Yourlawyer.com (Salmonella News)

Colorado Salmonella Outbreak Blamed on Animal Waste

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

It looks like the Salmonella outbreak in Alamosa, Colorado last year was the result of a faulty drinking water storage tank and animal waste.

A report from the state of Colorado’s Department of Public Health and Environment indicates that the city of Alamosa neglected to act on a long-standing recommendation to inspect a deteriorating drinking water tank, said 9News. The recommendation was made years prior to the 2008 Salmonella outbreak that caused hundreds to fall ill and resulted in one death. The report was released yesterday.

According to the report, said 9News, animal waste was the likely culprit in an in-ground storage tank contamination that was “identified as a problem in 1997.” In addition to the fatality, the outbreak in 2008 sickened 442, according to reports; however, state health officials believe the number was closer to 1,300 residents—of the some 8,900, residents, said 9News.

Ron Falco, manager of the Safe Drinking Water program at Colorado’s state health department, said “animal waste contamination in the concrete storage tank” was the likeliest culprit, according to 9News. Also, Falco indicated that state health investigators were never advised of the 1997 inspection that was made available to the “city by a private company,” said 9News. Of note, the state inspection report recommended regular inspections to keep track of the "cracking and problem with the corners of the tank," quoted 9News.

According to state inspections cited by 9News, the reviews "did not focus on storage tanks and distribution piping," and, now, Falco wants know why the report was not provided to the state and why there is no indication that follow-up inspections never occurred in the 11 years from the inspection to the massive outbreak. Had Alamosa submitted records outlining the issue, said Falco, then the state inspection could have included either a recommendation or a mandate to conduct a repair, according to 9News.

"If we'd had those records, we would have reviewed them," Falco said, quoted 9News. "Hindsight is 20-20 … it's easy to say now we would have required that," Falco added.

To compound matters, at the time of the tank’s ongoing deterioration, Alamosa did not chlorinate its water. "... only a small quantity of bird or animal feces contamination may have led to the Salmonella outbreak," reported 9News, citing the report. "This kind of outbreak may have been very difficult to prevent in a system that did not chlorinate its water," the report continued. It seems, said 9News, that Alamosa’s public drinking water system had a disinfection waiver enabling it to bypass chlorination mandates. Chlorination in Alamosa was initiated immediately following the outbreak at which point Colorado’s state health department withdrew 72 of 126 disinfection waivers in the state, reported 9News; however, many cities still operate under a disinfection waiver.

Salmonella, which is usually found in food and water contaminated with animal feces, 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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 Safety Bill Under Review

Thu, 28 May 2009 00:00:00 -0700

We recently reported that President Barack Obama announced a Cabinet-level food safety group, plans to increase the number of U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) food inspectors, and plans to bring food safety labs to current standards. Now, according to the Washington Post, proposed food safety legislation was just introduced in the House.

The bill, said the Washington Post, which was introduced by the Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Henry A. Waxman (Democrat-California) and Representative John D. Dingell (Democrat-Michigan), would give the FDA expanded authority such as the ability to recall tainted food—a power the agency does not currently hold. The FDA would also be able to "quarantine" questionable food; impose civil penalties and increase criminal sanctions on violators; and mandate private laboratories hired by food manufacturers report any food contamination to the government, the paper added.

The FDA has been routinely criticized for lax oversight on drug safety, medical device safety, and food safety issues that include the historic and massive salmonella outbreak linked to horrendous conditions at the Peanut Corporation of America (PCA). That outbreak sickened over 900 people and was linked to at least nine deaths; 46 states were involved and over 3,000 products were recalled, making it the largest food recall in American history. According to the Washington Post, federal officials believe that tens of thousands more people were likely sickened.

Although a number of other deadly and widespread outbreaks have plagued the nation in recent years, it was the disgusting conditions and ongoing negligence involved in the PCA debacle that forced serious food safety reform. The scandals revealed during the outbreak highlighted myriad problems with current food safety processes and prompted attention from President Barack Obama, said the Washington Post; the president continues to take steps to correct the issues hampering the beleaguered agency.

"This is a major step forward," said Erik Olson, director of food and consumer product safety at the Pew Charitable Trusts, quoted the Washington Post. "This has really been needed for decades. We're still operating under a food and drug law signed by Teddy Roosevelt," Olson added.

The bill addressed a number of issues that came to light during the PCA Salmonella fiasco in which PCA knowingly shipped Salmonella-contaminated nuts and nut products to a number of manufacturers who, then, used the toxic ingredients in untold numbers of consumer food products, said the Washington Post. The scandal also revealed that PCA’s Georgia plant had not been inspected for seven years and its Texas plant was operating under the radar of state and federal officials, said the Washington Post, which added that PCA-hired private laboratories detected contamination on numerous occasions, but never reported the problems.

Also, noted the Washington Post, those responsible for the clean up had countless problems trying to figure out what products were involved. Because of this, the bill has a provision requiring all those involved in the food chain to maintain records to enable appropriate and speedy trace-back within the chain in the event of an outbreak of any size, explained the Washington Post.

Although trade group The Grocery Manufacturers Association supports a lot of the proposal, it does not support a proposed $1,000 annual registration fee for food facilities, nor does it approve some tracing mandates, claiming the proposed requirements are financially prohibitive, said the Washington Post.

Salmonella Victim Sues Sprout and Seed Firms

Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:00 -0700

A 49-year-old man who fell ill with Salmonella after consuming alfalfa sprouts that were on a turkey sandwich is reportedly suing CW Sprouts, Inc. The Omaha World-Herald reported that Daniel Krim was diagnosed with Salmonella Saintpaul, the same Salmonella strain linked to a growing, multi-state outbreak that initiated with sprouts.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently identified the source of the multi-state Salmonella Saintpaul outbreak to fresh alfalfa sprouts from seeds from the Caudill Seed Company of Louisville, Kentucky. CW Sprouts, Inc.’s SunSprouts products were linked to the outbreak and are known to have infected people in multiple states. Krim is also suing the Caudill Seed and Warehouse Co. of Louisville, Kentucky. Caudill Seed manufactured and sold alfalfa sprout seeds to CW Sprouts.

The Douglas County Health Department's food and drink supervisor, Jere Ferrazzo, recently announced that businesses are now allowed to use and sell sprouts; the department had previously asked such businesses to remove sprouts from menus, said the Omaha World-Herald. Although sprouts are back in grocery stores, Ferrazzo said that the FDA is advising consumers to avoid raw sprouts and for the elderly and people with compromised immune systems to avoid all sprouts.

Sprouts present a unique food borne contamination challenge in that they can become tainted prior to harvesting, when growing. The conditions required for sprout growing are optimal for growing pathogens: Bacteria need the right temperature, nutrients, and water and sprouts grow in watery, warm environments, ideal for rapid bacterial growth. Because sprouts are often eaten raw with no additional treatment, such as cooking, which eliminates bacteria, washing sprouts does not necessarily remove bacteria because bacteria grow within the sprouts and cannot be washed away.

Salmonella Saintpaul is considered rare and, explained the Physician Assistant in a prior report, the Saintpaul serotype is the same as was associated with last summer’s massive outbreak first linked to tomatoes and later to Mexican peppers. Salmonella can cause serious, sometimes fatal Salmonellosis infections. The very young, under three months of age; the very old; immunocompromised individuals, such as those undergoing chemotherapy treatment and AIDS/HIV patients; and chronically ill patients, such as those with sickle-cell, chronic liver, renal, or cardiac disease, and patients with prosthetic joints, are at greatest risk, said the Physician Assistant. Because Salmonella is “susceptible to gastric acidity,” explained Physician Assistant, people taking antacids or H2 blocking agents are more susceptible.

The Packer reported previously that Caudill withdrew all sprout seed batches with six-digit lot numbers starting with “032”; recalled seeds are packaged in 50-pound white bags marked with a white or yellow label with the distributor name, and were imported from Italy, said company spokesman Lyle Orwig. FDA testing did not reveal Salmonella at Caudill, but the agency identified seeds with the recalled lot numbers, said The Packer. “What they’ve said to us is the cases all led to sprouts, from multiple growers, and the common link is seeds,” said Orwig, quoted The Packer.

Orwig explained that the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found consumption information from those sickened all pointed to sprouts, which pointed to growers, which pointed to seeds. “That lot was a common denominator among the illnesses,” Orwig said, reported The Packer, which noted there is no evidence leading to other seed lots or sprouts. Orwig said he believed the outbreak could have been avoided had growers followed sprout industry guidance—which involves treating seeds prior to sprouting and testing irrigation water for pathogens at intervals in the growing process—said The Packer.

Salmonella Tainted Sprouts Recalled by Arizona Hydroponic Farming

Wed, 06 May 2009 00:00:00 -0700

More alfalfa sprouts are being recalled because of potential Salmonella contamination. According to the recall notice, sprouts distributed by Arizona Hydroponic Farming LLC have tested positive for Salmonella.

According to the Food & Drug Administration (FDA), a multi-state outbreak of Salmonella St. Paul has been linked to the consumption of raw alfalfa sprouts. Since March, more than two dozen cases of Salmonella St. Paul have 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.

This outbreak appears 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.

Cases are still being reported, and possible cases are in various stages of laboratory testing, so illnesses may appear in other states. No deaths have been reported. The number of infected people may be higher than currently reported because some illnesses have not yet been confirmed with laboratory testing.

