Artisana Raw Tahini due to possible salmonella contamination

Please review the following message from Alan Talarsky, Environmental Scientist 1, Food and Drug Safety Program, DHSS regarding the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Class 1 recall of Artisana Raw Tahini due to possible salmonella contamination.Premier Organics of Berkeley, CA is recalling 840 Cases of Artisana Raw Tahini of Lot 90811, in 16oz glass jars because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious infections. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea, 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, endocarditis and arthritis.The affected lot (lot number 90811) has been distributed nationwide through retail locations and online stores. No other lots have been affected.There have been no reported illnesses to date.Of the numerous samples taken by both Premier Organics and the FDA of lot 90811, only one sample came back positive for salmonella. Premier Organics has ceased distribution of Artisana Tahini lot 90811 as they continue their investigation with the FDA into what caused the problem.Consumers who have purchased Artisana Tahini with lot number 90811 are urged not to consume the product and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Premier Organics at 1-866-237-8688 between the hours of 9am and 4pm Pacific Standard Time.No action is required of local health departments at this time for this recall. If any requests for assistance are received from FDA, the Food and Drug Safety Program will contact you. For additional information regarding warnings and recalls, please click on the weblink below.