Tuesday, July 31, 2007

Whole Foods Market Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Nuts in 365 Organic Everyday Value Swiss Dark Chocolate Bars

Whole Foods Market Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Nuts in 365 Organic Everyday Value Swiss Dark Chocolate Bars
Contact:Kate Lowery(512) 542-0390
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Austin, TX -- July 31, 2007 – Whole Foods Market® is recalling 365 Organic Everyday Value™ Swiss Dark Chocolate Bars because they may contain undeclared almonds. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to nuts run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.
These products were distributed to and sold at Whole Foods Market stores in the following states: Alabama, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, Washington DC, and Wisconsin.
365 Organic Everyday Value Swiss Dark Chocolate Bars are sold in red and white wrappers with a picture of chocolate pieces and the Swiss countryside on the front. The recalled chocolate bars have a lot code that begins with the characters L71423 followed by a four digit time stamp between the times of 11:33 and 12:15, which is found on the back of the wrapper. If the coding on the package is illegible the product should also be returned. No illnesses have been reported to date.
The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the product containing almonds was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of nuts. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the producer's packaging processes.
Consumers who have purchased 365 Organic Everyday Value Swiss Dark Chocolate Bars can return it to Whole Foods Market for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at (512) 542-0656 or at PrivateLabel.CustomerService@WholeFoods.com.

