Ireland – Recall of a Batch of The Little Milk Co. Organic Irish Cheddar due to Elevated Levels of Histamine

Posted on December 22, 2021 by | Leave a comment

FSAI

Little Milk Co 1

Little Milk Co 2

Summary
Category 2: For Information
Alert Notification: 2021.110
Product: The Little Milk Co. Organic Irish Cheddar; pack size: 135g; approval number: 1987 EC
Batch Code: K98; best before date: 18.05.22
Country Of Origin: Ireland

Message:

The Little Milk Co. is recalling the above batch of its Organic Irish Cheddar due to elevated levels of histamine. In some people, elevated levels of histamine can cause symptoms which are similar to those of an allergic reaction. Point-of-sale recall notices will be displayed in stores supplied with the implicated batch.

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Posted in Enterobacteriaceae, food contamination, food handler, Food Hazard, Food Hygiene, Food Inspections, Food Micro Blog, Food Microbiology, Food Microbiology Blog, Food Microbiology Testing, Food Poisoning, food recall, Food Safety, Food Safety Alert, Food Testing, Food Toxin, Histamine

USA – FDA Warning Letter – Sarita’s Tortilla Factory, Inc

Posted on December 22, 2021 by | Leave a comment

FDA

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) inspected your tortilla manufacturing facility, located at 2505 El Indio Hwy., Eagle Pass, TX 78852-5537 on July 7-12, 2021. This inspection covered your ready-to-eat (RTE) soft flour and corn tortilla manufacturing operation and was conducted as a follow-up to an inspection conducted at your facility on July 30-31, 2019. Both inspections revealed serious violations of the Current Good Manufacturing Practice, Hazard Analysis, and Risk-Based Preventive Controls for Human Food regulation (CGMP & PC rule) in Title 21, Code of Regulations, Part 117 (21 CFR part 117). At the conclusion of the inspection, FDA issued a Form FDA 483, Inspectional Observations, listing deviations found at your firm.

Based on FDA’s inspectional findings, we have determined that the RTE tortilla products manufactured in your facility are adulterated within the meaning of Section 402(a)(4) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (the Act) [21 United States Code (U.S.C.) § 342(a)(4)] in that they were prepared, packed, or held under insanitary conditions whereby they may have become contaminated with filth, or whereby they may have been rendered injurious to health. In addition, failure of the owner, operator, or agent in charge of a covered facility to comply with the preventive controls provisions of the CGMP & PC rule (located in Subparts A, C, D, E, F, and G of Part 117) is prohibited by Section 301(uu) of the Act [21 U.S.C. § 331(uu)]. You may find the Act and further information about the CGMP & PC rule through links in FDA’s Internet home page at http://www.fda.gov.External Link Disclaimer

FDA’s inspection on July 7-12, 2021, resulted in the issuance of a Form FDA 483, Inspectional Observations (FDA 483), listing deviations found during our inspection. We received your responses via email on July 26, 2021, which included a cleaning schedule, cleaning log, and recall protocol. After reviewing the inspectional findings and your response to the observations listed in the FDA 483, we are issuing this letter to advise you of FDA’s concerns and provide detailed information describing the findings at your facility.

Hazard Analysis and Risk-Based Preventive Controls (21 CFR part 117, Subpart C):

1. You did not prepare, or have prepared, and implement a food safety plan as required by 21 CFR § 117.126(a)(1). The preparation of the food safety plan must be overseen by your preventive controls qualified individual (PCQI) and must include the following:

(1) A written hazard analysis, as required by 21 CFR § 117.130(a)(2);
(2) Written preventive controls, as required by 21 CFR § 117.135(b);
(3) A written supply-chain program, as required by Subpart G;
(4) A written recall plan, as required by 21 CFR § 117.139(a);
(5) Written procedures for monitoring the implementation of the preventive controls, as required by 21 CFR § 117.145(a);
(6) Written corrective action procedures, as required by 21 CFR § 117.150(a)(1); and
(7) Written verification procedures, as required by 21 CFR § 117.165(b).

2. You did not conduct a hazard analysis for each type of food manufactured, processed, packed, or held at your facility to identify and evaluate known or reasonably foreseeable hazards to determine whether there are any hazards requiring a preventive control, as required by 21 CFR § 117.130(a). Specifically:

a. You did not identify and evaluate allergens as a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard to determine whether allergens are a hazard requiring a preventive control. Your facility manufactures soft flour tortillas (which contain allergens including wheat and whey (milk)) and soft corn tortillas (which do not contain allergens) in the same production area, using shared utensils.

b. You did not identify and evaluate environmental pathogens, such as Salmonella, as a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard to determine whether they are a hazard requiring a preventive control, to comply with 21 CFR § 117.130(c)(1)(ii). Your facility manufactures RTE soft flour and corn tortillas which are exposed to the environment after they exit their respective ovens and are cooled on the cooling conveyors prior to packaging. The packaged food does not receive any further lethal treatment or otherwise include a control measure (such as a formulation lethal to the pathogen that would significantly minimize the pathogen). Note that environmental monitoring is required if contamination of an RTE food with an environmental pathogen is a hazard requiring a preventive control (see 21 CFR § 117.165(a)(3)).

c. You did not identify and evaluate mycotoxins as a known or reasonably foreseeable hazard to determine whether they are a hazard requiring a preventive control. Your facility manufactures soft flour and corn tortillas using wheat flour and corn flour. These ingredients have been associated with mycotoxins such as deoxynivalenol (DON) and aflatoxin, respectively.

3. You did not identify and implement preventive controls to provide assurances that any hazards requiring a preventive control will be significantly minimized or prevented and the food manufactured, processed, packed, or held by your facility will not be adulterated under Section 402 of the Act or misbranded under Section 403(w) of the Act, as required by 21 CFR § 117.135(a)(1). Preventive controls include, as appropriate to the facility and the food, process controls, food allergen controls, sanitation controls, supply-chain controls, and a recall plan (see 21 CFR § 117.135). Preventive controls are subject to preventive control management components as appropriate to ensure the effectiveness of the preventive controls, taking into account the nature of the preventive control and its role in the facility’s food safety system (see 21 CFR § 117.140).

For example, food allergen controls include procedures, practices, and processes employed for labeling to ensure that all food allergens are included on the label and that food is protected against allergen cross-contact (see 21 CFR 117.135(c)(2)). You do not have controls in place to adequately control the hazard of allergen cross-contact as evidenced by the following. Production employees were observed using a metal can as a measuring cup to measure and dispense allergenic (whey) and non-allergenic ingredients during the production of both flour and corn tortillas with no cleaning of the can in-between. Additionally, on July 7, 2021, the metal can exhibited a caked-on reside from various dry ingredients from the flour tortilla production and was then used on the corn tortilla production line without cleaning prior to use. Further, you do not have controls in place to adequately control the hazard of undeclared allergens due to incorrect labeling, as evidenced by the following. Your facility manufactures soft flour tortillas that contain allergens such as wheat and whey (milk). Production employees were observed packaging tortillas but there was no evidence of checks that correctly labeled bags were used.

