Yourlawyer.com (Food Poisoning News)

Pet Carousel Treats May Be Tainted With Salmonella

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is issuing this health alert to warn consumers not to use Pet Carousel Pig Ears and Beef Hooves Pet Treats because the products may be contaminated with Salmonella. The products were distributed nationwide in both bulk and retail packaging for sale in pet food and retail chain stores. Pet Carousel is based in Sanger, California.

The FDA reported that the recalled Pet Carousel Pig Ears and Beef Hoove Pet Treats were manufactured under conditions that facilitate cross-contamination within batches or lots. Although no illnesses associated with these products have been reported, the FDA is advising consumers in possession of these products to not handle or feed them to their pets.

The affected pig ear products were packaged under the brand names Doggie Delight and Pet Carousel. The affected beef hooves were packaged under the brand names Choo Hooves, Dentley’s, Doggie Delight, and Pet Carousel. All sizes and all lots of these products made by Pet Carousel are included in this alert.

During September 2009, the FDA conducted routine testing of pig ears made by Pet Carousel. The test results detected a positive reading for Salmonella. This prompted an FDA inspection of Pet Carousel’s manufacturing facilities. During the inspection, the agency collected additional pet treat samples. Further analysis found Salmonella present in beef hooves, pig ears, and in the manufacturing environment.

Salmonella can affect both humans and animals. People handling dry pet food and/or pet treats can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the treats or any surfaces exposed to these products. Consumers should dispose of these products in a safe manner by securing them in a covered trash receptacle.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella may experience some or all of the following symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and fever. Although rare, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis (inflammation of the lining of the heart), arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with the recalled Pet Carousel Pig Ears and Beef Hooves Pet Treats should contact their health care provider immediately.

Pets with Salmonella infections may become lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets may only experience a decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected, but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed any of the affected products or is experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.

The FDA will continue to investigate this matter to determine the source of the Salmonella contamination and offer updates as appropriate.

Consumers can report complaints about FDA-regulated pet food and pet treat products by calling the consumer complaint coordinator in their area. You can locate the nearest consumer complaint coordinator at:http://www.fda.gov/Safety/ReportaProblem/ConsumerComplaintCoordinators/default.htm

E. Coli Outbreaks Spawn Lawsuits

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Two meat packing firms have been named in lawsuits filed by the families of two New England children stricken with E. coli infections.

The first lawsuit names Fairbank Farms of Ashville, New York as a defendant. The complaint, which was filed on behalf of a 12-year-old Massachusetts girl, claims she became ill as a result of eating E. coli-tainted meat that came from Fairbank Farms in September.

As we reported earlier this week, Fairbank Farms recalled more than a half million pounds of ground beef products after meat it packaged was implicated in an E coli O157:H7 outbreak. Over the weekend, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) said that there was an association between the fresh ground beef products subject to recall and illnesses in Connecticut, Maine and Massachusetts.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 28 people in a dozen states have been sickened in an E coli O157:H7 outbreak that may involve Fairbank Farms products. Two deaths may be linked to the E. coli outbreak, and a number of victims have been hospitalized.

The products subject to recall were sent to retailers including Trader Joe’s, Price Chopper, Lancaster and Wild Harvest, Shaw’s, BJ’s, Ford Brothers, and Giant Food Stores. The recall was for distribution centers in eight states, but Fairbank Farms said some retailers may have sent the affected beef to other states.

The second lawsuit was filed on behalf of an 11-year-old boy from Rhode Island who became ill after eating ground beef from South Shore Meats, a unit of Crocetti’s Oakdale Packing Co., while on a school field trip to a Massachusetts camp. At least 20 school children and adults became ill after they visited the camp in October.

Following the outbreak, South Shore Meats recalled 1,039 pounds of fresh ground beef patties derived from bench trim because of concerns the products were contaminated with E. coli O157:H7.

E. coli O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and in the most severe cases, kidney failure. The very young, seniors and persons with weak immune systems are the most susceptible to foodborne illness. Individuals concerned about an illness should contact a physician.

E. coli Outbreak May Have Claimed 2 Lives, At Least 16 Hospitalized

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Twenty-eight people have been sickened in an E. coli outbreak that spans a dozen states. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), two deaths may be linked to the E. coli outbreak, and a number of victims have been hospitalized.

E. coli is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and in the most severe cases, kidney failure. The very young, seniors and people with weak immune systems are the most susceptible to foodborne illness.

We reported yesterday that Fairbank Farms of Ashville, New York had recalled more than a half million pounds of ground meat products that may have been tainted with E. coli. Over the weekend, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) said that there was an association between the fresh ground beef products subject to recall and illnesses in Connecticut, Maine and Massachusetts.

The products subject to recall were sent to retailers including Trader Joe's, Price Chopper, Lancaster and Wild Harvest, Shaw's, BJ's, Ford Brothers, and Giant Food Stores. The recall was for distribution centers in eight states, but Fairbank Farms said some retailers may have sent the affected beef to other states.

According to the FSIS, the meat involved in this recall is marked with "EST. 492" inside the USDA mark of inspection. The recalled products were packaged on September 15 and 16 and may have been labeled at the retail stores with a sell-by date from September 19 through 28. Consumers should ask at their point of purchase if the products they have purchased are subject to recall.

The two deaths suspected to be linked to the outbreak occurred in New Hampshire and upstate New York. According to the CDC, 16 people have been hospitalized, and three have developed kidney failure as a result of their E. coli infections.

Eight cases of E. coli have been reported in Massachusetts; four each in Connecticut and New Hampshire; two each in Maine, Pennsylvania, and South Dakota; and one each in California, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, and Vermont, the CDC said.

Consumers are being advised to safely prepare raw meat products, whether they are fresh or frozen, and only consume ground beef that has been cooked to a temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit. The only way to be sure ground beef is cooked to a high enough temperature to kill harmful bacteria is to use a food thermometer to measure the internal temperature, the FSIS said.

E. Coli Outbreak, Deaths Prompts Ground Beef Recall

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

More than a half million pounds of potentially E. coli tainted ground beef have been recalled by Fairbank Farms of Ashville, New York. Over the weekend, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) said that there was an association between the fresh ground beef products subject to recall and illnesses in Connecticut, Maine and Massachusetts.

According to a Reuters report, a death in New Hampshire may also be connected to tainted Fairbank Farms ground beef. New Hampshire officials announced the death on Saturday but did not release information about the victim. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) also said a New York adult with underlying medical conditions had died.

In all, 28 cases of E. coli have been reported in Northeastern states, including 18 in New England states. Sixteen hospitalizations were reported. According to Reuters, the bacteria involved were from a common strain, so tests were under way to see if all of the reported cases were related.

The ground beef products subject to this recall include:

Trader Joes

1-pound packages of "TRADER JOE'S BUTCHER SHOP FINE QUALITY MEATS GROUND BEEF 85/15."
1-pound packages of "TRADER JOE'S BUTCHER SHOP FINE QUALITY MEATS GROUND BEEF 80/20."
1-pound trays of "TRADER JOE'S BUTCHER SHOP FINE QUALITY MEATS GROUND BEEF PATTIES 96/4 EXTRA LEAN."
1-pound trays of "TRADER JOE'S BUTCHER SHOP FINE QUALITY MEATS GROUND BEEF PATTIES 85/15."

Price Chopper

1- and 2.5-pound trays of "PRICE CHOPPER MEATLOAF & MEATBALL MIX."
1-pound trays of "PRICE CHOPPER EXTRA LEAN GROUND BEEF 96/4."
1-pound trays of "PRICE CHOPPER FRESH GROUND BEEF CHUCK FOR CHILI 80% LEAN 20% FAT."

Lancaster and Wild Harvest

1-pound trays of "LANCASTER BRAND 96/4 EXTRA LEAN GROUND BEEF."
1- and 2-pound trays of "LANCASTER BRAND 90/10 GROUND BEEF."
1-pound trays of "WILD HARVEST NATURAL 85/15 ANGUS GROUND BEEF."

Shaw's

1- and 2-pound trays of "SHAW'S FRESH GROUND BEEF 93/7."
1-, 2- and 3-pound trays of "SHAW'S FRESH GROUND BEEF 80/20."
1- and 3-pound trays of "SHAW'S FRESH GROUND BEEF 75/25."
1.3-pound trays of "SHAW'S FRESH GROUND SIRLOIN BEEF PATTIES 90/10."
1.3-pound trays of "SHAW'S FRESH GROUND ROUND BEEF PATTIES 85/15."
1.3-pound trays of "SHAW'S FRESH GROUND BEEF PATTIES 80/20."
3-pound trays of "SHAW'S FRESH GROUND BEEF PATTIES FAMILY PACK 80/20."
1-pound trays of "SHAW'S ANGUS GROUND BEEF 85/15."
1-, 2- and 3-pound trays of "SHAW'S FRESH GROUND ROUND BEEF 85/15."
1-pound trays of "SHAW'S 90% NATURAL GROUND BEEF."
1-pound trays of "SHAW'S 85% NATURAL GROUND BEEF."
1-, 2- and 3-pound trays of "SHAW'S FRESH GROUND SIRLOIN 90/10."
1-pound trays of "MEATLOAF & MEATBALL MIX."

BJ's

5-pound trays of "FRESH GROUND BEEF, CONTAINS 15 % FAT" patties.
3- and 5-pound trays of "LEAN GROUND BEEF, CONTAINS 7% FAT."
2.5-pound trays of "MEATLOAF & MEATBALL MIX."

Ford Brothers

3-pound trays of "FRESH GROUND BEEF, CONTAINS 20% FAT" patties.

Giant

1-pound trays of "GIANT EXTRA LEAN GROUND BEEF 96/4."
1-pound trays of "GIANT MEATLOAF & MEATBALL MIX."
1-pound trays of "GIANT NATURE'S PROMISE GROUND BEEF."
1-pound trays of "GIANT NATURE'S PROMISE GROUND BEEF PATTIES."

Each package bears the establishment number "EST. 492" inside the USDA mark of inspection or on the nutrition label. These products were packaged on September 15 and 16, 2009, and may have been labeled at the retail stores with a sell-by date from September 19 through 28, 2009, unless otherwise noted above. Consumers should ask at their point of purchase if the products they have are subject to recall. The products were sent to distribution centers, intended for further distribution to retail establishments in Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. When available, the retail distribution list(s) will be posted on FSIS' Web site at

According to FSIS, the recall also includes additional beef products sold under the "Fairbanks Farms" name that were distributed to retail establishments in Maryland, Massachusetts, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia for further processing. However, these products at retail will likely not bear the package dates and sell-by dates listed above. Customers with concerns should contact their point of purchase.

E. coli O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and in the most severe cases, kidney failure. The very young, seniors and persons with weak immune systems are the most susceptible to foodborne illness. Individuals concerned about an illness should contact a physician.

FSIS has deemed this action a Class I recall, meaning a health hazard situation exists where there is a reasonable probability that the use of the product will cause serious, adverse health consequences or death.

Ground Beef Recalled Following Rhode Island E. Coli Outbreak

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Tainted beef implicated in an E. coli outbreak is being recalled by South Shore Meats, Inc. of Brockton, Mass. The recalled ground beef has been blamed for sickening 20 schoolchildren and adults from Rhode Island. They became ill after visiting Camp Bournedale in Plymouth, Mass. earlier this month.

The recall involves approximately 1,039 pounds of fresh ground beef patties derived from bench trim as well as mechanically tenderized beef cuts that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) said. The products subject to the recall include:

10-pound boxes containing 40, 4-ounce packages of "Beef Sirloin Patties."
7.5-pound boxes containing 12, 10-ounce packages of "Beef Teres Major Steaks Seasoned."
Boxes of 24, 5-ounce packages of "BEEF BUTT STEAKS, (Filet Style)."
9-pound boxes containing 12, 12-ounce packages of "BEEF BUTT STEAK, Center Cut, (sirloin style)."
9-pound boxes containing 12, 12-ounce packages of "BEEF BUTT STEAK, Center Cut, (filet style)."
6.75-pound boxes containing 12, 9-ounce packages of "BEEF BUTT STEAK, Center Cut, (sirloin style)."
Boxes of 16, 10-ounce packages of "Beef Top Butt Steaks Sirloin Style."
Boxes of 20, 8-ounce packages of "Beef Butt Steaks Club Style."
Boxes of 26, 6-ounce packages of "Beef Top Butt Steaks Sirloin Style."
Boxes of 12, 10-ounce packages of "BEEF BUTT STEAKS, (Filet Style)."
6-pound boxes containing 16, 6-ounce packages of "Beef Filet Of Sirloin, Executive Cut."
Boxes of 12, 8-ounce packages of "BEEF BUTT STEAKS, (Filet Style)."

Each box bears the establishment number "EST. 6336" inside the USDA mark of inspection and may also bear a date code of "281." The beef products were produced on October 8, 2009, and were distributed to wholesale distributors and institutions in Massachusetts.

The recall is considered Class I, meaning there is "a reasonable probability that the use of the product will cause serious, adverse health consequences or death."

E. coli O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and in the most severe cases, kidney failure. The very young, seniors and persons with weak immune systems are the most susceptible to foodborne illness. Individuals concerned about an illness should contact a physician.

According to a report on Boston.com, there is evidence that the ground beef collected at Camp Bournedale was tainted with the same strain of E. coli confirmed in two children who attended the camp. Those two children, among the Rhode Island students who experienced gastrointestinal illness after attending a field trip at the camp, were hospitalized for several days.

Anyone with signs or symptoms of foodborne illness should consult their health care provider, local board of health, the DPH Epidemiology Program at 617-983-6800 or the Food Protection Program at 617-983-6712.

Salmonella Outbreak Linked To Turtles

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Since 1975, federal law has prohibited the sale of small pet turtles with shells, called carapace, that are shorter than four inches in shell length; however, public health officials say enforcement is spotty. Perhaps it is this uneven monitoring that allows the tiny banned pets to be sold in pet stores across the country more than three decades after the ban, an issue on which we have long been writing.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned distribution and sale of these turtles after a quarter of a million infants and small children were diagnosed with turtle-associated Salmonellosis. Turtles with shells larger than four inches are not considered a threat by the agency, as young children will likely not try to fit the animals in their mouths. The ban allows for exceptions, however, such at exportation to other countries and sale to experts for legitimate scientific, educational, and exhibition purposes; selling turtles to pet stores is not among legitimate exceptions.

