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Raw Milk, Cream and Butter Recalled, Listeria in Sliced Herring, Tiny Turtle Salmonella Outbreak Infect 124 in 27 States and Additional Information on Beef Recall (Canada)
Wed, 05/16/2012 - 3:34pm — SRutledge
Raw Milk, Cream and Butter Recalled
Listeria in Sliced Herring
Additional Information on Beef Recall (Canada)
Tiny Turtle Salmonella Outbreak Infect 124 in 27 States
Raw Milk, Cream and Butter Recalled
SACRAMENTO, Raw milk, raw skim milk (non-fat), raw cream and raw butter produced by Organic Pastures Dairy of Fresno County is the subject of a statewide recall and quarantine order announced by California State Veterinarian Dr. Annette Whiteford. The quarantine order came following the confirmed detection of campylobacter bacteria in raw cream.
Consumers are strongly urged to dispose of any Organic Pastures products of these types remaining in their refrigerators, and retailers are to pull those products immediately from their shelves.
From January through April 30, 2012, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) reports that at least 10 people with campylobacter infection were identified throughout California and reported consuming Organic Pastures raw milk prior to illness onset. Their median age is 11.5 years, with six under 18. The age range is nine months to 38 years. They are residents of Fresno, Los Angeles, San Diego, San Luis Obispo and Santa Clara counties. None of the patients have been hospitalized, and there have been no deaths.
According to CDPH, symptoms of campylobacteriosis include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever. Most people with campylobacteriosis recover completely. Illness usually occurs 2 to 5 days after exposure to campylobacter and lasts about a week. The illness is usually mild and some people with campylobacteriosis have no symptoms at all. However, in some persons with compromised immune systems, it can cause a serious, life-threatening infection. A small percentage of people may have joint pain and swelling after infection. In addition, a rare disease called Guillain-Barre syndrome that causes weakness and paralysis can occur several weeks after the initial illness.
This recall taken from: http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/egov/Press_Releases/Press_Release.asp?PRnum=12-018
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Listeria in Sliced Herring
ALBANY, NY -- New York State Agriculture Commissioner Darrel J. Aubertine today alerted consumers that Mazowsze Deli Inc., 420 Church Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11218 is recalling (sliced) Herring due to Listeria monocytogenes contamination.
Listeria monocytogenes is an organism commonly found in nature which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems. It may also cause serious complications for pregnant women, such as stillbirth. Listeria monocytogenes may cause serious flu-like symptoms in otherwise healthy individuals.
The recalled in-store packed (sliced) Herring comes in an un-coded, one pound clear plastic container with a plastic lid. The Herring was sold from the deli's retail location at 420 Church Avenue in Brooklyn only.
The recall was initiated after routine sampling by New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets Food Inspectors and subsequent analysis of the product by New York State Food Laboratory personnel, found Listeria monocytogeness present in the product.
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem. Consumers who have purchased the Herring should not consume it, but should discard the product or return it to Mazowsze Deli.
This recall taken from: http://readme.readmedia.com/CONSUMER-ALERT-Listeria-Monocytogenes-in-Sli...
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Additional Information on Beef Recall (Canada)
OTTAWA, - As a result of a Canadian Food Inspection Agency's (CFIA) food safety investigation, additional information is being provided to help consumers identify Irresistibles brand products, included in a March 17, 2012 recall.
Six Irresistibles brand ground beef products, listed below, were recalled on March 17, 2012 and removed from retail at that time. The following codes provide consumers with additional guidance to help them identify previously recalled product in their homes.
Products should not be consumed if they bear a 5 digit lot code where the first four digits are 1821 up to and including 3651 and 0012 up to and including 0472. These codes can be found on any one of the six outside panels of the box. These codes would only appear on the six previously recalled products listed in the table below.
----------Recalled Irresistibles Brand Products from March 17:----------
Angus Beef Burgers, Size 1.13 kg, UPC 0 59749 89521 7
Beef Burgers Mushroom Swiss, Size 1.13 kg, UPC 0 59749 89524
Sirloin Beef Burgers, Original, Size 1.13 kg, UPC 0 59749 89520 0
Sirloin Beef Burgers, Peppercorn Size 1.13 kg, UPC 0 59749 89523 1
Life Smart Lean Sirloin Beef Burgers, Size 687 g, UPC 0 59749 91317 1
Sirloin Beef Burgers, Roasted Garlic and Onion, Size 1.13 kg, UPC 0 59749 89523 1
The number of products affected by this recall has not changed.
Any new information obtained by the CFIA will be posted to the CFIA website.
For more information, consumers and industry can call the CFIA at 1-800-442-2342 / TTY 1-800-465-7735 (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday to Friday).
This recall taken from: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/corpaffr/recarapp/2012/20120510e.shtml
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Tiny Turtle Salmonella Outbreak Infect 124 in 27 States
Three outbreaks of Salmonella poisoning caused by exposure to tiny pet turtles have burgeoned into five outbreaks, with 124 people infected in 27 states, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported Thursday.
Sixty-seven percent of those sick from the outbreak strains of Salmonella San Diego, Salmonella Pomona and Salmonella Poona are children under 10. At least 19 people have been hospitalized.
The two new outbreaks were identified since the CDC's last update on April 5.
New York has reported 24 outbreak-related illnesses, California 21; Texas 12; Pennsylvania 9; New Jersey 7; Maryland 6; Colorado 5; Nevada 4;
Arizona, Delaware, Georgia, Massachusetts, New Mexico, South Carolina and Virginia each 3;
Alaska, Michigan, and Ohio each two; and Alabama, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Minnesota, North Carolina, Oregon, Vermont and West Virginia each have reported single cases.
The Food and Drug Administration banned the sale of turtles with shells smaller than 4 inches in 1975 because they're disease vectors, especially for Salmonella. The turtles remain a popular street-vendor item, however. Like other reptiles treated as pets, as well as pet amphibians like frogs, the tiny turtles can carry Salmonella even if they appear to be healthy and clean.
People can become infected by handling the turtles or from exposure to anything in their tanks or aquariums.
The CDC suggests that turtles with a shell length of less than 4 inches not be purchased or given as gifts and that turtles be kept out of homes, child care centers or schools with children younger than 5 years old.
This article taken from: http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2012/05/tiny-turtles-infect-127-in-27-stat...
Listeria in Ohio, E. coli from Cacao Nibs, Salmonella in Dog Food, Metal Wire in Canadian Cheese and More
Thu, 05/10/2012 - 9:26am — SRutledge
Listeria in Sprouts
E. coli in Cacao Nibs
Salmonella in Dog Food
Metal Wire in Cheese (Canada)
Louisiana Health Officials Close Oyster Harvesting Area After 14 Reported Ill With Norovirus
Health Officials Probe Foodborne Illness Outbreak
Gourmet Food Trucks Fight Inspectors' Perceptions
Listeria in Sprouts
CLEVELAND, Ohio - Cleveland Beansprouts Co. of Cleveland, OH is recalling all alfalfa sprouts because they may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections to individuals 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.
All alfalfa sprouts produced by Cleveland Beansprouts are being recalled. There are no lot codes or any other identifier on the product. The alfalfa sprouts were only distributed in Ohio.
The contamination was discovered by the Ohio Department of Agriculture while collecting and testing samples under the United States Department of Agriculture’s Microbiological Data Program. No illnesses have been reported to date.
Consumers who have purchased alfalfa sprouts produced by Cleveland Beansprout should discard them.
Photo: Product Labels
This recall taken from: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm303305.htm
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E. coli in Cacao Nibs
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - FunFresh Foods, Inc. of San Clemente, California in consultation with the FDA is recalling a single lot of its 6 ounce packages of FunFresh Foods™ World Berries™ Organic “Cacao Nibs” because they may be contaminated with Escherichia coli O157:H7 bacteria (E. Coli O157:H7). E. coli O157:H7 causes a diarrheal illness often with bloody stools. Although most healthy adults can recover completely within a week, some people can develop a form of kidney failure called Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS). HUS is most likely to occur in young children and the elderly. The condition can lead to serious kidney damage and even death.
Approximately 500 packages of affected product were distributed from April 12 through April 17, 2012 from this lot and as of the date of this release, 263 of these packages have already been retrieved from retail stores. Product was distributed to health and natural food retail stores located in the following states: AK, AR, AZ, CA, CT, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NH, NJ, NM, OH, OK, OR, SC, SC, TN, TX, WA, WI, and WV.
The product comes in a 6 oz pouch with the World Berries™ logo identified as Organic Cacao Nibs with the following UPC code 632474929022, affected lot code 161104 and the use by date for products for the affected lot 04/14, which are laser etched on the vertical edge of the back panel.
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this product.