Wednesday, July 25, 2007

FDA Message - Removal / disposal of recalled Castleberry product due to botulism

DATE: July 25, 2007
FROM: FDA Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition
A Message for Retailers and Foodservice Establishments on the Removal and Disposal of Recalled Product Due to Botulism Hazard
• Background
• Removal of Recalled Product from Circulation
• Disposal of Recalled Product
• Special Precautions for Handling and Disposing of Opened Cans of Recalled Product
• Informing Employees and Consumers of the Recall
• Recall Effectiveness Checks
• Contact Information for Additional Questions
• Complete List of Products Recalled
Background
A nationwide recall of certain canned human food and dog food products manufactured by Castleberry Food Company of Augusta, Georgia was announced on June 18, 2007 and expanded on July 21, 2007. As a result, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) are warning consumers not to open or eat canned products identified as part of the recall or to feed it to their pets. These products may contain hazardous botulinum toxin. Botulism can be fatal. Human illnesses have been associated with two of the recalled human food products.
FDA and USDA are currently asking retailers and foodservice operations to respond quickly to secure recalled product and prevent consumption. Castleberry Food Company has established a plan for recalling its affected products. Retailers should follow the instructions received from the company or its distribution centers for removing, marking and securing the product. Further suggestions for the proper removal of recalled product from further circulation and disposal of recalled product are provided below.
Removal of Recalled Product from Circulation
All recalled product should be removed from store shelves and separated from other stock immediately. If possible, use other methods, such as locking out the UPC codes at
1 of 6
check-out, to ensure these products are not sold to consumers and cashiers informed of the hazard and cautioned not to override the lockout.
Removed recalled product should be kept in a secure area and identified with signs that have bold, clear lettering indicating that it is an extreme health hazard. Removed recalled product needs to be clearly marked to prevent restocking, re-entry into commerce (including donation to food or pet food banks), or diversion to food or pet food salvage operations. Consider shrink wrapping recalled product to ensure it does not accidentally find its way back into commerce.
Disposal of Recalled Product
Recalled product should be isolated from other stock, secured and tagged for pick-up or disposal as directed by Castleberry or their designee. Disposal must be done in accordance with State and local regulations and ordinances and in a manner that will prevent diversion of the recalled product. Recalled product should not be disposed of by placing it in unsecured garbage cans, dumpsters or other receptacles in a manner that could result in subsequent removal by individuals for their own use or for sale to others.
Particular care should be used when handling and disposing of cans that show signs of swelling or leakage to prevent any human exposure to the contents of the cans.
Special Precautions for Handling and Disposing of Opened Cans of Recalled Product
Opened containers of the recalled product or any foods made with the recalled product should be discarded with extreme care. An open container of a food included in this recall should be disposed of as follows: 1) place the open container in a sealable plastic bag 2) place the sealed plastic bag containing the open product inside two additional plastic bags and then tightly tape the bags closed and 3) place the sealed/taped plastic bags containing the opened product in a secure trash receptacle for non-recyclable trash. Do not discard any of the recalled food in a sink, garbage disposal or toilet.
Wear rubber gloves when handling open containers of suspect food. Wash hands thoroughly after handling suspect food or containers. Take care to avoid splashing or inhaling food when discarding it. Avoid contact with the skin or eyes. Sponges, cloths, rags and gloves that may have come into contact with contaminated food or containers should be discarded with the food.
Specific instructions for handling non-disposable containers and surfaces that may have come in contact with the food are provided at the following web page: http://www.cdc.gov/botulism/botulism_faq.htm.
2 of 6
Informing Employees and Consumers of Recall
Employees should be informed of the hazard associated with the recalled product(s). Signs should be posted on removed recalled product to inform employees on all shifts that the product is hazardous and being held for disposal.
Store employees should alert consumers to the recall and the serious health hazard associated with exposure to the toxin. Consider posting signs and using other means of shopper notification to warn consumers not to open, taste or eat the recalled products. Inform consumers that any recalled product in their homes should be discarded carefully. More information for consumers is available at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at http://www.cdc.gov/botulism/botulism_faq.htm.
Recall Effectiveness Checks
Distribution centers and retail food stores may be visited by Federal, state or local officials conducting checks to determine the extent to which recalled product is being taken out of circulation. These officials will ask questions about the status of recalled product in your establishment.
Questions
Castleberry recommends consumers with any questions or concerns about this recall visit their website (www.castleberrys.com) or call their consumer hotline at 1-800-203-4412 or 1-888-203-8446.
Consumers and others with questions can also call FDA at 1-888-SAFEFOOD or the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854).
Additional information is available at
http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2007/NEW01670.html
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/Recall_033_2007_expanded/index.asp
Complete List of Products Included in July 2007 Recall
The extended recall now includes the following canned products in the following sizes with all ‘best by’ and code dates:
• Austex Onion Hot Dog Chili Sauce, 10 oz can (UPC 3030097101)
• Austex Hot Dog Chili Sauce, 10 oz can (UPC 3030099533)
• Austex Beef Stew, 15 oz can (UPC 3030090815)
• Austex Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 3030091015)