MedPageToday recently reported that during a massive outbreak two years ago—considered the largest in this country linked to turtles—children handling the small pets experienced an astronomical 41-fold increased risk of Salmonella contamination versus control groups, citing the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Julie R. Harris, PhD, and colleagues. The report appears online in Pediatrics.

In 2007, patients who began being diagnosed with Salmonella enterica serotype Paratyphi B var Java infections also reported recent turtle exposure. Some 107 infections with the same strain were reported in 34 states, said MedPageToday. The median patient age was seven, most of the turtles involved were less than four inches and banned under federal regulations, and over one-third of the banned turtles were bought in retail pet establishments. "Small turtles continue to be sold and pose a health risk, especially to children…. And many people remain unaware of the link between Salmonella infection and reptile contact," wrote MedPageToday, quoting the team.

Salmonellae are, explained MedPageToday, “natural intestinal flora for all reptiles. The problem with the small turtles is that children likely handle them differently than they do other reptiles such as “pet snakes, lizards, or iguanas,” noted MedPageToday. Adding to the problem, say the research team is that "the recent development of domestic turtle farms in Asia has placed pressure on the U.S. turtle industry, previously exporting millions of turtles each year to China, to find new markets for turtles," quoted MedPageToday.

The team cited American Veterinary Medical Association estimates that state that the household turtle population doubled in the United States from about 950,000 in 1996 to nearly two million just ten years later, reported MedPageToday. The researchers also noted a doubling in household market penetration during the same time said MedPageToday. Emerging evidence points to a rise in reptile-originated Salmonella outbreaks.

While salmonella bacteria are most often associated with food poisoning, a growing percentage initiate with turtles. Turtles can carry a variety of salmonella without symptoms, releasing the germ in their feces. Small turtles are especially troublesome because they are often bred in crowded conditions and are more likely to be given to children as pets.

4,000 Lbs Of Beef Recalled For E. Coli

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Another recall of beef over potential E. coli contamination has been announced. The Culebra Meat Market, reported WOAI.com, has recalled three beef cuts that were sold earlier this month over concerns that the meat might be contaminated with the dangerous, sometimes deadly, E. coli pathogen. No reports of illness connected to this recall have yet been announced.

The beef involved in the recall includes 4,000 pounds of stew meat, carne asada, and ground beef all produced by the Culebra Meat Market from October 2 through October 17, said WOAI.com. The beef was sold to some San Antonio, Texas area restaurants and was also sold in the Culebra Meat Market’s retail store at 2800 Culebra Road, reported WOAI.com.

Health officials are advising that meat purchased during that time frame should be discarded or returned, and should not be cooked or consumed. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is working to determine if the recalled meat was sold at other area Culebra Meat Markets, according to WOAI.com. DSHS staff located the pathogen during routine testing of Calebra’s food products.

WOAI.com noted that the recalled meats that were sold to consumers making purchases at Culebra’s retail store located at 2800 Culebra Road, were packaged in a variety of weights and with white butcher paper with no markings. The recalled Culebra meat that was sold to restaurants was packaged in 10-pound boxes labeled with the company and product names and bears lot codes 100209 through 101709. The boxes bear inspection label “TEXAS INSP. & PSD. 740” located within an outline of the state of Texas, said WOAI.com.

Culebra Meat Market can be reached at 1-210-432-2170.

E. coli are a group of bacteria found in animal intestines and feces. While some strains are necessary for digestion; some are harmful, deadly, and toxin producing and part of a group of E. coli called Verocytotoxigenic E. coli, or VTECs, also known as Shiga-producing E. coli. Of particular concern is the virulent, sometimes deadly E. coli O157:H7 strain that is part of this group and is generally found to be the culprit in E. coli-related food-borne illness outbreak.

E. coli may cause fatal blood poisoning, cystitis, deadly septicemia, and death. Symptoms of E. coli infection include stomach cramps and watery diarrhea that may turn bloody within one to three days. E. coli taints meat through improper butchering and processing practices and, once released in the body, produces the Shiga-producing toxins that have been linked to kidney damage in young children, and can also lead to kidney failure and death.

Baby Food Recalled Over Potential Botulism Contamination

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Some apple and carrot portable pouch baby foods, manufactured by Plum Organics of Emeryville, California, is being recalled over potential botulism contamination, the Associated Press (AP) just announced.

The AP reported that the recalled apple and carrot Plum Organics baby food was sold individually throughout the United States at Toys-R-Us and Babies-R-Us stores. The recalled Plum Organics baby food was sold in 4.22-ounce pouches, with a "best by" date of May 21, 2010, and UPC 890180001221.

Paul Gerhardt, a member of the Plum Organics action team, announced in a statement that, "The product did not meet the FDA guidelines for proper acidity level, quoted the AP. Plum Organics expressed concern, said the AP, that the recalled apple and carrot baby food could be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum. Clostridium botulinum spores can cause Botulism, a serious and potentially fatal food borne illness.

According to the AP, consumers should not use these recalled products, even if they appear normal, due to the serious potential health risk. To date, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the baby food, said the AP, and no other Plum Organics products are involved, citing a company statement. Plum Organics can be reached toll-free at 1-888-974-3555 or by email at plumorganics.com.

Botulism is a very serious, sometimes deadly infection. Of very significant importance, the Botulism contamination cannot be removed by freezing or cooking tainted foods.

Botulism symptoms can initiate at any time from six hours to 10 days after eating contaminated food, says the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and can include double or blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, and muscle weakness that starts at the shoulders and moves progressively down the body. Botulism poisoning can also cause paralysis of the breathing muscles, which can lead to death without treatment and respiratory ventilation in about eight percent of cases. If not treated properly, botulism can paralyze breathing muscles, and victims can spend months on hospital ventilators until the botulism toxin is out of their system.

Del Monte Cantaloupe Recalled Over Potential Salmonella Contamination

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

About 1,120 cartons of Del Monte cantaloupe is being recalled over concerns of Salmonella contamination. Mercury News announced that Raley's grocers are recalling the potentially contaminated cantaloupe that was sold in Northern California and Nevada. The recall was initiated after routine testing detected the Salmonella pathogen in the Del Monte cantaloupe, Mercury News said, citing the California Department of Public Health.

Mercury News reported that the recalled cantaloupe was sold throughout the San Francisco Bay Area at Raley's and at Raley’s subsidiaries: Nob Hill Foods and Food Source. The cantaloupes were purchased between October 5 and October 16; consumers can exchange the recalled cantaloupe for full refund, said Mercury News.

Some Salmonella bacteria are resistant to antibiotics, largely due to the use of antibiotics to promote the growth of feed animals. Salmonella is an organism that 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 circumstance, 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.

Salmonella poisoning can lead to Reiter’s Syndrome, a difficult-to-treat reactive arthritis characterized by severe joint pain, irritation of the eyes, and painful urination.

Salmonella is usually found in food contaminated with animal feces and is a group of bacteria that passes from the feces of people or animals to other people or animals, causing contamination when food is improperly stored or handled and when preparers do not wash their hands or sanitize implements involved in food storage. Salmonella is the most frequently reported cause of food-related outbreaks of stomach illness worldwide.

Anyone who has eaten the recalled Del Monte cantaloupe and who is experiencing Salmonella symptoms is urged to contact a healthcare provider.

Ground Beef Recalled for E. coli

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

San Diego Meat Company, of San Diego, California is recalling approximately 925 pounds of ground beef products that may be contaminated with the E. coli O157:H7 pathogen, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) just announced.

The ground beef products subject to this recall include:

15-pound cases of "SAN DIEGO MEAT, GROUND BEEF PATTIES."
10-pound bags of "SAN DIEGO MEAT, BULK GROUND BEEF."

Each case and bag bears establishment number "EST. 4116" inside the USDA marks of inspection and "Safe Handling Instructions" on the back of the packaging. The front of each package advises "KEEP REFRIGERATED." The recalled ground beef products were produced October 7, 2009 through October 9, 2009 and October 12, 2009 and were distributed to restaurants and two caterers in the San Diego County area, the FSIS wrote.

FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers, including restaurants, of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the recalled product is no longer available to consumers. This problem with recalled ground beef was discovered through FSIS microbiological sampling. FSIS has received no reports of illnesses associated with consumption of these products. Individuals concerned about an illness should contact a physician.

E. coli are a group of bacteria found in animal intestines and feces. While some strains are necessary for digestion; some are harmful, deadly, and toxin producing and part of a group of E. coli called Verocytotoxigenic E. coli, or VTECs, also known as Shiga-producing E. coli. Of particular concern is the virulent, sometimes deadly E. coli O157:H7 strain that is part of this group and is generally found to be the culprit in E. coli-related food-borne illness outbreak.

E. coli may cause fatal blood poisoning, cystitis, deadly septicemia, and death. Symptoms of E. coli infection include stomach cramps and watery diarrhea that may turn bloody within one to three days. E. coli taints meat through improper butchering and processing practices and, once released in the body, produces the Shiga-producing toxins that have been linked to kidney damage in young children, and can also lead to kidney failure and death.

The San Diego Meat Company’s owner, Bob Watkins can be reached at 1-619-233-8871.

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 l0:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety messages are also available 24 hours a day.

Potential Listeria Contamination: Sandwiches and Walnuts

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Today we are reporting on two separate recalls concerning foods potentially contaminated with the dangerous, sometimes deadly, Listeria monocytogenes pathogen, which can result in Listeriosis.

Listeriosis can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms, such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. In pregnant women, Listeriosis can result in miscarriage, stillbirth, or birth of a baby suffering from the infection. Pregnant women are about 20 times likelier than others to be infected, with about one-third of all Listeriosis cases occurring during pregnancy.

Listeria is responsible for an estimated 2,500 illnesses in the United States annually, with about 200 in every 1,000 cases resulting in death. Listeria infection can take days, even weeks, to develop and can present in anything from a mild flu-like illness to meningitis and septicemia.

Fisher Rex Sandwiches
WRAL.com is reporting that Fisher Rex Sandwich initiated a recall of its "Fisher Rex Chicken Salad on Wheat" and "Fisher Rex Chicken Salad," both made at its Raleigh plant. The recall follows laboratory test results that found the presence of a particularly dangerous strain of the Listeria pathogen, said WRAL.com; the North Carolina Department of Agricultural and Consumer Services conducted the tests.

The recalled Fisher Rex sandwiches are sold in three and three-quarter-ounce packages and bear sell-by dates of October 27, October 29, and November 11, said WRAL.com. The potentially contaminated sandwiches were sent to convenience and grocery stores across North Carolina, said WRAL.

Baking Classics Walnuts
In the second case of potential Listeria contamination, Reuters reports that John B. Sanfilippo and Son, Inc. announced it is recalling Baking Classics brand Walnut Halves and Pieces, packaged in 16-ounce bags, and Baking Classics Nut Topping packaged in two-ounce bags.

According to Reuters, the following recalled Baking Classics brand walnuts were sold to stores in Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.

Item Code: 02678; Package UPC Number: 04113002059; Brand: Baking Classics; Description: Nut Topping; Unit Weight: 2-ounces; Best By Date Code: 9/29/10.
Item Code: 03250; Package UPC Number: 04113001174: Brand: Baking Classics; Description: Walnut Halves & Pieces; Unit Weight: 16-ounces; Best By Date Code: 9/24/10.

Consumers may contact John B. Sanfilippo & Son, Inc. Customer Service toll-free at 1-800-874-8734 with questions, said Reuters. The toll-free line is available from Monday through Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Central Standard Time.

Cargill Settles E. Coli Suit

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

In the ongoing cases involving E. coli contamination linked to Cargill Meat Solutions, a settlement in one lawsuit has been reached. According to Minnesota Public Radio (MPR), the parents of a girl who was hospitalized for over one month as a result of eating E. coli contaminated hamburger meat, reached a settlement last week with Cargill.

The 11-year-old fell ill in 2007 after she ate a contaminated hamburger from Cargill Meat Solutions Corporation, said MPR, that contamination led to a massive—845,000 pound—recall of frozen ground beef parties. The girl spent three weeks on kidney dialysis and her family racked up about $350,000 in medical bills, said MPR. It seems that the young girl developed a serious kidney disease that can lead to renal failure and long-term kidney problems.

Prior to the 2007 E. Coli outbreak, federal inspectors repeatedly found that Cargill was violating its own safety procedures in handling ground beef, but it imposed no fines or sanctions, according to the New York Times, previously. After the outbreak was detected, federal inspectors conducted spot checks at 224 meat plants and found serious problems at 55 that were failing to follow their own safety plans. These problems occurred even though the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) had been monitoring these plants.

According to MPR, Cargill said in a written statement that, "In the years since the 2007 recall, Cargill has worked privately with each of the people affected to address their needs." The 2007 E. coli O157:H7 outbreak sickened more than 900 people.

E. coli are a group of bacteria found in animal intestines and feces. While some strains are necessary for digestion; some are harmful, deadly, and toxin producing and part of a group of E. coli called Verocytotoxigenic E. coli, or VTECs, also known as Shiga-producing E. coli. Of particular concern is the virulent, sometimes deadly E. coli O157:H7 strain that is part of this group and is generally found to be the culprit in E. coli-related food-borne illness outbreak.

E. coli may cause fatal blood poisoning, cystitis, deadly septicemia, and death. Symptoms of E. coli infection include stomach cramps and watery diarrhea that may turn bloody within one to three days. E. coli taints meat through improper butchering and processing practices and, once released in the body, produces the Shiga-producing toxins that have been linked to kidney damage in young children, and can also lead to kidney failure and death.

Recently, we wrote that the New York Times published an interesting report detailing flaws in the U.S. beef inspection system. The New York Times report used the case of a 22-year-old woman who developed a severe E. coli infection in 2007 after eating a frozen hamburger patty made by Cargill that was labeled “American Chef’s Selection Angus Beef Patties.” Today, the young woman is paralyzed from the waist down due to her bout with E. coli.

According to the Times, despite being called “Angus” on the label, the hamburger patty the young woman ate was “made from a mix of slaughterhouse trimmings and a mash-like product derived from scraps that were ground together at a plant in Wisconsin.” The ingredients came from several slaughterhouses in the U.S., as well as one in Uruguay and came from parts of the cow most likely to be tainted with E. coli bacteria. Such ingredients are not tested by Cargill prior to grinding and mixing. Cargill's testing practices, though considered unsafe by many, are not unusual throughout the industry.

