Category Archives: Uncategorized

Research – Microbiological Testing Results of Boneless and Ground Beef Purchased for the U.S. National School Lunch Program, School Years 2015 to 2018

Posted on October 5, 2019 by | Leave a comment

Journal of Food Protection

ABSTRACT

The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) purchases beef for the National School Lunch Program and other federal nutrition assistance programs. For beef that will be delivered to food service facilities raw, each ca. 900-kg lot of boneless beef raw material and each ca. 4,500-kg sublot of resultant ground beef is tested for standard plate count (SPC) organisms, coliforms, Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and E. coli O157:H7. In addition, 1 of every 10 lots of boneless beef, randomly selected, is tested for E. coli O26, O45, O103, O111, O121, and O145. For beef that will be cooked using a validated lethality step at a federally inspected establishment before delivery, each lot of boneless beef and each sublot of ground beef is tested for SPC organisms, coliforms, and E. coli only. Any lot or sublot exceeding predefined critical limits (CLs) of 100,000 CFU g−1 for SPC organisms, 1,000 CFU g−1 for coliforms, or 500 CFU g−1 for E. coli or for beef containing Salmonella or any of previously mentioned E. coli serotypes is rejected for purchase. For school years 2015 through 2018 (July 2014 through June 2018), 220,497,254 kg of boneless beef and 189,347,318 kg of ground beef were produced for AMS. For boneless beef, 133 (0.06%), 164 (0.07%), and 106 (0.04%) of 240,488 lots exceeded CLs for SPC organisms, coliforms, and E. coli, respectively; 2,038 (1.30%) and 116 (0.07%) of 156,671 lots were positive for Salmonella and E. coli O157:H7, respectively; and 59 (0.36%) of 16,515 lots were positive for non-O157 Shiga toxin–producing E. coli. For ground beef, 46 (0.10%), 27 (0.06%), and 19 (0.04%) of 45,769 sublots exceeded CLs for SPC organisms, coliforms, and E. coli, respectively; and 329 (1.40%) and 18 (0.08%) of 23,475 sublots were positive for Salmonella and E. coli O157:H7, respectively. All lots and sublots found to exceed indicator organism CLs or to contain pathogens were identified, rejected for purchase, and diverted from federal nutrition assistance programs.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • AMS purchases beef for the National School Lunch Program.

  • Less than 0.10% of beef samples exceeded indicator organism critical limits.

  • Salmonella was found in 1.4% and E. coli O157:H7 was found in 0.08% of samples.

  • Indicator critical limit exceedance was weakly associated with pathogen presence.

  • Beef with excessive indicator organisms or containing pathogens was rejected for purchase.

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Posted in E.coli, Food Micro Blog, Food Microbiology Blog, Food Microbiology Research, Food Technology, microbial contamination, Microbiology, Research, Salmonella, Technology, Uncategorized

Research -Antibacterial Interactions of Colloid Nanosilver with Eugenol and Food Ingredients

Posted on October 5, 2019 by | Leave a comment

Journal of Food Protection

ABSTRACT

This study was conducted to investigate antibacterial properties of the colloidal silver nanoparticles (SNPs) and eugenol, alone and in combination, on Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella Typhimurium and their interactions with food constituents (fat, protein, and carbohydrate). We examined antibacterial activities of SNPs and eugenol in Luria-Bertani (LB) broth and 1.5 and 3% fat ultrahigh-temperature (UHT) milk. MICs of eugenol and SNPs (particle size of 31.3 nm) were also investigated in the presence of sunflower oil, meat extract, and starch at concentrations of 2, 5, and 10% to examine the interactions between food constituents and antimicrobial agents. MICs and MBCs of eugenol and SNPs for both bacteria were at 2,500 and 25 μg/mL, respectively. Combinations of the two substances had additive and synergistic effects on Salmonella Typhimurium and S. aureus, respectively. Both compounds had bactericidal activity. In food matrices, results indicated that eugenol only in sunflower oil at 5 and 10% concentrations had significant antibacterial activity. A similar result was achieved for SNPs with 10% meat extract. In LB broth, eugenol at 2,500 and 5,000 μg/mL achieved 6-log reductions in the microbial population of both bacteria after 3 h, while SNPs achieved the same effect after 9 h. In UHT milk with 1.5% fat, eugenol at 5,000 μg/mL and SNPs at 25 μg/mL achieved 6-log reductions in bacterial populations after 24 h. Thus, the antimicrobial activity of both eugenol and SNPs depended on the medium in which the experiment was conducted, and the combination of both antimicrobial agents increased the antimicrobial effect.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The interactions of eugenol, nanoparticles, and food constituents were investigated.