The potential for contamination was identified through the company’s own audit testing of finished product which detected the presence of E. coli 0157:H7. Production and distribution of the product has been suspended while FDA and the company continue their investigation. No other lots of this product and no other FunFresh Foods products are affected by this recall.
Consumers should not consume the product. Consumers who have purchased 6 ounce packages of "Cacao Nibs" are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Alternatively, consumers can call the company which will arrange for a full refund and for retrieval of affected products. Consumers may contact the company between Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time at 1-800-232-8619.
This recall taken from: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm303012.htm
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Salmonella in Dog Food
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Solid Gold Health Products for Pets, Inc., El Cajon, California, announced a recall of one batch of WolfCub Large Breed Puppy Food and one batch of Solid Gold WolfKing Large Breed Adult Dog, both with a Best Before date of December 30, 2012, and an “X” in the 11th digit of the date code.
Solid Gold is voluntarily recalling the products below, distributed in the United States and Canada. This voluntary recall is being done out of an abundance of caution as these products were produced at the facility that has been linked to recent recalls of Diamond brand pet foods due to potential Salmonella contamination.
Pets with Salmonella infections may have decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. If left untreated, pets may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.
Individuals handling dry pet food can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with surfaces exposed to this product. People who believe they may have been exposed to Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. According to the Centers for Disease Control, people who are more likely to be affected by Salmonella include infants, children younger than 5 years old, organ transplant patients, people with HIV/AIDS and people receiving treatment for cancer.
The products involved in this recall are:
Solid Gold WolfCub Large Breed Puppy Food, 4 lb, 15 lb, and 33 lb, with a best before date of December 30, 2012 and batch code starting with SGB1201A31X.
4 lb identifying UPC 093766750005
15 lb identifying UPC 093766750012
33 lb identifying UPC 093766750029
Solid Gold WolfKing Large Breed Adult Dog Food, 4 lb, 15 lb, and 28.5 lb, with a best before date of December 30, 2012 and batch code starting with SGL1201A32X
4 lb identifying UPC 093766750050
15 lb identifying UPC 093766750067
28.5 lb identifying UPC 093766750081
Best by dates (lot codes) can be found on the back of the bag in the bottom right-hand corner of 33 lb, 28.5 lb and 15 lb bags and the bottom of the 4 lb bags.
Other Solid Gold recipes, sizes or brands of food are not impacted by this voluntary recall.
Pet owners who are unsure if the product they purchased is included in the recall, would like replacement product or have additional questions, may call us at (800) 364-4863 (Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM through 5:00 PM Pacific time).
This recall taken from: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm303371.htm
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Metal Wire in Cheese (Canada)
OTTAWA, - The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Fromagerie Bergeron Inc. are warning the public not to consume the cheese products described below because they may contain harmful pieces of metal wire.
The following Fromagerie Bergeron brand cheese products are affected by this alert:
Product: Brins de Gouda
Size:100 g UPC: 0 62036 10100 7 Lot: 12-0687 Best Before date: 2012 MA 18
Size:180 g UPC: 0 62036 02060 5 Lot: 12-0687 Best Before date: 2012 MA 18
Size:230 g UPC:0 62036 10230 1 Lot: 12-0687 Best Before date: 2012 MA 18
Size:260 g UPC: 0 62036 02065 0 Lot: 12-0687 Best Before date: 2012 MA 18
Size:300 g UPC: 0 62036 10300 1 Lot: 12-0687 Best Before date: 2012 MA 18
Size:500 g UPC: 0 62036 20050 6 Lot: 12-0687 Best Before date: 2012 MA 18
Product: Le Populaire Size: 335 g UPC: 0 62036 20335 0 Lot: 12-687 Best Before Date:2012 AU 03
These products have been distributed in Quebec.
There have been no reported injuries associated with the consumption of these products.
The manufacturer, Fromagerie Bergeron Inc., Saint-Antoine-de-Tilly, Quebec, is voluntarily recalling the affected products from the marketplace. The CFIA is monitoring the effectiveness of the recall.
For more information, consumers and industry can call one of the following numbers:
Fromagerie Bergeron Inc. at 418-886-2234; or
CFIA at 1-800-442-2342 / TTY 1-800-465-7735 (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday to Friday).
This recall taken from: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/corpaffr/recarapp/2012/20120504e.shtml
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Louisiana Health Officials Close Oyster Harvesting Area After 14 Reported Ill With Norovirus
NEW ORLEANS — Louisiana health officials say they closed a harvesting area and ordered a recall of oysters taken from there since April 26 after 14 people became ill with norovirus.
The closure started Tuesday and was expected to last at least three weeks.
The recall includes shucked, frozen, breaded and processed oysters and those for the half-shell market taken from Area 23 in Terrebonne Parish southwest of New Orleans. Some of the oysters were shipped to Maryland, Texas and Georgia.
Health officials said people became ill after eating oysters from that area at one New Orleans-area restaurant.
State health officer Dr. Jimmy Guidry says the oysters were likely contaminated by sewage dumped from a boat in the harvesting area.
Norovirus causes vomiting or diarrhea. Health officials say no one was hospitalized.
This article continues at: http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/industries/la-health-officials-cl...
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Health Officials Probe Foodborne Illness Outbreak
By John Henderson
The Nash County Health Department is investigating a possible foodborne illness outbreak in Nash County after 75 people reported becoming ill after eating at Ribeye’s Steakhouse in Nashville last week.
Two people were hospitalized after eating there and have been released, but it has not been confirmed whether their illnesses were associated with eating at the restaurant, said health department spokeswoman Amy Belflower Thomas.
She could not say what food dish at the restaurant, if any, might have caused the illnesses.
She said health department officials are interviewing people who reported feeling ill after eating there to find out what they had eaten.
“Seventy-five people have called us and said they were sick or ate with someone who was sick, and gave me their names,” Thomas said. “It’s not like we’ve gone out and asked people to call us.”
Nash County Health Director Bill Hill said in a prepared statement issued late Monday afternoon that staff at the health department responded to the complaints immediately after the first report last Thursday.
“Environmental health staff inspected the restaurant, have collected food samples for testing and have worked closely with the restaurant to ensure proper precautions are in place to stop transmission,” the press release states.
This article continues at: http://www.rockymounttelegram.com/news/health-officials-probe-foodborne-...
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Gourmet Food Trucks Fight Inspectors' Perceptions
*STOP's Director of Research and Education, Susan Grooters, quoted.
By Stephanie Armour
Porc Mobile was born when Josh Saltzman pooled money to buy a white mail truck and convert it into a roving kitchen, dishing out barbecue and baguettes topped with goat cheese on Washington’s city streets.
While customers flock, so has the health department: six times since beginning operations last year, Saltzman said. Inspectors often arrive unannounced during the lunch rush, targeting food trucks because they’re so visible, he said.
“It’s crazy,” said Saltzman, 25, whose truck has three sinks, a hand-washing station and hot water. “There’s a misperception about these old model of roach coaches.”
The new model being set by Porc Mobile in Washington and Rickshaw Dumpling Bar in New York has moved beyond hot dogs and ice cream to miso soup, lobster rolls and crepes. Mobile food- preparation businesses increased 15 percent over five years to make up 37 percent of the $1.4 billion of U.S. street vending revenue in 2011, according to researcher IBISWorld Inc.
...
“We need more consistency across state jurisdictions,” Susan Vaughn Grooters, director of research and education at Chicago-based STOP Foodborne Illness, an advocacy group, said in an interview. “You have to worry about cross contamination. Restaurants have access to working bathrooms and food preparation. On a food truck, it’s limited.”
This article continues at: http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-05-09/gourmet-food-trucks-fight-inspe...
Ready To Eat Meals Recalled, & Pet Food with Salmonella Recalled, Investigation Continues into rare Salmonella Paratyphi Outbreak, Salmonella Outbreak Update and More.
Fri, 05/04/2012 - 5:18pm — SRutledge
Asian Ready To Eat Meals Recalled
Salmonella In Pet Food
Rare Salmonella Paratyphi Outbreak Grows As Investigation Continues
Salmonella Outbreak Update
Third-deadliest U.S. Food Outbreak Was Preventable, Experts Say
Food Safety Rules In Limbo At Office Of Management And Budget
Update On BSE
Asian Ready To Eat Meals Recalled
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - H-E-B has issued a recall for certain Asian Ready-to-Eat meals due to the possibility of undercooked chicken in those meals. There have been no confirmed illnesses reported related to this precautionary recall. However, undercooked chicken has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, 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.
The recall involves 19 Ready-to-Eat entrées and meals sold in 40 stores in Texas including one store in Houston. The product was available at the Grab ‘N Go section in H-E-B Delis.
The product(s) come in a 4 ounce, 8 ounce, 12 ounce, 24 ounce black plastic containers with a clear lid, single serve sizes and to-go containers and include the following products:
The UPC code is located on the white sticker that is placed over the seam of the product container.