Costco, Tyson Foods Reach E. Coli Testing Agreement

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Costco and Tyson Foods have struck an agreement that will allow the retailer to test Tyson's beef trimmings for E. coli prior to grinding and mixing. The agreement comes just days after The New York Times published an expose detailing gaps in the way ground beef is tested for E. coli.

As we reported earlier this week, the Times reported on Sunday that much of the ground beef consumed in the U.S is made from beef trimmings. These ingredients come from parts of the cow that are most likely to be tainted with E. coli bacteria. Despite this, most meat processors test their ground beef only after trimmings from multiple slaughterhouses have been mixed and ground together. This practice makes it difficult to determine the original source of E. coli should it be found during later testing, or if an outbreak occurs.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) allows ground beef manufacturers to devise their own safety plans, and only “encourages” them to test ingredients prior to using them. Unfortunately, most slaughterhouses will only sell to manufacturers who agree not to test ingredients for E. coli prior to use, the Times said. The slaughterhouses fear a positive E. coli test will set off a recall of their ingredients.

According to The New York Times, Costco is one of the few large ground beef manufacturers that does test trimmings for E. coli as they arrive at its plant, prior to grinding. Tyson previously had not sold trimmings to Costco because of this testing. Because of the new agreement, Costco will begin buying beef trimmings for making hamburger from Tyson.

Meanwhile, the Times expose has prompted a response from the USDA. In a statement released Monday evening, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said: "The story we learned about over the weekend is unacceptable and tragic. We all know we can and should do more to protect the safety of the American people and the story in this weekend's paper will continue to spur our efforts to reduce the incidence of E. coli O157:H7."

According to The Washington Post, Vilsack's statement noted that, among other things, the Obama administration already has established a Food Safety Working Group and appointed a chief medical officer at that the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) to "reaffirm its role as a public health agency." However, the Post also noted that the Vilsack's statement failed to mention there is still no undersecretary for food safety to oversee FSIS.

As we've reported previously, critics of the USDA argue that the agency is ineffective because it is tasked with both protecting public health and promoting the agricultural industry. To often, these critics say, when those roles come into conflict, industry wins out.

Airlines Ordered To Monitor Water

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

In 2004, an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) inspection revealed that every aircraft public water system was noncompliant with national primary drinking water regulations, the Environment News Service (ENS) reported. In response, the EPA just published a final rule that is meant to make sure that “safe and reliable drinking water” be provided to airline passengers and crews, said (ENS). The rule only applies to the water systems existing on airlines.

Under the ruling, airlines are mandated to inspect water systems no less than once every five years, said ENS, noting that airlines must also report testing results to the agency and correct “significant deficiencies.” The rule, said ENS, is meant to incorporate “multiple-barrier protection” mandated for coliform sampling. Such sampling relates to a long-existing test standard to determine the sanitary quality of water and food. Coliforms, which apply to a broad array of bacteria found in the environment—for instance mammal feces, soil, vegetation, and water—can be used to determine if other fecal pathogens, such as E. coli, are in the test environment. Such pathogens indicate the potential presence of dangerous, sometimes deadly and disease-causing contaminants.

Because drinking water should be free of such organisms—such as viruses, bacteria, and protozoa—and because pathogens carried in water can result in hepatitis, giardiasis, and dysentery, it is critical that drinking water is checked and coliform sampling criteria be used. Coliform is an easier, effective, and financially inexpensive method of conducting such testing. To test for the vast variety of known potential pathogens is considered prohibitive in terms of budgets and time.

"This rule is a significant step forward in protecting people's health when they travel," said Peter Silva, assistant administrator for EPA's Office of Water, quoted ENS. "EPA has taken this step to make sure the public has drinking water that meets standards, both in the air and on the ground," Silva added.

In addition to providing protection for coliform sampling, the rule also mandates “best management practices, corrective action, public notification, and monitoring and operator training,” said ENS, which complies with the Safe Drinking Water Act.

The EPA does advise consumers with concerns or, for instance, who have compromised immune systems, to request pre-packaged drinks and steer clear of beverages made with tap water, such as coffee or tea, according to ENS.

Reuters said the rule, which took about five years to develop, requires regular disinfection of airline onboard drinking water; this move represents the first time the EPA has applied public water regulations to commercial airlines. The mandates are expected to impact 63 airlines and over 7,000 craft and could potentially raise air flight costs that would ultimately be passed on to consumers, said Reuters. According to the EPA, reported Reuters, the cost is expected to run some $7 million per year; airlines have been given one and a-half years to develop plans.

Recently, the Associated Press reported that the EPA has been urged by the government to look at reports of polluted drinking water systems in this country’s school systems.

Group Lists 10 Most Dangerous Foods

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

A variety of so-called healthy foods have topped a list of the 10 riskiest foods regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) just reported. The group pointed out that leafy greens, eggs, and tuna top the list and 10 foods are linked to 40 percent of all food borne illness outbreaks connected with FDA-regulated foods.

Tomatoes, cheese, ice cream, sprouts, and berries also made the list, which, said the CSPI is why the United States Senate should pass legislation, as was recently enacted by the House, to reform food safety laws. The CSPI, a nonprofit advocacy group, wrote the report.

The FDA oversees produce, seafood, egg and dairy, and many packaged foods, making up about 80 percent of this country’s food supply, said the CSPI, which added that over 1,500 outbreaks were linked to the top ten foods and resulted in close to 50,000 reported illnesses. As we have long noted and as the CSPI also reported, most food borne illnesses go unreported.

"Outbreaks give the best evidence of where and when the food safety system is failing to protect the public," said CSPI staff attorney and the report’s lead author, Sarah Klein. "It is clearly time for FDA's reliance on industry self-regulation to come to an end. The absence of safety plans or frequent inspections unfortunately means that some of our favorite and most healthful foods also top the list of the most risky," Klein added.

The CSPI complied data from its Outbreak Alert! Database, which includes information from 1990 to 2006, as well as data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CSPI made the following observations:

363 outbreaks were linked to iceberg lettuce, romaine, spinach, and other leafy greens that were contaminated with E. coli, Norovirus, or Salmonella, and resulted in 13,568 illnesses. Manure, contaminated irrigation water, or poor handling practices were all potential causes.
Eggs were linked 352 outbreaks and 11,163 illnesses.
Tuna was linked to 268 outbreaks and 2,341 illnesses.
Oysters were linked to 132 outbreaks and 3,409 illnesses.
Potatoes were linked to 108 outbreaks and 3,659 illnesses.

Also, said the CSPI, the FDA does not mandate farms and processors document food safety plans or specific safety standards for growers.

In July we wrote that just one day after the U.S. House shot down a bill meant to toughen the federal food safety system, the legislation passed the House under a rule that only required a minority vote. The originally proposed food safety bill failed earlier over fears its passage would overwhelm America’s small farmers.

Under the legislation, the FDA is to receive additional authority and resources for the prevention of food borne illnesses; grain and livestock producers are exempt from being required to pay registration fees and disallow the FDA from those areas in which the Agriculture Department (USDA) has responsibility. The FDA will step up inspections, order recalls, and mandate to companies how to maintain records, said the Wall Street Journal previously, explaining that the revised record keeping will better enable tracking when contaminations do occur. Most, not all, food companies will have to register with the FDA and pay a $500 annual per-facility fee.

Cargill E. Coli Outbreak Highlights Weakness in Beef Inspections

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The New York Times has published an interesting report detailing flaws in the U.S. beef inspection system.   Because of these flaws, consumers nationwide may face a serious risk from E. coli and other food borne illnesses every time they bite into a hamburger.

The New York Times report uses the case of a 22-year-old woman who developed a severe E. coli infection in 2007 after eating a frozen hamburger patty made by Cargill that was labeled “American Chef’s Selection Angus Beef Patties."   In October 2007 Cargill recalled over 840,000 pounds of these and other ground beef patties after they were linked to an E. coli O157:H7 outbreak that sickened more than 900 people. Today, the young woman is paralyzed from the waist down due to her bout with E. coli.

According to the Times, despite being called "Angus" on the label, the hamburger patty the young woman ate was "made from a mix of slaughterhouse trimmings and a mash-like product derived from scraps that were ground together at a plant in Wisconsin." The ingredients came from several slaughterhouses in the U.S., as well as one in Uruguay.   A South Dakota facility where some ingredients were obtained processes fatty trimmings and treats them with ammonia to kill bacteria, the Times said.   Using such low-grade ingredients costs Cargill about 25 percent less than using whole cuts of beef.

These ingredients come from parts of the cow that are most likely to be tainted with E. coli bacteria. According to the Times, Cargill and other manufacturers count on suppliers to test for E coli. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) allows manufacturers like Cargill to devise their own safety plans, and only "encourages" them to test ingredients prior to using them. Unfortunately, most slaughterhouses will only sell to manufacturers who agree not to test ingredients for E. coli prior to use, the Times said.   The slaughterhouses fear a positive E. coli test will set off a recall of their ingredients.

In the case of the patties involved in the 2007 outbreak, Cargill only tested finished ground beef for E. coli. This is not ideal because even when E. coli was found in a finished burger, there was no way to find out which ingredients were tainted, or where they came from.   According to the Times, in August 2008 the USDA issued a draft guideline urging, but not ordering, processors to test ingredients before grinding. But the industry has been resisting, and the guidelines have yet to become official.

Prior to the 2007 E. Coli outbreak, federal inspectors had repeatedly found that Cargill was violating its own safety procedures in handling ground beef, but they imposed no fines or sanctions, according to the Times. After the outbreak had been detected, federal inspectors conducted spot checks at 224 meat plant and found serious problems at 55 that were failing to follow their own safety plans. These problems occurred even though the USDA had been monitoring these plants.

The USDA did threaten to withhold its seal of approval - the one that states “U.S. Inspected and Passed by the Department of Agriculture”- from Cargill following the outbreak, but in the end, accepted Cargill's own plan to improve oversight of its suppliers, the Times said.

E. Coli Victims Sue Oklahoma Restaurant

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Although the exact origin of the historic E. coli outbreak linked to the Country Cottage Restaurant in Oklahoma remains unknown, a civil lawsuit has been filed against the Locust Grove restaurant and its owners, said the Pryor Daily Times.

The Oklahoma State Department of Health’s final report pointed to the ongoing spread of food borne bacteria throughout the restaurant, as opposed to one specific food or incident, as sparking the outbreak, according to a prior Associated Press (AP) report. The outbreak of the rare E. coli O111, is believed to be the largest in the history of that strain. One man died, 314 people fell ill, and scores were hospitalized, including a number of children requiring dialysis.

The civil lawsuit filed this week in District Court in Mayes County is seeking damages in excess of $3 million “in addition to, but not limited to, all past medicals,” estimated at about $2 million, quoted the Pryor Daily Times. Twelve families are represented in the joint lawsuit that states that the “food and drink that the plaintiffs purchased from the County Cottage restaurant was contaminated with E. coli 0111:NM and was therefore, as a result, defective and unreasonably dangerous,” quoted the Pryor Daily Times.

Quoting the Oklahoma Department of Health Summary Report about the debacle and following interviews of Country Cottage’s owners, “it was learned that a private well on the premises had been accessed and used to supply water for the restaurant for approximately two hours on Aug. 10, when a sudden interruption of the municipal water system occurred,” reported the Pryor Daily Times.

During an August 23 surprise inspection, nine health code violations were identified. Despite this, Country Cottage remained open on August 24, the day the one related death occurred. Also, internal documents revealed that State Health Department officials allowed Country Cottage to remain open temporarily—despite confirming six of eight initial food poisoning victims had eaten its food. The Health Department first publicly cited Country Cottage as a possible link in the outbreak on August 25, saying in a release that “a large number of persons who became ill” had eaten there. The investigation ultimately revealed that every person who became ill in the outbreak had eaten food prepared by Country Cottage.

According to a number of news outlets, the investigation involved about 6,000 man-hours and 1,823 interviews at a cost of about $250,000. Also according to various media, State Attorney General Drew Edmondson accused Health Department officials of “botching” the inquiry, adding that he believes “excess chicken litter spread by poultry operations is responsible for contaminating wells and causing the outbreak,” said NewsOK earlier this year.

Country Cottage, a buffet-style restaurant in business for over 22 years, has had 88 health department violations since 2004 that range from improper food storage to improper food temperatures. Cross contamination violations occurred in 2005 and 2006, according to health department reports. This type of contamination can take place when, for instance, a meat product is placed near a product such as eggs. Cross contamination was originally suspected; however, an Oklahoma State Department of Health official said that because investigators were never able to identify a specific food source, they believe a staff member who handled many foods at the restaurant might have been infected and spread the contamination.

Bunched Spinach May be Tainted with Salmonella, Recall Issued

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Salmonella fears have prompted a recall of bunched spinach sold under "Queen Victoria" and"Tubby" labels. The spinach wasdistributed by Ippolito International LP of Salinas, California.

A total of 1,715 cartons of bunched spinach are involved in this recall. According to a statement issued by the California Department of Public Health, 1,515 were packed under the "Queen Victoria" label and distributed in California, Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, and, in Canada, British Columbia, Ontario, and Manitoba. Another 200 sold under the "Tubby" label were shipped to California and New York.

The affected spinach was harvested Sept. 1 through Sept. 3 and distributed to retail, food service and wholesale buyers. It was packed in 12-count and 24-count bunches in cardboard boxes with "Spinach" printed on the side panel, in wire bound crates, or in reusable plastic containers.

The 12-count and 24-count spinach bunches were bound with a twist tie which says "PLU 4090 UPC 33383-65200," according to the agency's statement.

The recalled bunched spinach was labeled with the following Code Date Stickers, located on the outside edge panel of the carton: 10522441 5 205 (harvested Sept. 1, 2009); 10522451 5 205 (harvested Sept. 2, 2009), and 10522461 5 205 (harvested Sept. 3, 2009). The Tubby label was packed only on Code Date 10522451 5 205.

Salmonella is 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.

Muranaka Farm Recalls Parsley Over Salmonella Concerns

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Muranaka Farm, Inc. of Moorpark, California, is recalling 1005 cases of 60-count bunched Parsley over concerns it was potentially contaminated with the dangerous, sometimes deadly, Salmonella pathogen, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced.