• Austex Chili With Beans, 19 oz can (UPC 3030092519)
• Austex Chili No Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 3030097715)
• Austex Chili No Beans, 19 oz can (UPC 3030097719)
• Best Yet Corned Beef Hash, 15 oz can (UPC 4217841082)
• Best Yet Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 4218740842)
• Big Y Chili No Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 1889480424)
3 of 6
• Big Y Corned Beef Hash, 15 oz can (UPC 1889480225)
• Big Y Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 1889480425)
• Black Rock Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 3030001715)
• Bloom Hot Dog Chili Sauce, 10 oz can (UPC 2543992448)
• Bryan Hot Dog Chili Sauce With Beef, 10 oz can (UPC 5340030010)
• Bryan Corned Beef Hash, 15 oz can (UPC 5340030110)
• Bryan Chili No Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 5340030200)
• Bryan Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 5340030205)
• Bryan Chili No Beans, 10 oz can (UPC 5340035264)
• Bunker Hill Hot Dog Chili Sauce, 10 oz can (UPC 7526604152)
• Bunker Hill Chili No Beans, 10 oz can (UPC 7526604112)
• Bunker Hill Spicier Chili No Beans, 10 oz can (UPC 7526604224)
• Castleberry’s Hot Dog Chili Sauce, 10 oz can (UPC 3030000101)
• Castleberry’s Onion Hot Dog Chili Sauce, 10 oz can (UPC 3030007101)
• Castleberry’s Brunswick Stew Chicken & Beef, 15 oz can (UPC 3030000315)
• Castleberry’s Barbecue Pork, 10 oz can (UPC 3030000402)
• Castleberry’s Barbecue Pork, 14.5 oz can (UPC 3030000415)
• Castleberry’s Barbecue Beef, 10 oz can (UPC 3030000602)
• Castleberry’s Beef Stew, 15 oz can (UPC 3030000815)
• Castleberry’s Corned Beef Hash, 15 oz can (UPC 3030000915)
• Castleberry’s Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 3030001015)
• Castleberry’s Sausage Gravy, 10 oz can (UPC 3030005130)
• Castleberry’s Creamed Chip Beef Gravy, 10 oz can (UPC 3030005150)
• Castleberry’s Hot Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 3030007217)
• Castleberry’s Chili No Beans, 10 oz can (UPC 3030007701)
• Castleberry’s Chili No Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 3030007715)
• Castleberry’s Georgia Hash, 15 oz can (UPC 3030000215)
• Cattle Drive Beef Stew, 15 oz can (UPC 3030001530)
• Cattle Drive Chili No Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 3030001520)
• Cattle Drive Chicken Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 3030001525)
• Cattle Drive Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 3030001515)
• Firefighters Chicken Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 7372500413)
• Firefighters Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 737250041)
• Firefighters Chili No Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 7372500412)
• Food Club Corned Beef Hash, 15 oz can (UPC 3680080204)
• Food Club Chili No Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 3680080404)
• Food Club Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 3680080504)
• Food Lion Hot Dog Chili Sauce, 10 oz can (UPC 3582606911)
• Goldstar Original Chili, 10oz can (UPC 2457500001)
• Goldstar Chili, 15oz can (UPC 2457500005)
• Goldstar Tex-Mex Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 2457500008)
• Great Value Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 8113179994) Canada distribution only.
4 of 6
• Great Value Hot Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 8113179995) Canada distribution only.
• Kroger Hot Dog Chili Sauce, 10 oz can (UPC 1111083942)
• Kroger Beef Stew, 15oz can (UPC 1111083928)
• Kroger Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 1111083930)
• Kroger Chili No Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 1111083908)
• Lowes Foods Chili No Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 4164301092)
• Lowes Foods Corned Beef Hash, 15 oz can (UPC 4164301094)
• Lowes Foods Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 4164301097)
• Meijer Hot Dog Chili Sauce, 10 oz can (UPC 4125085862)
• Meijer Chili No Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 4125095220)
• Meijer Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 4125095221)
• Meijer Corned Beef Hash, 15 oz can (UPC 4125095229)
• Morton House Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 7526665829)
• Morton House Corned Beef Hash, 15 oz can (UPC 7526665830)
• Morton House Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 7526665993)
• Paramount Hot Dog Chili Sauce, 10 oz can (UPC 7526600510)
• Paramount Chili for Hot Dogs, 15 oz can (UPC 7526600526)
• Paramount Chili No Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 7526600731)
• Paramount Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 7526600732)
• Piggly Wiggly Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 4129037252)
• Piggly Wiggly Chili No Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 4129037354)
• Piggly Wiggly Chili No Beans, 10 oz can (UPC 4129037355)
• Piggly Wiggly Corned Beef Hash, 15 oz can (UPC 4129037357)
• Prudence Corned Beef Hash, 15 oz can (UPC 4114100015)
• Southern Home Chili No Beans, 10 oz can (UPC 3825948713)
• Southern Home Chili No Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 0788015340)
• Southern Home Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 0788015341)
• Southern Home Corned Beef Hash, 15 oz can (UPC 0788015359)
• Steak n Shake Chili With Beans, 10 oz can (UPC 5184400120)
• Thrifty Maid Hot Dog Chili Sauce, 10 oz can (UPC 2114021367)
• Thrifty Maid Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (2114021370)
• Thrifty Maid Corned Beef Hash, 15 oz can (2114021375)
• Triple Bar Ranch Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 3030005801)
• Triple Bar Ranch Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 3030005804)
• Triple Bar Ranch Chili No Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 3030005805)
• Value Time Beef and Chicken Chili With Beans, 15 oz can (UPC 1122542159)
In addition, the following canned Natural Balance brand pet food products, which Castleberry’s co-packs for Natural Balance, are being recalled. These include:
• Dick Van Patten’s Natural Balance Eatables for Dogs Irish Stew With Beef, Potatoes & Carrots,
15 oz can (UPC 2363359860)
5 of 6
• Dick Van Patten’s Natural Balance Eatables for Dogs Chinese Take Out With Sauce With Vegetables and Chicken, 15 oz can (UPC 2363359861)
• Dick Van Patten’s Natural Balance Eatables for Dogs HOBO Chili With Chicken & Pasta,
15 oz can (UPC 2363359863)
• Dick Van Patten’s Natural Balance Eatables for Dogs Southern Style Dumplings With Chicken & Vegetables, 15 oz can (UPC 2363359862)
6 of 6