Your written FDA 483 response dated July 26, 2021, included copies of your facility’s recall procedure, cleaning schedule, and an in-use cleaning schedule log. However, you did not provide information as to how these documents apply to preparing and implementing a food safety plan. You did not include in your response information concerning developing a food safety plan to include evaluating whether hazards require a preventive control and written preventive controls. In the response, your PCQI stated that they would be sending a response to the FDA 483 observations in a later email. However, no additional response has been received.

This is a repeat observation from the July 30-31, 2019, FDA inspection, during which time you stated that you would conduct a hazard analysis and create a food safety plan.

Current Good Manufacturing Practice (21 CFR part 117, Subpart B):

4. You did not maintain buildings, fixtures, and other physical facilities of your plant in a clean and sanitary condition and in repair adequate to prevent food from becoming adulterated, as required by 21 CFR § 117.35(a). Specifically, FDA investigators observed the following:

a. Water was dripping from a ceiling with peeling paint onto a pallet of (b)(4)–(b)(4) bags of flour.
b. Filth was present on metal air vents and fans located directly above RTE soft flour and corn tortillas. The fans are used to cool the tortillas after cooking.

5. You did not ensure that your cleaning compounds and sanitizing agents are safe and adequate under the conditions of use, as required by 21 CFR § 117.35(b)(1). Specifically, during the inspection, FDA investigators observed the following:

a. Employees were not monitoring sanitizer solutions and were using (b)(4) sanitizer at a concentration of less than the manufacturer’s recommendation (b)(4) on a food contact surface. Specifically, when an FDA investigator tested with test strips (b)(4) solutions that were intended to sanitize the (b)(4) mixer, the concentration was found below 10 ppm and 100 ppm for the two solutions.
b. Employees did not allow the sanitizers to adequately air-dry after being sprayed onto food-contact surfaces, as directed by the manufacturer’s directions. Your PCQI explained that you do not allow the sanitizer to air dry, instead your firm wipes off the sanitizer after it has been applied.

6. You did not identify sanitizing agents in a manner that protects against contamination, as required by 21 CFR § 117.35(b)(2). Specifically, unlabeled containers/bottles containing unknown substances were observed being used on the tortilla oven conveyor belts, which are food-contact surfaces. According to your PCQI, some containers/bottles contained non-stick agents, and others contained sanitizer solutions.

7. You did not take effective measure to exclude pests from your food plant to protect against contamination of food, as required by 21 CFR § 117.35(c). Specifically, on July 7, 2021, FDA investigators observed the following:

a. Several live insects were crawling and flying inside the production room.
b. A live frog was inside the raw ingredients room, under a pallet of wheat flour. The frog was observed to enter the facility through a gap in the loading bay door.
c. An unscreened door was open at the north side of the facility during the production of soft flour and corn tortillas.
d. There were gaps along two screened doors located in your facility’s loading areas on the northeast side and west side of the building.

8. You did not conduct operations under conditions and controls necessary to minimize the potential for contamination of food, as required by 21 CFR § 117.80(c)(2). Specifically, during the inspection, FDA investigators observed:

a. Production employees inserted an approximately 12-inch piece of splinted wood into corn tortilla dough prior to the corn tortilla dough being placed into the pressing machine and manufactured into soft corn tortillas. In addition, another piece of wood with red residue was observed in a nearby tool/equipment box. An employee explained that this piece of wood was used on July 7, 2021, for red corn tortilla dough.
b. Production employees used non-food-grade grease on tortilla production equipment, specifically on metal parts located directly above uncooked tortillas. The label states that the grease is intended for vehicle parts.

Your written FDA 483 response did not specifically address these FDA 483 observations; therefore, we are unable to evaluate whether you have corrected these deviations.

The violations cited in this letter are not intended to be an all-inclusive statement of violations that exist in connection with your products. You are responsible for investigating and determining the causes of any violations and for preventing the recurrence of occurrence of other violations. It is your responsibility to ensure that your firm complies with all requirements of federal law, including FDA regulations.

You should take prompt action to address the violations noted in this letter. Failure to promptly address these violations may result in legal action without further notice, including seizure and injunction or administrative action for suspension of food facility registration if criteria and conditions warrant.

Please notify this office in writing within 15 working days of receipt of this letter, of the specific steps you have taken to address violations, including an explanation of each step being taken to prevent the recurrence of violations, as well as copies of related documentation. If you believe that your products are not in violation of the Act, include your reasoning and any supporting information for our consideration. If you cannot complete addressing these violations within 15 working days, state the reason for the delay and the time frame within which you will do so.

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USA – FDA Warning Letters – The Famous Lartigue Seafood

Posted on December 22, 2021 by | Leave a comment

FDA

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) inspected your seafood processing facility located at 100 Plantation Pointe, Fairhope, AL 36532 on October 19, 20 and 25, 2021. Our inspection found you have serious violations of the Seafood Hazard Regulations, Part 123 (21 CFR Part 123(g), failure of a seafood processor to have and implement a HACCP plan that complies with this section or otherwise operate in accordance with requirements of Part 123, renders the fish or fishery products adulterated within the meaning of section 402(a)(4) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (the Act), 21 U.S.C. § 342 (a)(4). Accordingly, your seafood products are adulterated because they have been prepared, packed, or held under insanitary conditions whereby they may have been rendered injurious to health. You may find the Act, the seafood HACCP regulation and the 4th Edition of the Fish and Fishery Products Hazards and Controls Guidance (the Hazards Guide) through links on FDA’s home page at www.fda.gov.External Link Disclaimer

FDA’s inspection resulted in the issuance of a FORM FDA 483, Inspectional Observations, listing deviations found during our inspection. We received your response, via email on October 25, 2021. After reviewing the inspectional findings and your response to the observations listed in the FORM FDA483, we are issuing this letter to advise you of FDA’s concerns and provide detailed information describing the findings at your facility.

Your significant violations were as follows:

1. You must conduct or have conducted for you a hazard analysis for each kind of fish and fishery product that you produce to determine whether there are food safety hazards that are reasonably likely to occur, and you must have and implement a written HACCP plan to control any food safety hazards that are reasonably likely to occur, to comply with 21 CFR 123.6(a), and (b). However, you do not have a HACCP Plan for fresh sushi-grade salmon to control the parasite and environmental hazards.

In your response sent on October 25, 2021 you state a HACCP plan will be devised once you complete a seafood HACCP certification course. However, you did not provide documentation of enrollment into a seafood HACCP course. Additionally, no timeline was provided for completion of your HACCP plan.

2. You must maintain sanitation control records that, at a minimum, document monitoring and corrections set out in 21 CFR 123.11(b), to comply with 21 CFR 123.11(c). Specifically, you do not have sanitation control records that document the monitoring of the following key areas of sanitation:

a. Condition and cleanliness of food contact surfaces, such as tables and utensils.
b. Prevention of cross-contamination from insanitary objects.
c. Maintenance of hand washing, hand sanitizing, and toilet facilities.
d. Protection of food, food packaging material, and food contact surfaces from adulteration.
e. Proper labeling, storage and use of toxic compounds.
f. Control of employee health conditions.