Several companies have recalled alfalfa sprouts and sprout products because of the outbreak. Because the outbreak has been linked to multiple growers in several states, the FDA said the contamination may have originated with tainted seeds. As we reported yesterday, Caudill Seed Company of Louisville, Kentucky, has recalled all seed batches with six-digit lot numbers starting with “032”. The recalled seeds are packaged in 50-pound white bags marked with a white or yellow label with the distributor name, and were imported from Italy.

Arizona Hydroponic Farming is now recalling “4oz Alfalfa Sprout Cup” as a preventive measure because of a positive test result in California for Salmonella. The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing by the USDA revealed the presence of Salmonella in some 4 ounce packages collected from a customer in California. The affected AZ Hydroponic Farming shipments are questionable since they were grown from the same batch of seeds as the sprouts sent to California.

The product in question was distributed throughout Arizona and to one customer in California. The product comes in a 4 ounce, clear plastic package labeled with either AZ Hydroponic Farming expiration date 4/18/2009 or with LA CALCO expiration date 4/23/2009. The packaging is a 4 x 4 x 4 inch cubed plastic container with a perforated bottom.

Consumers who have purchased the recalled alfalfa sprouts should return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at (520) 466-7287 between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM Monday through Friday, Pacific Daylight Time."

First Salmonella Spice Lawsuit Filed

Wed, 06 May 2009 00:00:00 -0700

What is believed to be the first lawsuit resulting from the multi-state Salmonella outbreak linked to recalled spices has been filed. The Associated Press (AP) reported that a California man who says he was poisoned by Salmonella after eating at a buffet-style restaurant in Reno, Nevada filed the lawsuit this week.

The AP reported that, according to the victim, he became ill after eating food contaminated with the tainted spices served by the restaurant. The lawsuit blames Union International Food Company (UIFC) for liability, negligence, and breach of warranty, said the AP. UIFC’s pepper products were linked to the multi-state outbreak following the discovery of Salmonella in food samples collected from restaurants and food distributors.

Salmonella 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 diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. Healthy people may experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, if infected. Without treatment, severe cases of Salmonella poisoning can result in arterial infections—such as infected aneurysms—endocarditis, arthritis, and death; however, some Salmonella bacteria are resistant to antibiotics, largely due to the use of antibiotics to promote the growth of feed animals.

The recall began in March with one spice manufactured by UIFC and has since been expanded a couple of times and recently included a number of spices and over 50 sauces and oils. According to a prior CBS2 report, the California Department of Public Health said the food products were manufactured at a contaminated facility. To date, 60 illnesses have been reported in Nevada, California, Oregon, and Washington State, with a number of patients requiring hospitalization.

According to California Department of Public Health spokesman, Al Lundeen, in a prior SF Gate article, the recent recall expansion included “Natural and Delicious” white pepper, black pepper, and curry powder spices labeled by CJ United Corporation. The spices were received from UIFC and sold in five-pound, clear plastic jugs and supplied to Bay Area restaurants.

The UIFC also recalled its Lian How brand dry spices, which are usually sold in bulk quantities to restaurants, said the SF Gate. The recalls included Uncle Chen black pepper (whole and ground), white pepper, and Wasabi powder; Uncle Chen products are sold at retail stores. Sauce and oil products manufactured under the Lian How and Uncle Chen brand names packaged in a variety of glass and plastic containers and containing the words “Packed by Union International Foods” or “Union International Foods” following the brand name, were also recalled, said CBS2 in an prior report.

EDS Wrap and Roll Foods LLC was forced to recall over six tons of its chicken egg rolls because the egg rolls contained black pepper spice likely linked to the recalled spice products made by UIFC. Banned Foods said in a report earlier this month that the recalled EDS Wrap and Roll frozen chicken egg rolls were sold to restaurants in California.

Imported Sprout Seeds Implicated in Salmonella Outbreaks

Tue, 05 May 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The source of the multi-state Salmonella Saintpaul outbreak linked to fresh alfalfa sprouts has been determined, says the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The outbreak originated from seeds from the Caudill Seed Company of Louisville, Kentucky, reports The Packer.

The Packer reported that Caudill has withdrawn all seed batches with six-digit lot numbers starting with “032”; recalled seeds are packaged in 50-pound white bags marked with a white or yellow label with the distributor name, and were imported from Italy, said company spokesman Lyle Orwig. FDA testing did not reveal Salmonella at Caudill, but the agency identified seeds with the recalled lot numbers, said The Packer. “What they’ve said to us is the cases all led to sprouts, from multiple growers, and the common link is seeds,” said Orwig, quoted The Packer.

Orwig explained that the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found consumption information from those sickened pointed to sprouts, which pointed to growers, which pointed to seeds. “That lot was a common denominator among the illnesses,” Orwig said, reported The Packer, which noted there is no evidence leading to other seed lots or sprouts. The District Chronicles recommends consumers avoid food made with sprouts purchased from restaurants and delis; hands be washed thoroughly—20 seconds—with warm water and soap before and after handling raw foods; and, if consumed, sprouts be thoroughly cooked.

According to The Packer, FDA recommendations advise retailers, restaurant operators, and foodservice facility personnel verify sprouts or seed lots with suppliers and growers follow sprout industry guidance. “If they adhere to the FDA guidance, that’ll go a long way to help prevent any similar events in the future,” said Orwig, who said he believed the outbreak could have been avoided had growers followed the guidance—which involves treating seeds prior to sprouting and testing irrigation water for pathogens at intervals in the growing process—said The Packer.

Of note, sprouts present a very unique challenge because they can become tainted prior to harvesting, when they are growing. Also, the conditions required for sprout growing are optimal for growing pathogens. Bacteria need the right temperature, nutrients, and water and sprouts grow in watery, warm environments, ideal for rapid bacterial growth. Sprouts are often eaten raw with no additional treatment, such as cooking, which eliminates bacteria; washing sprouts does not necessarily remove bacteria because bacteria grow within the sprouts and cannot be washed away.

Salmonella Saintpaul is considered rare, explained the Physician Assistant and is the serotype linked with last summer’s massive outbreak first linked to tomatoes and later to Mexican peppers. Salmonella can cause serious, sometimes fatal Salmonellosis infections. The very young, under three months of age; the very old; immunocompromised individuals, such as those undergoing chemotherapy treatment and AIDS/HIV patients; and chronically ill patients, such as those with sickle-cell, chronic liver, renal, or cardiac disease, and patients with prosthetic joints, are at greatest risk, said the Physician Assistant. Because Salmonella is “susceptible to gastric acidity,” explained Physician Assistant, people taking antacids or H2blocking agents are more susceptible.

New Salmonella Recalls: Spinach; Vermicelli, Pot Sticker Salads

Fri, 01 May 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Amid growing concerns about the ever-deepening issue of food borne illness, new recall information has surfaced about potential Salmonella contamination with fresh, bagged spinach and two types of salads.

Kleen-Pac Bagged, Fresh Spinach
WKBT reported that Kleen-Pak fresh, bagged spinach was distributed through a Milwaukee-based food processor and tested positive for the dangerous, sometimes fatal, Salmonella pathogen, and is being removed from stores. The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP) confirmed that the spinach tested positive for Salmonella in routine food safety tests and is advising consumers to either discard or return the recalled spinach to the store of purchase, said WKBT. The recall involves ten-ounce bags of Kleen-Pak brand, curly-leaf fresh spinach containing “use by dates” of April 29, April 30, and May 1 (4/29, 4/30 and 5/1). Consumers with questions are advised to contact Kleen-Pac/Jerry Kowaleski at 1-414-481-4878, WKBT added. The recalled spinach was distributed to groceries in Wisconsin and was also distributed in Illinois. Because the recall is now multi-state, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has become involved said WKBT.

WKBT reported that this contamination is not connected to the ongoing investigations into Salmonella contamination of peanut butter products, pistachios, or alfalfa sprouts.

Pasta & Co Chinese Vermicelli Salad and Pot Sticker Salad
The FDA announced that Pasta & Co has issued recalls for its Chinese Vermicelli and Pot Sticker salads due to a possible health risk over a potential contamination with Salmonella. This recall is associated with the current, ongoing recall and contamination related to Union International Food Company (UIFC). The recalled Pasta & Co products were manufactured using chili oil recalled by UIFC because of possible Salmonella contamination.

The salads were sold through Pasta & Co retail stores at the following locations in Greater Seattle, Washington: University Village, Queen Anne, and Bellevue. The recalled salads are sold through the café display case counter and contain a food card identifying the product; there are no specific coding or UPC codes for the products, which include both the Chinese Vermicelli Salad and the Pot Sticker Salad. Both recalled salads were served from a display case with a display bowl; the salads are sold with the assistance of store staff up to and including April 24, 2009. Consumers may return the recalled products for a full refund by returning them to one of Pasta & Co’s three retail stores. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-206-322-1644 x14, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (PDT).

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 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 severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis, and arthritis. Without treatment, severe cases of Salmonellosis can result in death. Unfortunately, some Salmonella bacteria are resistant to antibiotics.