The Salmonella pathogen can cause serious, sometimes fatal Salmonellosis infections in young children; weak or elderly people; and those with weakened immune systems, such as patients undergoing chemotherapy or who have been diagnosed with HIV/AIDS and other immune system compromising diseases. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain within 12 to 72 hours of contamination. Generally, the illness lasts a week, but, in some, hospitalization is required because the infection may have spread to the blood stream and other body sites, producing more significant illnesses. Without treatment, severe cases of Salmonella poisoning can result in arterial infections—such as infected aneurysms—endocarditis, arthritis, and death.

Some Salmonella bacteria are resistant to antibiotics, largely due to the use of antibiotics to promote the growth of feed animals. Salmonella poisoning can also lead to Reiter’s Syndrome, a difficult-to-treat reactive arthritis characterized by severe joint pain, irritation of the eyes, and painful urination.

The 1,005 cases of the 60-count fresh bunched Parsley bear Lot Code 0023909 and were distributed in 10 states: Arizona (30 cases), California (574 cases), Colorado (35 cases), Florida (60 Cases), Iowa (3 cases), Illinois (1 case), Missouri (7 cases), Tennessee (5 cases), Texas (278 cases) and Wisconsin (12 cases). These cases were distributed within both retail and foodservice outlets. The FDA also stated that the product was shipped in a brown wax carton under the Muranaka Label with a parsley silhouette on the side. The Parsley bunches were banded using a red rubber band. The lot code number of 0023909 is on a sticker on the outside of the carton.

The recall was as the result of a voluntary sampling program conducted in cooperation with the FDA, which revealed that the finished products contained the bacteria. To date, no illnesses have been reported.

Consumers with questions may contact Muranaka Farm, Inc. at 1-805-529-0201 from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST). The FDA is also urging consumers to contact their retailer to determine if the Parsley product they have purchased is from Muranaka Farm and is associated with Lot Code 0023909.

Greg Emi, President of Muranaka Farm said, "The health of all consumers is of the utmost importance to every employee of our company. With that in mind, even though this product is over two weeks old and most likely past the useable shelf life, we have taken immediate actions to ensure that all product is accounted for and out of the supply chain. We are working with all of our customers to insure this product is no longer being distributed." Muranaka Farm's trace recall program enabled the firm to immediately determine which customers purchased the recalled product as well as the amount of cases harvested, the crew harvesting the product, and the field on which the parsley was grown and harvested.

Eggo Products Recalled following Listeria Finding

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Media outlets are reporting that breakfast food giant Kellogg’s has recalled some of its popular Eggo waffles. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC) said that the recall was implemented after Listeria monocytogenes was discovered by the Georgia Department of Agriculture in some buttermilk Eggo waffles that were manufactured at Kellogg’s Atlanta plant.

The Department of Agriculture took the sample at a routine inspection at the Atlanta plant, said the AJC, which noted that the recalled Eggo waffles were not introduced into the marketplace and no illnesses have yet been reported. The AJC said that production at the Atlanta facility has stopped as investigators try to determine the cause of the Listeria contamination. Kellogg’s said, “Kellogg’s will execute its hygienic restoration plan under [the Department of Agriculture] before it resumes production at the plant,” quoted the AJC. The recalled includes:

Eggo Cinnamon Toast Waffles: Sold in packages of 10; UPC code 3800040440; labeled with “Best If Used Before” dates beginning with: NOV22 10 EA, NOV23 10 EA and NOV24 10 EA.
Eggo Toaster Swirlz Cinnamon Roll Minis: Sold in packages of eight; UPC code 3800023370; “Best If Used Before” dates beginning with NOV15 10 EA.

In recent weeks we have reported on a number of food borne contaminations, including Listeria. As a matter-of-fact, yesterday we wrote that Big Boy Food Group, of Warren, Michigan, recalled approximately 39,514 pounds of ready-to-eat meal kits that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, according to an announcement made by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food and Safety Inspection Service (FSIS).

Last month alone we wrote that Quesos Mi Pueblito, LLC of New Jersey expanded a prior recall of cheese products, also because of potential Listeria contamination. Listeria concerns prompted Lone Star Brisket Company of Thorndale, Texas to issue a recall for some smoked beef products. Supervalu Inc. recalled some of its macaroni and cheese products, also over possible Listeria contamination concerns. And, Peregrina Cheese had another in a long series of recalls over Listeria contaminations.

Listeria can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms, such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. In pregnant women, Listeria can result in miscarriage, stillbirth, or birth of a baby suffering from the infection. Pregnant women are about 20 times likelier than others to be infected, with about one-third of all Listeria cases occurring during pregnancy. Listeria is responsible for an estimated 2,500 illnesses in the United States annually, with about 200 in every 1,000 cases resulting in death. Listeria infection can take days, even weeks, to develop and can present in anything from a mild flu-like illness to meningitis and septicemia.

Ready-to-Eat Meals Recalled for Listeria

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Big Boy Food Group, of Warren, Michigan, is recalling approximately 39,514 pounds of ready-to-eat meal kits that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) just announced.

The following items are involved in the recall:

Dinolunch Brand:
Each case of the recalled Dinolunch brand meal kits can be identified by the case code “9237” and contains approximately twelve (12) trays. The products were produced on August 25, 2009 and distributed to wholesale and retail establishments in Texas. If available, the retail distribution list(s) will be posted on the FSIS website at: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/FSIS_Recalls/Open_Federal_Cases/index.asp:

3.6 oz “DINOLUNCH CARNIVORE HAM & CHEESE” meal kits that include ham, cheese, and crackers; a juice drink; and Dino cookies. The front of each package bears the establishment number “EST. 4205” inside the USDA mark of inspection and the Use by/Sell by date of “10/24/2009.”

3.6 oz “DINOLUNCH T-REX TURKEY & CHEESE” meal kits that include turkey, cheese, and crackers; a juice drink; and Dino cookies. The front of each package bears the establishment number “P- 4205” inside the USDA mark of inspection and the Use by/Sell by date of “10/24/2009.” 

Lunch Buddies Brand:
Each case of the recalled Lunch Buddies brand meal kits can be identified by the case code “9237” and contains approximately sixteen (16) trays. The products were produced on August 25, 2009 and distributed to wholesale establishments in Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Wisconsin. The FSIS announced that it has no reason to believe that these products are available for consumer purchase as recalled products were distributed only at the wholesale level and should not have reached consumers:

3.6 oz “Lunch Buddies Ham & Cheese” meal kits. Each tray includes ham, cheese, and crackers; a juice drink and a sweet treat. The front of each package bears the establishment number “EST. 4205” inside the USDA mark of inspection as well as the Use by/Sell by date of “10/24/2009.”

3.6 oz “Lunch Buddies Turkey & Cheese” meal kits. Each tray includes turkey, cheese, and crackers; a juice drink and a sweet treat. The front of each package bears the establishment number “P- 4205” inside the USDA mark of inspection as well as the Use by/Sell by date of “10/24/2009.” 

The FSIS said it discovered the problem through its microbiological sampling program and has, to date, not received any reports of illnesses associated with consumption of the recalled product.

Listeria can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms, such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. In pregnant women, Listeria can result in miscarriage, stillbirth, or birth of a baby suffering from the infection. Pregnant women are about 20 times likelier than others to be infected, with about one-third of all Listeria cases occurring during pregnancy. Listeria is responsible for an estimated 2,500 illnesses in the United States annually, with about 200 in every 1,000 cases resulting in death. Listeria infection can take days, even weeks, to develop and can present in anything from a mild flu-like illness to meningitis and septicemia.

Suffering from Nestle Cookie Dough Outbreak Continues

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Even though refrigerated Nestle Toll House Cookie Dough has been returned to store shelves, the E. coli outbreak linked to the product is still taking a toll on some victims. According to a Washington Post report, some people allegedly sickened by the dough are still suffering, and at least one life hangs in the balance.

According to the Post, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) believes 80 people in 31 states became ill with E. coli after consuming raw refrigerated Nestle Toll House Cookie Dough. In June, Nestle recalled 3.6 million packages of the cookie dough.

One E. coli victim, a 57-year-old woman, has been confined in a Las Vegas hospital for 120 days. Her family says she had eaten some of the raw cookie dough prior to becoming ill.

According to the Post, the patient, a high school teacher's aide and mother, suffered septic shock after her kidneys shut down. Her gallbladder and part of her colon have been removed. She is unable to speak, and her doctors fear that E. coli toxins have attacked her brain, the Post said. Her prognosis is uncertain.

Other victims of this E. coli outbreak include a 4-year-old girl from South Carolina who had a stroke and is partially paralyzed, the Post said. She, like several other victims, suffered from hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious complication of E. coli infection that affects the kidneys and can lead to death.

According to the Post, neither Nestle nor the FDA have determined how the cookie dough might have transmitted the E. coli infection. While the victims have reported eating the raw cookie dough, the strain of E. coli O157:H7 was not found at Danville, Virginia plant were the product was made. And E. coli that was found in samples of dough had a different genetic fingerprint than the strain responsible for illnesses.

On the advice of the FDA, the Post said Nestle has purchased new supplies of flour, eggs and margarine. Production at Danville resumed July 7, and the product was returned to store shelves last week. The new Nestle cookie dough now bears a "New Batch" label and a prominent warning against eating raw cookie dough, the Post said.

Melon Acres Cantaloupes Recalled Due to Potential Salmonella

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Melon Acres just announced the recall of cantaloupes that were distributed through Farm-Wey Produce of Lakeland, Florida due to potential health concerns related to contamination with the Salmonella pathogen. The recall was issued following a testing on Tuesday, August 11, 2009 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that revealed one of a sample of twenty cantaloupes taken by the FDA tested positive for Salmonella.

The FDA said it reported the positive test to Melon Acres on Friday, August 21, 2009. The cantaloupes were shipped August 13th and 14th and were identified as 41 MG 10, Bin Numbers 4753-4980. These bins were distributed to Aldi's in Greenwood, Indiana and Meijer in Lansing, Michigan; Newport, Michigan; and Tipp City, Ohio.

The FDA and Melon Acres identified the field in which the contaminated cantaloupe sample was grown and no further shipments will be made from that source field. The agency and Melon Acres are collaborating to identify the contamination source. To date, there have been no reports of illness connected with this Salmonella contamination.

Earlier this year we reported that the FDA announced that L&M Companies, Inc. of Raleigh, North Carolina, issued a three-state recall of its whole cantaloupes because of a possible health risk due to concerns of Salmonella contamination. As of May, investigators were unable to locate additional Salmonella at L&M. The recall came after a cantaloupe at a farm from which L&M Companies sources its products tested positive for Salmonella.

The Salmonella pathogen can cause serious, sometimes fatal Salmonellosis infections in young children; weak or elderly people; and those with weakened immune systems, such as patients undergoing chemotherapy or who have been diagnosed with HIV/AIDS and other immune system compromising diseases.

Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain within 12 to 72 hours of contamination. Generally, the illness lasts a week, but, in some, hospitalization is required because the infection may have spread to the blood stream and other body sites, producing more significant illnesses. Without treatment, severe cases of Salmonella poisoning can result in arterial infections—such as infected aneurysms—endocarditis, arthritis, and death. Some Salmonella bacteria are resistant to antibiotics, largely due to the use of antibiotics to promote the growth of feed animals.

Salmonella is usually found in food contaminated with animal feces and is a group of bacteria that passes from the feces of people or animals to other people or animals, causing contamination when food is improperly stored or handled and when preparers do not wash their hands or sanitize implements involved in food storage.

Salmonella is the most frequently reported cause of food-related outbreaks of stomach illness worldwide and Salmonella poisoning can lead to Reiter’s Syndrome, a difficult-to-treat reactive arthritis characterized by severe joint pain, irritation of the eyes, and painful urination.

Listeria Worries Prompt Quesos Mi Pueblito to Recall More Cheese

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Quesos Mi Pueblito, LLC of New Jersey is recalling more cheese products because of potential Listeria contamination. All of the cheeses involved in this recall bear a “Sell by Date” from February 2, 2009 to present.

Products involved in this recall include:

LA FE OAXACA STRING CHEESE
EL VIEJITO OAXACA CHEESE
MI PUEBLITO COTIJA/AñEJO
MI PUEBLITO CUAJADA FRESCA
MI PUEBLITO QUESO COLOMBIANO DE ARRIERO
MI PUEBLITO QUESO MOLIDO
MI PUEBLITO QUESO COTIJA TRIANGULO
MI PUEBLITO QUESO FRESCO
MI PUEBLITO QUESO FRESCO DE RANCHO
MI PUEBLITO QUESO CASERO
MI PUEBLITO QUESO OAXACA
MI PUEBLITO REQUESON
MI PUEBLITO SERRANO

A complete list of product sizes and packages can be found here.

Earlier this month, Quesos Mi Pueblito recalled its Mi Pueblito Queso Fresco Authentic Mexican Style Soft Cheese. All of the cheeses involved in this month's recalls distributed in New Jersey, New York, Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia through Puebla Foods, INC., Passaic, N.J. to retail stores and wholesalers.

Listeria can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms, such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea.

In pregnant women, Listeria can result in miscarriage, stillbirth, or birth of a baby suffering from the infection. Pregnant women are about 20 times likelier than others to be infected, with about one-third of all Listeria cases occurring during pregnancy;

Listeria is responsible for an estimated 2,500 illnesses in the United States annually, with about 200 in every 1,000 cases resulting in death. Listeria infection can take days, even weeks, to develop and can present in anything from a mild flu-like illness to meningitis and septicemia.

No illnesses have been reported in connection to these recalled cheeses.

Listeria Worries Behind Lone Star Beef Brisket Co. Recall

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Listeria concerns have prompted Lone Star Brisket Company of Thorndale, Texas to issue a recall for some smoked beef products. The listeria problem was discovered through U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) microbiological sampling program.

Consumption of food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes can cause listeriosis, an uncommon but potentially fatal disease. Healthy people rarely contract listeriosis. However, listeriosis can cause high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness and nausea. Listeriosis can also cause miscarriages and stillbirths, as well as serious and sometimes fatal infections in those with weakened immune systems, such as infants, the elderly and persons with HIV infection or undergoing chemotherapy. Individuals concerned about an illness should contact a physician.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the following product is subject to this recall:

2 to 3 pound vacuum packed "Texas Star Meat Company SMOKED BEEF BRISKET Fully Cooked." Each label bears the establishment number "EST. 27340" inside the USDA mark of inspection and a day-glo sticker "Sliced" next to the product label.