Monday, July 23, 2007

Georgia Firm Expands Recall of Canned Meat Products That May Contain Clostridium botulinum

Georgia Firm Expands Recall of Canned Meat Products That May Contain Clostridium botulinum
Recall Release
CLASS I RECALL
FSIS-RC-033-2007
HEALTH RISK: HIGH
Congressional and Public Affairs(202) 720-9113Amanda EamichWASHINGTON, July 21, 2007 - Castleberry's Food Company, an Augusta, Ga., establishment owned by Bumble Bee Foods, LLC, is voluntarily expanding its July 19 recall of canned meat products that may contain Clostridium botulinum, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service announced today. The recall is being expanded after information gathered by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and FSIS indicated that processing malfunctions at the establishment have existed longer than initially estimated. For that reason, Castleberry's has agreed to recall all of the following products that may still be in commerce, regardless of the "best buy" date stamped on the bottom of the can. Consumers who have any of the products listed are urged not to eat them, but rather return or dispose of them. The following products are subject to recall:
12-pack of 15-ounce cans of "Austex Beef Stew."
15- and 19-ounce cans of "Austex Chili with Beans."
12-pack of 15-ounce cans of "Austex Chili No Beans."
12-pack of 19-ounce cans of "Austex Chili No Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Best Yet Chili with Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Best Yet Corned Beef Hash."
15-ounce cans of "Big Y Chili with Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Big Y Chili no Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Big Y Corned Beef Hash."
15-ounce cans of "Black Rock Chili with Beans."
24-pack of 10-ounce cans of "Bryan Hot Dog Chili Sauce."
24-pack of 15-ounce cans of "Bryan Corned Beef Hash."
24-pack of 10-ounce cans of "Bryan Chili No Beans."
24-pack of 15-ounce cans of "Bryan Chili No Beans."
24-pack of 15-ounce cans of "Bryan Chili with Beans."
10-ounce cans of "Bunker Hill Chili no Beans."
10-ounce cans of "Bunker Hill Chunky Chili no Beans."
10-ounce cans of "Castle Chili No Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Castleberry's Beef Stew."
15-ounce cans of "Castleberry's Brunswick Stew."
10-ounce cans of "Castleberry's BUNKER HILL, ORIGINAL Chili NO BEANS."
15-ounce cans of "Castleberry's CHILI WITH BEANS."
12-pack of 15-ounce cans of "Castleberry's Chili No Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Castleberry's Corned Beef Hash."
10-ounce cans of "Castleberry's HICKORY SMOKED, OVEN ROASTED, WITH SKINS, BARBECUE PORK IN BARBECUE SAUCE."
12-pack of 15-ounce cans of "Castleberry's Hot Chili with Beans."
10- and 14.5-ounce cans of "Castleberry's BBQ Pork."
10-ounce cans of "Castleberry's Sausage Gravy."
10-ounce cans of "Castleberry's Chip Beef Gravy."
15-ounce cans of "Cattle Drive Beef Stew."
15-ounce cans of "Cattle Drive Chili with Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Cattle Drive Chili no Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Cattle Drive CHILI WITH BEANS."
8-pack of 15-ounce cans of "Cattle Drive Chili with Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Cattle Drive Chicken Chili with Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Firefighter Chicken Chili."
15-ounce cans of "Firefighter Chicken Chili with Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Firefighter Chili with Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Firefighter Chili no Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Food Club Chili with Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Food Club Corned Beef Hash."
15-ounce cans of "Georgia Hash."
10- and 15-ounce cans of "Goldstar Chili."
15-ounce cans of "Goldstar Tex Mex Chili."
15-ounce cans of "Great Value Chili with Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Great Value Hot Chili with Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Kroger Beef Stew."
15-ounce cans of "Kroger Chili with Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Kroger Chili no Bean."
15-ounce cans of "Lowes Chili no Bean."
15-ounce cans of "Lowes Chili with Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Lowes Corn Beef Hash."
15-ounce cans of "Meijer Chili with Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Meijer Chili no Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Meijer CORNED BEEF HASH."
12-pack of 15-ounce cans of "Morton House Chili with Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Morton House Corned Beef Hash."
10- and 15-ounce cans of "Paramount Hot Dog Chili Sauce."
15-ounce cans of "Paramount Chili no Bean."
15-ounce cans of "Paramount Chili with Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Piggly Wiggly Chili with Beans."
10- and 15-ounce cans of "Piggly Wiggly Chili no Bean."
15-ounce cans of "Piggly Wiggly Corned Beef Hash."
12-pack of 15-ounce cans of "Prudence Corned Beef Hash."
15-ounce cans of "Southern Home Chili with Beans."
10- and 15-ounce cans of "Southern Home Chili no Bean."
15-ounce cans of "Southern Home Corned Beef Hash."
10-ounce cans of "Steak N Shake Chili."
15-ounce cans of "Thrifty Maid Chili with Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Thrifty Maid Corned Beef Hash."
15-ounce cans of "Triple Bar Chili with Beans."
12-pack of 15-ounce cans of "Triple Bar Chili with Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Triple Bar Chili no Beans."
12-pack of 15-ounce cans of "Triple Bar Chili no Beans."
15-ounce cans of "Value Time Chili with Beans."
Each can label or can end bears the establishment number "EST. 195" inside the USDA seal of inspection. The canned meat products were distributed nationwide. The problem was discovered during an investigation into illnesses in Indiana and Texas. The investigation led to a recall by FDA of three types of meatless hotdog chili sauce. The FDA's recall release can be found at www.fda.gov. That recall is also being expanded to include all meatless products produced at the plant that might still be in commerce. There have been no reports of illness from consumption of the products listed in this news release. Botulism is a rare but serious paralytic illness caused by a nerve toxin. Symptoms of botulism include double vision, blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, and muscle weakness. The illness can cause paralysis, respiratory failure and death. Symptoms usually occur from 18 to 36 hours after eating contaminated food. Anyone who is experiencing any of these symptoms should contact a physician. For additional information about botulism, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Web site at www.cdc.gov/botulism/botulism.htm. Consumers with questions about the recall should contact company's Consumer Hotline at (888) 203-8446. Media with questions about the recall should contact the company public affairs representative Della Sweetman at (619) 200-0436 or Doug McGraw at (212) 453-2202. Consumers with food safety questions can "Ask Karen," the FSIS virtual representative available 24 hours a day at AskKaren.gov. The toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) is available in English and Spanish and can be reached from l0 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day.

Risk of Botulism Poisoning from Hot Dog Chili Sauce Marketed Under a Variety of Brand Names