Setton Pistachio Salmonella Warning Expanded Again

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The ongoing Salmonella pistachio recall continues to expand. Setton International Foods, Inc. is again increasing its pistachio product recall to include the following products over concerns related to Salmonella contamination, reports Newsday:

Recalled Retail Packaged Products:

Fairway brand mixed nuts roasted/salted, 16 ounces; UPC 034325000322; lot codes OR39745 - OR39801; expiration dates 10/20/09 -12/19/09.
Fairway brand mixed nuts roasted/unsalted, 16 ounces; UPC 034325000438; lot codes OR39770 - OR39850; expiration dates 11/10/09 -1/14/10.
Fairway brand fancy all natural raw nut mix, 16 ounces; UPC 034325000513; lot codes OR39870, T239897; expiration dates 2/23/10 - 3/23/10.
Corrado's brand mixed nuts roasted/unsalted, 14 ounces; UPC 021005008785; lot code OR39781.
Setton Farms brand mixed nuts with peanuts roasted/salted, 9-ounces; UPC 034325009165; lot codes OR39818 -OR39850, T239777, T339889; expiration dates: 11/17/09 - 3/17/10.
Corrado's brand mixed nuts roasted/salted, 14 ounces; UPC 021005008792; lot codes OR39755-OR39792; expiration dates 10/27/09 - 12/10/09.
Setton Farms brand Nature's Perfect Snack Nature's Finest Mix, 16 ounces; UPC 034325078635; lot codes T239771; expiration dates: 11/3/09 - 2/13/10.
Setton Farms brand Nature's Finest Mix, 24 ounces; UPC 034325011397; lot code T239799; expiration dates 10/16/09 - 3/19/10.
Setton Farms brand Nature's Perfect Snack mixed nuts roasted/salted, 16 ounces; UPC 034325078628; lot code T339749; expiration date 10/20/09.
Setton Farms brand Heart Healthy mix, 24 ounces; UPC 034325042889; lot code T139792; expiration dates 11/18/09 -3/3/10.
Setton Farms brand super fancy mixed nuts roasted/salted, 9 ounces; UPC 034325009172; lot code SA39752; expiration date 10/30/09.
Setton Farms brand All Natural Nature's Finest Health Mix, 9 ounces; UPC 034325014251; lot code T139772; expiration date: 11/19/09.
Setton Farms brand pistachios roasted/salted & roasted/unsalted (regular & Passover), 5-pound craft bag; UPC 034325010062; lot codes OR39738-OR39884, BK39738-BK39884, T39701-T39896; expiration dates 9/10/09 - 3/24/10.
Setton Farms brand pistachios roasted/salted & roasted/unsalted (regular & Passover), 2-pound craft bag; UPC 034325010840; lot codes OR39701-OR39889, BK39701-BK39889, T39701-T39896; expiration dates 9/10/09 - 3/24/10.
Setton Farms brand pistachios roasted/salted & roasted/unsalted (regular & Passover), 1-pound craft bag; UPC 034325010956; lot codes BK39701-BK39889, OR39701-OR39889, T39701-T39896; expiration dates 9/10/09 - 3/24/10.

Recalled Bulk Packaged Products:

Setton Farms brand mixed nuts roasted/salted, 20 pounds; lot code BK39737-BK39752; ship date 10/16/08 -3/25/09.
Setton Farms brand mixed nuts w/peanuts, roasted/salted, 20 pounds; lot code BK39738; ship date 10/16/08 -3/25/09.
Setton Farms brand raw nut mix, 20 pounds; lot code BK39791; ship date 12/7/08 - 3/25/09.

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.

In prior news, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said it determined that three environmental samples and one finished product sample obtained during inspection of Setton Pistachio tested positive for Salmonella and with the same type—Salmonella Montevideo—and genetic fingerprint found in all the samples.

Another Sprout Recall Over Salmonella Concerns

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just announced that Los Angeles Calco, Inc. of Arcadia, California, has issued a recall of its Los Angeles Calco brand Alfalfa Sprouts over possible contamination with the dangerous, sometimes deadly, Salmonella pathogen. Routine testing detected Salmonella in the recalled Alfalfa Sprouts.

According to the FDA, the recalled Los Angeles Calco Alfalfa Sprouts were distributed to three cash and carry wholesalers in California:

Brostoff Celle: 1601 E Olympic Blvd # 505, Los Angeles, California, 90021. Telephone: 1-213-623-5263.
Banana Company: 1601 E Olympic Blvd. # 325, Los Angeles, California, 90021. Telephone: 1-213-327-2188.
Ingardia: 2120 Placentia Ave, Costa Mesa, California, 90021. Telephone: 1-949-645-1365.

The recalled Los Angeles Calco Alfalfa Sprouts are packaged in four-ounce, clear flexible clam-shell plastic containers that are four inches by four inches by four inches with a perforated bottom that contains nine holes, about ¼-inch in diameter each. The recalled Alfalfa Sprouts have a label on top with characters in green that identify the product—Alfalfa Sprouts—as well as the distributor’s name and address—Los Angeles Calco, Inc.—and Sell By Dates of April 23, 2009 and May 2, 2009.

The FDA is urging consumers who purchased Los Angeles Calco Alfalfa Sprouts to return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-626-930-1988.

Of note, sprouts present a very unique challenge when a food borne outbreak occurs because sprouts can become tainted with salmonella prior to harvesting, when they are growing. Also, the conditions required for sprout growing are optimal for growing pathogens. Bacteria need the right temperature, nutrients, and water and sprouts grow in watery, warm environments, which are ideal for rapid bacterial growth. Sprouts are often eaten raw with no additional treatment, such as cooking, which eliminates bacteria that can cause disease and food borne illnesses; washing sprouts does not necessarily remove bacteria because bacteria grow within the sprouts and cannot be washed away.

Salmonella can cause serious, sometimes fatal Salmonellosis infections in young children and weak or elderly people. Healthy people may experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, if infected. Without treatment, severe cases of Salmonella poisoning can result in death; however, some Salmonella bacteria are resistant to antibiotics, largely due to the use of antibiotics to promote the growth of feed animals. Salmonella causes 40,000 confirmed cases annually, but the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say the pathogen is likely responsible for close to 40 times that—a stunning 1,600,000—noting that 2,500 subtypes of Salmonella exist, said MSNBC in an earlier report.

Meanwhile, the first lawsuit connected with a recent, separate, multi-state Salmonella Saintpaul outbreak linked to SunSprout Enterprises’ alfalfa, onion, and gourmet sprouts was recently filed. That outbreak involves over 121 illnesses in five states.

Earlier this month we also wrote about an Alfalfa Sprout recall over possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination involving a variety of Amalgamated Produce, Inc.’s (API) sprouts. In that recall, the pathogen was Listeria and not a Salmonella strain. Listeria monocytogenes is responsible for an estimated 2,500 illnesses in the United States annually, with about 200 in every 1,000 cases resulting in death. Listeriosis can take days, even weeks, to develop and can present in anything from a mild flu-like illness to meningitis and septicemia.

Salmonella Spice Recall Expands, Along with Outbreak

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The ongoing, multi-state Salmonella spice recall has been expanded and, worse, the outbreak attributed to the tainted spices has sickened 60 people in four states. The San Francisco Gate reported that health officials in California just announced the recall of more pepper and curry spices.

The recall began in March with one spice manufactured by Union International Food Company (UIFC). The recall has been expanded a couple of times and recently included a number of spices and over 50 sauces and oils. According to a prior CBS2 report, the California Department of Public Health said the food products were manufactured at a contaminated facility.

Illnesses have been reported in Nevada, California, Oregon, and Washington State, with a number of patients requiring hospitalization.

According to California Department of Public Health spokesman, Al Lundeen, said the SF Gate, the most recent recall expansion includes “Natural and Delicious” white pepper, black pepper, and curry powder spices labeled by CJ United Corporation; CJ United Corporation maintains a cash and carry store in Oakland, California and received the products from UIFC. The spices are sold in five-pound, clear plastic jugs and are supplied to Bay Area restaurants.

Recently, UIFC recalled its Lian How brand dry spices, which are usually sold in bulk quantities to restaurants, said the SF Gate. The recalls also included Uncle Chen black pepper (whole and ground), white pepper, and Wasabi powder; Uncle Chen products are sold at retail stores. Sauce and oil products manufactured under the Lian How and Uncle Chen brand names that are packaged in a variety of glass and plastic containers and contain the words “Packed by Union International Foods” or “Union International Foods” following the brand name, have also been recalled, said CBS2 in an prior report.

EDS Wrap and Roll Foods LLC was forced to recall over six tons of its chicken egg rolls because the egg rolls contained black pepper spice likely linked to the recalled spice products made by UIFC. Banned Foods said in a report earlier this month that the recalled EDS Wrap and Roll frozen chicken egg rolls were sold to restaurants in California.

The Sacramento Bee reported that UIFC recalled all of its Union City-produced products due to potential Salmonella contamination and noted that the California Department of Health, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are investigating the Salmonella outbreak. The products were sold to restaurants and were available in retail stores, said the Sacramento Bee. UIFC’s pepper products were linked to the multi-state outbreak following the discovery of Salmonella in food samples collected from restaurants and food distributors.

Salmonella 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 diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. Healthy people may experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, if infected. Without treatment, severe cases of Salmonella poisoning can result in arterial infections—such as infected aneurysms—endocarditis, arthritis, and death; however, some Salmonella bacteria are resistant to antibiotics, largely due to the use of antibiotics to promote the growth of feed animals.

Salmonella Sickens Scores of Students at New Hampshire School

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Over 50 middle school children in Salem, New Hamphsire have been sickened with Salmonella poisoning and students continue to fall ill, missing school because of the dangerous, sometimes deadly, pathogen. The unusually high incidence of absences prompted the state's Department of Health and Human Services to start an investigation on Monday, said The Eagle Tribune.