Each 50-pound case, which can be identified by the case code "222A", contains approximately twenty (20) 2 to 3 pound briskets. The smoked beef brisket products were produced on Aug. 11, 2009 and distributed to Department of Defense Commissaries in New Mexico and Oklahoma.

Media and consumers with questions about the recall should contact company General Manager Chris Frazier at (512) 898-5423.

FSIS has received no reports of illnesses associated with consumption of the beef brisket included in this recall.

Mexican-Style Soft Cheese Recalled Due to Listeria

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Potential Listeria contamination has prompted a recall of Mi Pueblito Queso Fresco Authentic Mexican Style Soft Cheese made by Quesos Mi Pueblito LLT.

Consumers who have purchased this product are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may call the company at 973-473-4494, Monday - Friday, 8:00 - 4:30 p. m.

The recalled cheese is distributed in the New Jersey/New York City area as well as, Delaware and Virginia, through Puebla Foods, Inc., Passaic, N. J. to retail stores and wholesalers. According to the recall notice, the cheese comes in a 14 oz, clear plastic package, with a sell by label dated 09/08/09 on top, UPC code 2407710025.

Listeria can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms, such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea.

In pregnant women, Listeria can result in miscarriage, stillbirth, or birth of a baby suffering from the infection. Pregnant women are about 20 times likelier than others to be infected, with about one-third of all Listeriosis cases occurring during pregnancy;

Listeria is responsible for an estimated 2,500 illnesses in the United States annually, with about 200 in every 1,000 cases resulting in death. Listeria infection can take days, even weeks, to develop and can present in anything from a mild flu-like illness to meningitis and septicemia.

E. coli Found in Marcacci Meats Ground Beef, Recall Issued

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Ground beef product made by Pasha Halal Poultry (DBA Marcacci Meats) of Vineland, N.J. have been recalled because of potential E. coli contamination. According to the recall notice, E. coli O157:H7 contamination was discovered through routine testing conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).

E. coli O157:H7 causes abdominal cramping, vomiting and a diarrheal illness, often with bloody stools. While most healthy adults can recover completely within a week, young children and the elderly are at highest risk for developing Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), a serious complication which can lead to serious kidney damage and even death. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), E. coli 0157:H7 is responsible for sickening 73,000 people every year, and of those, 60 will die from the disease.

According to FSIS, the following products are included in this latest ground beef recall

Various sizes of plastic-wrapped packages of "MARCACCI MEATS, GROUND BEEF."
10-pound boxes of "MARCACCI MEATS, GROUND BEEF."

These products were produced on Aug. 12, 2009, and were distributed to a consumer at the wholesale level in the Atlantic City, N.J., area, and packaged for sale to consumers at the retail level in Vineland, N.J. They were packed in foam containers and bear a package code of "8.12.09" as well as the establishment number "EST. 5913" inside the USDA mark of inspection.

According to FSIS, no reports of illnesses associated with consumption of these products have been reported. Individuals concerned about an illness should contact a physician.

Media and consumers with questions regarding the recall should contact company Owner Mehmet Silpagar at (856) 691-4848.

E. Coli Concerns Prompt Sterling Pacific Meat to Recall Ground Beef

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0700

More than 3,000 pounds of ground beef is being recalled today by Sterling Pacific Meat Co., a City of Commerce, Calif. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the ground beef may be tainted with E. coli O157:H7.

E. coli O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and in the most severe cases, kidney failure. The very young, seniors and persons with weak immune systems are the most susceptible to foodborne illness. Individuals concerned about an illness should contact a physician.

The products included in this recall are:

Fatburger Brand:

20-pound packages of "8 oz. PUCK (80/20) GROUND BEEF PATTIES."
10-pound "2.5 oz. BABY GROUND BEEF PATTIES."

Stock Yards Brand:

12-pound packages of "6 oz ROUND 80 % LEAN PURE GROUND BEEF PATTIES." Each package bears the identifying case code "13627."
12-pound packages of "(3/1) ROUND 80% LEAN PURE GROUND BEEF PATTY." Each package bears the identifying case code "13582."
12-pound packages of "(3/1) ROUND 80% LEAN GROUND BEEF PATTIES." Each package bears the identifying case code "10457" and the pack date "05/18/2009."
12-pound packages of "GROUND BEEF PATTY (8/1) SLIDER 80% LEAN." Each package bears the identifying case code "13657" and the pack date "05/18/2009."
12-pound packages of "(4/1) ROUND 85% LEAN PURE GROUND BEEF PATTY." Each package bears the identifying case code "13575" and the pack date "05/18/2009."
12-pound packages of "PURE GROUND BEEF PATTY 7oz WIDE PATTY 80% LEAN." Each package bears the identifying case code "13520" and the pack date "05/18/2009."
12-pound packages of "PURE GROUND BEEF PATTY (7/1) ROUND PATTY 80% LEAN." Each package bears the identifying case code "13577" and the pack date "05/18/2009."
11.80-pound packages of "PURE GROUND BEEF PATTIES 7 oz ROUND 80% LEAN." Each package bears the identifying case code "13520" or "13561" and the pack date "05/18/2009."

The packages also bear the establishment number "EST. 550" within the USDA Mark of Inspection and advise "KEEP REFRIGERATED" and/or "KEEP FROZEN." The ground beef products were produced on May 18, 2009, and were distributed at the wholesale level to food service companies, who further distributed the product to restaurants in Calif. and Ariz.

The USDA has received no reports of illnesses associated with consumption of these products. Individuals concerned about an illness should contact a physician.

Media and consumer questions regarding the recall should be directed to the company Vice-President, Luis Munoz, at (323) 838-9400.

Salmonella Prompts Green Onion Recall

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Potentially Salmonella-tainted green onions are being recalled by California-based NewStar Fresh Foods. The affected green onions were sold under the brand names Omo and Fu Choy.

Although it is likely that the jumbo green onions are now beyond their usable life, NewStar Fresh Foods said the recall is being issued out of an abundance of caution for in the possible event some consumers might have purchased the green onions and still have the product in their home refrigerators.

Salmonella is an organism that 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 circumstance, 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.

This green onion recall involves 772 cartons of iced jumbo green onions. The product is packaged in a 48-count iced carton, item numbers 02487403 and 02487452, product lot numbers 40550707 and 40510707, with production dates of July 20th and July 21st 2009.

According to the recall notice, the recalled Omo and Fu Choy green onions were distributed from three locations: R.A.M. Produce Distributors of Detroit, Michigan, Franzella Distributing of San Francisco, CA, and United Food Service of East Point, GA. Fifty-eight cartons were shipped from two distributors to small grocery outlets in the Detroit and San Francisco areas. Consumers in California may have purchased the product from Larry’s Produce in Fairfield, La Loma Produce, Good Life Grocery and El Grande, all San Francisco, and Valley Produce & Meat Market, San Pablo. Consumers in Michigan may have purchased the product from Confers Supermarket in New Lothrop, Ryan’s Food in Detroit, Brothers Supermarket and Al Jazeera Market in Dearborn and Sahara Market in Warren.

Customers who have purchased the jumbo green onions are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Customers with questions may contact NewStar Fresh Foods at 1-831-758-7810.

Salmonella Meat Processor Cited Prior to Outbreak

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0700

We have been following the ongoing recalls and Salmonella-related sicknesses allegedly linked to Fresno, California’s Meat Packers Inc. Now, the Associated Press (AP) reports that Meat Packers Inc. received animal handling citations last year when it underwent a government review of such plants, according to official records.

Meat packing plants were reviewed following the largest beef recall in history, which was connected to a slaughterhouse in southern California, said the AP. As a result, Meat Packers Inc. and 17 other meat packing plants known to sell meat to the National School Lunch program were reviewed.

To date, a total of 826,000 pounds of ground beef were recalled, according to an earlier announcement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). The recall was listed as a Class I, the most serious, which means there exists a health hazard situation in which there is a reasonable probability that use of the product will cause serious, adverse health consequences or death. At least 28 illnesses in three states appear to be Salmonella-related, said the AP.

According to the AP report citing March 2008 inspection records, USDA auditors found workers using electric prods to urge uncooperative cattle through a small chute that opened to the slaughterhouse. When three cows would not move, workers stunned the animals into unconsciousness "so that they could be pulled through the restrainer to be shackled, hung, and bled," the records state, quoted the AP.

The risk for pathogenic food poisoning, such as E. coli and Salmonella, increases when cattle are treated in such a way because the animals, when dragged, can pick up the dangerous germs from waste products that end up on their hides and can contaminate the chute and surrounding area, according to experts, said the AP. "All kinds of feces and urine get into those chutes because they typically aren't cleaned out during the day because too many animals need to get in," said Lester Friedlander, a former USDA veterinary inspector, reported the AP.

Cargill Meat Solutions appealed the alleged violations and the FSIS rescinded the citations, sending Beef Packers a so-called letter of concern, said the AP. Cargill Meat Solutions is the parent company of Beef Packers.

To date, neither the agency nor the meat packer explained what led to the recall. Also, products subject to recall were repackaged into consumer-size packages and sold under different retail brand names. The FSIS is advising consumers to check with their local retailer to determine if they purchased products subject to recall.

As a result of the ongoing investigation into the Salmonella Newport outbreak, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) notified FSIS of the situation. Epidemiological and traceback investigations conducted by FSIS and CDPHE determined an association between the fresh ground beef products and illnesses reported in Colorado. The illnesses were also linked through the epidemiological investigation by their uncommon pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) pattern found in PulseNet, a national network of public health and food regulatory agency laboratories coordinated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This particular strain of Salmonella Newport is resistant to many commonly prescribed drugs, which can increase the risk of hospitalization or possible treatment failure in infected individuals.

825,769 Pounds of Beef Recalled, Possibly Linked to Salmonella Outbreak

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Beef Packers, Inc., of Fresno, California, is recalling about 825,769 pounds of ground beef products that may be linked to an outbreak of Salmonella, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) just announced. The recall is a Class I, which means this is a health hazard situation in which there is a reasonable probability that use of the product will cause serious, adverse health consequences or death.

The recalled ground beef was produced on various dates ranging from June 5, 2009 through June 23, 2009; all products bear the establishment number "EST. 31913" printed on the case code labels. The products subject to recall include:

60-Pound Cases:
"GRD Beef Sirl Fine 90/10"; identifying case code W69012; Use/Freeze by dates: 06/23/09, 06/26/09, 06/28/09, 06/29/09, 06/30/09, 07/03/09, 07/05/09, 07/06/09, 07/07/09, 07/10/09, and 07/11/09.
"Grnd Bf Fine Sir 90/10 10/60 H"; identifying case code W69064; Use/Freeze by dates: 06/26/09, 07/03/09, 07/06/09, 07/07/09, and 07/14/09.
"Grnd Beef 90/10 Fine 60"; identifying case code W69063; Use/Freeze by dates: 06/23/09, 06/26/09, 06/30/09, 07/03/09, 07/07/09, 07/10/09, and 07/11/09.
"Grnd Beef Fine 93/07 10/60"; identifying case code W69363; Use/Freeze by dates: 06/23/09, 06/26/09, 06/28/09, 06/29/09, 06/30/09, 07/03/09, 07/07/09, 07/10/09 and 07/11/09.
"Grnd Beef Fine 93/07 10#/60 H"; identifying case code W69360; Use/Freeze by dates: 06/26/09, 07/03/09, 07/06/09, 07/10/09 and 07/14/09.

80-Pound Cases:
"Grnd Beef Fine 91/09 10#/80"; identifying case code W69108; Use/Freeze by dates: 06/30/09, 07/06/09, 07/08/09, and 07/13/09.

40-Pound Cases:
GRD BEEF FINE 96/04-10#/40"; identifying case code W69602; Use/Freeze by dates: 06/23/09, 06/30/09, 07/03/09, 07/07/09, 07/10/09, and 07/11/09.

The ground beef products were distributed to retail distribution centers in Arizona, California, Colorado, and Utah. Because these products were repackaged into consumer-size packages and sold under different retail brand names. The FSIS is advising consumers to check with their local retailer to determine if they purchased products subject to recall.

As a result of an ongoing investigation into an outbreak of Salmonella Newport associated with ground beef products, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) notified FSIS of the situation. Epidemiological and traceback investigations conducted by FSIS and CDPHE determined that there is an association between the fresh ground beef products and illnesses reported in Colorado. The illnesses were also linked through the epidemiological investigation by their uncommon pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) pattern found in PulseNet, a national network of public health and food regulatory agency laboratories coordinated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This particular strain of Salmonella Newport is resistant to many commonly prescribed drugs, which can increase the risk of hospitalization or possible treatment failure in infected individuals.

Consumers with questions about the recall should contact the company's Consumer Line, toll-free at 1-877-872-3635.

Lettuce Recall Expanded

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Tanimura & Antle, Inc. of Salinas, California is expanding the geographic scope of its voluntary recall of bulk and wrapped romaine head lettuce, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just announced. The recall was implemented over concerns of Salmonella contamination.

Although the volume of cases from the single recalled lot has not changed, the company recognizes the possibility that some customers may have distributed the romaine in states beyond the original 29 cited. Because of this, Tanimura & Antle is extending the U.S. recall to all 50 states and also includes Puerto Rico and Canada, as initially indicated.

The original recall was issued after a random test conducted by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture came back positive for Salmonella. To date, no illnesses have been linked to the finding and no other products are affected by the recall.

All customers who received the romaine directly from the company were notified on July 21 and advised to discard any existing product, which now is well past its shelf life, said the FDA. Romaine included in the recall was harvested from June 25 to July 2. Shelf life for romaine lettuce is about 14 to 16 days. The cartons of bulk or wrapped romaine being recalled were sold to retail, wholesale, and food service outlets.

Salmonella is 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.

Some Salmonella bacteria are resistant to antibiotics, largely due to the use of antibiotics to promote the growth of feed animals. Salmonella is usually found in food contaminated with animal feces and is a group of bacteria that passes from the feces of people or animals to other people or animals, causing contamination when food is improperly stored or handled and when preparers do not wash their hands or sanitize implements involved in food storage.Salmonella is the most frequently reported cause of food-related outbreaks of stomach illness worldwide and Salmonella poisoning can lead to Reiter’s Syndrome, a difficult-to-treat reactive arthritis characterized by severe joint pain, irritation of the eyes, and painful urination.

Consumers with questions or who need information may call Tanimura & Antle, toll-free at 1-877-827-7388 or visit the firm’s Web site for updates at www.taproduce.com.