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJuly 18, 2007
Media Inquiries: Michael Herndon, 301-827-6242Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA
FDA Warns Consumers about Risk of Botulism Poisoning from Hot Dog Chili Sauce Marketed Under a Variety of Brand Names
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning consumers not to eat 10 ounce cans of Castleberry’s Hot Dog Chili Sauce (UPC 3030000101), Austex Hot Dog Chili Sauce (UPC 3030099533), and Kroger Hot Dog Chili Sauce (UPC 1111083942) with “best by” dates from April 30, 2009 through May 22, 2009 due to possible botulism contamination. Botulism can be fatal. The “best by dates” can be found on the can lids.
Consumers who have any of these products or any foods made with these products should throw them away immediately. If the “best by” date is missing or unreadable consumers should throw the product out. Two children in Texas and an Indiana couple who ate these products became seriously ill and have been hospitalized.
Symptoms of botulism poisoning can begin from 6 hours to 2 weeks after eating food that contains the toxin. Symptoms may include double vision, blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, and muscle weakness that moves progressively down the body, affecting the shoulders first then descending to the upper arms, lower arms, thighs, calves, etc. Botulism poisoning can also cause paralysis of the breathing muscles which can result in death unless assistance with breathing (mechanical ventilation) is provided.
Individuals who show these symptoms and who may have recently eaten Castleberry’s Hot Dog Chili Sauce, Austex Hot Dog Chili Sauce, or Kroger Hot Dog Chili Sauce should seek immediate medical attention.
All of the above products are manufactured by the Castleberry Food Company in Augusta, Georgia.
Castleberry has informed FDA that it is voluntarily recalling all of the potentially contaminated products and is cooperating with FDA, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the states’ active investigations into the cause of this contamination and scope of the products’ distribution.
FDA will provide updates as more information becomes available. Consumers can call the FDA at 1-888-SAFEFOOD.
Castleberry recommends consumers with any questions or concerns about this recall should contact Jamie Leicht of Fleishman Hillard at 1-888-203-8446.

Wednesday, July 18, 2007

UNDECLARED PEANUTS IN V-LIKE OMPODI

Food Safety Alert
Tuesday, July 17, 2007Contact: Jessica A. Chittenden518-457-3136jessica.chittenden@agmkt.state.ny.us
UNDECLARED PEANUTS IN V-LIKE OMPODI
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Patrick Hooker announced today that MCM Corporation, 339 Troutman St, Brooklyn, New York 11227 is recalling "V-like Ompodi" because it contains undeclared peanuts. People who have an allergy to peanuts run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product.
The recalled product, "V-like Ompodi" is packaged in a clear plastic tub coded "EXPIRY DATE APRIL 30 2008". The label lacks a weight declaration. The "V-like Ompodi" was sold in metropolitan New York City and New Jersey. It is a product of Malaysia.
The problem was discovered as a result of routine sampling by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors and subsequent analysis by the Department’s Food Laboratory personnel that peanut-containing product was distributed in packages that did not reveal the presence of peanuts.
No illnesses have been reported to date to this Department in connection with this problem. Consumers who have purchased "V-like Ompodi" are urged to return them to the place of purchase.
Product Photographs:
http://www.agmkt.state.ny.us/FoodSafetyAlets/V-like%20Plastic%20Tub%20Showing%20peanuts.JPG
http://www.agmkt.state.ny.us/FoodSafetyAlets/V-like%20Plastic%20Tub-1of3.JPG
http://www.agmkt.state.ny.us/FoodSafetyAlets/V-like%20Plastic%20Tub-2of3.JPG
http://www.agmkt.state.ny.us/FoodSafetyAlets/V-like%20Plastic%20Tub-3of3.JPG


Stephen D. Stich
Director of Field Operations
NYState Agriculture & Markets
Division of Food Safety & Inspection
10B Airline Drive Albany, NY 12235
PH (518) 457-5380 Fax (518) 457-8892

Monday, July 16, 2007

Gerber® Announces Nationwide Voluntary Recall of Gerber ORGANIC Rice™ and Gerber ORGANIC Oatmeal™ 8 Ounce Cereals

Gerber® Announces Nationwide Voluntary Recall of Gerber ORGANIC Rice™ and Gerber ORGANIC Oatmeal™ 8 Ounce Cereals Due to a Potential Choking Hazard
Contact:David Mortazavi646-326-3926
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- July 13, 2007, Gerber Products Company, a division of Novartis Consumer Health, is voluntarily recalling all packages of Gerber ORGANIC Rice and ORGANIC Oatmeal Cereals due to a potential choking risk. A limited quantity of product may contain lumps of cereal, which do not dissolve in water or milk and pose a potential choking hazard. Gerber has received choking complaints, but no reports of injury. The FDA is aware of this recall.
The product has been distributed in the United States, Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. If a consumer has Gerber ORGANIC Rice or Gerber ORGANIC Oatmeal Cereal, they should not use the product and call the Gerber Parents Resource Center 1-800-443-7237 or 1-231-928-3000 to return the product and receive a full refund.
Gerber ORGANIC Rice and ORGANIC Oatmeal Cereals are sold in 8 ounce boxes and all codes are being recalled. Gerber ORGANIC Rice UPC Code is 15000 12504. Gerber ORGANIC Oatmeal UPC Code is 15000 12502. These numbers can be found on the bottom right side of the box.

URGENT: All Gerber ORGANIC Rice and Gerber ORGANIC Oatmeal 8 Ounce Cereals. Product Quality Recall

July 13, 2007

URGENT: All Gerber ORGANIC Rice and Gerber ORGANIC Oatmeal 8 Ounce Cereals. Product Quality Recall

Dear Retail Customer:

At this time, Gerber Products Company is recalling all Gerber Organic Rice and Gerber Organic Oatmeal 8 ounce cereals due to a product quality issue. A limited quantity of product may contain lumps of cereal, which may pose a potential choking hazard.