  • Eugenol and SNP had synergistic effects on S. aureus.

  • Protein and lipids reduced the efficacy of eugenol.

  • Protein negatively impacted the activity of SNPs.

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Posted in Food Micro Blog, Food Microbiology Blog, Food Microbiology Research, Food Technology, microbial contamination, Microbiology, Research, Technology, Uncategorized

USA – In Association with ADM Milling Co, King Arthur Flour, Inc. Expands Recall of Unbleached All-Purpose Flour (5 Lb & 25 Lb) – E.coli O26

Posted on October 4, 2019 by | Leave a comment

FDA

Company Announcement

In association with ADM Milling Company, King Arthur Flour, Inc., announced today a voluntary national recall of specific lots of its Unbleached All-Purpose Flour (5 lb. & 25 lb.)

We are taking this voluntary precautionary step because of the potential presence of E. coli 026 which was discovered through sampling. King Arthur Flour has not received any confirmed reports of illnesses related to this product.

This flour was milled at an ADM Milling facility in Buffalo, NY, and was distributed by King Arthur Flour through retailers and distributors nationwide, and sold through our website, catalogue, and store in Norwich, VT.

The only product affected by this voluntary recall is our Unbleached All-Purpose Flour (5 lb. & 25 lb.) from the Best Used by Dates and Lot Codes listed in the link above.

Labeling, front, King Arthur Flour

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Posted in E.coli, E.coli O26, FDA, food contamination, Food Inspections, Food Micro Blog, Food Microbiology, Food Microbiology Blog, Food Pathogen, Food Poisoning, food recall, Food Safety, Food Safety Alert, Food Testing, Food Toxin, Uncategorized

Ireland – Recall of MySolDeli Salamis Due to Possible Presence of Listeria monocytogenes

Posted on October 4, 2019 by | Leave a comment

FSAI

Message:

Eirespan Distribution Ltd. is recalling the above products as a precaution following an investigation in Germany into an outbreak of listeriosis. Listeria monocytogenes was detected in a sausage made by Wilke Waldecker Fleisch und Wurstwaren and all products made in the factory, carrying the approval mark DE EV 203 EG, are subject to recall. 

Nature Of Danger:

Symptoms of Listeria monocytogenes infection can include vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headache and neck stiffness.  In rare cases, the infection can be more severe, causing serious complications, such as meningitis. Some people are more vulnerable to Listeria monocytogenes infections, including pregnant women, babies, and people with weakened immune systems, including the elderly.  The incubation period (time between initial infection and first symptoms appearing) is on average 3 weeks but can range between 3 and 70 days.

Action Required:

Manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, caterers & retailers:

Food businesses are requested to remove the affected salamis from sale and clearly display a point of sale recall notice informing customers not to eat the products.

Deli_Solami

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Posted in food contamination, Food Hygiene, Food Inspections, Food Micro Blog, Food Microbiology, Food Microbiology Blog, Food Pathogen, food recall, Food Safety, Food Safety Alert, Food Testing, FSAI, Listeria, Listeria monocytogenes, Uncategorized

Canada – Updated Food Recall Warning – Various raw beef and raw veal products recalled due to E. coli O157:H7

Posted on October 4, 2019 by | Leave a comment

CFIA

Recall details

Ottawa, October 3, 2019 – The food recall warning issued on October 1, 2019 has been updated to include additional product information. This additional information was identified during the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) food safety investigation.

Industry is recalling various raw beef and raw veal products from the marketplace due to possible E. coli O157:H7. Consumers should not consume and distributors, retailers and food service establishments such as hotels, restaurants, cafeterias, hospitals and nursing homes should not sell or use the recalled products described in the link above.

Background

This recall was triggered by the CFIA’s inspection activities. The CFIA is conducting a food safety investigation, which may lead to the recall of other products. If other high-risk products are recalled, the CFIA will notify the public through updated Food Recall Warnings.

The CFIA is verifying that industry is removing the recalled products from the marketplace.

Illnesses

There have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of these products.