In your response sent on October 25, 2021 you state that you monitor sanitation controls utilizing daily and monthly logs. However, no supporting documentation was provided.

3. To comply with 21 CFR 123.10, you must have an individual who has successfully completed training in the application of HACCP principles to fish and fishery product processing that is at least equivalent to that received under a standardized curriculum recognized as adequate by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or who may otherwise be qualified through job experience to perform the following functions: (1) the development of the HACCP plan, as required by 21 CFR 123.6(b); (2) the reassessment and modification of the HACCP plan in accordance with the corrective action procedures specified in 21 CFR 123.7(c)(5); (3) the reassessment and modification of the HACCP plan in accordance with the verification activities specified in 21 CFR 123.8(a)(1);(4) the reassessment and modification of the hazard analysis in accordance with the verification activities specified in 21 CFR 123.8(c); and (5) perform the record review required by 21 CFR 123.8(a)(3).

In your response sent on October 25, 2021 you state that you will be attending an online seafood HACCP certification course; however, no documentation of enrollment into the course was provided.

You should respond in writing within fifteen (15) working days from your receipt of this letter. Your response should outline the specific actions you are taking to correct these violations. Your response should include documentation reflecting the corrections you made, such as a copy of your HACCP plan. You should also provide five (5) consecutive days of completed monitoring records to demonstrate implementation of your HACCP plan.

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Posted in FDA, Food Micro Blog, Food Microbiology, Food Microbiology Blog, Food Microbiology Research, Food Microbiology Testing, microbial contamination, Microbiological Risk Assessment, Microbiology, Microbiology Investigations

USA – Nationwide Onion Outbreak will likely be over 1,000 by Christmas -Salmonella

Posted on December 22, 2021 by | Leave a comment

Food Poison Journal

As of November 12, 2021, 892 people infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Oranienburg have been reported from 38 states and Puerto Rico. Illnesses started on dates ranging from May 31, 2021, to October 25, 2021.

Sick people range in age from less than 1 year to 101 years, with a median age of 37, and 58% are female. Of 571 people with information available, 183 (32%) have been hospitalized.

According to other publicly available data, we expect to see the number of sickened in this outbreak to crest 1,000.

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Posted in food bourne outbreak, food contamination, Food Hazard, Food Hygiene, Food Illness, Food Inspections, Food Micro Blog, Food Microbiology, Food Microbiology Blog, Food Microbiology Testing, Food Pathogen, food recall, Food Safety, Food Safety Alert, Food Testing, Foodborne Illness, foodborne outbreak, foodbourne outbreak, Illness, outbreak, Salmonella, Salmonella in Onions, Salmonella Oranienburg

USA – Haifa Smoked Fish Inc Recalls Turbot Cold Smoked 8 oz Package Lot # 246 Because of Possible Health Risk – Listeria monocytogenes

Posted on December 22, 2021 by | Leave a comment

FDA

Image - TURBOT COLD SMOKED, HAIFA SMOKED FISH & CAVIAR

Summary

Company Announcement Date:
FDA Publish Date:
Product Type:
Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:
Potential for Listeria monocytogenes
Company Name:
HAIFA SMOKED FISH
Brand Name:
HAIFA SMOKED FISH
Product Description:
TURBOT COLD SMOKED

Company Announcement

HAIFA SMOKED FISH of Jamaica, NY is recalling approximately 230 LB OF TURBOT COLD SMOKED 8 OZ PACKAGES LOT # 246, because it has the potential to be 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.

TURBOT COLD SMOKED 8 OZ Lot # 246 was distributed to retail stores in New York and New Jersey Areas.

The product is packaged in clear plastic with a gold board that contains sliced Turbot fish with a blue label that reads “Haifa Smoked Fish & Caviar Turbot Cold Smoked” Net wt. 8 oz/227g. Ingredients: Turbot, Salt and Natural wood smoke. On the back of the board, it will display a sticker that reads “LOT # 246.”

No illnesses have been reported up to date.

The recall was the result of a routine sampling program by New York State Department of Agriculture which revealed that the finished product Turbot Cold Smoked 8 oz Package Lot # 246 contained Listeria monocytogenes. Haifa Smoked Fish ceased distribution of the TURBOT COLD SMOKED 8 OZ Lot # 246 and Haifa Smoked Fish to continue their investigation as to what caused the problem.

Consumers who have purchased Turbot Cold Smoked 8 oz Package LOT # 246 are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Consumers with question may contact the company at 718 523-8899,

Our hours of operation are Monday thru Friday 9am to 5pm Eastern Standard Time.

Dmitriy Yakubbayev

Company Contact Information

Consumers:
HAIFA SMOKED FISH
 718-523-8899

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

Research – What you need to know during a Listeria Outbreak –

Posted on December 22, 2021 by | Leave a comment

Food Poison Journal

There is a video to watch in the link above.

Ingested by mouth, Listeria is among the most virulent foodborne pathogens, with up to 20% of clinical infections resulting in death. These bacteria primarily cause severe illness and death in persons with immature or compromised immune systems.

Except for the transmission of mother to fetus, human-to-human transmission of Listeria is not known to occur. Infection is caused almost exclusively by the ingestion of the bacteria, most often through the consumption of contaminated food.

Adults can get listeriosis by eating food contaminated with Listeria, but babies can be born with listeriosis if their mothers eat contaminated food during pregnancy. The mode of transmission of Listeria to the fetus is either transplacental via the maternal blood stream or ascending from a colonized genital tract. Infections during pregnancy can cause premature delivery, miscarriage, stillbirth, or serious health problems for the newborn.

Listeria is a common presence in nature, found widely in such places as water, soil, infected animals, human and animal feces, raw and treated sewage, leafy vegetables, effluent from poultry and meat processing facilities, decaying corn and soybeans, improperly fermented silage, and raw (unpasteurized) milk.

Foods commonly identified as sources of Listeria infection include improperly pasteurized fluid milk, cheeses (particularly soft-ripened varieties, such as traditional Mexican cheeses, Camembert and ricotta), ice cream, raw vegetables, fermented raw-meat sausages, raw and cooked poultry, and cooked, ready-to-eat (RTE) sliced meats—often referred to as “deli meats,) smoked finfish, smoked shellfish and packaged fruits and vegetables.

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Posted in food bourne outbreak, Food Micro Blog, Food Microbiology, Food Microbiology Blog, Food Microbiology Research, Food Microbiology Testing, foodborne outbreak, foodbourne outbreak, Listeria, Listeria monocytogenes, microbial contamination, Microbiological Risk Assessment, Microbiology, Microbiology Investigations, outbreak, Research

USA – FDA – Outbreak Investigation of Listeria monocytogenes: Fresh Express Packaged Salad (December 2021)

Posted on December 22, 2021 by | Leave a comment

FDA

The FDA and CDC, in collaboration with state and local partners, are investigating a multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections. According to the CDC, as of December 21, 2021, 10 people infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria monocytogenes have been reported from eight states. Illnesses started on dates ranging from July 26, 2016 to October 19, 2021.