We request you take the following steps:

Please remove all Gerber ORGANIC Rice and Gerber ORGANIC Oatmeal 8 Ounce Cereals from your store shelves. All product removed from shelf and inventory should be return to Gerber distribution centers as soon as possible.

Please use the authorization number ORGCER0707- 460 when returning product.

If you are unable to return this product to your distribution center, please secure the product and notify your Gerber representative so that RQA can retrieve the product.

RQA will inspect the shelves and storage area to ensure the product has been removed from the store.

Case and Carton UPC Codes:
8 oz Organic Oatmeal: 1500012502 8 oz Organic Rice 1500012504


If you have any questions, please contact the Gerber Parents Resource Center at
1-800-4-Gerber, 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. Also please direct any consumer inquiries or questions to this number.

Sincerely,

Mike Dermo
Vice President, Sales
Gerber Products Company

Thursday, July 12, 2007

Undeclared Sulfites in Dried Fructus Lycii

CONTACT: FOR RELEASE:
Jessica Chittenden Immediately, Wednesday
518-457-3136 July 11, 2007

***CONSUMER ALERT***
Undeclared Sulfites in Dried Fructus Lycii

New York State Agriculture Commissioner Patrick Hooker today warned sulfite sensitive consumers and asthmatics to avoid consuming “Dried Fructus Lycii” due to the presence of undeclared sulfites in the product.

The product was sold by Hang Fung Co, 244 Niagara Falls Blvd. Tonawanda, NY 14223. According to the product label, the Dried Fructus Lycii was distributed by Guangdong Food Import and Export Corp., Guangdong, China. The Dried Fructus Lycii is packaged in an uncoded 12 ounce plastic bag. According to the label, it is a product of China.

Routine sampling by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors and subsequent analysis of the product by Food Laboratory personnel revealed the product contained high levels of sulfites which were not declared on the label. The consumption of 10 milligrams of sulfites per serving has been reported to elicit severe reactions in some asthmatics. Anaphylactic shock could occur in certain sulfite sensitive individuals upon ingesting 10 milligrams or more of sulfites.

No illnesses have been reported to date to this Department in connection with this problem. Consumers who have purchased Dried Fructus Lycii should return it to the place of purchase.

Wednesday, July 11, 2007

Prosperity Resources Int’l. Inc. issues allergy alert on undeclared sulfites in Sun Kee Brand Dried Sweet Potato.

Prosperity Resources int’l, INC
464 Coit Street Irvington, NJ 07111 U.S.A
Tel: 973-371-9688 Tel: 973-371-9868 Fax: 973-371-9678

July10, 2007

For Immediate Release

Prosperity Resources Int’ L., INC
Contact Person: Anna Choi Tel: 973-371-9688
Prosperity Resources Int’l. Inc. issues allergy alert on undeclared sulfites in Sun Kee Brand Dried Sweet Potato.

Prosperity Resources Int’l Inc. is recalling Sun Kee Brand Dried Sweet Potato because it may contain undeclared sulfites. People who have severe sensitivity to sulfites run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume this product.

The recalled Sun Kee Brand Dried Sweet Potato is packed in uncoded 12oz plastic packages and were sold in the U.S. East Coast areas.

The recall was initiated after routine sampling by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food inspectors and subsequent analysis of the product by food laboratory personnel revealed the presence of undeclared sulfites in Sun Kee Brand Dried Sweet Potato in packages which did not declare sulfites on the label. The consumption of 10 milligrams of sulfites per serving has been reported to elicit severe reaction in some asthmatics. Anaphylactic shock could occur in certain sulfite sensitive individuals upon ingesting 10 milligrams or more sulfites.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.

Consumers who have purchased Sun Kee Brand Dried Potato should return it to the place of purchase. Consumers with questions may contact the company at
973-371-9688.

Monday, July 9, 2007

Agriprocessors Inc., recalls beef & chicken products due to mislabeling

Iowa Firm Recalls Beef and Chicken Products Due To Mislabeling
Recall Release
CLASS I RECALL
FSIS-RC-032-2007
HEALTH RISK: HIGH
Congressional and Public Affairs(202) 720-9113Steven CohenWASHINGTON, July 6, 2007 - Agriprocessors, Inc., a Postville, Iowa, establishment is recalling approximately 35,860 pounds of frozen beef and chicken products because they may contain egg albumen, a known allergen, which is not declared on the label. The following products are subject to recall: [View Labels]
20-pound bulk boxes of "AARON'S BEST NUGGET SHAPED CHICKEN BREAST PATTIES, GLATT KOSHER, FULLY COOKED." Each box contains the code "8692-1" and establishment number "P 4653A" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
20-pound bulk boxes of "AARON'S BEST MEATBALLS, MADE WITH BEEF, GLATT KOSHER, FULLY COOKED." Each box contains the code "8698-1" and the establishment number "EST. 4653A" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
12-pound boxes of "RUBASHKIN'S, AARON'S BEST, GLATT KOSHER Kishka, Fully Cooked." Each box contains the code "3852-1" and the establishment number "EST. 4653A" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
1-pound packages of "RUBASHKIN'S, AARON'S BEST, GLATT KOSHER Kishka, Fully Cooked." Each package contains the establishment number "EST. 4653A" inside the USDA mark of inspection and a date code of "014-07," "015-07," "040-07" or "042-07."
The frozen chicken and beef products were produced on various dates between Jan. 14 and July 3 and were distributed to food service establishments and institutions nationwide. In addition, the one-pound packages of Kishka were also distributed through retail stores. The problem was discovered by FSIS. There have been no reports of illness to FSIS or the company due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an allergic reaction should contact a physician. Consumers and media with questions about the recall should contact company Technical Services Director William Kiernan at (563) 864-7811, ext. 2915.