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Posted in CFIA, E.coli, E.coli O157, E.coli O157:H7, food contamination, Food Hygiene, Food Inspections, Food Micro Blog, Food Microbiology, Food Microbiology Blog, Food Pathogen, Food Poisoning, food recall, Food Safety, Food Safety Alert, Food Testing, Food Toxin, Uncategorized

USA – Salmonella and Hepatitis A Outbreak at Crow Wing County Jail in MN

Posted on October 4, 2019 by | Leave a comment

Food Poisoning Bulletin

A Salmonella and Hepatitis A outbreak at the Crow Wing County Jail in Minnesota has been announced by the Crow Wing County Sheriff’s Office. The number of those sickened has not yet been released. We also do not know the ages of patients or whether or not anyone has been hospitalized.

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Posted in Food Micro Blog, Food Microbiology Blog, Hepatitis A, microbial contamination, Microbiology, Salmonella, Uncategorized

USA – Coborn’s, Inc. Issues Recall of Select Chicken Salad Products Due to Possible Listeria Contamination

Posted on October 4, 2019 by | Leave a comment

FDA

Company Announcement

Coborn’s, Inc. is recalling select chicken salad products, which may have been contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

The product recall has been initiated due to the supplier of the ready-to-eat chicken, Tip Top Poultry Inc. Rockmart, GA, recalling all their chicken materials produced between January 21, 2019 and September 24, 2019.

The recalled products were distributed and sold at Coborn’s and Cash Wise Stores in Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota; Marketplace Foods stores in Western Wisconsin. The table below includes the UPCs of products possibly affected.

Product UPC How sold Locations Where Sold
Cashew Chicken Salad 207063XXXXX Per pound out of Deli Service Case All Coborn’s, Cash Wise and Marketplace Foods locations and available through online ordering at select locations
Chicken Salad Spread 207066XXXXX Per pound out of Deli Service Case All Coborn’s, Cash Wise and Marketplace Foods locations and available through online ordering at select locations
Spicy Chicken Salad 207198XXXXX Per pound out of Deli Service Case Coborn’s Delano, MN location ONLY – in store and online
Southwest Chicken Taco Pasta 207074XXXXX Per pound out of Deli Service Case Coborn’s Delano, MN location ONLY – in store and online
Pulled Rotisserie Chicken Cold 206982XXXXX Per random weight container
Deli Self Service area		 Coborn’s Pinecone Road, Sartell, MN location ONLY – in store and online
Chicken Salad Spread 733147-10489 12oz container
Deli Self Service area		 All Coborn’s, Cash Wise and Marketplace Foods locations and available through online ordering at select locations
Chicken Salad on Marble Rye 205118XXXXX Each
Deli Self Service are		 All Coborn’s, Cash Wise and Marketplace Foods locations and available through online ordering at select locations
Chicken Salad Wrap 206983XXXXX Each
Deli Self Service are		 All Coborn’s, Cash Wise and Marketplace Foods locations and available through online ordering at select locations
Chicken Salad Sandwich 207209XXXXX Each
Deli Self Service are		 All Coborn’s, Cash Wise and Marketplace Foods locations and available through online ordering at select locations
Chicken Salad Croissant Sandwich 207275XXXXX Each
Deli Self Service are		 All Coborn’s, Cash Wise and Marketplace Foods locations and available through online ordering at select locations

In an abundance of caution, Coborn’s, Inc. stores (including Cash Wise, Coborn’s and Marketplace Foods) have pulled all products that may have been affected. Any current offerings are not affected. Guests who have purchased the products listed in the table attached should destroy these products or return them to the store where they were purchased for a full refund. Guests with questions may call 1-844-414-7467 between the hours of 8:00am- 8:00 pm Monday-Friday and Saturdays and Sundays 10:00 am- 6:00 pm.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem. Guests with health concerns should contact a healthcare provider.

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Posted in FDA, food contamination, Food Hygiene, Food Inspections, Food Micro Blog, Food Microbiology, Food Microbiology Blog, Food Pathogen, food recall, Food Safety, Food Safety Alert, Food Testing, Listeria, Listeria monocytogenes, Uncategorized

USA – Mical Seafood Inc Recalls Tuna Products for Possible Scombroid Poisoning

Posted on October 4, 2019 by | Leave a comment

FDA

Company Announcement

Mical Seafood, Inc. of Cooper City, FL, voluntarily initiated a recall of frozen, wild-caught yellowfin tuna poke cubes, tuna loins, tuna ground meat and 6oz tuna steaks because of potentially elevated levels of histamine. Elevated levels of histamines can produce an allergic reaction called scombroid fish poisoning that may result in symptoms that can generally appear within minutes to several hours after eating the affected fish.