The voluntary recall has been issued by H-E-B, in an abundance of caution, to ensure the safety of its customers. “H-E-B is committed to the highest standards of food safety for our customers,” said Winell Herron, Group Vice President of Public Affairs and Diversity. “We take every precaution necessary to ensure the integrity and quality of the products sold in our stores.”
The issue was discovered due to a consumer complaint about the possibility of undercooked chicken in one of the dishes mentioned above. Any product sold prior to 5/3/12 is affected and should be returned to any H-E-B store for a full refund. Customers with concerns or questions can contact H-E-B Customer Relations at 210-938-8357 or 1-800-432-3113 between the hours of 8AM and 5PM Monday through Friday.
This recall taken from: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm302903.htm
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Salmonella In Pet Food
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Kaytee Pet Products is recalling a single manufacturing batch of Kaytee Forti-Diet Pro Health Mouse, Rat and Hamster due to possible contamination with Salmonella. The product affected by this recall is identified below and has the following “Best Before” dates:
Material #100502315
UPC Code 71859 00001
Size 6/5 lb.
Product Name/Description Kaytee Forti-Diet Pro Health Mouse, Rat & Hamster
Best Before Code(day-month-year) 03-Apr-2013 K61
Material #100502086
UPC Code 71859 99995
Size 25 lb.
Product Name/Description Kaytee Forti-Diet Pro Health Mouse, Rat & Hamster
Best Before Code(day-month-year)31-Mar-2013
Material #100502085
UPC Code 71859 99994
Size 6/3 lb.
Product Name/Description Kaytee Forti-Diet Pro Health Mouse, Rat & Hamster
Best Before Code(day-month-year) 31-Mar-2013 K63
Material #100502275
UPC Code 71859 00000
Size 25 lb.
Product Name/Description Kaytee Forti-Diet Pro Health Mouse, Rat & Hamster –Petco Stores Only
Best Before Code(day-month-year) 30-Mar-2013
Product and product lots that do not appear on the list above are not subject to this recall.
No human or pet illnesses have been reported to-date. The recall notification is being issued based on a single manufacturing batch wherein a sample with the “Best Before” date of (lot) 03APR13K61 had a positive result for Salmonella in a random sample test conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The Kaytee Forti-Diet Pro Health Mouse, Rat & Hamster product was originally manufactured on January 5 and 6, 2012. Kaytee is taking immediate action to remove the product from all retail stores and distribution centers, and to fully investigate the cause.
Salmonella can affect animals eating the products and there is a risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the products or any surfaces exposed to these products.
Healthy people exposed to Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.
Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only 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 the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.
Recalled products were distributed to retailers and distributors in the states of Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin;
and, into the countries of Abu Dhabi, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, China, Costa Rica, Czechoslovakia, Dominican Republic, Dutch Antilles, Finland, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Guam, Honduras, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Japan, Korea, Kuwait, Mexico, New Zealand, Pakistan, Panama, Russia, Singapore, South Africa, Sweden, Thailand, and Trinidad.
Consumers who have purchased the Kaytee Forti-Diet Pro Health Mouse, Rat & Hamster product with the above-referenced “Best Before” dates are urged to contact Kaytee Customer Service representatives.
A letter and instructions will be forwarded to all Kaytee customers.
Kaytee Customer Service representatives and company veterinarians are responding to inquires through the 1-800-Kaytee1 (800 529-8331) phone number and will answer any questions regarding pets that have been fed the product. Pet owners can also visit the Kaytee website for more information http://www.kaytee.com
This recall taken from: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm302546.htm
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Rare Salmonella Paratyphi Outbreak Grows As Investigation Continues
By James Andrews
The outbreak of a rare, typhoidal Salmonella strain that originated in North Carolina's Buncombe County grew to 40 confirmed illnesses on Thursday as the state and county health departments continue their investigation and anticipate additional infections will surface by the day.
The strain, Salmonella Paratyphi B, is a less severe but especially contagious form of Salmonella that can lead to Typhoid fever in some of those it infects. According to Buncombe County Department of Health spokeswoman Gibbie Harris, many of those sickened contracted their infections through person-to-person contact.
On Monday, North Carolina-based company Smiling Hara recalled 12-ounce packages of unpasteurized tempeh as a cautionary measure after a sample of the company's soybean tempeh tested positive for Salmonella. The tempeh remains a potential outbreak source until the state health laboratory can determine whether or not the strain of Salmonella in the tempeh is Paratyphi B.
State and county health officials have said tests might identify the strain sometime Friday, though they may take until Monday.
Either way, more than half of the cases involve individuals who say they did not consume tempeh during the outbreak window, Harris told Food Safety News. She said the health departments continue to investigate other potential sources, though it is clear that infections have come from "several different routes of transmission."
Because public health officials are still interviewing victims, the health departments cannot confirm the exact number of individuals connected to the tempeh. Buncombe Country Public Information Officer Gaylen Ehrlichman said officials expected the majority of the new cases to result from person-to-person transmission.
Illnesses have been reported in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and New York. The first case was reported on February 28.
This article continues at: http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2012/05/rare-salmonella-paratyphi-outbreak...
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Salmonella Outbreak Update
• Based on an epidemiologic link and results of laboratory testing, CDC has combined this Salmonella Bareilly investigation with an ongoing multistate outbreak investigation of Salmonella serotype Nchanga infections. The two associated PFGE patterns have been grouped together as the "outbreak strains."
• A total of 258 persons infected with the outbreak strains of Salmonella Bareilly (247 persons) or Salmonella Nchanga (11 persons) have been reported from 24 states and the District of Columbia.
o 32 ill persons have been hospitalized, and no deaths have been reported.
• Collaborative investigation efforts of state, local, and federal public health agencies indicate that a frozen raw yellowfin tuna product, known as Nakaochi Scrape, from Moon Marine USA Corporation is the likely source of this outbreak.
• Consumers should not eat the recalled product, and retailers should not serve the recalled raw Nakaochi Scrape tuna product from Moon Marine USA Corporation.
• This investigation is ongoing. CDC and state and local public health partners are continuing surveillance to identify new cases.
A total of 258 individuals infected with the outbreak strains of Salmonella Bareilly or Salmonella Nchanga have been reported from 24 states and the District of Columbia.
The 58 new cases are from California (2), Connecticut (1), Georgia (1), Illinois (8), Maryland (4), Massachusetts (3), Nebraska (1), New Jersey (8), New York (6), North Carolina (1), Pennsylvania (13), Tennessee (2), Virginia (7), and Wisconsin (1).
• Two-hundred forty-seven persons infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Bareilly have been reported from 24 states and the District of Columbia. The number of ill persons with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Bareilly identified in each state is as follows: Alabama (2), Arkansas (1), California (2), Connecticut (9), District of Columbia (2), Florida (1), Georgia (10), Illinois (23), Louisiana (3), Maryland (24), Massachusetts (27), Mississippi (2), Missouri (4), Nebraska (1), New Jersey (25), New York (39), North Carolina (4), Pennsylvania (20), Rhode Island (6), South Carolina (3), Tennessee (2), Texas (4), Virginia (16), Vermont (1), and Wisconsin (16).
• Eleven persons infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Nchanga have been reported from 5 states. The number of ill persons with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Nchanga identified in each state is as follows: Georgia (2), New Jersey (2), New York (5), Virginia (1), and Wisconsin (1).
Among 258 persons for whom information is available, illness onset dates range from January 28 to April 20, 2012. Ill persons range in age from 4 to 86 years, with a median age of 30. Fifty-seven percent of patients are female. Among 173 persons with available information, 32 (18%) reported being hospitalized. No deaths have been reported.
Illnesses that occurred after April 4, 2012, might not be reported yet due to the time it takes between when a person becomes ill and when the illness is reported.
This update taken from: http://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/bareilly-04-12/index.html
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Third-deadliest U.S. Food Outbreak Was Preventable, Experts Say
By Scott Bronstein and Drew Griffin
Washington (CNN) -- On a sunny morning early last September, Susanna Gaxiola fed her husband a healthy breakfast of fresh cantaloupe in their Albuquerque, New Mexico, home. Her husband, Rene, a Pentecostal pastor and minister, had been fighting a rare blood cancer and he was eating fresh cantaloupe and other fruit daily.
Around the same time, Paul Schwarz ate fresh cantaloupe in his home in Independence, Missouri. Though 92 years old, Schwarz was still active and healthy, and ate fresh fruit often. And Dr. Mike Hauser, a podiatrist, also ate fresh cantaloupe with his family in Monument, Colorado. Hauser, 68, had been fighting myeloma, a blood cancer, but he was recovering well, even planning a bow-hunting trip in the mountains.