Cilantro Recalled For Possible Salmonella by Frontera Produce

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Salmonella concerns have prompted Frontera Produce of Edinburg, TX to recall one lot of fresh cilantro. According to a posting on the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) Website, the recalled lot of cilantro was distributed to two retail store chains in Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado, Louisiana, and New Mexico.

The cilantro recall involves lot 118122, which would have been purchased between July 20, 2009 and July 27, 2009. The cilantro bunches in question have a white twist tie with pink lettering spelling the word 'Cilantro' and the UPC number 033383801049. Consumers have been advised to destroy the recalled cilantro.

This product originated in Mexico and was procured by Frontera Produce, who subsequently routinely tested for contaminants as part of their internal food safety program. The recall involves only one lot of cilantro and does not involve any other products.

Salmonella is 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.

Salmonella is usually found in food contaminated with animal feces and is a group of bacteria that passes from the feces of people or animals to other people or animals, causing contamination when food is improperly stored or handled and when preparers do not wash their hands or sanitize implements involved in food storage. Salmonella is the most frequently reported cause of food-related outbreaks of stomach illness worldwide and Salmonella poisoning can lead to Reiter’s Syndrome, a difficult-to-treat reactive arthritis characterized by severe joint pain, irritation of the eyes, and painful urination.

Consumers with questions may contact Frontera Produce at 1(877)-381-5701, Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm central standard time, or email fpltd.mail@fronteraproduce.com.

Resistant Salmonella Linked to King Soopers Beef Recall

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The Salmonella strain at the root of the recent King Soopers, Inc. beef recall is not only resistant to a wide variety of antibiotics, but the Salmonella involved is not always killed off by cooking, according to The Denver Channel, citing the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).

Because this particular strain of Salmonella, Salmonella Typhimurium DT104, is resistant to many commonly prescribed drugs, contamination with the strain can increase the risk of hospitalization or possible treatment failure in infected individuals.

Late last week we wrote that the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) released information on King Soopers, Inc. announcement of its recall. The recall was for approximately 466,236 pounds of ground beef products that were likely linked to an outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium DT104. The recall is a Class I, which means it presents a health hazard situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of the product will cause serious, adverse health consequences or death.

The beef distributed by King Soopers was sent to stores in Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming, said the Denver Channel, which noted that 14 people in Colorado fell ill after eating the recalled meat.

Consumption of food contaminated with Salmonella can cause salmonellosis, one of the most common bacterial foodborne illnesses. Salmonella infections can be life threatening, especially to those with weak immune systems, such as infants, the elderly, and persons with HIV infection or who are undergoing chemotherapy. The most common manifestations of salmonellosis are diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within eight to 72 hours. Additional symptoms may include chills, headache, nausea, and vomiting that can last up to seven days.

In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections, e.g., infected aneurysms, endocarditis, and arthritis.

Epidemiological investigations and a case control study conducted by CDPHE and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) determined that there is an association between the fresh ground beef products and the14 illnesses reported in Colorado. The illnesses were linked through the epidemiological investigation by their less common pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) pattern found in PulseNet, a national network of public health and food regulatory agency laboratories coordinated by the CDC.

While the FSIS said it has no reason to believe that the recalled beef products are still available for sale in commerce, consumers may have purchased these recalled, fresh ground beef products between May 23 and June 23, 2009 and stored them in the freezer. Consumers are advised to look for and discard or destroy the recalled products.

According to PubMed (a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health), Salmonella Typhimurium DT104 strains are commonly resistant to ampicillin, chloramphenicol, streptomycin, sulfonamides, and tetracycline.

Pizza Hut Food Poisoning Lawsuit Grows

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The Associated Press is breaking with news that a group of people is suing the company that owns a Pizza Hut restaurant in Greenwood, Mississippi for $1.1 million. The suit now includes 15 people who are members of the same congregation and who allege they fell ill after consuming chicken at the Greenwood Pizza Hut, said the AP.

NPC International Inc., located in Kansas, is named as the sole defendant; Pizza Hut is not named, said the AP. NPC is, said the AP, the nation’s largest Pizza Hut franchisee, comprised of hundreds of Pizza Hut restaurants nationwide, citing the Web site.

The lawsuit involved two plaintiffs at its original filing earlier this year; the revised lawsuit alleges “the restaurant failed to exercise reasonable care in preparing and storing food and did not properly train employees,” said the AP. All the plaintiffs are members of the St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church of Itta Bena, said the AP, and all 15 claim to have eaten chicken at the Pizza Hut and that the chicken sickened them.

After dining at the Pizza Hut in Greenwood on January 18, 19 people had to be taken to the hospital for treatment and complained of symptoms that sound like food poisoning, such as vomiting and nausea, said the AP. The 19 were taken to the hospital within an hour of eating and were treated and released, the AP reported.

Analysis conducted by the Mississippi Department of Health did not indicate what caused the illnesses, but noted it discovered raw chicken at “inappropriate temperatures,” said the AP. The AP noted that, according to the Department of Health, when bacteria is found in raw chicken, illness does not typically come on so swiftly.

Any number of food borne pathogens could be to blame. For instance, an indicator of fecal contamination, E. coli may cause fatal blood poisoning, cystitis, deadly septicemia, and death. Symptoms include stomach cramps and watery diarrhea that may turn bloody within one to three days. E. coli generally taints meat through improper butchering and processing practices and, once released in the body, produces the shiga-producing toxins that have been linked to kidney damage in young children, and can also lead to kidney failure and death. E. coli infection can be transmitted through poor hygiene or hand-washing habits when bacteria in diarrheal stools are involved.

Salmonella can cause serious, sometimes fatal Salmonellosis infections in young children; weak or elderly people; and those with weakened immune systems. Healthy people may experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, if infected. Without treatment, severe cases can result in arterial infections—such as infected aneurysms—endocarditis, arthritis, and death; however, some Salmonella bacteria are resistant to antibiotics.

Listeriosis, the food poisoning generated by Listeria monocytogenes, is particularly dangerous to the elderly, pregnant women, newborns, those with chronic medical conditions, people with HIV, or those undergoing chemotherapy. In serious cases, the disease spreads to the nervous system, causing headaches, stiff neck, and convulsions and can cause meningitis and blood poisoning in immune-compromised individuals.

Norovirus, a group of viruses that cause gastroenteritis are not helped with antibiotics. People become infected by eating food or drinking liquids contaminated with norovirus; touching surfaces or objects contaminated with norovirus, and then placing their hand in their mouth; and having direct contact with another person who is infected and showing symptoms. People may feel very sick and vomit many times a day. Sometimes people are unable to drink enough liquids to replenish the liquids lost due to vomiting and diarrhea and can become dehydrated and require special medical attention.

No Justice for Plaintiffs in Little Noticed Supreme Court Decision

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0700

A Supreme Court decision issued in May is proving to have dangerous implications for plaintiffs in civil lawsuits. According to a New York Times article, the decision in Ashcroft vs. Iqbal has made it far easier - in fact, too easy - for federal judges to dismiss civil lawsuits long before plaintiffs even have a chance to be heard.

In Ashcroft vs. Iqbal, a Muslim plaintiff had claimed that he suffered abuse while imprisoned on immigration charges in New York after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. In a 5 to 4 decision, the high court overturned a ruling that the plaintiff, who was imprisoned more than a year after the attacks, could proceed with his lawsuit against former Attorney General John Ashcroft and FBI Director Robert Mueller.

According to The New York Times, what was little-noticed about Ashcroft vs Iqbal is that it establishes a difficult new standard plaintiffs filing civil lawsuits must meet before they can even get past the courthouse door. In his majority opinion, Justice Anthony M. Kennedy wrote that: "Determining whether a complaint states a plausible claim for relief requires the reviewing court to draw on its judicial experience and common sense.”

According to The New York Times, Justice Kennedy's words mean a civil lawsuit must now "satisfy a skeptical judicial gatekeeper." Prior to this ruling, plaintiffs only had to file a basic complaint. To dismiss a suit - established in a 1957 Supreme Court decision - a federal judge had to determine "beyond doubt" that a plaintiff had no case.

The old standards served plaintiffs well, because in most cases, the facts surrounding an act of wrongdoing - whether it involves employment discrimination, defective products or fraud - are closely guarded by defendants. Even with a bare-bones complaint, plaintiffs were entitled to examine a defendant's records, and question key individuals. Through this discovery process, the outrageous, deliberate and unlawful conduct of many a defendant saw the light of day.

But under Iqbal, that process has been undermined. According to The New York Times, the decision instructs lower court judges to dismiss lawsuits that "strike them as implausible." That's a pretty loose - and dangerous - standard for judges to follow. Stephen B. Burbank of the University of Pennsylvania Law School told the Times that the Iqbal decision is "a blank check for federal judges to get rid of cases they disfavor.”

Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who dissented from the majority opinion, has characterized Iqbal as important and dangerous, The New York Times said. Speaking to a group of federal judges last month, Justice Ginsburg said Iqbal "messed up the federal rules” governing civil litigation.

Already, Iqbal is having a huge impact on lawsuits in this country. According to The New York Times, lower courts have cited it 500 times since the decision was published in May by the Supreme Court. Lawsuit involving everything from employment discrimination to securities fraud have been dismissed before they even got off the ground. Sadly, under Iqbal, it seems clear that many plaintiffs with legitimate grievances will never have their day in court.

Salmonella Risk Prompts Sweet Superior Fruit to Recall Cilantro

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Sweet Superior Fruit LTD. Company of McAllen, Texas, is recalling 104 crates of fresh cilantro (coriander) because the cilantro (coriander) has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, a dangerous, sometimes deadly pathogen, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just announced.

The recalled fresh cilantro (coriander) was sold July 13-16, 2009 in 15-pound, black plastic crates to individuals and companies through cash sales at Sweet Superior Fruit LTD. Company at 2501 West Military Highway, Suite #A-5 and A-6, McAllen, Texas. The product may have been further sold through direct retail sales in McAllen, Texas and surrounding areas or used as an ingredient to manufacture additional products.

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

The potential for contamination was revealed through testing by the FDA, which found the presence of Salmonella in the cilantro (coriander) product.

Individuals and companies who purchased fresh cilantro (coriander) from Sweet Superior Fruit from July 13-16, 2009 are being advised to immediately discontinue use of the product. Companies are also being advised to make efforts to recall the product from customers and consumers who may have purchased the recalled cilantro (coriander) and to ask those customers to return the recalled product or throw it away.

Consumers who have purchased fresh cilantro (coriander) in McAllen, Texas and its surrounding areas since July 13, 2009 should determine from the store from where they purchased the product whether or not the fresh cilantro (coriander) they purchased is involved in this recall.

Consumers with questions may contact Sweet Superior directly at 1-956-687-6683.

Salmonella is organism that 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. Rarely, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism entering the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis, and arthritis.

Herring Produce Recalls Peppers Over Possible Salmonella

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Herring Produce of Lake Park, Georgia is voluntarily recalling production lot number 0801206 of its whole Anaheim Peppers over the peppers’ potential to be contaminated with the dangerous, sometimes deadly, Salmonella pathogen, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just announced. The agency said it is not linking this isolated positive sample to any current or ongoing Salmonella outbreaks.

The whole Anaheim Peppers were shipped June 9-19, 2009 to retail outlets in New York state, Ohio, and Massachusetts. The Anaheim Peppers being recalled were shipped in half-bushel boxes with production lot number 0801206 located on a red sticker on the box. Boxes are white, wax cardboard Herring Produce boxes and contain a printed picture of yellow squash and green zucchini.

All Herring Produce customers have been notified of the potential Salmonella contamination and affected produce has been recalled.

The recall follows routine sampling by the New York State Department of Agriculture on behalf of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in which the agency discovered a positive sample in the affected production lot. Herring Produce has ceased production and shipments from this production area.

Anaheim peppers are a raw agricultural product that must be washed before consumption. Although these peppers are typically cooked, they can be eaten raw. Of note, heating to a high enough temperature would kill Salmonella bacteria.

If customers have purchased Anaheim Peppers they are advised to contact their retailer to determine if the peppers purchased were affected by the recall. Consumers who have questions about this recall may contact Gulf Stream Produce at 1-919-217-2870 or Herring Produce at 1-229-559-0101.

No illnesses have been reported in connection with the Herring Produce Anaheim Pepper products, to date.

Salmonella is an organism which may cause serious and sometimes fatal infections particularly in young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and/or abdominal pain. Long-term complications can include arterial infections (i.e. infected aneurysms), endocarditis, and severe arthritis.

Plainview Milk Salmonella Prompts More Recalls

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0700

There have been more recalls announced in connection with the Plainview Milk Cooperative Salmonella scare.

The dried milk in all of these products was originally recalled by Plainview Milk Products Cooperative of Plainview, Minnesota last month. In addition to the nonfat dried milk products, the company also recalled whey protein, fruit stabilizers, and gums (thickening agents) that it has manufactured over the past two year because of potential Salmonella contamination. The company sells these products to other industry customers, including distributors and manufacturers, who may have incorporated them into their own products.

The products subject to recall over the past few days include:

The Malt-O-Meal Company expanded the previously announced recall of certain single serve packets of “Maple & Brown Sugar Instant Oatmeal” packets and “Maple & Brown Sugar Instant Oatmeal” packets sold in “Variety” cartons to include additional carton date codes.
Country Creations is recalling frosting packets included with Country Creations Braided Bread and Country Creations Cinnamon Rolls distributed to frozen food distributors nationwide. These frosting packets were produced and distributed between September 1, 2008 and June 12, 2009.
Diamond Crystal Brands Inc. of Savannah, Ga., is recalling products containing nonfat supplied by Plainview Milk Products Cooperative.
Weight Loss Services, LP of Horsham, PA is recalling 403 cases (16,120 selling units) of L A Hot Drinks Café Au Lait net weight 4.07oz.
The ‘G Collection’ Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day gift boxes that were available for purchase during limited holiday timeframes in 2009 are being recalled by Godiva Chocolatier, the distributor of the G Collection.

A complete list of products affected by the Plainview Milk Products Cooperative recall can be found here at the Food & Drug Administration Website.

Salmonella is 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.

E. Coli Prompts Illinois Firm to Recall Ground Beef Products

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0700

E. coli worries have prompted E. S. Miller Packing Co. of Montgomery, Ill. to recall some ground beef products. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the recall involves around 219 lbs of ground meat that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7.