As a part of routine sampling, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) collected a product sample of Fresh Express Sweet Hearts salad mix with a Use-By-Date of December 8, 2021 for testing. The sample tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes and subsequent whole genome sequencing (WGS) analysis determined that the Listeria monocytogenes present in the samples matches the strain that has caused illnesses in this outbreak.

In response to the sample results and the ongoing outbreak investigation, Fresh Express voluntarily ceased production at the Streamwood, IL, facility and initiated a recall of certain varieties of its branded and private label salad products produced at the company’s Streamwood, Illinois facility. The recall includes all Use-By Dates of fresh salad items with product codes Z324 through Z350. Product codes are located on the front of the packages below the Use-By Date, as shown above. No other Fresh Express products are subject to recall. A full list of recalled products is available on FDA’s website.

This is an ongoing investigation and additional information will be provided as it becomes available.

Recommendation

Consumers, restaurants, and retailers, should not eat, sell, or serve recalled packaged salads. A full list of recalled products is available on FDA’s website.

FDA recommends that anyone who received recalled products use extra vigilance in cleaning and sanitizing any surfaces and containers that may have come in contact with these products to reduce the risk of cross-contamination. Listeria can survive in refrigerated temperatures and can easily spread to other foods and surfaces.

Product Images

Image – Bagged Salad, Use By Date

U.S. Distribution of Recalled Packaged Salad

Outbreak Investigation of Listeria monocytogenes: Packaged Salad: Case Count Map Provided by CDC (December 21, 2021)

Case Counts

Total Illnesses: 10
Hospitalizations: 10
Deaths: 1
Last Illness Onset: October 19, 2021
States with Cases: IL, MA, MI, NJ, NY, OH, PA, VA

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Posted in Death, FDA, food bourne outbreak, food contamination, food death, food handler, Food Hazard, Food Hygiene, Food Illness, Food Inspections, Food Micro Blog, Food Microbiology, Food Microbiology Blog, Food Microbiology Testing, Food Pathogen, Food Poisoning Death, food recall, Food Safety, Food Safety Alert, Food Testing, Foodborne Illness, foodborne outbreak, foodbourne outbreak, Illness, Listeria, Listeria monocytogenes, outbreak

USA – FDA – Fresh Express Announces Recall of Fresh Salad Products Due to Potential Health Risk -Listeria monocytogenes

Posted on December 22, 2021 by | Leave a comment

FDA

Summary

Company Announcement Date:
FDA Publish Date:
Product Type:
Food & Beverages
Reason for Announcement:
Possible Listeria monocytogenes.
Company Name:
Fresh Express
Brand Name:
Fresh Express, Bowl and Basket, Giant Eagle, Marketside and Others
Product Description:
Multiple Fresh Salad Products

Company Announcement

December 20, 2021, Orlando, FL – Fresh Express is recalling certain varieties of its branded and private label salad products produced at the company’s Streamwood, Illinois facility because the product has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. This organism 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. Consumers with these symptoms should consult their health care provider.

Recalled salad items were distributed through retailers in the Northeast and Midwest regions of the United States, as well as distributors and retailers in Canada. U.S. distribution includes the states of CT, IA, IL, IN ,KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, ND, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, WI. Canadian distribution includes the provinces of Ontario and Manitoba.

The full list of recalled products is found at the end of this announcement. The recall includes all Use-By Dates of fresh salad items with product codes Z324 through Z350. Product codes are located on the front of the packages below the Use-By Date, as shown above. No other Fresh Express products are subject to recall.

The recall was necessitated when the Michigan Department of Agriculture received a positive result for Listeria monocytogenes in a random sample test of a single package of Fresh Express 9 oz. Sweet Hearts salad mix with Use-By Date of December 8, 2021, manufactured at the Fresh Express Streamwood facility. The U. S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported ten illnesses associated with the strain of Listeria monocytogenes detected in the random sample beginning in 2016 to the present.

Fresh Express immediately halted all production at the Streamwood facility and initiated a complete sanitation review. Fresh Express has already been in contact with retailers who received the recalled items, instructing them to remove them from store shelves and stop any further shipments to stores from distribution centers and other inventories.

In the event consumers have the recalled products in their refrigerators, they should be discarded and not consumed. To obtain a refund or for more information, consumers may call the Fresh Express Consumer Response Center at (800) 242-5472 between the hours of 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern Time. Refunds are also available where purchased.