Officials at Woodbury Middle School contacted the state health department, advising them that approximately 50 children were absent over illness. The health department confirmed, via stool sampling, that the students were infected with the Salmonella pathogen, said The Eagle Tribune. A total of 69 children were absent from school yesterday, according to the paper, an increase of 15 students since Monday.

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 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 severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis, and arthritis. Without treatment, severe cases of Salmonellosis can result in death. Unfortunately, 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.

While the investigation into the outbreak continues, it is known that, last week, all of the sick children attended an overnight camp—the Stone Environmental School—said Michael, Delahanty, the Salem Schools’ Superintendent, reported The Eagle Tribune. Health officials have been interviewing infected children and another team has been conducting investigations and interviews at the Stone Environmental School in an attempt to determine the outbreak’s origin, said The Eagle Tribune. One child was hospitalized and it is believed one other student was, as well, said state director of public health, Dr. Jose Montero.

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. A victim of Reiter’s Syndrome may have already been treated for the initial infection, and it can be weeks before the symptoms of Reiter’s Syndrome become apparent. Reiter’s Syndrome, which can plague its victims for months or years, is said to occur when reactive arthritis is evident and at least one other non-joint area, such as the eyes, skin, or muscles, is affected.

Salmonella poisoning is the culprit in the massive food borne contamination linked to the Peanut Corporation of America’s (PCA) peanuts and peanut products, the multi-state Salmonella poisoning outbreak linked to a variety of SunSprout Enterprises sprouts, tainted spices and other food products from the Union International Food Company, and the emerging and growing pistachio recall linked to Setton Pistachio, to name just some in recent days.

Nassau Candy Issues Recall of Pistachio Products

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

A Long Island-based retailer is the newest casualty in the ongoing and growing pistachio recall issued by Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, Inc, in Terra Bella California. Newsday reports that Nassau Candy Of Hicksville is voluntarily recalling a variety of pistachio products as a precaution and in response to the multi-state Salmonella warning.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just confirmed that it identified the Salmonella strain found earlier this month at Setton Farms’ California processing facility, according to a prior piece by the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy/University of Minnesota News (CIDRAP News). The pathogen’s genetic fingerprint is identical to the strain involved in the illness of a child who fell ill after eating tainted pistachios, said CIDRAP.

The FDA said it determined that three environmental samples and one finished product sample obtained during inspection of Setton Pistachio tested positive for Salmonella and with the same type—Salmonella Montevideo—and genetic fingerprint found in all the samples. The FDA also said it provided PulseNet, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) database of bacterial DNA fingerprints, with the fingerprints of the strains found in the company’s products. Some DNA fingerprints from the Salmonella-tainted pistachio products match those strains from recently ill persons whose information is in the database.

In addition to matching a stool sample in the child who developed gastroenteritis and who is also reported to have consumed pistachios that originated from Setton Pistachio, this specific Salmonella fingerprint matches a number of other clinical isolates in the data base, said the FDA. The CDC is investigating whether the other cases infected with this strain of Salmonella have had exposure to Setton pistachios.

Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, Inc. is the second-largest supplier of pistachios in the country and sells its nuts to Kraft Foods Inc. and 35 other wholesalers nationwide, making it difficult to determine exactly how may products are affected. The Salmonella Montevideo strain is the same strain Kraft Foods found in products supplied by Setton, according to an earlier Wall Street Journal. Late last month Setton Farms recalled certain lots of its pistachios after Kraft Foods identified four Salmonella strains, including the Montevideo isolates, in its pistachios, said CIDRAP. The recall was expanded early this month after the FDA said it found Salmonella at Setton’s California facility, resulting in nearly 500 product recalls, to date, initiated by companies supplied with Setton Farms’ pistachios.

Samonella was in Kraft Foods pistachios over six months ago, but the firm did not advise its supplier, Setton Pistachio, until late last month, said the Associated Press (AP) in a previous article. Lee Cohen, production manager for Setton’s sister plant, said its pistachios tested positive for salmonella in the Kraft product last September and were found in a mix containing fruits and nuts as well as Salmonella-tainted cherries, reported the AP. After another Kraft manufacturer in Illinois found Salmonella in some pistachios last month, Setton Pistachio recalled over two million pounds of its roasted pistachios. Setton Pistachio claimed it never intentionally provided tainted nuts to Kraft.

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.

Salmonella Found in NY Dairy's Raw Milk

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Salmonella has been found in raw milk from a New York dairy. The New York State Agriculture Commissioner is now warning the public not to consumer raw milk from Laing farm in Potsdam, New York.

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.

Raw milk does not provide the protection of pasteurization, which eliminates all pathogenic bacteria, including Salmonella. Producers who sell raw milk to consumers in New York must have a permit to do so from the state's Department of Agriculture and Markets, must sell directly to consumers on the farm where the milk is produced and must post a notice at the point of sale indicating that raw milk does not provide the protection of pasteurization. Farms with permits to sell raw milk are inspected by the Department monthly.

The Laing farm holds a Department permit to legally sell raw milk at the farm. Samples are taken monthly and tested by the Department to determine if the raw milk is free of pathogenic bacteria.

A routine sample of the Laing farm's milk, taken by an inspector from the Division of Milk Control and Dairy Services on April 6, 2009, was subsequently tested by the Department's Food Laboratory and discovered to be contaminated with Salmonella. On April 10, 2009, the producer was notified of a preliminary positive test result and volunteered to suspend raw milk sales until the sample results were confirmed. Test results were confirmed on April 15, 2009 and the producer is prohibited from selling raw milk until subsequent sampling indicates that the product is free of pathogens.

When milk and dairy products are consumed raw, they can be tainted with dangerous, often deadly, bacteria, causing serious health problems. A recent study conducted by the College of Veterinary Medicine in Columbus, Ohio found that about 5.2 food poisoning outbreaks were linked to raw milk annually in the U.S. from 1993 to 2006. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration notes that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have indicated that over 800 people in the U.S. have falling ill from either drinking raw milk or eating cheese made from raw milk since 1998.

Industry Trying to Convince Consumers That Peanuts Are Safe

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The peanut industry is hurting following the massive peanut and peanut product recall and salmonella outbreak linked to one processor, the Peanut Corporation of America (PCA). The debacle resulted in nearly 700 illnesses, over 3,400 product recalls, and nine deaths. Lobbyists and public relations interests are hard at work to bring the peanut industry out of the massive downturn it is suffering following reports of filth and contagion at PCA’s plants.

Now that some of the dust has begun to settle on the mess, the Associated Press (AP) reports that the peanut industry is out there touting it message that peanuts are safe to eat. The industry is also citing an emerging law intended to ensure peanuts are safer and, with that in mind, that consumers should snack on the recently-deadly nuts, reports the AP.

Analysts are measuring the damage and one, says the AP, places estimates at a whopping $1 billion. Don Koehler, executive director of the Georgia Peanut Commission, agrees reported Farm Press, citing Koehler’s March testimony before the U.S. House Committee on Small Business in which he said lost production and sales would likely cost America’s peanut producers up to $1 billion. “Farmers, as small businesses have felt the real economic impact of this recall,” said Koehler. “Because farmers do business with other small businesses who supply them their inputs, the ripple will not likely stop at the farmer,” quoted Farm Press. Stanley Fletcher, a University of Georgia agriculture professor who specializes in peanuts says he believes farmers stand to lose $500 million this year and another $500 million from lost economic activity, reports the AP.

Farmers have been lobbying Congress and the new administration, asking for support in the way of buying “more peanut butter for federal feeding programs,” says the AP. Now, says the AP, farmers and food manufacturers are supporting new federal food safety rules in an attempt to calm peanut-shy consumers. But, notes the AP, the same groups are also quick to oppose measures that don’t suit them.

For instance, said the AP, some farmers support annual manufacturer inspections, but manufacturers and the Grocery Manufacturers Association oppose this measure, arguing that the inspections don’t make sense. The Association represents major food companies and, its lobbyist Scott Faber has said, "We should focus on activities that truly increase the safety of food and minimize steps that ultimately may increase the cost of food," quoted the AP, noting that when it comes to lobbying, manufacturers have a decided lead over peanut farmers.

Grocery manufacturers reported spending $4.5 million on lobbying last year, said the AP, citing the Center for Responsive Politics, while Texas growers reported spending $40,000 last year and the Georgia Peanut Commission spent $100,000.

Planters Peanuts is saying, “It’s safe to eat peanuts,” according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, and peanut farmer Don Self was chatting up the benefits of peanuts in Georgia last weekend. But, consumers are not as quick to forget that it was not that long ago that reports of lax oversight and deplorable conditions at PCA were making headlines. For instance, reports about PCA have included: Inordinately short inspections; lack of proper licensure; fraudulent inspection reports; directives from senior executives to, in essence, ignore contamination and ship tainted products; and evidence of mold, cockroaches, an array of various salmonella pathogens, dead rodents, rodent excrement, and bird feathers, to name a few.

Salmonella Spice Warning Expanded Again

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The ongoing, multi-state salmonella outbreak that originated with one spice and was recently expanded to include additional spices has been expanded yet again. CBS2.com reports that the growing salmonella warning now includes over 50 sauces and oils that were manufactured by the Union International Food Company (UIFC). According to the California Department of Public Health, said CBS2, the food products were manufactured at a contaminated facility.