Within days or weeks of eating the cantaloupe, all three men became horribly sick, and all eventually died painful deaths. Their deaths were directly caused by the cantaloupe, which was contaminated with the deadly bacteria Listeria, according to health officials.
After a months-long investigation surrounding the outbreak, CNN has found serious gaps in the federal food safety net meant to protect American consumers of fresh produce, a system that results in few or no government inspections of farms and with only voluntary guidelines of how fresh produce can be kept safe.
This article continues at: http://www.cnn.com/2012/05/03/health/listeria-outbreak-investigation/?hp...
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Food Safety Rules In Limbo At Office Of Management And Budget
By Diana ElBoghdady
More than a year after President Obama signed a landmark food-safety bill, the key provisions are hung up at a unit of the White House that is in charge of reviewing proposed policy changes.
The delay at the Office of Management and Budget baffles consumer advocates and industry groups, which joined forces to lobby for passage of the legislation and press for its funding. The united front by this unusual alliance — and the president’s enthusiastic endorsement of the legislation in the past — makes the hold-up especially puzzling.
In recent letters to the administration, nearly half a dozen groups expressed frustration with the OMB.
“There’s no explanation for the hold-up,” said Erik Olson, director of food programs at the Pew Health Group, which co-wrote one of the letters with the Grocery Manufacturers Association. “Until this new package of safeguards is put into place, all the promise of the new food-safety law will not be met.”
OMB officials say the duration of this review is not unusual given the complexity of the regulations. “The administration is working as expeditiously as possible to implement this legislation we fought so hard for,” said Moira Mack, an OMB spokeswoman.
This article continues at: http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/economy/food-safety-rules-in-limb...
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Update On BSE
On April 24, USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service confirmed the nation's 4th case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) in an animal that was sampled for the disease at a rendering facility in central California. This animal was never presented for slaughter for human consumption, so at no time presented a risk to the food supply, or to human health in the United States.
Through its continuing epidemiological investigation, APHIS--in collaboration with the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA)--has identified that one progeny born to the positive cow in the last 2 years was stillborn, and another has been located on a site in another state. That animal has been appraised, humanely euthanized, and sampled for BSE at the National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Ames, Iowa. Test results for that animal are negative for BSE. No birth cohort cattle have been located through the investigation.
A hold order has been placed on all cattle at a second dairy (dairy 2) that is associated with the dairy of the initial positive cow (also called the index dairy). Both dairies remain under quarantine. Inventories of both the index dairy and dairy 2 have been completed by CDFA. Records are still being matched and validated to determine if any at-risk cattle may be present.
In addition, a calf ranch where the initial positive cow was raised 10 years ago is being investigated.
This update continues at: http://www.aphis.usda.gov/newsroom/2012/05/bse_update_050212.shtml
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Listeria in Alfalfa, Clover and Soybean sprouts. And more.
Mon, 04/30/2012 - 2:19pm — SRutledge
Listeria in Alfalfa and Clover Sprouts
Listeria in Soybean Sprouts
Clostridium botulinum in Smoked Fish
Pet Food Recall Expanded
Fish Recall Expanded (Canada)
Salmonella Outbreak in NC
Listeria in Alfalfa and Clover Sprouts
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Alfa Sprouts Inc. of Honeoye Falls, NY is recalling approx. 100 lbs of Springwater Sprouts brand Organic Alfalfa Sprouts and bulk 3# Clover Sprouts because they may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections to individuals 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 following 2 products are being recalled by the firm.
1. Clear clam shell packages containing 4 oz. Organic Alfalfa Sprouts
with a sell by date of 4/28/2012. Product label and UPC code noted below.
UPC Code 688267047411
UPC Code 042891000523
This product was distributed in New York State.
2. 3# Bulk containers of Clover Sprouts,
with a production code of P93. This product was distributed to institutional accounts in Upstate New York.
The contamination was discovered after sampling under the USDA Microbiological Data Program by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets inspectors and subsequent analysis by the New York State Food Laboratory personnel revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in the product. No illness has been reported to date.
Consumers who have purchased Organic Alfalfa Sprouts or bulk 3 # Clover Sprouts, distributed by Alfa Sprouts Inc. (Springwater Sprouts) should return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Consumers with questions may contact the company at 585 624 1234.
This recall taken from: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm302049.htm
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Listeria in Soybean Sprouts
The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) announced today that Henry’s Farm Inc. of Woodford, VA is recalling all packages of Soybean Sprouts because they may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections to individuals 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 following products are being recalled by the firm.
1. All clear plastic packages containing 1.5 lbs. Grown in Natural Spring Water Soybean Sprouts.
The packages were not coded.
2. All bulk (approximately 10 lbs.) plastic bags of Soybean Sprouts.
The packages were neither coded nor labeled.
These items were distributed to retail stores in Virginia, Maryland and Washington D.C.
The contamination was discovered after sampling by VDACS Food Safety and Security Program. Subsequent analysis by the Virginia Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in the products. No illness has been reported to date.
Individuals who purchased Soybean Sprouts distributed by Henry’s Farm should return the product to the place of sale for a full refund.
Consumers with questions may contact either the company directly at 301.802.2996 or the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Food Safety and Security Program. at 804.786.3520.
This recall taken from: http://www2.godanriver.com/news/2012/apr/27/virginia-farm-recalls-soybea...
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Clostridium botulinum in Smoked Fish
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – LA Star Seafood Co. Inc., Los Angeles, CA is recalling Vobla Dry and Vobla Smoked because they have the potential to be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium which can cause life-threatening illness or death. Consumers are warned not to use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled.
The sale of improperly eviscerated fish, 5 inches in length or greater, is prohibited because Clostridium botulinum spores are more likely to be concentrated in the viscera than any other portion of the fish. Uneviscerated fish has been linked to outbreaks of botulism poisoning which may pose a potentially life-threatening health hazard. Symptoms of botulism include blurred or double vision, general weakness, poor reflexes, difficulty swallowing and respiratory paralysis which may lead to death. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.
The following products are recalled:
• Vobla Dry, 20lb bulk boxes, not vacuum packed, no lot numbers or expiration dates.
• Vobla Smoked, 20lb bulk boxes, not vacuum packed, no lot numbers or expiration dates.
Products were distributed and sold at:
Arbat Store, Utah;
European Importing, Russian Import, and M and M Market, Northern California;
Golden Farms Market, Karabagh Market, and Tashkent Market, Southern California;
Global Importing, Oregon;
Solomon's Groceries and Europa, Colorado.
Customers who may have purchased the above products from February 28, 2012 to April 23, 2012 are urged to destroy or return the products to the place of purchase.
There have not been any reported cases of illness related to these products.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration revealed the problem from a retail inspection and notified our firm that the Vobla Dry and Vobla Smoked were being sold in stores that have not been eviscerated. This recall was initiated with the knowledge of the FDA.
Consumers with questions may contact the company at (213) 687-6558, Monday-Friday, 9AM-1PM PST.
This recall taken from: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm301820.htm
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Pet Food Recall Expanded
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Diamond Pet Foods is expanding a voluntary recall to include one production run and four production codes of Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul Adult Light formula dry dog food. One bag of the product has tested positive for Salmonella, and the recall of the four production codes is being conducted as a precautionary measure. No dog illnesses have been reported.
Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul Adult Light Formula – dry dog food:
35 lb - CLF0102B31XCW, Best by Date 27/JAN/2013
35 lb - CLF0102B31XCW, Best by Date 28/JAN/2013
35 lb - CLF0102B32XWR, Best by Date 28/JAN/2013
6 lb - CLF0102B3XALW, Best by Date 28/JAN/2013
Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul Adult Light Formula dry dog food is manufactured by Diamond Pet Foods and was distributed in Florida, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Virginia, who may have further distributed the product to other states, through pet food channels. The company is working directly with distributors and retailers who carry these products to remove them from the supply chain.
Consumers who have purchased Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul Adult Light Formula dry dog food with this specific production/lot code and best before date should discard the product. Diamond Pet Foods apologizes for any potential issues this may have caused pet owners and their dogs.
Pets with Salmonella infections may have decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. If left untreated, pets may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.
Individuals handling dry pet food can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with surfaces exposed to this product. Healthy people infected with salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. According to the Centers for Disease Control, people who are more likely to be affected by Salmonella include infants, children younger than 5 years old, organ transplant patients, people with HIV/AIDS and people receiving treatment for cancer.
Pet owners, who are unsure if the product they purchased is included in the recall, or who would like replacement product or a refund, may contact Diamond Pet Foods at 800-442-0402, or by visiting www.chickensoupforthepetloverssoul.com/information .
Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul Adult Light Formula dry dog food is an expansion of an April 6 voluntary recall that included:
Diamond Naturals Lamb & Rice
6lb DLR0101D3XALW Best Before 04 Jan 2013
20lb DLR0101C31XAG Best Before 03 Jan 2013
40lb DLR0101C31XMF Best Before 03 Jan 2013
40lb DLR0101C31XAG Best Before 03 Jan 2013
40lb DLR0101D32XMS Best Before 04 Jan 2013
Background Information
On April 8, 2012, Diamond Pet Foods temporarily suspended delivery of all products made at its Gaston, S.C., plant. The company took this precautionary step immediately upon discovering a quality issue when it voluntary recalled on April 6, 2012, a limited number of batches of its Diamond Naturals Lamb Meal & Rice dry dog food produced at the plant, which was the potential that the product might be contaminated with Salmonella.
This recall taken from: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm302137.htm
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For more information consumers and industry can call the CFIA at 1-800-442-2342 / TTY 1-800-465-7735 (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday to Friday).
For information on Clostridium botulinum, visit the Food Facts web page at: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/fssa/concen/cause/botulisme.shtml
For information on all food recalls, visit the CFIA's Food Recall Report at: http://active.inspection.gc.ca/eng/corp/recarapp_dbe.asp.
This recall taken from: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/corpaffr/recarapp/2012/20120424e.shtml<
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The Department of Health is investigating an outbreak of Salmonella Paratyphi B infection in Buncombe County.
Communicable disease nurses and environmental health specialists are conducting interviews with people who currently have or have had the infection, reviewing laboratory reports and inspecting food sources that may be linked to the outbreak.
Communicable disease experts from the North Carolina Division of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as food specialists from the N.C. Department of Agriculture, are assisting with the investigations.
As of Friday evening, 29 possible cases have been identified. The source of the contamination had not been confirmed.
Buncombe County Health Director Gibbie Harris said there have also been cases confirmed in other parts of North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and New York.
All cases appear to have been associated with residence or travel to Buncombe County since Feb. 28.
"None of us think that we've seen the peak of this yet," said Harris. "This (strain) has a longer incubation period, so you can go up to 30 days after being exposed before you actually show symptoms."
Harris said this particular strain is also different to the strain of salmonella usually seen because it's treated with an antibiotic and causes more severe symptoms.
Those symptoms include high fever, fatigue, headache, loss of appetite, diarrhea and stomach pain.
Anyone with the symptoms is urged to call Buncombe County officials at a hotline that's been set up. The number is 828-250-5300.
This article taken from: http://www.wyff4.com/news/north-carolina-news/Salmonella-outbreak-report...
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Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) Confirmed in Caliornia
Tue, 04/24/2012 - 4:06pm — SRutledgeStatement by USDA Chief Veterinary Officer John Clifford Regarding a Detection of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) in the United States
Assures Consumers That Existing Safeguards Protected Food Supply; Reiterates Safety of Consuming Beef Products
WASHINGTON, April 24, 2012 – USDA Chief Veterinary Officer John Clifford today released the following statement on the detection of BSE in the United States:
"As part of our targeted surveillance system, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has confirmed the nation's fourth case of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in a dairy cow from central California. The carcass of the animal is being held under State authority at a rendering facility in California and will be destroyed. It was never presented for slaughter for human consumption, so at no time presented a risk to the food supply or human health. Additionally, milk does not transmit BSE.
"The United States has had longstanding interlocking safeguards to protect human and animal health against BSE. For public health, these measures include the USDA ban on specified risk materials, or SRMs, from the food supply. SRMs are parts of the animal that are most likely to contain the BSE agent if it is present in an animal. USDA also bans all nonambulatory (sometimes called "downer") cattle from entering the human food chain. For animal health, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ban on ruminant material in cattle feed prevents the spread of the disease in the cattle herd.
"Evidence shows that our systems and safeguards to prevent BSE are working, as are similar actions taken by countries around the world. In 2011, there were only 29 worldwide cases of BSE, a dramatic decline and 99% reduction since the peak in 1992 of 37,311 cases. This is directly attributable to the impact and effectiveness of feed bans as a primary control measure for the disease.
"Samples from the animal in question were tested at USDA's National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Ames, Iowa. Confirmatory results using immunohistochemistry and western blot tests confirmed the animal was positive for atypical BSE, a very rare form of the disease not generally associated with an animal consuming infected feed.
"We are sharing our laboratory results with international animal health reference laboratories in Canada and England, which have official World Animal Health (OIE) reference labs. These labs have extensive experience diagnosing atypical BSE and will review our confirmation of this form of the disease. In addition, we will be conducting a comprehensive epidemiological investigation in conjunction with California animal and public health officials and the FDA.
"BSE is a progressive neurological disease among cattle that is always fatal. It belongs to a family of diseases known as transmissible spongiform encephalopathies. Affected animals may display nervousness or aggression, abnormal posture, difficulty in coordination and rising, decreased milk production, or loss of body weight despite continued appetite.
"This detection in no way affects the United States' BSE status as determined by the OIE. The United States has in place all of the elements of a system that OIE has determined ensures that beef and beef products are safe for human consumption: a mammalian feed ban, removal of specified risk materials, and vigorous surveillance. Consequently, this detection should not affect U.S. trade.
"USDA remains confident in the health of the national herd and the safety of beef and dairy products. As the epidemiological investigation progresses, USDA will continue to communicate findings in a timely and transparent manner."
Release No. 0132.12
Contact:
Office of Communication 202-720-4623
Original Article found here: http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentid=2012/04/0132.xml&...
Listeria In Calzone Products, E. coli In Oregon Raw Milk Outbreak & 15 Ill With E. Coli In Missouri and Clostridium botulinum In Salted And Cured Fish (Canada) , Listeria In Ham (Canada) & Clostridium botulinum In Fish Products (Canada)
Mon, 04/23/2012 - 3:01pm — SRutledge
Listeria In Calzone Products
Listeria In Ham (Canada)
Clostridium botulinum In Salted And Cured Fish (Canada)
Clostridium botulinum In Fish Products (Canada)
19 Ill With E. Coli In Oregon Raw Milk Outbreak
15 Ill With E. Coli In Missouri, Multiple Sources Possible
WASHINGTON, - Albie's Foods, a Gaylord, Michigan establishment, is recalling approximately 311 pounds of pizza calzone products due to possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The fully cooked, ready-to-eat, calzone products were produced on April 10, 2012, and then shipped to institutions in Indiana and Michigan. The following products are subject to recall:
• Packages containing 48 4.5-oz. pieces of "Albie's Pizza Calzone."
Each package bears the establishment number "EST. 10100" inside the USDA mark of inspection.
View the Label Here: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/Recall_027_2012_Release/index.asp#label
The problem was discovered during routine FSIS testing. FSIS and the company have received no reports of illnesses associated with consumption of these products.
FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. When available, the retail distribution list(s) will be posted on the FSIS website at: www.fsis.usda.gov/
FSIS_Recalls/
Open_Federal_Cases/
index.asp.
This recall taken from: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/Recall_027_2012_Release/index.asp
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Listeria In Ham (Canada)
BERWICK — Meadowbrook Meat Market is in the process of retesting one of its products because of possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination.
The product affected is fully cooked boneless ham with best before dates of April 1 and April 3.
The hams were sold at the Meadowbrook Meat Market retail store in Berwick and at Alderney Landing Farm Market in Dartmouth, with limited wholesale distribution in mainland Nova Scotia.
On Saturday morning, Meadowbrook co-owner Margie Lamb said all production of the pre-cooked hams has been stopped and any inventory put on hold.
“The fully cooked is the only product that was affected. Other products are fine because they are going to be cooked by the purchaser," Lamb said. She said this is the first time the company has had to deal with a possible Listeria outbreak.
In a statement released Friday afternoon, the provincial Agriculture Department said there have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of this product. The discovery of the bacteria was made through internal quality assurance testing.
Lamb said Meadowbrook is working with the department`s food safety protocols. She said a meat process hygienist is now “looking into our cleaning process and checking everything."
Food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes may not look or smell spoiled. Consumption of food contaminated with these bacteria may cause listeriosis, a food-borne illness. Listeriosis can cause high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness and nausea.
“We wanted to be in the forefront of addressing (this problem) rather than wait. The health of our families is the most important thing," Lamb said. “We’ve worked so hard to produce safe products and build a trust with people who buy them."
Meadowbrook is retesting its products and will be posting results on its website.
“As we get the results back, we will be letting people know what those results are," Lamb said.
This taken from: http://thechronicleherald.ca/novascotia/89112-berwick-meat-market-retest...
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Clostridium botulinum In Salted And Cured Fish (Canada)
OTTAWA, - The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is warning the public not to consume the salted and cured fish product (fesikh) described below because it may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum. Toxins produced by this bacteria may cause botulism, a life-threatening illness.
The affected product, whole fesikh mullet, was sold in clear vacuum-packaged bags of varying count and weight, bearing no code or date information.