Product Product Code UPC Code
Bowl & Basket Baby Spinach 16oz Z324 through Z350 41190066360
Bowl & Basket Spring Mix 16oz Z324 through Z350 41190066469
Fresh Express 50/50 Mix 10oz Z324 through Z350 71279275062
Fresh Express 50/50 Mix 5oz Z324 through Z350 71279271033
Fresh Express 5-Lettuce Mix 6oz Z324 through Z350 71279251011
Fresh Express American 11 oz Z324 through Z350 71279241005
Fresh Express America’s Fresh 3 Color Deli Cole Slaw 14 oz Z324 through Z350 71279123004
Fresh Express America’s Fresh 3 Color Deli Cole Slaw 24 oz Z324 through Z350 71279127019
Fresh Express America’s Fresh Old Fashioned Cole Slaw 14oz Z324 through Z350 71279123011
Fresh Express Baby Kale Mix 5 oz Z324 through Z350 71279271224
Fresh Express Baby Spinach 10 oz Z324 through Z350 71279275048
Fresh Express Baby Spinach 20 oz Z324 through Z350 71279271262
Fresh Express Baby Spinach 5 oz Z324 through Z350 71279271002
Fresh Express Caesar Chopped Kit 9.4 oz Z324 through Z350 71279309194
Fresh Express Chopped Kit Asian 12.3 oz Z324 through Z350 71279302027
Fresh Express Chopped Kit Avocado Ranch 12.8 oz Z324 through Z350 71279309439
Fresh Express Chopped Kit Bacon Thousand Island 9.4 oz Z324 through Z350 71279302096
Fresh Express Chopped Kit Bacon&Bleu 10.8 oz Z324 through Z350 71279306063
Fresh Express Chopped Kit Chipotle Cheddar 11.4 oz Z324 through Z350 71279306049
Fresh Express Chopped Kit Pomegranate 10.3oz Z324 through Z350 71279309101
Fresh Express Chopped Kit Poppyseed 11.7oz Z324 through Z350 71279309118
Fresh Express Chopped Kit Southwest 11.5 oz Z324 through Z350 71279306025
Fresh Express Chopped Kit Sunflower Crisp 11.1oz Z324 through Z350 71279309064
Fresh Express Chopped Kit Sweet Kale 10.9oz Z324 through Z350 71279306056
Fresh Express Chopped Kit Thai ‘N” Cashews 11.7 oz Z324 through Z350 71279309248
Fresh Express Chopped Romaine Club Size! 32oz Z324 through Z350 71279261003
Fresh Express Fancy Greens 7 oz Z324 through Z350 71279232010
Fresh Express Farmer’s Garden 9 oz Z324 through Z350 71279281025
Fresh Express Garden Jardin Shreds Iceberg 8 oz Z324 through Z350 71279107080
Fresh Express Garden Shreds Green Leaf 4.5oz Z324 through Z350 71279151021
Fresh Express Garden Shreds Iceberg Z324 through Z350 71279151014
Fresh Express Garden Shreds Iceberg 14oz Z324 through Z350 71279152004
Fresh Express Gourmet Café Creative Classics Chicken Caesar 5.75 oz Z324 through Z350 71279407074
Fresh Express Gourmet Cafe Santa Fe Greek 5.23 oz Z324 through Z350 71279407135
Fresh Express Green & Crisp 11oz Z324 through Z350 71279108049
Fresh Express Hearts of Romaine 18oz Z324 through Z350 71279262017
Fresh Express Hearts of Romaine 9oz Z324 through Z350 71279261027
Fresh Express Iceberg Garden – Jardin Iceberg 12 oz Z324 through Z350 71279104126
Fresh Express Iceberg Garden – Jardin Iceberg 24 oz Z324 through Z350 71279104133
Fresh Express Iceberg Garden – Lechuga Repollo 12 oz Z324 through Z350 71279103020
Fresh Express Iceberg Garden – Lechuga Repollo 24 oz Z324 through Z350 71279104119
Fresh Express Iceberg Garden – Lechuga Repollo 3 lb Z324 through Z350 71279106014
Fresh Express Italian 9oz Z324 through Z350 71279211008
Fresh Express Kit Bacon Caesar 10.3 oz Z324 through Z350 71279301082
Fresh Express Kit Caesar – Cesar 9.8 oz Z324 through Z350 71279301006
Fresh Express Kit Caesar Family Size 19.5 oz Z324 through Z350 71279310053
Fresh Express Kit Caesar Lite 9.8oz Z324 through Z350 71279301013
Fresh Express Kit Caesar Supreme 10.5oz Z324 through Z350 71279301044
Fresh Express Kit Italian Balsamic 10.5oz Z324 through Z350 71279302072
Fresh Express Kit Parisienne Supreme 16 oz Z324 through Z350 71279310022
Fresh Express Kit Pear Gorgonzola 6.7oz Z324 through Z350 71279309019
Fresh Express Kit Spinach & Bacon 10.2oz Z324 through Z350 71279302102
Fresh Express Kit Spinach & Bacon 7.7oz Z324 through Z350 71279302089
Fresh Express Leafy Green Romaine 9oz Z324 through Z350 71279261126
Fresh Express Lettuce Trio – Lechuga Trio 9oz Z324 through Z350 71279108094
Fresh Express Organic Baby Arugula 5oz Z324 through Z350 71279780030
Fresh Express Organic Baby Kale 5oz Z324 through Z350 71279780191
Fresh Express Organic Baby Romaine 5oz Z324 through Z350 71279780054
Fresh Express Organic Baby Spinach 10oz Z324 through Z350 71279785028
Fresh Express Organic Baby Spinach 16oz Z324 through Z350 71279785059
Fresh Express Organic Baby Spinach 5oz Z324 through Z350 71279780023
Fresh Express Organic Salad Kit Classic Caesar 9.8oz Z324 through Z350 71279787015
Fresh Express Organic Salad Kit Sweet Dijon Onion 7.6 oz Z324 through Z350 71279787039
Fresh Express Organic Salad Mix 50/50 Mix 16oz Z324 through Z350 71279785073
Fresh Express Organic Salad Mix 50/50 Mix 5oz Z324 through Z350 71279780085
Fresh Express Organic Salad Mix Baby Sweet Lettuce 5oz Z324 through Z350 71279780092
Fresh Express Organic Salad Mix Fresh Herb Mix 5oz Z324 through Z350 71279780047
Fresh Express Organic Salad Mix Spring Mix 10oz Z324 through Z350 71279785011
Fresh Express Organic Salad Mix Spring Mix 16oz Z324 through Z350 71279785042
Fresh Express Organic Salad Mix Spring Mix 5oz Z324 through Z350 71279780016
Fresh Express Organic Salad Mix Super Greens 5oz Z324 through Z350 71279780207
Fresh Express Premium Romaine – Lechuga Romana Especial 9oz Z324 through Z350 71279108087
Fresh Express Premium Slaw Salad Kit – Asian Avocado 9.7 oz Z324 through Z350 71279126043
Fresh Express Premium Slaw Salad Kit – Honey Pecan 9.3oz Z324 through Z350 71279126036
Fresh Express Shreds Iceberg 8 oz Z324 through Z350 71279151014
Fresh Express Spinach & Arugula 5oz Z324 through Z350 71279271194
Fresh Express Spinach 16oz Z324 through Z350 71279785165
Fresh Express Spinach 8oz Z324 through Z350 71279132044
Fresh Express Spring Mix 10oz Z324 through Z350 71279275031
Fresh Express Spring Mix 5oz Z324 through Z350 71279231006
Fresh Express Sweet & Crunchy 5oz Z324 through Z350 71279271187
Fresh Express Sweet Butter 6oz Z324 through Z350 71279221038
Fresh Express Sweet Hearts 9oz Z324 through Z350 71279221052
Fresh Express Twisted Caesar Chopped Salad Kit Asian Caesar 9.6 oz Z324 through Z350 71279309231
Fresh Express Twisted Caesar Chopped Salad Kit Asian Caesar 9.6oz Z324 through Z350 71279302126
Fresh Express Twisted Caesar Chopped Salad Kit Avocado Caesar 9.7 oz Z324 through Z350 71279309217
Fresh Express Twisted Caesar Chopped Salad Kit Caesar 9.4oz Z324 through Z350 71279302119
Fresh Express Twisted Caesar Chopped Salad Kit Greek Caesar 9.3oz Z324 through Z350 71279309224
Fresh Express Veggie Lover’s 11 oz Z324 through Z350 71279281063
Fresh Express Veggie Lover’s 11oz Z324 through Z350 71279281001
Fresh Express Veggie Spring Mix 7oz Z324 through Z350 71279281049
Giant Eagle American 11 oz Z324 through Z350 3003492310
Giant Eagle American 24 oz Z324 through Z350 3003493037
Giant Eagle Angel Hair Slaw 10 oz Z324 through Z350 3003492317
Giant Eagle Avocado Chopped Kit 7oz Z324 through Z350 3003494286
Giant Eagle Baby Spinach 10 oz Z324 through Z350 3003492327
Giant Eagle Baby Spinach 5 oz Z324 through Z350 3003492313
Giant Eagle Bacon Caesar 10.3 oz Z324 through Z350 30034923365
Giant Eagle Caesar Supreme 10.5 oz Z324 through Z350 30034923358
Giant Eagle Caesarlite Salad 9.8 oz Z324 through Z350 30034923341
Giant Eagle Chopped Asian Style 12 oz Z324 through Z350 30034923310
Giant Eagle Chopped Avocado Ranch Salad Kit 12.8 oz Z324 through Z350 30034939441
Giant Eagle Chopped Caesar 10.4 oz Z324 through Z350 30034923402
Giant Eagle Chopped Chipotle Cheddar 11.4 oz Z324 through Z350 30034923389
Giant Eagle Chopped Southwest Style 11.5 oz Z324 through Z350 30034923327
Giant Eagle Chopped Sunflower Crisp 11.1 oz Z324 through Z350 30034923396
Giant Eagle Chopped Sweet Kale 11.9 oz Z324 through Z350 30034923297
Giant Eagle Coleslaw 16 oz Z324 through Z350 3003492309
Giant Eagle Fancy Greens 7oz Z324 through Z350 3003494283