California Department of Public Health director, Dr. Mark Horton, said that pepper products from the contaminated facility have been linked to the outbreak that has, to date, caused 57 people in four states to fall ill with salmonella, said CBS2. The expanded recall now includes sauce and oil products manufactured under the Lian How and Uncle Chen brand names that are packaged in a variety of glass and plastic containers. The words "Packed by Union International Foods" or "Union International Foods" appear after the brand name, said CBS2.

Meanwhile, impacted by the recall, EDS Wrap and Roll Foods LLC was forced to recall over six tons of its chicken egg rolls because the egg rolls contained black pepper spice likely linked to the recalled spice products made by UIFC. UIFC issued recalls on several varieties of its white and black pepper, as well as other spices as a precaution. Banned Foods said in a report earlier this month that the recalled EDS Wrap and Roll frozen chicken egg rolls were sold to restaurants in California.

In a prior report, KTVN in Nevada said that health officials had warned consumers to avoid eating ground white pepper that was processed, packaged, and/or distributed by UIFC in Union City, California. According to KCRA in California, the warning was later expanded to include white and black pepper products from the company’s Union City facility in the Bay Area. In total, four varieties of pepper were included in the recall: Whole and ground Uncle Chen’s White Pepper and whole and ground Uncle Chen’s Black Pepper. All four products are packaged in five-ounce containers. Restaurant and food store managers, restaurant suppliers, and spice wholesalers are being asked to check their inventories and remove this product immediately, said KTVN.

UIFC’s pepper products were linked to the multi-state outbreak of salmonella poisoning following the discovery of the pathogen in food samples collected from restaurants and food distributors. Illnesses have been reported in Nevada, California, Oregon, and Washington State, with a number of patients requiring hospitalization.

Salmonella 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 diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. Healthy people may experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, if infected. Without treatment, severe cases of salmonella poisoning can result in arterial infections—such as infected aneurysms—endocarditis, arthritis, and death; however, some salmonella bacteria are resistant to antibiotics, largely due to the use of antibiotics to promote the growth of feed animals.

Salmonella Strain Found at California Pistachio Plant Linked to Illness

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) confirmed that it has identified the Salmonella strain found earlier this month at Setton Farms' California processing facility, reports the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy/University of Minnesota News (CIDRAP News). The pathogen’s genetic fingerprint is the same strain as that involved in the illness of a child who fell ill after eating tainted pistachios, said CIDRAP.

The FDA said it determined that three environmental samples and one finished product sample obtained during inspection of Setton Pistachio tested positive for Salmonella and with the same type—Salmonella Montevideo—as well as with the same genetic fingerprint that was found in all the samples. The FDA also said it provided PulseNet, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) database of bacterial DNA fingerprints, with the fingerprints of the strains found in the company’s products.

It seems, said the FDA, some DNA fingerprints from the salmonella-tainted pistachio products match those Salmonella strains from recently ill persons whose information is maintained in the PulseNet database. In addition to matching a stool sample in the child who developed gastroenteritis and who is also reported to have consumed pistachios that originated from Setton Pistachio, this specific Salmonella fingerprint matches a number of other clinical isolates in the PulseNet data base, said the FDA. The CDC is investigating whether the other cases infected with this strain of Salmonella have had exposure to Setton pistachios.

CIDRAP noted that the FDA said it found Salmonella in critical areas of Setton Pistachio’s Terra Bella, California facility, as well as discovering the potential for cross-contamination between Setton’s raw and roasted pistachios. Three samples taken from equipment at Setton Pistachio tested positive with Salmonella Montevideo, according to David Acheson, the FDA’s associate commissioner for foods, according to an earlier article in the Wall Street Journal.

Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, Inc. is the second-largest supplier of pistachios in the country and sells its nuts to Kraft Foods Inc. and 35 other wholesalers nationwide, making it difficult to determine exactly how may products are affected by the recall. Of note, the Salmonella Montevideo strain is the same strain Kraft Foods Inc. found in products supplied by Setton, the Journal noted.

Late last month Setton Farms recalled certain lots of its pistachios after Kraft Foods identified four Salmonella strains, including the Montevideo isolates, in its pistachios, said CIDRAP. The recall was expanded early this month after the FDA said it found Salmonella at Setton’s California facility, resulting in nearly 500 product recalls, to date, initiated by companies supplied with Setton Farms’ pistachios.

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.

Proof of Salmonella at California Pistachio Plant

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

Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella Inc.—the California firm linked to the ongoing, nationwide pistachio recall—is confirmed to have been contaminated with a salmonella pathogen. The Wall Street Journal reported that federal health officials have proof that Setton Pistachio was contaminated with the Salmonella Montevideo strain.

Three samples taken from equipment at Setton Pistachio tested positive with Salmonella Montevideo, according to David Acheson, the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) associate commissioner for foods, said the Journal. The Salmonella Montevideo strain is the same strain Kraft Foods Inc. found in products supplied by Setton, the Journal noted. Health officials continue to work to determine if the contaminated pistachios are linked to any of the outbreaks.

Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, Inc. is the second-largest supplier of pistachios in the country and sells its nuts to Kraft Foods Inc. and 35 other wholesalers nationwide, making it difficult to determine exactly how may products are affected by the recall. Because of this, said the Journal, the FDA is warning consumer not to eat any products containing pistachios. The FDA is also warning consumers not to eat pistachios and wholesalers, retailers, and operators of restaurants and food service establishments have also been advised against selling or serving any pistachios or pistachio products until they can figure out whether they came from Setton.

The FDA said that, to date, there have been no confirmed cases of salmonellosis associated with the Setton Pistachio products. 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.

Meanwhile, said the Journal, Dr. Acheson reported that about 50 patients have fallen ill with the Montevideo strain since September—not an unusual number based on prior statistics—and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to speak to patients who recently became ill; one patient in Connecticut did consume pistachio products.

The FDA does not usually issue a recall in advance of proving a link between human illness and product contamination; however, according to Dr. Acheson, an exception was made in this case, "Industry needs to understand that they have a responsibility to produce a safe product, and when they don't, we need to be moving quickly and decisively," quoted the Journal.

According to an earlier Reuters piece, the FDA confirmed that state and federal inspectors found the salmonella bacteria in “critical areas” at Setton Pistachio and also said they found places at the facility where raw and roasted nuts could have become cross-contaminated with salmonella.

Setton Pistachio is sending 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 have further mixed, used as ingredients, repackaged, or distributed the recalled bulk products are being advised to recall those products and contact their local FDA recall coordinator. For retail products, consumers should return them to the place of purchase or destroy them.

Setton Pistachio Recall Expanded Amid Salmonella Worries

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

Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, Inc. has expanded its recall of potentially salmonella-tainted pistachios. Meanwhile, Reuters is reporting that salmonella bacteria has been found at the Setton Pistachio processing plant in California.

Late last month, Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, Inc. recalled specific lots of bulk roasted shelled pistachios, certain tote bags of roasted in-shell pistachios, and Setton Farms brand roasted salted shelled pistachios in 9 oz. film bags. According to the Food & Drug Administration (FDA), the Setton Pistachio recall now includes all roasted shelled pistachios and roasted in-shell pistachios from its 2008 crop due to potential contamination with the Salmonella organism. The company is also recalling raw shelled pistachios from the 2008 crop that are not subsequently roasted prior to retail sale. A full list of the products recalled can be found here.

Setton Pistachio is sending 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 have further mixed, used as ingredients, repackaged, or distributed the recalled bulk products are being advised to recall those products and contact their local FDA recall coordinator. For retail products, consumers should return them to the place of purchase or destroy them.

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 FDA has warned that consumers should avoid eating pistachios or foods made with the nuts until they can determine that they don't contain any nuts that Setton has recalled. Wholesalers, retailers, and operators of restaurants and food service establishments have also been advised against selling or serving any pistachios or pistachio products until they can figure out whether they came from Setton.

According to Reuters, the FDA has confirmed that state and federal inspectors found the salmonella bacteria in "critical areas" at Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, Inc in California. FDA officials also said they found places at the facility where raw and roasted nuts could have become cross-contaminated with salmonella.

The FDA said that to date, there have been no confirmed cases of salmonellosis associated with the Setton Pistachio products. 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.

Pistachio Salmonella Probe Turns to Commack, New York Processor

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

A processing plant in Commack, New York is being investigated following a massive recall of potentially salmonella-tainted pistachios. According to a Newsday report, the Setton Foods International facility on Long Island failed a state sanitary inspection last month. The Associated Press is reporting that the plant has stopped shipping pistachios.

Earlier this week, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) announced pistachios processed by Setton of Terra Bella Inc. - an affiliate of the Long Island facility - might be tainted with salmonella. The California-based company initiated a recall for one million pounds of the nuts, and food firms supplied by Setton of Terra Bella - including Kraft, Frito-Lay and Kroger Inc. - have recalled products made with pistachios.

In its health alert, the FDA said the pistachio contamination involves multiple strains of salmonella. 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.

Because the pistachios were used as ingredients in a variety of foods, it is likely this recall will impact many products, the FDA said. According to a report on ABCNews.com, Setton of Bella Terra shipped tote bags of nuts weighing up to 2,000 pounds to 36 wholesalers across the country. The FDA has set up a searchable database to help consumers track pistachio recalls.

According to Newsday, during an inspection of Setton's Commack plant last month, investigators from the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets found both live and dead cockroaches, as well as rodent feces. Sixteen other less serious infractions were also found. That inspection occurred on March 3, but the company continued to ship products from the plant until it received the state's inspection report.