This product was sold from Lotus Catering and Fine Food, 1960 Lawrence Ave. E, Toronto, ON, on or before April 17, 2012.
There have been 3 reported illnesses associated with the consumption of this product.
Food contaminated with Clostridium botulinum toxin may not look or smell spoiled. Consumption of food contaminated with the toxin may cause nausea, vomiting, fatigue, dizziness, headache, double vision, dry throat, respiratory failure and paralysis. In severe cases of illness, people may die.
For more information consumers and industry can call the CFIA at 1-800-442-2342 / TTY 1-800-465-7735 (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday to Friday).
This recall taken from: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/corpaffr/recarapp/2012/20120419e.shtml
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Clostridium botulinum In Fish Products (Canada)
OTTAWA, The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is warning the public not to consume certain vacuum packaged fish products, described below, because the product may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum. Toxins produced by this bacteria may cause botulism, a life-threatening illness.
The following vacuum packaged fish products, sold in various weights, listed below are affected by this alert:
Brand: North 44 Product: Smoked Salmon McEwan's Own Best Before Date: 04/20/12
Brand: Kristapson's Product: Smoked Salmon Best Before Date: 04/20/12 & 06/11/12
These products have been sold only at McEwan Gourmet Grocery Store located at 38 Karl Fraser Road, North York, Ontario.
There have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of these products.
Food contaminated with Clostridium botulinum toxin may not look or smell spoiled. Consumption of food contaminated with the toxin may cause nausea, vomiting, fatigue, dizziness, headache, double vision, dry throat, respiratory failure and paralysis. In severe cases of illness, people may die.
For more information consumers and industry can call the CFIA at 1-800-442-2342 / TTY 1-800-465-7735 (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday to Friday).
This recall taken from: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/corpaffr/recarapp/2012/20120416e.shtml
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19 Ill With E. Coli In Oregon Raw Milk Outbreak
By: Cookson Beecher
Nineteen people in Oregon are ill with E. coli in an outbreak traced to raw milk from Foundation Farm near Wilsonville -- up one from the 18 cases reported Thursday -- according to a April 20 news release from the Public Health Division of the state's Health Authority.
Of the 19 people, 11 have culture-confirmed E. coli O157 infections. Fifteen of the 19 cases are children 19 or younger. Four of the children have been hospitalized with kidney failure. On April 19, a Portland hospital confirmed that one of the hospitalized children -- a 13-year-old girl -- was in critical condition. According to a member of the cowshare implicated in the outbreak, as many as four of the farmer's children are also sickened, including one with Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS).
Children, the elderly and those who are frail healthwise are the most vulnerable to being infected by E. coli O157, a potentially fatal foodborne disease characterized by diarrhea (sometimes bloody) and abdominal pain. Kidney failure and related complications may occur. Symptoms usually develop within 2 to 8 days of eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated milk.
Oregon public health officials urge anyone who has consumed raw milk and is experiencing these symptoms to contact a doctor or health-care provider.
This article continues at: http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2012/04/post-5/
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15 Ill With E. Coli In Missouri, Multiple Sources Possible By: James Andrews
Illnesses in the ongoing E. coli O157:H7 outbreak in central Missouri rose to 15 on Friday, while information on the individual infections suggests they may come from multiple sources.
Of the 15 cases, seven individuals have reported that they consumed raw milk products from a single dairy in Howard County. As a result, the dairy has been under investigation and has halted sales of its raw milk products.
The E. coli infections in six of those seven raw milk drinkers have shown to match by their identifiable genetic pattern known as a pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). The infection of the seventh raw milk drinker -- the newest addition to the total number ill -- has a different PFGE pattern, though one that is very similar to the other six, according to epidemiologist Sarah Rainey at Missouri's Columbia-Boone County Health Department.
Of the other eight illnesses -- the ones who did not report consuming raw milk products -- only one individual has a PFGE pattern matching the raw milk drinkers. The other seven infections vary genetically or have not returned a PFGE reading.
This article continues at: http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2012/04/15-ill-with-e-coli-in-missouri-mul...
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Salad, Tuna and Sandwiches in Recalled
Mon, 04/16/2012 - 12:48pm — SRutledge
Salmonella in Salad
Yellowfin Tuna Recalled
Listeria in Sandwiches (Canada)
Salmonella in Salad
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -
Dole Fresh Vegetables is recalling 756 cases of DOLE® Seven Lettuces salad with
Use-by Date of April 11, 2012,
UPC code 71430 01057 and
Product Codes 0577N089112A and 0577N089112B, due to a possible health risk from Salmonella. Dole Fresh Vegetables is coordinating closely with regulatory officials. No illnesses have been reported in association with the recall.
The Product Code and Use-by Date are in the upper right-hand corner of the package; the UPC code is on the back of the package, below the barcode. The salads were distributed in fifteen U.S. states (Alabama, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and Wisconsin).
No illnesses have been reported in association with the recall. This precautionary recall notification is being issued due to an isolated instance in which a sample of Seven Lettuces salad yielded a positive result for Salmonella in a random sample test collected and conducted by the State of New York.
No other Dole salads are included in the recall. Only the specific Product Codes, UPC codes and April 11, 2012 Use-by-Date of Seven Lettuces salads identified above are included in the recall. Consumers who have any remaining product with these Product Codes should not consume it, but rather discard it. Retailers and consumers with questions may call the Dole Food Company Consumer Response Center at (800) 356-3111, which is open 8:00 am to 3:00 pm (PDT) Monday - Friday.
Retailers should check their inventories and store shelves to confirm that none of the product is mistakenly present or available for purchase by consumers or in warehouse inventories. Dole Fresh Vegetables customer service representatives are already contacting retailers and are in the process of confirming that the recalled product is not in the stream of commerce.
Salmonella is an organism that can cause foodborne illness in a person who eats a food item contaminated with it. Symptoms of infection may experience fever and gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting or abdominal pain. The illness primarily impacts young children, frail and elderly people and those with weakened immune systems. Most healthy adults and children rarely become seriously ill.
This recall taken from: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm300414.htm?source=govdelivery
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Yellowfin Tuna Recalled
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -
Fast Facts
Moon Marine USA Corporation (also known as MMI) of Cupertino, Calif. is recalling 58,828 lbs of a frozen raw yellowfin tuna product, labeled as Nakaochi Scrape AA or AAA. Nakaochi Scrape is tuna backmeat, which is specifically scraped off from the bones, and looks like a ground product.
The product is not available for sale to individual consumers, but may have been used to make sushi, sashimi, ceviche and similar dishes available in restaurants and grocery stores.
The company name and Nakaochi Scrape AA or AAA were printed on boxes of the product when it was initially sold to distributors. However, the boxes may have been broken into smaller lots for further sale and may not be available to the end retailer or consumer. Therefore, the tuna may not be readily identifiable by retail outlets or by consumers as being from the implicated lots.
The Nakaochi Scrape AA and AAA from MMI was sold through distributors to restaurants and grocery stores that make sushi, and has been linked to an outbreak of Salmonella Bareilly, which has caused 116 illnesses in 20 states and the District of Columbia to date. Of the reported illnesses, there have been 12 hospitalizations, and no deaths.
Many of the people who became ill reported eating raw tuna in sushi as “spicy tuna.”
If you purchase “spicy tuna” or other sushi, sashimi, ceviche, or similar dishes that might contain Nakaochi Scrape from a restaurant or grocery store, check with the establishment to make sure that it does not
contain raw recalled product from Moon Marine USA Corporation, also known as MMI. When in doubt, don’t eat it.
Consumers who think they might have become ill from eating possibly contaminated raw Nakaochi Scrape should consult their health care providers.
What is the Problem?
Moon Marine USA Corporation (also known as MMI) of Cupertino, Calif. is voluntarily recalling 58,828 lbs of a frozen raw yellowfin tuna product, labeled as Nakaochi Scrape AA or AAA. Nakaochi Scrape is tuna backmeat, which is specifically scraped off from the bones, and looks like a ground product.
The Nakaochi Scrape is associated with an outbreak of 116 cases of Salmonella Bareilly in multiple states: Alabama (2), Arkansas (1), Connecticut (5), District of Columbia (2), Florida (1), Georgia (5), Illinois (10), Louisiana (2), Maryland (11), Massachusetts (8), Mississippi (1), Missouri (2), New Jersey (7), New York (24), North Carolina (2), Pennsylvania (5), Rhode Island (5), South Carolina (3), Texas (3), Virginia (5), and Wisconsin (12).
The raw yellowfin tuna product may have passed through several distributors before reaching the restaurant and grocery market, and may not be marked with lot information. Distributors and end users should consult their suppliers to determine the origin of any Nakaochi Scrape AA or AAA in their possession.
What are the Symptoms of Illness/Injury?