Giant Eagle Garden Salad 12 oz Z324 through Z350 3003492319
Giant Eagle Hearts of Romaine 9 oz Z324 through Z350 3003492312
Giant Eagle Italian 9 oz Z324 through Z350 3003492311
Giant Eagle Juicing Greens 11 oz Z324 through Z350 3003492321
Giant Eagle Leafy Romaine 9 oz Z324 through Z350 3003492324
Giant Eagle Pomegranate Chopped Kit 10.3 oz Z324 through Z350 3003494284
Giant Eagle Romaine Garden Salad 12 oz Z324 through Z350 3003492316
Giant Eagle Shredded Lettuce 16 oz Z324 through Z350 3003492320
Giant Eagle Shredded Lettuce 8 oz Z324 through Z350 3003492315
Giant Eagle Spinach 16 oz Z324 through Z350 3003492308
Giant Eagle Spinach 8 oz Z324 through Z350 3003492348
Giant Eagle Spring Mix + Spinach 5 oz Z324 through Z350 3003492325
Giant Eagle Spring Mix 5 oz Z324 through Z350 3003492323
Giant Eagle Sweet & Crunchy 5 oz Z324 through Z350 3003492326
Giant Eagle Sweet Butter 6 oz Z324 through Z350 3003492307
Giant Eagle Sweet Hearts 9 oz Z324 through Z350 3003492322
Giant Eagle Veggie Lovers 11 oz Z324 through Z350 3003492328
Little Salad Bar Asian Chopped Salad Kit 12.3 Z324 through Z350 99100086960
Little Salad Bar Avocado Ranch Chopped Salad Kit 13.2 oz Z324 through Z350 99100219542
Little Salad Bar Caesar Chopped Salad Kit 10.5oz Z324 through Z350 99100263934
Little Salad Bar Caesar Salad Kit 10.5 oz Z324 through Z350 99100086991
Little Salad Bar Chef Salad 6.2oz Z324 through Z350 99100107368
Little Salad Bar Chicken Caesar Salad 8.75oz Z324 through Z350 99100096068
Little Salad Bar Classic Coleslaw 14oz Z324 through Z350 4.0991E+11
Little Salad Bar Cranberry Walnut Salad 4.5oz Z324 through Z350 99100096174
Little Salad Bar Garden Salad 12oz Z324 through Z350 99100082979
Little Salad Bar Italian Salad 9oz Z324 through Z350 99100083181
Little Salad Bar Santa Fe Style Salad 7oz Z324 through Z350 99100096143
Little Salad Bar Southwest Chopped Salad Kit 12 oz Z324 through Z350 99100087028
Little Salad Bar Spinach 8 oz Z324 through Z350 99100083419
Little Salad Bar Spring Mix 5 oz Z324 through Z350 99100083495
Little Salad Bar Sunflower Chopped Salad Kit 11.3 oz Z324 through Z350 99100087905
Little Salad Bar Sweet Butter 6 oz Z324 through Z350 99100083037
Little Salad Bar Sweet Kale Chopped Salad Kit 12.2 oz Z324 through Z350 99100083549
Market District Ultimate Kale Caesar Salad Kit 8.5 oz Z324 through Z350 30034939724
Marketside Angel Hair Coleslaw 10oz Z324 through Z350 6.81131E+11
Marketside Baby Greens Salad 6oz Z324 through Z350 81131355023
Marketside Baby Spinach 11oz Z324 through Z350 6.81131E+11
Marketside Baby Spinach 6oz Z324 through Z350 6.81131E+11
Marketside Bacon Caesar Salad Kit 14.6oz Z324 through Z350 6.81131E+11
Marketside Butter Lettuce Salad 6oz Z324 through Z350 6.81131E+11
Marketside Caesar Salad Kit 14.5oz Z324 through Z350 6.81131E+11
Marketside Chopped Romaine Mix 9oz Z324 through Z350 6.81131E+11
Marketside Chopped Salad Kit Asian 13.6oz Z324 through Z350 81131305158
Marketside Chopped Salad Kit Avocado Ranch 12.3oz Z324 through Z350 81131305134
Marketside Chopped Salad Kit Bacon Ranch Crunch 12.8oz Z324 through Z350 81131305448
Marketside Chopped Salad Kit Caesar 11.3oz Z324 through Z350 6.81131E+11
Marketside Chopped Salad Kit Cherry Almond Gorgonzola 13.7oz Z324 through Z350 81131305165
Marketside Chopped Salad Kit Kale Pecan Cranberry 9.5oz Z324 through Z350 6.81131E+11
Marketside Chopped Salad Kit Southwest 13.4oz Z324 through Z350 81131305127
Marketside Chopped Salad Kit Sunflower Bacon Crunch 13.8oz Z324 through Z350 81131305141
Marketside Classic Iceberg Salad 12oz Z324 through Z350 6.81131E+11
Marketside Classic Iceberg Salad 24oz Z324 through Z350 6.81131E+11
Marketside Crisp Greens 12oz Z324 through Z350 81131355030
Marketside Family Size Caesar Salad Kit 22.3oz Z324 through Z350 6.81131E+11
Marketside Family Size Sunflower Bacon Crunch Chopped Salad Kit 22.3oz Z324 through Z350 81131377346
Marketside Fresh Spinach 10oz Z324 through Z350 6.81131E+11
Marketside Hearts of Romaine 10oz Z324 through Z350 68113102783
Marketside Leafy Romaine 9oz Z324 through Z350 6.81131E+11
Marketside Organic Baby Arugula & Baby Spinach 5oz Z324 through Z350 6.81132E+11
Marketside Organic Baby Arugula 5oz Z324 through Z350 68113122173
Marketside Organic Baby Spinach & Baby Kale Mix 5oz Z324 through Z350 6.81131E+11
Marketside Organic Baby Spinach 16oz Z324 through Z350 6.81131E+11
Marketside Organic Baby Spinach 5oz Z324 through Z350 6.81131E+11
Marketside Organic Spinach & Spring Mix 16oz Z324 through Z350 81131354781
Marketside Organic Spinach & Spring Mix 5.5oz Z324 through Z350 81131354798
Marketside Organic Spring Mix 16oz Z324 through Z350 81131354767
Marketside Organic Spring Mix 5oz Z324 through Z350 81131354774
Marketside Premium Romaine Salad 18oz Z324 through Z350 6.81131E+11
Marketside Premium Romaine Salad 9oz Z324 through Z350 6.81131E+11
Marketside Shredded Iceberg Lettuce 16oz Z324 through Z350 6.81132E+11
Marketside Shredded Iceberg Lettuce 8oz Z324 through Z350 6.81131E+11
Marketside Spinach & Spring Mix 11oz Z324 through Z350 81131355016
Marketside Spring Mix 11oz Z324 through Z350 81131355009
Marketside Spring Mix 5oz Z324 through Z350 81131354996
Marketside Tri-Color Cole Slaw 16oz Z324 through Z350 6.81131E+11
O Organics Organic Baby Arugula 16oz Z324 through Z350 7989340944
O Organics Organic Baby Arugula 5oz Z324 through Z350 7989340883
O Organics Organic Baby Kale 5oz Z324 through Z350 7989340916
O Organics Organic Baby Spinach 16oz Z324 through Z350 7989340857
O Organics Organic Baby Spinach 5oz Z324 through Z350 7989340852
O Organics Organic Half & Half Blend 16oz Z324 through Z350 7989340915
O Organics Organic Half & Half Blend 5oz Z324 through Z350 7989340910
O Organics Organic Spring Mix 16oz Z324 through Z350 7989340856
O Organics Organic Super Greens Blend 5oz Z324 through Z350 7989340941
O Organics Spring Mix 5oz Z324 through Z350 79893408538
Signature Farms 50 -50 Mix 5oz Z324 through Z350 2113014670
Signature Farms 50/50 Mix 10oz Z324 through Z350 2113041918
Signature Farms Baby Spinach 10oz Z324 through Z350 2113041919
Signature Farms Baby Spinach 5oz Z324 through Z350 2113014669
Signature Farms Baby Spring Mix 5oz Z324 through Z350 21130146680
Signature Farms Coleslaw 3 Color 14oz Z324 through Z350 21130111961
Signature Farms Garden Salad 12oz Z324 through Z350 2113098135
Signature Farms Green & Crisp 11oz Z324 through Z350 21130419128
Signature Farms Lettuce Shreds 8oz Z324 through Z350 21130112180
Signature Farms Premium Romaine 9oz Z324 through Z350 21130419166
Signature Farms Spinach 8oz Z324 through Z350 2113098134
Signature Farms Spring Mix 10oz Z324 through Z350 21130419173
Signature Farms Sweet & Crunchy 5oz Z324 through Z350 2113014671
Simply Nature Organic Baby Spinach & Arugula Mix 5oz Z324 through Z350 99100087974
Simply Nature Organic Baby Spinach 5oz Z324 through Z350 99100088551
Simply Nature Organic Chopped Kale 12oz Z324 through Z350 99100088735
Simply Nature Organic Mixed Greens 5oz Z324 through Z350 99100088049
Simply Nature Organic Spring Mix 16oz Z324 through Z350 99100088612
Weis Fresh From the Field 50-50 Salad Mix 5oz Z324 through Z350 41497067756
Weis Fresh From the Field Baby Spinach 5oz Z324 through Z350 41497067763
Weis Fresh From the Field Baby Sweet Lettuce 5oz Z324 through Z350 41497067824
Weis Fresh From the Field Spinach & Arugula 5oz Z324 through Z350 41497076192
Weis Fresh From the Field Spring Mix 5oz Z324 through Z350 41497067770
Wellsley Farms Organic 50-50 Mix 16oz Z324 through Z350 88867009193
Wellsley Farms Organic Arugula 5oz Z324 through Z350 88867006716
Wellsley Farms Organic Baby Spinach 16oz Z324 through Z350 88867006711
Wellsley Farms Organic Herb Mix 5oz Z324 through Z350 88867009195
Wellsley Farms Organic Lettuce Blend 16oz Z324 through Z350 88867009194
Wellsley Farms Organic Spring Mix 16oz Z324 through Z350 88867009192
Wellsley Farms Organic Super Greens 16oz Z324 through Z350 88867006714

