound and 10-pound packages
  
• Richland Hills Quartered Apples in 10-pound packages
  
• Richland Hills Half Apples in 10-pound packages
  

Additionally, the company has recalled Pearson Foods fruit trays with sell-by dates of Jan. 19 and earlier and containing 6.5-ounce, 12-ounce, 24-ounce, 36-ounce and 48-ounce packages of apples.

There also was limited retail distribution of the recalled items, including Crunch Pak Organic Sliced Apples, which were recalled by Costco on January 12th.

Listeria monocytogenes usually produces only a mild infection. But the pathogen can cause life-threatening illness in susceptible individuals, including the elderly, the very young, chronically ill persons, people with weakened immune systems and pregnant women. 

The dangers inherent in Listeria monocytogenes outbreaks were demonstrated with lethal results in last summer's Canadian outbreak that killed twenty of its victims. Fortunately, no illnesses have been reported so far in conjunction with the sliced apple products.

Institutions who purchased the recalled items are asked to contact their suppliers for instructions. Consumers are requested to return the recalled products to the store for a refund. For more information, contact the company toll-free at 1-800-811-8088.

Georgia Lab Reports Preliminary Salmonella Finding in Recalled Peanut Butter

January 15, 2009

The Georgia Department of Agriculture has made a "presumptive" finding of Salmonella in two samples of peanut butter from Peanut Corporation of America's Blakely processing facility.

Peanut butter from this facility was recalled by PCA earlier this week, after Minnesota researchers confirmed the recovery of the outbreak strain of Salmonella Typhimurium from an opened jar of peanut butter manufactured by PCA and distributed by King Nut.

The Georgia lab has initiated "confirming" tests to verify that the bacteria they isolated are Salmonella. Assuming a positive outcome, the isolates will be genetically typed to establish whether or not they match the outbreak strain. The results of these additional tests may be available as early next week.

If the confirming tests are positive, this will represent the first isolation of Salmonella from a previously unopened container of peanut butter during this outbreak investigation.

Earlier today, CDC released another update of the statistical profile of this national outbreak. As of 9pm EDT Wednesday evening, the number of confirmed cases stood at 448 infected individuals in 43 states. Twenty-two percent of the victims have been hospitalized for treatment, and five of the victims have died.

While the peanut butter produced in Blakely was distributed to commercial food processors, only one company so far – Kellogg Company – has announced a precautionary product hold to remove possibly affected consumer products from the market.

What are PCA's other commercial customers waiting for?