Tuesday, July 3, 2007

Robert’s American Gourmet Food, Inc. Conducts a Nationwide Recall of Super Veggie Tings Crunchy Corn Sticks

Robert’s American Gourmet
P.O. Box 326 Sea Cliff, New York 11579 516.656.4545 fax 516.759.2713




FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE DATE 7/02/07
Robert’s American Gourmet 1-800-626-7557

Robert’s American Gourmet
P.O. Box 326 Sea Cliff, New York 11579 516.656.4545 fax 516.759.2713




FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE DATE 7/02/07
Robert’s American Gourmet 1-800-626-7557

Robert’s American Gourmet Food, Inc. Conducts a Robert’s American Gourmet
P.O. Box 326 Sea Cliff, New York 11579 516.656.4545 fax 516.759.2713




FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE DATE 7/02/07
Robert’s American Gourmet 1-800-626-7557

BECAUSE OF POSSIBLE HEALTH RISK

Robert’s American Gourmet Food, Inc. of Sea Cliff, New York is expanding its snack recall to include Super Veggie Tings Crunchy Corn Sticks Snack Food, all lots and sizes, because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.

Super Veggie Tings Crunchy Corn Sticks were distributed nationwide and Canada, and sold through local distributors, internet sales, phone orders, mail orders and retail outlets.

Super Veggie Tings Crunchy Corn Sticks are packed in a flexible, plastic foil bag in a 6 oz. size, and has UPC 15665-10356. The brand name is Robert’s American Gourmet and all codes and expiration dates of Super Veggie Tings Crunchy Corn Sticks are being recalled.

Veggie Booty has been associated or related with approximately 54 cases of Salmonella across 17 states. Roberts American Gourmet has decided to add Super Veggie Tings Crunchy Corn Sticks to the recall as a precautionary measure. The extensive investigation at the contract manufacturer and by the company is ongoing to determine the source of the contamination. The company has ceased production and distribution of both products pending results of the investigation by the FDA and the company.

Consumers who purchased Super Veggie Tings Crunchy Corn Sticks, and still have product in their homes should discard the contents of the package Super Veggie Tings and contact us at 1-800-626-7557 for reimbursement of your purchase. Anyone with any questions pertaining to the situation may also contact us at 800-626-7557.BECAUSE OF POSSIBLE HEALTH RISK

Robert’s American Gourmet Food, Inc. of Sea Cliff, New York is expanding its snack recall to include Super Veggie Tings Crunchy Corn Sticks Snack Food, all lots and sizes, because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.

Super Veggie Tings Crunchy Corn Sticks were distributed nationwide and Canada, and sold through local distributors, internet sales, phone orders, mail orders and retail outlets.

Super Veggie Tings Crunchy Corn Sticks are packed in a flexible, plastic foil bag in a 6 oz. size, and has UPC 15665-10356. The brand name is Robert’s American Gourmet and all codes and expiration dates of Super Veggie Tings Crunchy Corn Sticks are being recalled.

Veggie Booty has been associated or related with approximately 54 cases of Salmonella across 17 states. Roberts American Gourmet has decided to add Super Veggie Tings Crunchy Corn Sticks to the recall as a precautionary measure. The extensive investigation at the contract manufacturer and by the company is ongoing to determine the source of the contamination. The company has ceased production and distribution of both products pending results of the investigation by the FDA and the company.

Consumers who purchased Super Veggie Tings Crunchy Corn Sticks, and still have product in their homes should discard the contents of the package Super Veggie Tings and contact us at 1-800-626-7557 for reimbursement of your purchase. Anyone with any questions pertaining to the situation may also contact us at 800-626-7557.
Robert’s American Gourmet Food, Inc. of Sea Cliff, New York is expanding its snack recall to include Super Veggie Tings Crunchy Corn Sticks Snack Food, all lots and sizes, because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.

Super Veggie Tings Crunchy Corn Sticks were distributed nationwide and Canada, and sold through local distributors, internet sales, phone orders, mail orders and retail outlets.

Super Veggie Tings Crunchy Corn Sticks are packed in a flexible, plastic foil bag in a 6 oz. size, and has UPC 15665-10356. The brand name is Robert’s American Gourmet and all codes and expiration dates of Super Veggie Tings Crunchy Corn Sticks are being recalled.