E. coli O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and in the most severe cases, kidney failure. The very young, seniors and persons with weak immune systems are the most susceptible to foodborne illness. Individuals concerned about an illness should contact a physician.

Unfortunately, recalls of E. coli tainted meat are not rare. We recently reported that JBS Swift Beef issued a recall of approximately 41,280 pounds of beef products over E. coli contamination concerns. JBS Swift later expanded its original recall to include approximately 380,000 pounds of assorted beef primal products. That tainted beef has been associated with at least 23 illnesses in multiple states.

The ground beef products in this latest recall were produced from July 7, 2009, through July 10, 2009, and were distributed to consumers and several local restaurants in the Montgomery and Paw Paw, Ill., areas, located in northern Illinois.

The products subject to recall include:

10-pound Cryovaced bags of bulk "EDWARD S. MILLER PACKING CO., GROUND BEEF." Each bag bears the establishment number "EST. 34342" inside the USDA mark of inspection and case codes of "070709," "070809," "070909" or "071009."
12- and 15-pound boxes "EDWARD S. MILLER PACKING CO., GROUND BEEF PATTIES." Each box bears the establishment number "EST. 34342" inside the USDA mark of inspection and case codes of "070709," "070809," "070909" or "071009."

Media and consumers with questions about the recall should contact company Owner Jeffrey Reuland at (630) 820-7077.

General Mills Recalls Nature Valley Products

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Cereal giant, General Mills, just announced a recall of some of its “Nut Lovers” Nature Valley Granola Nut Clusters product that contain pecans.

General Mills took the action as a precaution because, it said, pecans received from a supplier and used in “Nut Lovers” Nature Valley Granola Nut Clusters may be tainted with Salmonella.

No other types of nuts; other flavors or varieties of Granola Nut Clusters; no other types, varieties, or flavors of Nature Valley products; and no Nature Valley granola bar products or General Mills products are involved or being recalled. Also, no illnesses have yet been reported in connection with the “Nut Lovers” Nature Valley Granola Nut Clusters product.

The recalled “Nut Lovers” Nature Valley Granola Nut Clusters product is a new bite-size cluster sold in a stand-up bag in grocery stores, convenience stores, and vending outlets nationally. Specific Nut Lovers flavor products with five specific “best if used by dates” are being recalled. The five “best if used by dates” are:

07MAR2010
08MAR2010
09MAR2010
10MAR2010
11MAR2010

General Mills is urging consumers in possession of the products covered under this recall to dispose of the product and contact General Mills for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact General Mills toll-free at 1-800-231-0308.

Salmonella is an organism that can cause serious, 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. Rarely, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism entering the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis, and arthritis.

Some Salmonella bacteria are resistant to antibiotics, largely due to the use of antibiotics to promote the growth of feed animals. Salmonella is usually found in food contaminated with animal feces and is a group of bacteria that passes from the feces of people or animals to other people or animals, causing contamination when food is improperly stored or handled and when preparers do not wash their hands or sanitize implements involved in food storage.

Salmonella is the most frequently reported cause of food-related outbreaks of stomach illness worldwide and Salmonella poisoning can lead to Reiter’s Syndrome, a difficult-to-treat reactive arthritis characterized by severe joint pain, irritation of the eyes, and painful urination.

Another Salmonella Sprout Recall

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Salmonella worries have prompted yet another recall of alfalfa sprouts. According to a notice posted on the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) Website, Mike’s Produce, Inc. dba Kowalke Family Sprouts is voluntarily recalling the alfalfa products after receiving notification that a surveillance sample taken at a retail location with a June 21 sell-by date tested positive for Salmonella.

Salmonella is 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.

Salmonella outbreaks from raw alfalfa sprouts are not uncommon. In May, for instance, the FDA warned that it was tracking a multi-state outbreak of Salmonella St. Paul that had been linked to the consumption of raw alfalfa sprouts Cases related to that outbreak had been reported in Michigan, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Utah, and West Virginia, the FDA said. Most of those who became ill reported eating raw alfalfa sprouts. Some reported eating raw sprouts at restaurants; others reported purchasing the raw sprouts at the retail level. That outbreak appeared to be an extension of an earlier outbreak in 2009, the FDA said. In February and March, an outbreak of Salmonella St. Paul occurred in Nebraska, South Dakota, Iowa, Kansas, and Minnesota. That outbreak resulted in alfalfa sprout recalls by several firms.

No illnesses have been connected to the Kowalke Family Sprouts recall. The recall involves all Kowalke Family Sprouts Brand Alfalfa Products with sell-by dates from June 18 through June 30. are sold in 4 oz, 8 oz, 1 pound and 5 pound clear plastic, clam shell packages. Two other Kowalke products also contain alfalfa sprouts - the Dinner Salad in a 6 oz package and the Onion/Alfalfa Mix in a 4 oz package.

These products were sold to produce distributors in Los Angeles and to retail stores in Southern California, Nevada, and Arizona. It is possible the sprouts may have been transported to other states.

Consumers who purchased these products should immediately discard them or return them to the point of purchase for a refund. Consumers with questions may contact Mike’s Produce, Inc. dba Kowalke Family Sprouts at (310) 636-1924 from 8am to 2pm PST.

Salmonella Dried Milk Scare Prompts More Product Recalls

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Salmonella worries have prompted a number of firms to recall more dry milk products over the past several days.

The dried milk in all of these products was originally recalled by Plainview Milk Products Cooperative of Plainview, Minnesota last month. In addition to the nonfat dried milk products, the company also recalled whey protein, fruit stabilizers, and gums (thickening agents) that it has manufactured over the past two year because of potential Salmonella contamination. The company sells these products to other industry customers, including distributors and manufacturers, who may have incorporated them into their own products.

The products subject to recall over the past few days include:

CPI Foods Inc. of Dallas said it is recalling approximately 15,000 packets of non-fat dry milk that are part of the firm's shelf stable meal kits sent to community service companies in Texas, Oklahoma, Arizona, West Virginia, North Carolina, Nevada, and Kentucky. The meal kits are distributed to consumers in their homes.
Precision Foods Inc. of St. Louis recalling certain Land O Lakes-brand drinking cocoa called "Madagascar Vanilla" that was distributed nationally.
Meijer Inc. recalled one type of its Meijer-brand instant non-fat dry milk due to the same problem. The recalled dry milk with "sell-by" dates of "FEB0911" and FEB1011" was sold at Meijer supermarkets in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky.
Giant Food LLC of Landover, Md., recalled its Giant-brand non-fat dry milk products from all of its 182 supermarkets.
Malt-O-Meal Co. recalled its "Maple & Brown Sugar Instant Oatmeal" packets because it contains non-fat dry milk. The product was distributed nationally under a variety of brands, including Cub Foods, Diamond Crystal, Fastco, Flavorite, Foodland, Good 'n Hearty, Hearty Traditions, Hy-Top, IGA, Mom's Best Natural, Megaroons, Millville, Our Family, Richfood, Shop 'n Save and Smart Menu.
NOW Foods recalled 12 products and 29 lots of Whey Protein concentrate products.

Potentially Salmonella Tainted Nonfat Dried Milk Prompts Recall of Traditions Pre-Packaged Meals

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Salmonella concerns have prompted Traditions of Pearl, Mississippi to recall an undetermined amount of various boxed pre-packaged meal kits. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the recalled boxes contain separate portions of instant nonfat dried milk, which was previously recalled.

Those nonfat, dried milk products were originally recalled by Plainview Milk Products Cooperative, Plainview, Minnesota. In addition to the nonfat dried milk products, the company also recalled whey protein, fruit stabilizers, and gums (thickening agents) that it has manufactured over the past two year because of potential Salmonella contamination. The company sells these products to other industry customers, including distributors and manufacturers, who may have incorporated them into their own products.

The problem was first discovered when USDA found Salmonella in a dairy product and alerted the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) resulting in an investigation and subsequent recall of the nonfat dry milk product by Plainview Milk Products Cooperative.

Salmonella is an organism that 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, endocarditis, and arthritis.

The Traditions products subject to this recall include:

Boxes of "TRADITIONS MEAL SOLUTIONS" prepackaged meal kits.
Boxes of "ILSmeals Home Meal Delivery Service" prepackaged meal kits.

The pre-packaged meals were distributed nationwide to various food distributors and regional nutrition service providers. These meals were not available for consumer purchase.

The weight and ingredient, or item, statements vary on the master boxes. Each box contains approximately 2 to 12 meals. The instant nonfat dried milk products were packaged in the master shipping boxes on various dates ranging from January 28, 2008 to June 5, 2009. The final shipping containers bear the establishment number "EST. 18350" and/or "P-18350" within the USDA mark of inspection printed on the side of the box. The only component that represents a hazard is the nonfat dried milk product. The packet of nonfat dry milk should not be used or consumed. FSIS has received no reports of illnesses associated with the consumption of these products.

FDA Finds E. coli At Nestle Plant

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just announced it found E. coli O157:H7 in a sample of prepackaged Nestlé Toll House refrigerated cookie dough currently under recall by the manufacturer and marketer, Nestlé USA. The contaminated sample was collected at Nestlé’s facility in Danville, Virginia on June 25, 2009.

On June 19, the FDA and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warned consumers not to eat any varieties of prepackaged Nestlé Toll House refrigerated cookie dough due to the risk of contamination with E. coli O157:H7. The warning was based on an epidemiological study conducted by the CDC and several state and local health departments. As of June 25, the CDC reported that 69 peopled from 29 states had been infected with the outbreak strain; 34 people were hospitalized, nine with a severe complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). To date, there have been no reports of death associated with the outbreak, the FDA said.

More laboratory testing is needed to conclusively link the E. coli strain found in the product to the same strain that is causing the outbreak, the FDA said.

Meanwhile, we reported last week that officials at Nestlé’s Danville, Virginia facility legally refused—on several occasions—to provide FDA officials access to certain records during inspections, citing the Wall Street Journal. That facility has been implicated in the multi-state E. coli O157:H7 outbreak.

At the time that the FDA issued its warning to consumers to not eat any varieties of Prepackaged Nestlé Toll House refrigerated cookie dough, it said that dozens of E. coli illnesses might be related to consumption of raw cookie dough; Nestlé recalled 300,000 cases of those cookie dough products and announced the temporary closing of its Danville, Virginia plant because of the E. coli outbreak. Inspectors from the FDA have been at the plant trying to determine how the cookie dough might have come in contact with E. coli. According to the CDC, E. coli O157:H7 has not been previously associated with eating raw cookie dough.

An earlier Journal report stated that during some inspections over the past five years, officials at the Nestlé plant in Danville refused to allow the FDA to look at records relating to issues such as pest control. For instance, in 2006 an FDA inspector was not permitted access to consumer complaints, and was not able to inspect the facility’s food contamination prevention program. During that inspection, dirty equipment and “three live ant-like insects” were noted, but these were insufficient to give the facility a failing grade, the Journal said.

According to the Journal, in most instances, companies are not required to show those types of records to the FDA, and such refusals are not uncommon. The FDA can only compel food firms to turn them over if it invokes a bioterrorism law, and can show that foods made at a facility pose a serious health threat. The only exception to this would be facilities that produce infant formula, seafood, juices, and low-acid canned food, the Journal said.

Nestlé USA consumer services can be reached at 1-800-559-5025 or accessed at www.verybestbaking.com. A complete listing of recalled Nestlé products can be accessed at: http://www.Nestlé usa.com/PubNews/PressReleaseLibraryDetails.aspx?id=133CC131-A79F-4E84-9C43-C9F99FE5BC99

Nestle E. Coli Cookie Dough Plant Legally Kept Records from FDA During Past Inspections.

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Officials at a Nestle USA facility in Virginia legally refused on several occasions to give Food & Drug Administration (FDA) officials access to certain records during inspections, The Wall Street Journal reported today. The Nestle facility in Danville, Virginia produced Toll House cookie dough that has been implicated in a multistate outbreak of E. coli O157:H7.

Last Friday, the FDA warned consumers not to eat any varieties of Prepackaged Nestle Toll House refrigerated cookie dough following reports of people infected with E. coli O157:HY in dozens of states. At the time, the agency said that dozens of E. coli illnesses might be related to consumption of raw cookie dough. That same day, Nestle recalled 300,000 cases of those cookie dough products.

According to the latest Centers for Disease Control (CDC) update, at least 69 people in 29 states had been sickened by the same strain of E. coli. Thirty-four people have been hospitalized, 9 developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). There have been no deaths reported.

Earlier this week, Nestle announced the temporary closing of its Danville, Virginia plant because of the E. coli outbreak. Inspectors from the FDA have been at the plant trying to determine how the cookie dough might have come in contact with E. coli. According to the CDC, E. coli O157:H7 has not been previously associated with eating raw cookie dough.

According to The Wall Street Journal, during some inspections over the past five years, officials at the Nestle plant in Danville refused to allow the FDA to look at records relating to issues like pest control. For instance, in 2006 an FDA inspector was not permitted access to consumer complaints, and was not able to inspect the facilities food contamination prevention program. During that inspection, dirty equipment and "three live ant-like insects" were noted, but these weren't enough to give the facility a failing grade, the Journal said.

According to the Journal, in most instances, companies are not required to show those types of records to the FDA, and such refusals are not uncommon. The FDA can only compel food firms to turn them over if it invokes a bioterrorism law, and can show that foods made at a facility pose a serious health threat. The only exception to this are facilities that produce infant formula, seafood, juices and low-acid canned food, the Journal said.

Recently, a House of Representatives committee approved food safety legislation that would give the FDA access to all records at a food manufacturing facility, but it is not known when it will come up for a final vote, the Journal said. A similar law was recently introduced in Senate.

70 E. Coli Reports linked to Recalled Nestle Toll House Cookie Dough

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Nestle Toll House cookie dough has now been associated with 70 cases of E. coli O157:H7 in 30 states. The outbreak has prompted Nestle to close a plant in Virginia where the cookie dough was made, and Food & Drug Administration (FDA) inspectors are currently on the scene.

Last Friday, the FDA warned consumers not to eat any varieties of Prepackaged Nestle Toll House refrigerated cookie dough following reports of people infected with E. coli O157:HY in dozens of states. At the time, the agency said the E. coli illnesses might be related to consumption of raw cookie dough.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 30 people have been hospitalized, and 7 developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). None have died. The majority of those sickened - 66% - are under the age of 19, and three quarters are female.