Newsday reported that the problems at Setton Foods are not related to the current pistachio recall, and state officials said no evidence of salmonella was found at the Long Island plant. However, officials at the Commack plant said statement in a statement last night that a voluntary recall related to the pistachio problems will be issued soon, Newsday said.

According to Newsday, inspectors from the FDA's Brooklyn office are expected to visit the Setton Foods plant in Commack soon as part of the agency's investigation of contaminated pistachios.

Kroger Issues Another Salmonella Recall, This for Time for Lite Mayo

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced that the Kroger Company is recalling some of its Kroger Lite Mayo packaged in 32-ounce plastic jars. The recalled Kroger Lite Mayo contains a “Sell by” date of SEP-25-09 and was sold in Kroger stores in Southwestern Ohio, including Cincinnati and Dayton; Northern Kentucky; and Southeastern Indiana. The product’s UPC is 11110 66090. The recall has been implemented over concerns the product may be contaminated with the dangerous and sometimes deadly, salmonella bacteria.

The FDA is advising consumers who purchased the recalled Kroger Lite Mayo to not consume it and return it to a store for a full refund or replacement. The FDA is also advising consumers with questions about this recall to contact Kroger toll-free at 1-800-632-6900 or to visit the firm’s Website at www.kroger.com/recalls.

Of note, Kroger Company widened the recall of its Private Selection shelled pistachios on Tuesday, adding other "sell by" dates. As of earlier this week, Kroger had recalled pistachios it sold in 31 states over concerns of Salmonella poisoning.

Salmonella causes 40,000 confirmed cases each year, but, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is probably responsible for close to 40 times that—a stunning 1,600,000—noting that 2,500 subtypes of Salmonella exist, said MSNBC in an earlier report.

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 of Salmonella poisoning can result in arterial infections—such as infected aneurysms—endocarditis, arthritis, and death; however, some Salmonella bacteria are resistant to antibiotics, largely due to the use of antibiotics to promote the growth of feed animals.

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. A victim of Reiter’s Syndrome may have already been treated for the initial infection, and it can be weeks before the symptoms of Reiter’s Syndrome become apparent. Reiter’s Syndrome, which can plague its victims for months or years, is said to occur when reactive arthritis is evident and at least one other non-joint area, such as the eyes, skin or muscles, is affected.

Salmonella poisoning is the culprit in the massive and ongoing food borne contamination that has been linked to the Peanut Corporation of America’s (PCA) peanuts and peanut products, the growing multi-state Salmonella poisoning outbreak linked to a variety of SunSprout Enterprises sprouts, tainted spices from the Union International Food Company, and the emerging and growing pistachio recall linked to Setton Pistachio. According to the FDA, the Setton Pistachio recall involves certain bulk roasted in-shell and roasted shelled pistachios shipped on or after September 1.

The FDA set up a searchable database on its Website to help consumers track peanut product recalls linked to the ongoing salmonella outbreak that originated with the PCA and plans to do the same for pistachio product recalls.

Pistachio Salmonella Recalls Expanded

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The ongoing recall of pistachios and pistachio products due to potential salmonella contamination has been expanded. In its health alert, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) said the pistachio contamination involves multiple strains of salmonella.

Most recently, the FDA announced that pistachios made by the nation’s second largest producer—Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella Inc.—may be tainted with salmonella. The California-based company initiated a recall for one million pounds of the nuts. Now, Reuters is reporting that Frito-Lay, a snack division of PepsiCo Inc, recalled unshelled pistachios in 1.75-ounce packages bearing sell-by dates of July 14, 2009 to December 29, 2009. In Canada, Frito-Lay recalled bagged pistachios sold under its Munchies brand with sell-by dates of August 4, 2009 to December 15, 2009, reported Reuters. The United States and Canadian divisions both reported that their pistachios came from Setton Pistachio, said Reuters.

The FDA announced it was conducting genetic testing on samples to determine if the pistachios are linked to a variety of illnesses that were recently reported, said Reuters, which indicated that the following recalls have also been issued:

John B. Sanfilippo & Son Inc: Recalled bulk and small packages of unshelled pistachios sold under its Fisher and Flavor Tree brands exclusively at Whole Foods Market Inc.
Ciao Bella Gelato: Recalled 3.5-ounce cups of pistachio gelato, which contains Setton’s diced pistachios.
The Georgia Nut Company: Recalled a variety of its products, including bulk mixed nuts with shelled pistachios. The items have been recalled from several of its stores, as well as from Dominick's Finer Foods stores in the Chicago area. Earlier this week we reported that Georgia Nut recalled some of its pistachio-containing products after lab tests confirmed salmonella in some pistachios
Grocery chain Kroger Company: Widened the recall of its Private Selection shelled pistachios on Tuesday, adding other "sell by" dates. As of earlier this week, Kroger had recalled pistachios it sold in 31 states. Of significance, Kroger also recalled its 32-ounce jars of "Kroger Lite Mayo" sold in Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio because of possible salmonella contamination.

Also as reported last week, Kraft’s subsidiary, the Back to Nature Foods Company, recalled some pistachio-containing products after lab tests confirmed the presence of salmonella in some pistachios. According to the FDA, it became aware of the pistachio problem on March 24 after Kraft informed it that its Back to Nature trail mix was contaminated with salmonella. Kraft identified the contamination source to be pistachios from Setton Pistachio, the FDA said.

According to the FDA, the Setton Pistachio recall involves certain bulk roasted in-shell and roasted shelled pistachios shipped on or after September 1. The FDA is working closely with the pistachio industry and recommends consumers avoid eating pistachio products until further information is available about the scope of affected products. The FDA set up a searchable database on its Website to help consumers track peanut product recalls linked to the ongoing salmonella outbreak that originated with the Peanut Corporation of America (PCA) and plans to do the same for pistachio product recalls.

First Lawsuit Filed in Salmonella Sprout Outbreak

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

The first lawsuit connected with the multi-state Salmonella outbreak linked to SunSprout Enterprises’ sprouts, has been filed, reports the Associated Press (AP). The lawsuit was filed yesterday in Douglas County District Court, Omaha. The contamination has sickened over 121 people in Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, Kansas, and Colorado. SunSprout brand sprouts were distributed by CW Sprouts of Omaha and sold at grocery stores and restaurants.

The AP reported that Stephen Beumler, 48, is suing CW Sprouts because it failed to prevent the spread of the dangerous, sometimes deadly pathogen, in its products. Beumler said he fell ill early last month after eating sprouts distributed by CW Sprouts, said the AP; soon after, his doctor confirmed he was infected with Salmonella Saintpaul, said Forbes. Salmonella Saintpaul is the strain responsible for the outbreak linked to SunSprouts products and is also the same strain that was to blame in last year’s massive Mexican pepper recall that was first linked to tomatoes.

The sprout outbreak involved SunSprout alfalfa, onion, and gourmet sprouts. SunSprout issued a voluntary recall of the products; however, the recall was lifted when no cause for the contamination was revealed during an investigation, said KGAN, in an earlier report. After the recalled sprouts were sent to food distributors, those distributors then sold the sprouts to restaurants and retail stores, MarketWatch said last month.

According to Forbes, the lawsuit cites over 121 cases confirmed in the five states in February and March and alleges that CW Sprouts did not appropriately “monitor safety and sanitary conditions” in addition to failing to prevent the spread of the infection in its products. Victims might be eligible to receive reimbursement for costs related to medical care and lost pay, said WOWT in a prior report, noting that any business in the food chain, from farm to table, could be potentially liable in the multi-state outbreak. From farm to table includes just that: Any party involved in the process, for instance, grocery stores and restaurants, in addition to growers, processors, and distributors.

Of note, sprouts present a very unique challenge when a food borne outbreak occurs because sprouts can become tainted with salmonella prior to harvesting, when they are growing. Also, the conditions required for sprout growing are optimal for growing pathogens. Bacteria need the right temperature, nutrients, and water and sprouts grow in watery, warm environments, which are ideal for rapid bacterial growth. Sprouts are often eaten raw with no additional treatment, such as cooking, which eliminates bacteria that can cause disease and food borne illnesses; washing sprouts does not necessarily remove bacteria because bacteria grow within the sprouts and cannot be washed away.

Salmonella causes 40,000 confirmed cases each year, but, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is probably responsible for close to 40 times that—a stunning 1,600,000—noting that 2,500 subtypes of Salmonella exist, said MSNBC in an earlier report. Salmonella can cause serious, sometimes fatal salmonellosis infections in young children and weak or elderly people. Healthy people may experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, if infected. Without treatment, severe cases of Salmonella can result in death; however, some Salmonella bacteria are resistant to antibiotics, largely due to the use of antibiotics to promote the growth of feed animals.

Pistachios Named in Latest Salmonella Scare

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Consumers nationwide are being warned to avoid pistachios and pistachio-containing products. According to the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) pistachios made by the nation's second largest producer - Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella Inc - may be tainted with salmonella. The California-based company is recalling 1 million pounds of the nuts.

According to the FDA, this pistachio recall is in no way related to the Peanut Corp. of America (PCA) salmonella outbreak that we have been following for the past several months. No illnesses have yet been linked to salmonella-tainted pistachios, but federal regulators are investigating several suspected cases.

In its health alert, the FDA said the pistachio contamination involves multiple strains of salmonella. 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.