Most persons infected with Salmonella develop diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps 12 to 72 hours after infection. The illness usually lasts four to seven days, and most persons recover without treatment. However, in certain cases, the diarrhea may be so severe that the patient needs to be hospitalized. In these patients, the Salmonella infection may spread from the intestines to the blood stream, and then to other body sites and can cause death unless these patients are treated promptly with antibiotics.
Who is at Risk?
Infants, older adults, pregnant women, and persons with impaired immune systems are more likely than others to develop severe illness and should not eat raw or partially cooked fish or shellfish. If you are unsure of your risk, ask your healthcare provider.
What Do Consumers Need To Do?
Because raw seafood is not fully cooked to assure that pathogens are destroyed, it is not considered as “safe” as cooked seafood. The handling of raw seafood can also affect the safety of the product. Because the tuna may have been broken into unmarked sublots and may not be readily identifiable, consumers should take precautions in choosing to eat raw Nakaochi Scrape and be sure that it is not from the implicated lots.
Consumers should take precautions when choosing to eat raw seafood and be sure that the Nakaochi Scrape is not from the implicated lots. When in doubt, don’t eat it.
Consumers who think they might have become ill from eating possibly contaminated raw Nakaochi Scrape should consult their health care providers. Many of the people who became ill reported eating raw tuna in sushi as “spicy tuna.”
To report problems, including adverse reactions, related to any food except meat and poultry, contact the FDA district office consumer complaint coordinator for your geographic area (http://www.fda.gov/Safety/ReportaProblem/ConsumerComplaintCoordinators/d...).
What Do Product Sellers Need To Do?
Product sellers, including distributors and restaurants, should consult their suppliers to determine whether the Nakaochi Scrape AA or AAA in their possession originated from Moon Marine USA Corporation (also known as MMI). The product may not be accompanied by lot numbers or labeling information.
What Does the Product Look Like?
MMI distributed the Nakaochi Scrape AA and AAA to several distributors that may have broken the shipments into smaller lots for further distribution. The frozen raw yellowfin tuna product was originally packaged in white boxes with black writing naming the importer as Moon Marine USA Corporation (also known as MMI) and identifying the contents as either Nakaochi Scrape AA or AAA. The boxes contain several vacuum-wrapped packages with no further labeling.
What is Being Done about the Problem?
The FDA is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state and local partners to investigate the outbreak.The FDA is working closely with MMI to identify the implicated product and assist with its removal from the market.
This recall taken from: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm300412.htm
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The "Super Loaded Sub" Deli Chef brand sandwiches affected by this alert are sold in a
330 g package
bearing the UPC 0 56040 37452 6
Exp/Best Before date MAY 18
Establishment number (EST) 318.
This product has been distributed in Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island.
There have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of this product.
Food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes may not look or smell spoiled. Consumption of food contaminated with this bacteria may cause listeriosis, a foodborne illness. Listeriosis can cause high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness and nausea. Pregnant women, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk. Infected pregnant women may experience only a mild, flu-like illness, however, infections during pregnancy can lead to premature delivery, infection of the newborn, or even stillbirth.
The distributor, Les Aliments Deli Chef, Laval, Quebec, is voluntarily recalling the affected product from the marketplace. The CFIA is monitoring the effectiveness of the recall.
For more information consumers and industry can call the CFIA at 1-800-442-2342 / TTY 1-800-465-7735 (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday to Friday).
This recall taken from: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/corpaffr/recarapp/2012/20120413be.shtml
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E. coli in Beef and Peanuts Recalled. Clostridium botulinum in Dried Fish, Portland Shellfish Co. Shut for Violations & DeLauro Urges Labeling for Mechanically Tenderized Beef. Supermoms Needed!!
Thu, 04/12/2012 - 4:38pm — SRutledge
E. coli in Beef
Peanuts Recalled
Clostridium botulinum in Dried Fish
Portland Shellfish Co. Shut for Violations
DeLauro Urges Labeling for Mechanically Tenderized Beef
Supermoms Needed!
WASHINGTON, Town and Country Foods Inc., a Greene, Maine establishment, is recalling approximately 2,057 pounds of ground and tenderized beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The following products are subject to recall:
• 5- and 10- lb. boxes of 2-, 2.6-, 3-, and 4- oz. “Town & Country Foods XL Hamburg Patties”
• 5- and 10- lb. boxes of 2-, 2.6-, 3-, and 4- oz. “Town & Country Foods Hamburg Patties”
• 10- lb. box containing variously weighted bags of “Town & Country Beef for Stewing”
• 6-, 8-, and 10- oz. “Town & Country Beef Sirloin Filets”
• 5- and 10- lb. boxes containing variously weighted bags of “Town and Country Hamburg”
• 5- and 10- lb. boxes containing variously weighted bags of “Town and Country XL Hamburg”
View Labels (PDF only): www.fsis.usda.gov/images_recalls/024-2012.pdf
Each case bears a label with the establishment number “EST. 9710” inside the USDA mark of inspection. Additionally, the products contain the following packaging codes: 10952, 10962, 10972, 11002, and 11012. The products subject to recall were produced between April 4, 2012 and April 10, 2012 and were shipped to wholesale and retail establishments in Maine.
When available, the retail distribution list(s) will be posted on FSIS' website at www.fsis.usda.gov/
FSIS_Recalls/
Open_Federal_Cases
/index.asp.
This recall taken from: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/Recall_024_2012_Release/index.asp
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By Kristal Roberts
SUFFOLK, Va. - Kraft Foods is recalling Planters cocktail peanuts that may have been exposed to contaminated water.
About 3,000 cases of the item, sold in 12-ounce canisters, may have been washed in water not intended for food production.
No illnesses have been reported, but the company says they want to be cautious.
The recalled peanuts have the UPC code no. 2900007212 and expire on January 9, 2014. The date can be found on the bottom of the canister.
For more information, Kraft Foods customer relations can be reached at (800) 396-2133, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
This recall taken from: http://www.abcactionnews.com/dpp/money/consumer/planters-peanuts-recalle...
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Clostridium botulinum in Dried Fish
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Seng Ong Wholesale, Inc., St. Paul, MN is recalling dried mackerel and dried round scad after it was discovered by the Minnesota Dept. of Agriculture Laboratory personnel who confirmed that the product was not properly eviscerated prior to processing due to the presence of gills.
This product may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum spores, which can cause botulism, a serious and potentially fatal food-borne illness.
The sale of improperly eviscerated fish, 5 inches in length or greater, is prohibited because Clostridium botulinum spores. are more likely to be concentrated in the viscera than any other portion of the fish. Uneviscerated fish has been linked to outbreaks of botulism poisoning which may pose a potentially life-threatening health hazard. Symptoms of botulism include blurred or double vision, general weakness, poor reflexes, difficulty swallowing and respiratory paralysis which may lead to death. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.
The following products are recalled:
• Pacific Isles Hasa Hasa Dried Mackerel in 48 oz. cardboard cases with lot numbers 3298 and 0760 and is a product of the Philippines. This product was sold in Minnesota.
• Pacific Isles Galunggong Dried Round Scad in 48 oz. cardboard cases with lot numbers 3228 and 3168 and is a product of the Philippines. This product was sold in Minnesota and South Dakota.
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem. Consumers who have the above products are advised not to eat it, but should return it to the place of purchase. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 612-802-3240.
This recall taken from: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm299670.htm?source=govdelivery
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Portland Shellfish Co. Shut for Violations
By Edward D. Murphy
PORTLAND (Maine) — For the second time in a little more than a year, federal regulators have shut down Portland Shellfish Co., citing "numerous violations" of federal laws and health regulations and its agreement to fix food safety problems identified in early 2011.
The Food and Drug Administration also has ordered Portland Shellfish, which processes lobster and shrimp at its plant off Riverside Street, to recall and destroy seafood that the company's president said is worth about $25,000.
According to a letter to the company from FDA officials, Portland Shellfish won't be allowed to reopen until it updates its plans and procedures for making sure the seafood it processes is safe.
The FDA's letter, dated Monday and obtained by The Portland Press Herald, said a conveyor belt used in shrimp processing at the plant tested positive in February for listeria, a bacteria that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections.
The FDA said the company processed lobster in the same room during the period just before the positive test, and said that lobster must be recalled and destroyed.
Jeffrey Holden, president Portland Shellfish, said Tuesday that the lobster was processed on equipment that is about 70 feet from the contaminated conveyor belt. He said none of the lobster tested positive for listeria, and it is either stored in the company's warehouses or will be shipped back from customers.
This article continues at: http://www.pressherald.com/news/portland-shellfish-shut-for-violations_2...