The E. coli outbreak prompted Nestle USA to initiate a voluntary recall of the products. The recall includes all varieties of Nestle Toll House refrigerated Cookie Bar Dough, Cookie Dough Tub; Cookie Dough Tube; Limited Edition Cookie Dough items; Seasonal Cookie Dough and Ultimates Cookie Bar Dough. The FDA has advised consumers to dispose of the cookie dough if they have it. Cooking the dough is not recommended because consumers might get the bacteria on their hands and on other cooking surfaces.

Earlier this week, Nestle announced the temporary closing of its Danville, Virginia plant because of the E. coli outbreak, a move that puts some 200 employees out of work. According to UPI, the plant also produces Buitoni pasta and sauce, but manufacturing of those products won't be affected by the closure.

According to USAToday, inspectors from the FDA will stay in Danville as long as it takes to determine how E. coli might have made it into the cookie dough. The bacteria is usually associated with raw hamburger. David Acheson, the FDA's assistant commissioner for food safety told USAToday that the agency is looking at several possible scenarios, including via cross-contamination or a sick worker.

E. coli O157:H7 causes abdominal cramping, vomiting and a diarrheal illness, often with bloody stools. Most healthy adults can recover completely within a week. Young children and the elderly are at highest risk for developing HUS, which can lead to serious kidney damage and even death. According to the CDC, E. coli O157:H7 is responsible for sickening 73,000 people every year, and of those, 60 will die from the disease.

Salmonella Worries Spark Another Pistachio Warning

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0700

A Salmonella threat has prompted the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) to warn consumers not to eat pistachios sold under the brand names California Prime Produce and Orange County Orchards. According to the FDA, the pistachios were recalled by Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella Inc., but received and repacked by Orca Distribution West Inc., of Anaheim, California.

More than 600 pistachio products that originated with Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella have been recalled. Setton began recalling pistachios in March, and the recall eventually expanded to include all roasted shelled pistachios and roasted in-shell pistachios from its 2008 crop due to potential contamination with the Salmonella organism. The company also recalled raw shelled pistachios from the 2008 crop that are not subsequently roasted prior to retail sale.

Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, Inc. is the second-biggest supplier of pistachios in the U.S. It sells its nuts to Kraft Foods Inc. and 35 other wholesalers across the country. The company sent recall notices to its commercial customers who received recalled bulk products with instructions for returning or destroying the recalled products and for notifying their customers of the recall. Firms that had further mixed, used as ingredients, repackaged, or distributed the recalled bulk products were also advised to recall those products.

According to a notice on the agency's website, the FDA visited Orca as part of its audit checks to follow up on Setton Pistachio’s recall. The FDA found that products subject to Setton Pistachio's recall had been repacked and distributed by Orca under the California Prime Produce and Orange County Orchards brands. Orca has not made a public announcement regarding these products. Therefore, the FDA is alerting consumers so that they can take appropriate action.

The products were distributed to retail locations in airports and hotels nationwide. The California Prime Produce and Orange County Orchards brands of pistachios were packaged in clear 6 ounce flexible plastic Ziploc bags, UPC Number: 8 10826 01116 2 with Sell By Dates of 7/30/09 and 8/30/09. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to eat them.

Salmonella 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.

To date, the FDA says there is no conclusive evidence that links the recalled Setton pistachio products to cases of human illness, although a connection cannot be completely ruled out.

E. coli Illnesses May Be Linked to Nestle Toll House Cookie Dough, FDA Warns

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Prepackaged Nestle Toll House refrigerated cookie dough may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, prompting the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) to warn consumers not to eat any varieties of the product.

E. coli O157:H7 causes abdominal cramping, vomiting and a diarrheal illness, often with bloody stools. Most healthy adults can recover completely within a week. Young children and the elderly are at highest risk for developing Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), which can lead to serious kidney damage and even death. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), E. coli 0157:H7 is responsible for sickening 73,000 people every year, and of those, 60 will die from the disease.

According to a notice on the FDA website, the Nestle Toll House cookie dough warning is based on an ongoing epidemiological study conducted by the CDC and several state and local health departments. Since March 2009 there have been 66 reports of illness across 28 states. Twenty-five persons were hospitalized; 7 with HUS. No one has died. The illnesses may be related to consumption of raw cookie dough, although no E. coli bacteria has been detected in any Nestle Toll House refrigerated cookie dough products.

The possible association between the Nestle Toll House cookie dough and the E. coli illnesses has prompted Nestle USA's baking division to initiate a voluntary recall of the products. The recall includes all varieties of Nestle Toll House refrigerated Cookie Bar Dough, Cookie Dough Tub; Cookie Dough Tube; Limited Edition Cookie Dough items; Seasonal Cookie Dough and Ultimates Cookie Bar Dough. A complete list of recalled products is available here.

Individuals who have recently eaten prepackaged, refrigerated Toll House cookie dough and have experienced any E. coli symptoms should contact their doctor or health care provider immediately. Any such illnesses should be reported to state or local health authorities.

The FDA advises that if consumers have any prepackaged, refrigerated Nestle Toll House cookie dough products in their home that they throw them away. Cooking the dough is not recommended because consumers might get the bacteria on their hands and on other cooking surfaces.

Claims Against Peanut Salmonella Firm Exceed $200 Million

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Peanut Corp. of America (PCA) the company behind a Salmonella outbreak that sickened hundreds of people and sparked scores of food recalls earlier this year, has had more than $202 million in claims filed against it in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Lynchburg, VA. According to The News & Advance, Monday is the deadline for filing claims against the Lynchburg -based company.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), peanut paste, peanut butter and other PCA products sickened more than 700 people around the country. Because PCA supplied peanut ingredients to hundreds of other food companies, the number of recalls related to the Salmonella outbreak came close to 4,000.

In the course of the Food & Drug Administration's (FDA) investigation of the illnesses, it quickly became clear that oversight of the PCA Georgia plant at the center of the outbreak had been lax, at best. According to the Atlanta Constitution Journal, the Blakely, Georgia facility was inspected by the state health department on 184 occasions since 2006. But 114 of those inspections lasted less than two hours. Not surprisingly, none of these inspections found evidence of mold, cockroaches and salmonella contamination that was uncovered by the FDA when it investigated the plant in January.

A second PCA plant in Texas - which was closed because of deplorable conditions last February - had never been properly licensed. Yet, a state inspector who visited the plant on three occasions since 2005 had actually indicated in his reports that the facility was licensed correctly.

PCA is now the focus of a criminal probe being conducted by the US Justice Department. In February, the FBI executed search warrants at the PCA Georgia plant and at its headquarters in Virginia. Evidence has also emerged that PCA knowingly shipped products that had tested positive for Salmonella. In February, PCA owner Stewart Parnell had been subpoenaed to testify at a Congressional hearing into the outbreak, and although he appeared, he invoked his constitutional right not to incriminate himself.

According to The News & Advance, the claims against PCA include 8 for wrongful death. Each of those claims is seeking damages in the amount of $10 million. Another 86 claims, filed by people who were sickened by PCA ingredients, seek $1 million each. About 65 other claims filed as of Thursday were from food companies that used PCA’s ingredients, The News & Advance said.

According to The News & Advance, PCA held two insurance policies for product liability which could be used to compensate people who filed injury and death claims. However, Hartford Casualty Insurance Co. filed suit to determine whether it must pay claims filed by victims of the Salmonella outbreak.

Food Poisoning Lawyer Illness Attorney Victim

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Food Poisoning Lawyers

Keywords: Food | Lawyer | Poisoning | Lawsuit | Victim | Symptoms | Attorney | Injury | Illness

The food poisoning lawyers at our firm have represented hundreds of people sickened by tainted foods. Salmonella, E. coli and Listeria are just a few of pathogens that can invade a food product, leaving those who consume the contaminated item with a serious illness that can sometimes have long-term health consequences. Our food poisoning lawyers have seen countless incidents where a manufacturer's or retailer's negligence has been directly responsible for outbreaks of food poisoning. A serious bout of food poisoning can leave a victim with significant medical expenses, lost wages and other problems. The food poisoning lawyers at our firm are committed to helping victims of food borne illnesses receive the compensation they deserve.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), food poisoning causes about 76 million illnesses, 325,000 hospitalizations, and up to 5,000 deaths each year. Salmonella alone - one of the most common forms of food poisoning - account for one billion dollars in medical costs and lost work time. Everything from tainted lettuce, contaminated meat and even defective children's snack foods have been implicated in large-scale food poisoning outbreaks. Our food poisoning lawyers have represented people sickened by a variety of tainted foods, and we are dedicated to obtaining the best financial results for our clients.

There are many ways that foods can become contaminated with bacteria and viruses. Food usually becomes contaminated from poor sanitation or preparation. Food handlers who do not wash their hands after using the bathroom or have infections themselves often cause contamination. Often, manufacturers do not maintain sanitary conditions at factories or packing plants, and fruits and vegetables have become contaminated with bacteria while still in the fields as a result of exposure to animal waste. Improperly packaged food stored at the wrong temperature also promotes contamination. The food poisoning attorneys at our firm have worked with clients who have been sickened as a result of all of these scenarios.

Bacterial that Cause Food Poisoning

Bacteria are one of the most common causes of food borne illnesses, and our food poisoning lawyers have represented hundreds of people sickened by bacteria tainted peanut butter, meats and even lettuce. Salmonella causes a moderate illness with nausea, vomiting, crampy diarrhea, and headache, which may come back a few weeks later as arthritis (joint pains). In people with impaired immune systems (such as people with kidney disease or HIV/AIDS or those on chemotherapy for cancer), Salmonella can cause a life–threatening illness. The illness is transmitted by undercooked foods such as eggs, poultry, dairy products, and seafood.

E. coli O157:H7 is one of hundreds of strains of the bacterium Escherichia coli. Although most strains are harmless, this particular strain produces a powerful toxin that can cause severe illness and even death. This strain of E. coli causes approximately 73,000 cases of infection and 61 deaths in the United States each year. E. coli causes moderate to severe illness that begins as large amounts of watery diarrhea, and then turns into bloody diarrhea. E,. coli O15:H7 can cause kidney failure and death (about 3–5% of all cases). It is transmitted by eating raw or undercooked hamburger, unpasteurized milk or juices, or contaminated well water. Outbreaks of food poisoning due to E. coli have also occurred following ingestion of contaminated produce. Our food poisoning lawyers have successfully represented people sickened with E. coli as the result of tainted meats and fresh greens.

Listeria is a bacterium that is found in soil, vegetation, raw milk, meat, poultry, cheeses (particularly soft mould-ripened varieties) and salad vegetables. Listeria symptoms can vary from mild flu-like illness to meningitis and septicemia. In pregnant women, Listeria can result in abortion, miscarriage or birth of an infected child. Other people at risk are those whose immune systems that are compromised, the very young and the very old.

Our food poisoning lawyers have worked with the victims of numerous other food borne bacteria, including shigella, botulism and campylobacter. Our vast experience with food poisoning litigation has helped many food poisoning victims obtain the justice they deserve from the growers, manufacturers and sellers of bacteria tainted foods.

Viruses that Cause Food Poisoning

Viruses are a major cause of food borne illnesses, and our food poisoning lawyers have represented hundreds of people infected by virus-tainted foods. In many instances, viruses contaminate food because food industry workers do not take precautions to insure a sanitary environment. One such virus that can be passed in this manner is the Norwalk Virus which causes a mild illness with nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, headache, and low–grade fever. It is the most common viral cause of adult food poisoning and is transmitted from water, shellfish, and vegetables contaminated by feces, as well as from person to person.

Hepatitis A is another virus that can be transmitted via food. Hepatitis A causes mild illness with sudden onset of fever, loss of appetite, and feeling of tiredness followed by jaundice, which is a yellowing of the eyes and skin. In extreme cases, Hepatitis A can lead to the need for a liver transplant and even death. It is transmitted from person to person by fecal contamination of food. In the past, infected waiters have passed Hepatitis A on to restaurant patrons. The largest Hepatitis A outbreak in US history occurred in Pennsylvania in 2005. More than 500 people contracted Hepatitis A, and three died after eating at a Chi-Chi’s Mexican Restaurant. That outbreak was linked to tainted green onions.

Rotavirus is another virus that can be passed through contaminated food. Rotavirus causes moderate to severe illness with vomiting followed by watery diarrhea and fever. It is the most common cause of food poisoning in infants and children and is transmitted from person to person by fecal contamination of food and shared play areas.

Long Term Effects of Food Poisoning

A bout of food poisoning can cause serious long-term health problems, and our food poisoning lawyers have seen many victims who were still dealing with the consequences of food borne illnesses months and even years later after an initial illness. E. coli victims sometimes require kidney transplants. They may also have scarred intestines that cause lasting digestive difficulty. Even E. coli patients who supposedly recovered can experience long-term health problems later on, as it is estimated that 10 percent of E. coli sufferers develop a life-threatening complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome, or HUS, where their kidneys and other organs fail.

Salmonella also has potential long-term health consequences. Some victims of Salmonella will develop a disease called Reiter’s Syndrome, a difficult- to- treat form of reactive arthritis that causes severe joint pain, irritation of the eyes, and painful urination. Reiter’s Syndrome can plague its victims for months or years, and can lead to chronic arthritis. Certain strains of shigella and yersinia bacteria, far more common abroad than in the U.S., can also trigger Reiter’s Syndrome.

About 1 in 1,000 sufferers of campylobacter, a diarrhea-causing infection spread by raw poultry, develop far more serious Guillain-Barre syndrome a month or so later. Their body attacks their nerves, causing paralysis that usually requires intensive care and a ventilator to breathe. It is estimated about a third of the nation’s Guillain-Barre cases have been linked to previous campylobacter, even if the diarrhea was very mild, and they typically suffer a more severe case than patients who never had food poisoning. Our food poisoning lawyers have represented many people who have experienced such health problems years after they thought they were recovered from food poisoning, and we know how devastating these disorders can be. For that reason, our food poisoning lawyers will do everything they can to insure that victims of these illnesses are compensated for their suffering.

Legal Help for Food Poisoning Victims

Our food poisoning lawyers have helped hundreds of people get the compensation they deserve from manufacturers, growers and retailers who negligently allow tainted foods to come to market. If you or a loved one suffered from food poisoning, you have valuable legal rights. Please fill out our online form or call 1-800-LAW-INFO (1-800-529-4636) for a free consultation with an experienced food poisoning lawyer at our firm.