Veggie Booty has been associated or related with approximately 54 cases of Salmonella across 17 states. Roberts American Gourmet has decided to add Super Veggie Tings Crunchy Corn Sticks to the recall as a precautionary measure. The extensive investigation at the contract manufacturer and by the company is ongoing to determine the source of the contamination. The company has ceased production and distribution of both products pending results of the investigation by the FDA and the company.

Consumers who purchased Super Veggie Tings Crunchy Corn Sticks, and still have product in their homes should discard the contents of the package Super Veggie Tings and contact us at 1-800-626-7557 for reimbursement of your purchase. Anyone with any questions pertaining to the situation may also contact us at 800-626-7557.

Monday, July 2, 2007

FDA Detains Imports of Farm Raised Chinese Seafood

FDA NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release: June 28, 2007
Media Inquiries: Michael Herndon, michael.herndon@fda.hhs.gov; Catherine McDermott, Catherine.mcdermott@fda.hhs.gov; 301-827-6242
Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA

FDA Detains Imports of Farm-Raised Chinese Seafood
Products Have Repeatedly Contained Potentially Harmful Residues

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today announced a broader import control of all farm-raised catfish, basa, shrimp, dace (related to carp), and eel from China. FDA will start to detain these products at the border until the shipments are proven to be free of residues from drugs that are not approved in the United States for use in farm-raised aquatic animals.

This action by FDA, a part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, will protect American consumers from unsafe residues that have been detected in these products. There have been no reports of illnesses to date.

“We’re taking this strong step because of current and continuing evidence that certain Chinese aquaculture products imported into the United States contain illegal substances that are not permitted in seafood sold in the United States,” said Dr. David Acheson, FDA’s assistant commissioner for food protection. “We will accept entries of these products from Chinese firms that demonstrate compliance with our requirements and safety standards.”

During targeted sampling from October 2006 through May 2007, FDA repeatedly found that farm-raised seafood imported from China were contaminated with antimicrobial agents that are not approved for this use in the United States.

The contaminants were the antimicrobials nitrofuran, malachite green, gentian violet, and fluoroquinolone. Nitrofuran, malachite green, and gentian violet have been shown to be carcinogenic with long-term exposure in lab animals. The use of fluoroquinolones in food animals may increase antibiotic resistance to this critically important class of antibiotics.

None of these substances is approved for use in farm-raised seafood in the United States, and the use of nitrofurans and malachite green in aquaculture is also prohibited by Chinese authorities. Chinese officials have acknowledged that fluoroquinolones are used in Chinese aquaculture and are permitted for use in China.

The levels of the drug residues that have been found in seafood are very low, most often at or near the minimum level of detection. FDA is not seeking recall of products already in U.S. commerce and is not advising consumers to destroy or return imported farm-raised seafood they may already have in their homes. FDA is concerned about long term exposure as well as the possible development of antibiotic resistance.

The FDA action includes conditions under which an exporter can be exempted from FDA’s detention action by providing specified information to the agency. This information must demonstrate the exporter has implemented steps to ensure its products do not contain these substances and that preventive controls are in place. The additional import controls placed on seafood from China will last as long as needed.

FDA may allow the entry into the United States and subsequent distribution into the marketplace of individual shipments of the Chinese farm-raised seafood products if the company provides documentation to confirm the products are free of residues of these drugs.

The Import Alert can be found at: http://www.fda.gov/ora/fiars/ora_import_ia16131.html

Robert's American Gourmet Food - Veggie Booty

Robert’s American Gourmet
P.O. Box 326 Sea Cliff, New York 11579
516.656.4545 fax 516.759.2713





FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE DATE 6/28/07
Robert’s American Gourmet 1-800-626-7557


Robert’s American Gourmet Food, Inc. CONDUCTS NATIONWIDE RECALL OF Veggie Booty BECAUSE OF POSSIBLE HEALTH RISK

Robert’s American Gourmet Food, Inc. of Sea Cliff, New York is recalling Veggie Booty Snack Food all lots and sizes , because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.

Veggie Booty was distributed nationwide and also in Canada through local distributors, internet sales, phone orders, mail orders and retail outlets.

Veggie Booty is sold in a flexible plastic foil bag in a 4 oz., 1 oz., and ½ oz. package. The brand name is Robert’s American Gourmet, and all codes and expiration dates of Veggie Booty are being recalled.


Robert’s American Gourmet has been notified by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U. S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of 51 cases of Salmonella across 17 states, associated or related to the consumption of the Veggie Booty, predominately in children of three years of age or younger. Based on the information provided by the CDC and FDA Robert’s American Gourmet has decided to conduct this recall as a precautionary measure, even though there are no confirmed positive results in the finished product yet.




The investigation is ongoing at the company and we have ceased production and distribution of the product pending results of the investigation by the FDA and the company.


Consumers who purchased Veggie Booty and still have the product in their homes should discard the contents of the package and contact us at 1-800-626-7557 for reimbursement of your purchase. Anyone with any questions pertaining to the situation may also contact us at 1-800-626-7557.

####