Salsa Recalled for Possible Salmonella Contamination

Salsa is being recalled for possible Salmonella contamination, according to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Club Chef LLC is recalling its 12- and 16-ounce and its 5-pound salsa products in response to the potential contamination.

The recalled salsa is sold in 12-ounce plastic containers under the Private Selection brand name, in 16-ounce plastic containers under the Heinen brand name, and in 5-pound plastic trays, to foodservice distributors. The packaging is marked with a Use By Date of 3/27/2012. UPC numbers located on the packages are, as follows:

Private Selection 12-Ounce Brand:
• Pico de Gallo: UPC 11111091135
• Hot Salsa: UPC 1111091139
• Mild Salsa: UPC 1111091137

Heinen 16-Ounce Brand:
• Hot Salsa: UPC 2060100024
• Mild Salsa: UPC 2060100026

The recalled salsa was distributed to retailers and foodservice distributors on March 14 and 15, 2012 in 11 states: Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, Arkansas, Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee, Virginia, North Carolina, Indiana, and Illinois. No illnesses have been reported in connection with the recall; however, it can take some time from ingestion of a contaminated product for symptoms of Salmonella poisoning to manifest.

The potential for contamination was discovered following a random test by the Ohio Department of Agriculture in a store in Ohio which revealed the presence of Salmonella in a case of Jalapeno peppers. Jalapeno peppers are one of the ingredients in the recalled salsa.

The most common symptoms of Salmonella poisoning—salmonellosis—are diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever, with symptoms manifesting, usually, within six to 72 hours. Additional symptoms include chills, headache, nausea, and vomiting that can last up to seven days. The illness usually lasts four to seven days; however, in some, the organism can invade the bloodstream, becoming so severe that hospitalization is required.

Sometimes, infection with the Salmonella pathogen can result in, and produce more severe or chronic illnesses.

Salmonella, can be dangerous, sometimes deadly, leaving sufferers with serious life-long health issues. Salmonellosis, one of the most common bacterial food borne illnesses, can be especially life threatening to those with weakened immune systems, such as infants, the elderly, and persons with HIV infection or who are undergoing chemotherapy.

The firm advises consumers who have purchased the recalled salsa products to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Club Chef LLC can be reached at 1.859.578.3143, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time (EST).