Company Contact Information

Consumers:
Fresh Express Consumer Response Center
 800-242-5472
Media:
Donna Stephens
 210-802-1412

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Posted in FDA, food bourne outbreak, food contamination, food handler, Food Hazard, Food Hygiene, Food Inspections, Food Micro Blog, Food Microbiology, Food Microbiology Blog, Food Microbiology Testing, Food Pathogen, food recall, Food Safety, Food Safety Alert, Food Testing, foodborne outbreak, foodbourne outbreak, Listeria, Listeria monocytogenes, outbreak

Canada – Public Health Notice: Outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to frozen whole kernel corn

Posted on December 22, 2021 by | Leave a comment

PHAC

December 21, 2021: Updated Notice

This notice has been updated to communicate the source of the outbreak and reflect 5 additional illnesses that have been reported in the ongoing outbreak investigation. There are now 84 Salmonella illnesses reported across 5 provinces. Based on the investigation findings to date, the outbreak is linked to Alasko brand frozen whole kernel corn.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) issued food recall warnings on December 14 and 19 for Alasko brand frozen whole kernel corn imported by New Alasko Limited Partnership. Some of these products were possibly distributed nationally. This led to a secondary recall for Fraser Valley Meats brand frozen whole kernel corn on December 18. Additional food recall warnings in Canada are possible. More information on recalled products is available online.

Do not eat, use, sell, or serve any recalled Alasko brand or Fraser Valley Meats brand frozen whole kernel corn. This advice applies to individuals, as well as retailers, distributors, manufacturers and food service establishments such as hotels, restaurants, cafeterias, hospitals and long-term care homes, across Canada.

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is collaborating with provincial public health partners, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Health Canada to investigate an outbreak of Salmonella infections involving 5 provinces: British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario. The illnesses reported in Ontario were related to travel to Alberta and British Columbia.

Many of the individuals who became sick reported eating a variety of raw and cooked produce items before their illness. Initially, investigators identified that fresh avocados were reported by many cases before they became ill; however, more information was needed to confirm the source of the outbreak.

As part of the food safety investigation, the CFIA collected different food items from restaurants where ill people dined. Testing found the outbreak strain of Salmonella in an unopened package of Alasko brand frozen whole kernel corn. Traceback findings identified Alasko as the common brand of frozen corn consumed at various food service establishments by individuals who became sick. Based on the investigation findings to date, the outbreak is linked to Alasko brand frozen whole kernel corn.