The pistachio salmonella scare has already led Kroger stores to recall pistachios it sold in 31 states. As we reported last week, both the Georgia Nut Company and the Kraft subsidiary, the Back to Nature Foods Company, had recalled some pistachio-containing products after lab tests confirmed the presence of salmonella in some pistachios.

According to the FDA, it became aware of the pistachio problem on March 24 after Kraft informed it that the Back to Nature Foods Company trail mix was found to be contaminated with salmonella. Kraft had identified the source of the contamination to be pistachios from Setton Pistachio, the FDA said.

According to the FDA, the Setton Pistachio recall involves certain bulk roasted in-shell and roasted shelled pistachios that were shipped on or after September 1. The FDA is working closely with the pistachio industry and recommends that consumers avoid eating pistachio products until further information is available about the scope of affected products.

Because the pistachios were used as ingredients in a variety of foods, it is likely this recall will impact many products, the FDA said. In addition, the investigation at the company is ongoing and may lead to additional pistachio product recalls. According to a report on ABCNews.com, Setton Pistachio shipped tote bags of nuts weighing up to 2,000 pounds to 36 wholesalers across the country. A representative from the California Health Department told ABCNews.com that it could take weeks to determine how many products might be impacted, and said the list is likely to include everything from cake mixes to ice creams.

This salmonella pistachio recall is reminiscent of the PCA peanut recalls. The salmonella outbreak caused by those tainted products is still ongoing, and has been linked to at last 690 illnesses and 9 deaths. It has also resulted in more than 3,900 recalls of peanut-containing products.

The FDA had to set up a searchable database on its website to help consumers track PCA-related recalls. According to the agency, it now plans to do the same for pistachio product recalls.

California Company Recalls Spices Implicated in Salmonella Outbreak

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0700

A new salmonella outbreak is emerging, this time linked to pepper products made by Union International Food Company (UIFC). The company is recalling several varieties of its white and black pepper, as well as other spices as a precaution.

KTVN in Nevada is reporting that health officials have warned consumers to avoid eating ground white pepper that was processed, packaged, and/or distributed by Union International Food Company (UIFC) in Union City, California. According to KCRA in California, the warning was later expanded to include white and black pepper products from the company's Union City facility in the Bay Area.

In total, four varieties of pepper are included in the recall: Whole and ground Uncle Chen's White Pepper and whole and ground Uncle Chen's Black Pepper. All four products are packaged in 5-ounce containers. Restaurant and food store managers, restaurant suppliers, and spice wholesalers are being asked to check their inventories and remove this product immediately, said KTVN

UIFC’s pepper products have been linked to a multi-state outbreak of salmonella following the discovery of the pathogen in food samples collected from restaurants and food distributors. Two date, 42 illnesses have been tied to the contaminated spice; eight people have been hospitalized, said KTVN. Illnesses have been reported in Nevada, California, Oregon, and Washington state said KTVN.

UIFC announced it recalled the following spices, some as a precautionary measure:

Black Pepper: Ground and whole
Cayenne pepper
Curry powder
Garlic: Chopped, granulated, minced, and powdered
Ginger powder
Mustard powde
Onion: Chopped and powder
Paprika
Tumeric
Wasabi powder
White Pepper: Ground and whole

According to KTVN, none of the spice’s packaging bears lot codes, but some are known to have been sold to distributors and restaurants and are packaged under the Lian How brand name (red label) followed by the words “Packed by Union International Foods" or "Union International Foods." Spices packaged for commercial use come in 10- and 15-pound cardboard boxes with plastic liners that are tie-closed; 4- and 5-pound clear semi-hard plastic wide-mouth jars; 5-pound plastic bags, and 2.2-pound foil bags Recalled items intended for individual consumer purchase could display the "Uncle Chen" brand name.

It seems that many of those sickened had eaten at Asian restaurants discovered by environmental health specialists to be using black and/or white pepper purchased from UIFC, said KCRA.

Salmonella causes 40,000 confirmed cases each year, but, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is probably responsible for close to 40 times that—a stunning 1,600,000—noting that 2,500 subtypes of Salmonella exist, said MSNBC in an earlier report.

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 of Salmonella poisoning can result in arterial infections—such as infected aneurysms—endocarditis, arthritis, and death; however, some Salmonella bacteria are resistant to antibiotics, largely due to the use of antibiotics to promote the growth of feed animals.

Salmonella Fears Prompt Recall of Pistachio Nut Products

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Two companies are recalling pistachio nut products today because of salmonella fears. According to the Food & Drug Administration (FDA), these recalls are NOT related to peanut product recalls issued as a result of the Peanut Corp. of America salmonella outbreak.

The first recall involves the following products distributed by California-based Georgia Nut Company:

Bulk Deluxe Mixed Nuts with shelled pistachios purchased at the Not Just Nuts store in Wauwatosa, WI from Dec. 5, 2008 through March 24, 2009;
Bulk or custom packaged Deluxe Mixed Nuts with shelled pistachios purchased at Georgia Nut retail stores in Skokie and Glenview, IL, Georgia Nut’s Chocolate House location in Greenfield, WI, and through the Company’s website from Dec 11, 2008 through March 23, 2009;
Bulk or custom packaged Dry Roasted Shelled Pistachios purchased at Georgia Nut retail stores in Skokie and Glenview, IL, Georgia Nut’s Chocolate House location in Greenfield, WI, and through the Company’s website from Dec 3, 2008 through March 23, 2009;
Mixed Nuts Deluxe Roasted and Salted Bulk with shelled pistachios purchased from clear plastic bulk bins in the produce department at Dominick’s Finer Foods stores in the greater Chicagoland area from Dec. 10, 2008 through March 25, 2009.

According to Georgia Nut, its testing regimen had identified potential salmonella contamination in shelled pistachio nuts from a third party supplier. Georgia Nut said it had not received any reports of illness linked to these products, and was issuing the recall as a precaution.

Consumers should not consume the recalled products, and they are being advised to return any amount of product in their possession to the place of purchase for a replacement or refund. Georgia Nut Company has established a 24-hour consumer information line at (800) 914-4110 and www.gncinfo.com for more information.

The second recall involves Back to Nature Foods Company's Nantucket Blend trail mix containing pistachio nuts that may have the potential to be contaminated with salmonella. The following varieties are being recalled:

Back to Nature Nantucket Blend trail mix, 28 oz. bag, UPC code 59283-00020 and a “best by” date between 08 20 09 and 12 12 09.
Back to Nature Nantucket Blend trail mix, 10 oz. bag, UPC code 59283-31039 and a “best by” date between 11 04 09 and 12 12 09.

Consumers can find the “best by” date on the back of the package and should discard any product they have. Consumers can contact the company at 1-866-538-8280 with any questions.

There have been no cases of salmonella poisoning reported to date in connection with these products and the company is issuing this recall as a precaution. These products were distributed to retail stores nationwide.

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.

den Dulk Poultry Farms Organic Eggs Recalled Over Salmonella Risk

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0700

den Dulk Poultry Farms of Ripon, California has issued a voluntary recall for its organic brown eggs over concerns about possible Salmonella poisoning, reports the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The recalled eggs were distributed to Costco and Safeway in Northern California, as far South as Fresno, and in western Nevada, said the FDA and contain the following information, by retail establishment:

Costco
The eggs are sold at Costco as Kirkland Organic Brown Eggs and are packaged in 18-count cartons. Expiration dates and plant code can be found on the end of the carton, as follows: Expiration date April 1 062/plant code 35 P1776; expiration date April 8 069/plant code 35 P1776.

Safeway
The eggs are sold at 71 Safeway and Pack n’ Save stores as O Organic Grade A Large Brown Eggs. They are packaged in one dozen—12-count—cartons with the expiration date and plant code found on the end of the carton: Expiration date April 1 062/plant code 35 P1776.

The FDA said that the recall was initiated after it was determined that the eggs in question tested positive for the Salmonella pathogen during an internal investigation by den Dulk Poultry Farms. The FDA is urging those consumers who have purchased or are the recipients of these potentially Salmonella-tainted eggs to return them to Costco or Safeway for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact den Dulk Poultry Farms 1-209-599-4269 or Safeway Consumer Service Center toll-free at 1-877-Safeway (723-3929), Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (PDT).

Salmonella causes 40,000 confirmed cases each year, but, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is probably responsible for close to 40 times that—a stunning 1,600,000—noting that 2,500 subtypes of Salmonella exist, said MSNBC in an earlier report.

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 of Salmonella poisoning can result in arterial infections—such as infected aneurysms—endocarditis, arthritis, and death; however, some Salmonella bacteria are resistant to antibiotics, largely due to the use of antibiotics to promote the growth of feed animals.

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. A victim of Reiter’s Syndrome may have already been treated for the initial infection, and it can be weeks before the symptoms of Reiter’s Syndrome become apparent. Reiter’s Syndrome, which can plague its victims for months or years, is said to occur when reactive arthritis is evident and at least one other non-joint area, such as the eyes, skin or muscles, is affected.

Salmonella poisoning is the culprit in the massive and ongoing food borne contamination that has been linked to the Peanut Corporation of America’s peanuts and peanut products, as well as the growing multi-state Salmonella poisoning outbreak linked to a variety of SunSprout Enterprises sprouts.

Sprout Salmonella Cases Rapidly Rising

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The ongoing salmonella outbreak linked to a variety of SunSprout Enterprises’ sprouts, has now sickened 121, with 45 additional cases reported in Nebraska and Iowa, says KGAN. The cases are of the Salmonella saintpaul strain, the same strain that was to blame for last year’s massive Mexican pepper recall and outbreak that was first linked to tomatoes.