The most common symptoms of histamine or scombroid fish poisoning are tingling or burning sensation in the mouth, facial swelling, rash, hives and itchy skin, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea; these symptoms usually resolve within several hours without medical intervention. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. If symptoms are severe an individual should seek immediate medical attention for treatment.

These tuna products were sold to customers in Maryland, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Florida, Texas, Alabama, North Carolina, California Michigan, Rhode Island, U.S. Virgin Islands, Sint Maarten and Grand Cayman.

The tuna products have production dates between 04/02/2019 to 05/14/2019.

Product Name

Brand

Size

Lot Number

Production Date
Tuna Poke 2cm AAA IVP Mical Seafood 10lb 23910 04/09/2019
Tuna Poke 2cm AAA IVP Mical Seafood 10lb 24046 04/20/2019
Tuna Poke 2cm AAA IVP Mical Seafood 10lb 25324 04/27/2019
Tuna Loins 5-8lb AAA IVP Mical Seafood 30lb 20799 04/02/2019
Tuna Loins 5-8lb AAA IVP Mical Seafood 30lb 24037 04/09/2019
Tuna Loins 5-8lb AAA IVP Mical Seafood 30lb 24279 04/24/2019
Tuna Loins 5-8lb AAA IVP Mical Seafood 30lb 23020 05/10/2019
Tuna Ground Meat AAA IVP Mical Seafood 10lb 25694 05/14/2019
Tuna Steaks 6z AA IVP Mical Seafood 10lb 23906 04/20/2019

Four reported illnesses have been confirmed as of 10/01/2019. While Mical Seafood feels these were isolated incidents, it has initiated this voluntary recall to take every precautionary measure when it comes to customers’ health and safety.

Customers who received products from Lot # 23910, 24046, 25324, 20799, 24037, 24279, 23020. 25694, and 23906 with Production Dates of: 04/02/2019, 4/09/2019, 04/20/2019, 04/24/2019, 04/27/2019, 05/10/2019 and 05/14/2019 should not consume them. Inventory should be quarantined until returned to the supplier or to Mical Seafood, Inc. for a full refund.

Customers with questions or concerns may contact the company’s Recall Team: (Jennifer Gonzalez or Margarita Alzugaray) by calling (954) 935-0133, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Eastern Time.

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Posted in FDA, food contamination, Food Hygiene, Food Illness, Food Inspections, Food Micro Blog, Food Microbiology, Food Microbiology Blog, Food Poisoning, food recall, Food Safety, Food Safety Alert, Food Testing, Food Toxin, Histamine, Scombroid, scombroid poisoning, Uncategorized

Canada – Food Recall Warning – Ryding-Regency Meat Packers Ltd. brand raw beef products recalled due to E. coli O157:H7

Posted on October 4, 2019 by | Leave a comment

CFIA

Recall details

Ottawa, October 3, 2019 – St. Ann’s Foods Inc./Ryding-Regency Meat Packers Ltd. is recalling Ryding-Regency Meat Packers Ltd. brand raw beef products from the marketplace due to possible E. coli O157:H7 contamination. Food service establishments, retailers, distributors and manufacturers should not serve, use, or sell the recalled products described in the link above.

Background

This recall was triggered by the CFIA’s inspection activities. The CFIA is conducting a food safety investigation, which may lead to the recall of other products. If other high-risk products are recalled, the CFIA will notify the public through updated Food Recall Warnings.

The CFIA is verifying that industry is removing the recalled products from the marketplace.

Illnesses

There have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of these products.

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Posted in CFIA, E.coli, E.coli O157, E.coli O157:H7, food contamination, Food Hygiene, Food Inspections, Food Micro Blog, Food Microbiology, Food Microbiology Blog, Food Pathogen, Food Poisoning, food recall, Food Safety, Food Safety Alert, Food Testing, Food Toxin, Uncategorized

USA – Legionnaire’s disease: More than 100 cases reported in North Carolina outbreak

Posted on October 4, 2019 by | Leave a comment

Outbreak News Today 

The number of Legionnaires’ disease cases linked to the NC Mountain State Fair continues to grow at a quick pace.

According to North Carolina health officials, as of Tuesday, 116 total Legionella infections have been reported, including 109 cases of Legionnaires’ disease and seven cases of the less serious Pontiac fever.

One death has been reported.

Seventy-five of the cases were reported from two counties–Buncombe and Henderson.

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Posted in Contaminated water, Food Micro Blog, Food Microbiology Blog, Legionella, microbial contamination, Microbiology, Uncategorized, Water, water microbiology, Water Safety