The CFIA issued food recall warnings on December 14 and 19 for Alasko brand frozen whole kernel corn. The recalled products were distributed in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Quebec, and may have been distributed in other provinces and territories. This led to a secondary recall for Fraser Valley Meats brand frozen whole kernel corn on December 18. More information on the recalled products are available online. The CFIA is continuing its food safety investigation, which may lead to the recall of other products. If other products are recalled, the CFIA will notify the public through updated food recall warnings.

The outbreak appears to be ongoing, as recent illnesses continue to be reported. Do not eat, use, sell, or serve recalled Alasko brand or Fraser Valley Meats brand frozen whole kernel corn. This advice applies to individuals, as well as retailers, distributors, manufacturers and food service establishments such as hotels, restaurants, cafeterias, hospitals and long-term care homes, across Canada.

This outbreak is an important reminder to Canadians and businesses that frozen vegetables can carry harmful germs that can lead to foodborne illness if not properly handled and cooked prior to consuming.

This public health notice will be updated as the investigation evolves.

Investigation summary

As of December 21, there have been 84 laboratory-confirmed cases of Salmonella Enteritidis illness investigated in: British Columbia (36), Alberta (30), Saskatchewan (4), Manitoba (12) and Ontario (2). The illnesses reported in Ontario are related to travel to Alberta and British Columbia.

Individuals became sick between early September 2021 and late November 2021. Four individuals have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported. Individuals who became ill are between 5 and 89 years of age. The majority of cases (64%) are female.

The CFIA issued food recall warnings on December 14 and 19 for Alasko brand frozen whole kernel corn; and a secondary recall for Fraser Valley Meats brand frozen whole kernel corn on December 18. The CFIA is continuing its food safety investigation, which may lead to the recall of other products. If other products are recalled, the CFIA will notify the public through updated food recall warnings.

Who is most at risk

Anyone can become sick with a Salmonella infection, but young children, the elderly, pregnant women or people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for contracting serious illness.

Most people who become ill from a Salmonella infection will recover fully after a few days. It is possible for some people to be infected with the bacteria and to not get sick or show any symptoms, but to still be able to spread the infection to others.

What you should do to protect your health

The following advice applies to individuals, as well as retailers, distributors, manufacturers and food service establishments such as hotels, restaurants, cafeterias, hospitals and long-term care homes, across Canada:

  • Do not eat, use, sell or serve any recalled Alasko brand or Fraser Valley Meats brand frozen whole kernel corn.
  • Clean and sanitize all surfaces and storage areas that recalled Alasko brand or Fraser Valley Meats brand frozen whole kernel corn may have come in contact with, including countertops, containers, utensils, freezers, and refrigerators.
  • If you have been diagnosed with a Salmonella infection or any other gastrointestinal illness, do not cook food for other people.

For general use of frozen vegetables, including frozen corn, the following tips will also help reduce your risk of becoming ill:

  • Frozen vegetables are not ready to eat products. Always remember to cook frozen vegetables according to the package directions.
  • Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling frozen vegetables.
  • Wash and sanitize any surfaces that may have come in contact with frozen vegetables and its packaging, such as countertops, containers, utensils, freezers, and refrigerators.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a Salmonella infection, called salmonellosis, typically start 6 to 72 hours after exposure to Salmonella bacteria from an infected animal or contaminated product.

Symptoms include:

  • fever
  • chills
  • diarrhea
  • abdominal cramps
  • headache
  • nausea
  • vomiting

These symptoms usually last for 4 to 7 days. In healthy people, salmonellosis often clears up without treatment, but sometimes antibiotics may be required. In some cases, severe illness may occur and hospitalization may be required. People who are infected with Salmonella bacteria can be infectious from several days to several weeks.

People who experience symptoms, or who have underlying medical conditions, should contact their health care provider if they suspect they have a Salmonella infection.

What the Government of Canada is doing

The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the health of Canadians from enteric disease outbreaks.

PHAC leads the human health investigation into an outbreak and is in regular contact with its federal, provincial and territorial partners to monitor the situation and to collaborate on steps to address an outbreak.

Health Canada provides food-related health risk assessments to determine whether the presence of a certain substance or microorganism poses a health risk to consumers.

CFIA conducts food safety investigations into the possible food source of an outbreak.

Epidemiological information

Figure 1 is an epidemiological curve for this outbreak, which shows the numbers of new cases by week. Outbreak investigators use this information to show when illnesses begin, when they peak, and when they trail off. It can take several weeks from the time a person becomes ill to when the illness is reported and testing confirms a link to the outbreak. Data are available for 84 cases.

Figure 1. Number of people infected with Salmonella Enteritidis
Figure 1. Number of people infected with Salmonella Enteritidis

Figure 1: Text description

Additional information

Investigation history

Public Health Notice: December 9, 2021

Public Health Notice: November 29, 2021

Public Health Notice: November 12, 2021

Media contact

Public Health Agency of Canada
Media Relations
613-957-2983
media@hc-sc.gc.ca

Public inquiries

Call toll-free: 1-866-225-0709
Email: info@hc-sc.gc.ca

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Posted in food bourne outbreak, food contamination, food handler, Food Hazard, Food Hygiene, Food Illness, Food Inspections, Food Micro Blog, Food Microbiology, Food Microbiology Blog, Food Microbiology Testing, Food Pathogen, food recall, Food Safety, Food Safety Alert, Food Testing, Foodborne Illness, foodborne outbreak, foodbourne outbreak, Illness, outbreak, Salmonella

Belgium – Mini Soup Dumpling (500g) – Listeria monocytogenes

Posted on December 22, 2021 by | Leave a comment

AFSCA

Product: Mini pellets soup (500g) of the Vleeswaren Bruynkens nv mark.
Problem: possible presence of Listeria monocytogenes.

In agreement with the AFSCA, Vleeswaren Bruynkens nv is withdrawing the product “Mini-soup balls” (500g) of the brand Vleeswaren Bruynkens nv from the sale and is recalling it to consumers following the possible presence of Listeria monocytogenes.

Bruynkens Vleeswaren nv asks its customers not to consume this product and to return it to the point of sale where it was purchased, where they will be reimbursed.

Product description

– Product name: Mini soup dumplings
– Brand: Vleeswaren Bruynkens nv
– Minimum durability date (MDD) (” Best before (or end)”): 22/12/2021 – 23 / 12/2021 – 24/12/2021 – 27/12/2021 – 28/12/2021 – 29/12/2021
– Lot numbers: 4801 – 4802 – 4803 – 4906 – 4907 – 4908
– Type of packaging: Plastic dish
– Weight: 500g

The product has been distributed by Spar and other retail stores.

For any further information , contact:
Vleeswarenbedrijf Bruynkens – kwaliteitsdienst
quality@bruynkens.be

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Posted in afsca, food contamination, food handler, Food Hazard, Food Hygiene, Food Inspections, Food Micro Blog, Food Microbiology, Food Microbiology Blog, Food Microbiology Testing, Food Pathogen, food recall, Food Safety, Food Safety Alert, Food Testing, Listeria, Listeria monocytogenes