Nebraska health officials say 84 cases of Salmonella saintpaul were confirmed near Omaha, Lincoln, and Kearney; Iowa officials confirmed 27 cases; and South Dakota and Kansas officials have confirmed five cases in each of their states, reported KGAN.

The outbreak has been linked to SunSprout Enterprises’ alfalfa, onion, and gourmet sprouts. Earlier this month, SunSprout issued a voluntary recall of the products; however, the recall was lifted when no cause for the contamination was revealed during an investigation, said KGAN, in an earlier report.

After the recalled sprouts were sent to food distributors, those distributors then sold the sprouts to restaurants and retail stores, MarketWatch said in an earlier report. Also, according to the Associated Press (AP), the SunSprout brand sprouts were distributed by CW Sprouts of Omaha and sold at grocery stores and restaurants.

Victims might be eligible to receive reimbursement for costs related to medical care and lost pay, said WOWT in a prior report, noting that any business in the food chain, from farm to table, could be potentially liable in the ongoing multi-state outbreak. From farm to table includes just that: Any party involved in the process, for instance, grocery stores and restaurants, in addition to growers, processors, and distributors.

According to a prior AP article, investigators are trying to determine if the sprouts were contaminated earlier on in the food chain. Of note, sprouts present a very unique challenge when a food borne outbreak occurs because sprouts can become tainted with salmonella prior to harvesting, when they are growing. Also, the conditions required for sprout growing are optimal for growing pathogens. Bacteria need the right temperature, nutrients, and water and sprouts grow in watery, warm environments, which are ideal for rapid bacterial growth. Sprouts are often eaten raw with no additional treatment, such as cooking, which eliminates bacteria that can cause disease and food borne illnesses; washing sprouts does not necessarily remove bacteria because bacteria grow within the sprouts and cannot be washed away.

Salmonella causes 40,000 confirmed cases each year, but, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is probably responsible for close to 40 times that—a stunning 1,600,000—noting that 2,500 subtypes of salmonella exist, said MSNBC in an earlier report.

Salmonella can cause serious, sometimes fatal salmonellosis infections in young children and weak or elderly people. Healthy people may experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, if infected. Without treatment, severe cases of Salmonella can result in death; however, some Salmonella bacteria are resistant to antibiotics, largely due to the use of antibiotics to promote the growth of feed animals.

A listing of the recalled sprout lot numbers can be found at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Website page on the recall at: http://www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmrecalls/sunsprouts03_09.html.

Salmonella Outbreak Continues

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0700

The continuing and massive salmonella outbreak linked to Peanut Corporation of America (PCA) peanut products is very close to reaching 700 reported illnesses. The Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP) News just reported that the number of those reporting illness has reached 691; the recalled product list has reached a monumental 3,488 items. According to federal health officials, cases are expected to continue to be reported for months.

"The numbers of new cases have declined substantially since the peak in December, but illnesses are still being reported among people who ate the recalled brands of peanut butter crackers after the recall," the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said, reported CIDRAP, noting that the CDC also said the update was its last planned such update on the outbreak. "The outbreak is expected to continue at a low level for the next several months since consumers unaware that they have recalled products in their home continue to consume these products, many of which have a long shelf-life," the CDC added, said CIDRAP.

To date, there have been PCA-linked salmonella cases reported in 46 states and Canada, nine known deaths, and hospitalizations in 23 percent of those who fell ill and for whom information is available, said CIDRAP, adding that the latest known onset date was February 24, indicating that salmonella-contaminated PCA ingredients still remain in circulation. CIDRAP pointed out that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and state agencies have contacted in excess of 16,000 firms to try and remove potential contaminated products from store shelves.

Half of those infected are under age 16, while more than one in four cases is under age five. Most reported illnesses have been linked to two brands of peanut butter crackers — Kellogg’s Austin and Keebler-brand peanut butter crackers. Products that carry a salmonella risk continue to be recalled on a daily basis; the FDA is maintaining a full list of recalled products.

There is also more evidence emerging that oversight of the PCA Georgia plant at the center of the outbreak had been lax, at best. According to a prior report in the Atlanta Constitution Journal, PCA’s Blakely, Georgia facility was inspected by the state health department on 184 occasions since 2006; however, 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.

As we’ve previously reported, a second PCA plant in Texas closed last month because of deplorable conditions and was found to never have 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. Meanwhile, PCA faces dozens of lawsuits, a criminal investigation, bankruptcy filings, FBI search warrants, plant closures, and Congressionally-urged criminal charges. PCA filed Chapter 7 bankruptcy early last month, all of its plants are closed, and the Texas Department of Health has issued a recall order for everything ever produced at the Texas plant.

Crown Farms Brand "Gulsha" Fish Recalled Over Possible Salmonella

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Asia Cash and Carry Inc. of Maspeth, New York is recalling 17 cases of CROWN FARMS brand "GULSHA" Frozen Fish, a Bangladeshi Freshwater Fish, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just announced. The recall was implemented because the CROWN FARMS brand "GULSHA" Frozen Fish was found to have the potential to be contaminated with the dangerous, sometimes deadly, food borne pathogen salmonella.

The CROWN FARMS brand "GULSHA" Bangladeshi Freshwater Fish was distributed to retail stores in New York, New Jersey, Illinois, Michigan, and Virginia; was imported from Bangladesh; and was distributed in cases containing vacuum-packed 500-gram packages bearing a production date of AUG 2008, an expiration date of JULY 2010, and a UPC of 5 060065 430704. Each case contains 16 500-gram packages of the recalled CROWN FARMS brand "GULSHA" Frozen Bangladeshi Freshwater Fish. The FDA said that, to date, no illnesses have been reported.

The FDA also said that the recall is the result of sampling it conducted, which revealed that the finished product contained the salmonella bacteria. Asia Cash and Carry had partially distributed the entry prior to the FDA's findings of potential salmonella contamination.

The FDA is urging consumers who have purchased CROWN FARMS brand "GULSHA" Frozen Bangladeshi Freshwater Fish with a production date of AUG 2008 and an expiration date of JULY 2010 to return the potentially contaminated, recalled fish to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Asia Cash and Carry in New York at 1-718-894-2505, Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Eastern Daylight Time.

Salmonella can cause serious, sometimes fatal Salmonellosis infections in young children and weak or elderly people. If infected, healthy people may experience fever; diarrhea, which may be bloody; nausea; vomiting; abdominal pain; and cramping 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. Without treatment, severe cases of Salmonellosis can result in death. Unfortunately, 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 illnesses worldwide. 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. A victim of Reiter’s Syndrome may have already been treated for the initial infection, and it can be weeks before the symptoms of Reiter’s Syndrome become apparent. Reiter’s Syndrome, which can plague its victims for months or years, is said to occur when reactive arthritis is evident and at least one other non-joint area—such as the eyes, skin, or muscles—is affected.

Salmonella Bacteria Food Poisoning Injury Lawyer

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Have You Been Injured From Salmonella?

On February 14, 2007, the FDA warned consumers not to eat certain jars of Peter Pan peanut butter or Great Value peanut butter due to risk of contamination with Salmonella Tennessee (a bacterium that causes illness). The contaminated jars of Peter Pan and Great Value peanut butters have a product code located on the lid of the jar that begins with the number 2111. ConAgra manufactures both the Peter Pan and Great Value brands in a single facility in Sylvester, Georgia. Great Value (a Wal-Mart brand) peanut butter made elsewhere is not affected. Consumers have been told to throw away either of these peanut butter brands if they were purchased since May 2006.

Salmonella is a bacterial food poisoning that causes swelling of the lining of the stomach and intestines (gastroenteritis). Ingesting foods contaminated with significant amounts of salmonella infects the majority of people. Only a small proportion of infected people are tested and diagnosed, and as little as 1% of cases are actually reported. Salmonella poisoning normally occurs in small, localized outbreaks in the general population or in large outbreaks in hospitals, restaurants, or institutions for children and the elderly. In the United States, Salmonella is responsible for about 15% of all cases of food poisoning.

Anyone may contract Salmonella food poisoning, but the disease is most serious in infants, the elderly, and people with weak immune systems. In these individuals, the infection may spread from the intestines to the blood stream, and then to other body sites, resulting in death unless the person is treated promptly with antibiotics. In addition, people who have had part or all of their stomach or their spleens removed, or who have sickle cell anemia, cirrhosis of the liver, leukemia, lymphoma, malaria, or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) are extremely susceptible to Salmonella food poisoning.

Causes and symptoms
Salmonella food poisoning can arise when someone drinks unpasteurized milk or eats undercooked chicken or eggs, or salad dressings or desserts containing raw eggs. Any food can become contaminated during preparation if conditions and equipment for food preparation are unsanitary. Symptoms generally appear about one-two days after infection, and include fever (in 50% of patients), nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps and pain. The illness usually ends in about five-seven days. Other infections that can be caused by Salmonella include:

Bone infections
Joint infections
Infection of the sac containing the heart
Infection of the tissues, which cover the brain and spinal cord
Infection of the liver (hepatitis)
Lung infections

Legal Help for Victims
If you or a loved one has been infected with salmonella poisoning you may have valuable legal rights, please fill out the form at the right for a free case evaluation by a qualified diseases attorney. Alternatively, call our toll free number: 1-800-LAW-INFO (1-800-529-4636).