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DeLauro Urges Labeling for Mechanically Tenderized Beef
Representative Rosa DeLauro (CT-3), Ranking Member on the Labor, Health, and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, called on U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Vilsack to label mechanically tenderized beef products to better protect the public from foodborne illness. A 2008 USDA study indicated that approximately 50 million pounds of mechanically tenderized beef products were sold every month. Consumers must know that mechanically tenderized beef products are non-intact cuts and should thus be prepared and cooked similar to ground beef, which includes a higher cooking temperature than intact, non-mechanically tenderized, whole cuts of beef. But, mechanically tenderized beef products are not currently labeled to inform consumers that they have been mechanically tenderized and are not intact, whole cuts of beef. This leaves consumers unaware and puts their health unnecessarily at risk. Congresswoman DeLauro asked USDA to accurately label these mechanically tenderized beef products so consumers may make informed purchase and food preparation decisions. “In order to safely prepare these products, consumers must cook them to the appropriate temperature – a temperature which they cannot determine if they are unaware that the product is not a whole, intact cut of meat.” The letter notes that, “Continued inaction only places the public health at risk. It is imperative that the Agency act before another grilling season comes and goes, with tens of millions of pounds of mechanically tenderized beef products being sold to unaware consumers who unknowingly place themselves at risk.”
The text of the letter is here: http://delauro.house.gov/release.cfm?id=3323
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Thank you to everyone who has already submitted a contest entry form for the Supermoms Against Superbugs contest! If you have not already, you have until this Friday, April 13 to tell us why YOU, a mom (or dad, grandparent or caregiver), would like to come to our nation’s capitol on May 15 to urge federal policymakers to end the misuse and overuse of antibiotics on industrial farms.
We need your help to preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics. That is why we are asking you to get involved and let your powerful voice be heard in Washington and across the country! We plan to bring 25 to 30 moms to Washington, DC, for Supermoms Against Superbugs—a day of advocacy on May 15 funded by The Pew Charitable Trusts and in partnership with the American Academy of Pediatrics.
To find out more on how to participate, visit the event web site (http://saveantibiotics.org/contest.html) for more information. The deadline for submissions is Friday, April 13 and selected participants will be announced on Monday, April 16.
Additionally, for those not attending the event in Washington, DC, you will be able to participate in a virtual advocacy day on May 15. Stay tuned for more information about how to get involved—no planes, trains, or automobiles required, just a computer with an Internet connection, a smart phone, or a tablet.
Click here to visit the Supermoms Against Superbugs contest page: saveantibiotics.org/contest.html
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Salmonella in Dog Food AND Salmonella in Beef (Canada), Cryptosporidium in Parsley (Canada), Salmonella in Tahina (Canada), Hepatitis A in Berries (Canada), Sprouting Seed Recall Expanded (Canada)
Mon, 04/09/2012 - 4:39pm — SRutledge
Salmonella in Dog Food
Salmonella in Beef (Canada)
Cryptosporidium in Parsley (Canada)
Salmonella in Tahina (Canada)
Hepatitis A in Berries (Canada)
Sprouting Seed Recall Expanded (Canada)
This recall taken from: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-201_162-57410666/diamond-naturals-dog-food-v...
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Salmonella in Beef (Canada)
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Intercity Packers (East) Ltd are warning the public, distributors and food service establishments not to consume, sell, serve or use the beef burger meat mix described below because the product may be contaminated with Salmonella.
The affected product, Intercity Packers Ltd brand Beef Burger Meat Mix 80/20, is sold in 5 kg cases (each containing 2 x 2.5 kg units) bearing UPC 90066172180172 and lot code 046. The affected product can be identified by the Establishment number (EST) 503 that appears on the outer cases. The chubs inside the case do not carry any label.
This product has been distributed to public and commercial food establishments in Ontario and Newfoundland and possibly retailers in Newfoundland. Consumers in Newfoundland are advised to check with their store of purchase to determine if they have the affected product.
This is an ongoing food safety investigation. Provincial and local public health authorities are investigating an outbreak of Salmonella illnesses in Ottawa and southern Ontario in collaboration with federal health partners including the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada.
Food contaminated with Salmonella may not look or smell spoiled. Consumption of food contaminated with these bacteria may cause salmonellosis, a foodborne illness. In young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems, salmonellosis may cause serious and sometimes deadly infections. In otherwise healthy people, salmonellosis may cause short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhoea. Long-term complications may include severe arthritis.
The manufacturer, Intercity Packers (East) Ltd, Mississauga, Ontario is voluntarily recalling the affected product from the marketplace. The CFIA is monitoring the effectiveness of the recall.
For more information consumers and industry can call one of the following numbers:
Intercity Packers at 905-670-1023 ext. 222:
CFIA at 1-800-442-2342 / TTY 1-800-465-7735 (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday to Friday).
This recall taken from: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/corpaffr/recarapp/2012/20120406e.shtml
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Cryptosporidium in Parsley (Canada)
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is warning the public not to consume Boskovich brand fresh Parsley described below. The affected product may contain Cryptosporidium.
The affected product was sold only on March 19, 2012 from one store, Canada Safeway, 124 Primrose Dr., Lawson Heights Mall, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. The product was sold in bunches enclosed with a band indicating the Boskovich brand and Product of USA.
There have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of this product.
Food contaminated with Cryptosporidium hominis may not look or smell spoiled. Consumption of food contaminated with these protozoans may cause cryptosporidiosis, a foodborne illness. Cryptosporidiosis can cause gastroenteritis, watery diarrhea with cramping, abdominal pains and malaise. Symptoms are self limiting in healthy individuals but immunocompromised may experienced prolonged symptoms with increasing severity.
For more information consumers and industry can call the CFIA at 1-800-442-2342 / TTY 1-800-465-7735 (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday to Friday).
This article taken from: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/corpaffr/recarapp/2012/20120404ce.shtml
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Salmonella in Tahina (Canada)
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is warning the public not to consume the Ayyam Zaman brand Extra Fine Tahina described below because the product may be contaminated with Salmonella.
The affected product, Ayyam Zaman brand Extra Fine Tahina, is sold in 400 g packages bearing UPC 6 217000 429807 and a code starting with "EXP 10/08".
This product is known to have been distributed in Ontario and may have been distributed in other provinces as well.
There have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of this product.
Food contaminated with Salmonella may not look or smell spoiled. Consumption of food contaminated with these bacteria may cause salmonellosis, a foodborne illness. In young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems, salmonellosis may cause serious and sometimes deadly infections. In otherwise healthy people, salmonellosis may cause short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhoea. Long-term complications may include severe arthritis.
For more information consumers and industry can call the CFIA at 1-800-442-2342 / TTY 1-800-465-7735 (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday to Friday).
This recall taken from: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/corpaffr/recarapp/2012/20120405e.shtml
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Hepatitis A in Berries (Canada)
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Overwaitea Food Group are warning the public not to consume the Western Family brand Pomeberry Blend berries described below. The affected product may contain Hepatitis A virus.
The affected product Western Family brand Pomeberry Blend berries is sold frozen in 600g packages bearing UPC 0 62639 31347 0. All lot codes are affected.
This product is known to have been distributed in British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario and may also have been distributed to other provinces.
This recall is a result of an ongoing food safety investigation with BCCDC and regional health authorities into a number of cases of hepatitis A in British Columbia.
Food contaminated with Hepatitis A virus may not look or smell spoiled. Consumption of food contaminated with this virus may cause hepatitis and produce a self-limited disease that does not result in chronic infection or chronic liver disease. The illness is usually mild and starts about 15 to 50 days after the contaminated food is eaten. It generally goes away by itself in a week or two, although it can last up to 6 months in some people. It can cause inflammation of the liver, and symptoms may include fever, low appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches, and yellowing in the whites of the eyes and the skin (jaundice).
The distributor, Overwaitea Food Group, Vancouver, British Columbia is recalling the affected product from the marketplace. The CFIA is monitoring the effectiveness of the recall.
For more information consumers and industry can call the CFIA at 1-800-442-2342 / TTY 1-800-465-7735 (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday to Friday).
This recall taken from: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/corpaffr/recarapp/2012/20120405de.shtml
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Sprouting Seed Recall Expanded (Canada)
The public warning issued on March 30, 2012has been expanded to include additional product information.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Mumm's Sprouting Seeds Ltd. are warning the public not to consume the Mumm's brand Sprouting Seeds described below because these products may be contaminated with Salmonella.
The following Mumm's brand products are affected by this expanded recall:
Product: Sprouting Seeds Display Pack Size: Contains one 75g sunflower pack UPC 7 73295 11293 1 Lot# 4DPSM13
Product: Sprouting Seeds Best Sellers Size: Contains two 75g sunflower packs UPC 7 73295 11290 0 Lot# 1BSSM21
These products are known to have been distributed in British Columbia, Saskatchewan and New Brunswick and may have been distributed nationally.
There have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of these products.
Food contaminated with Salmonella may not look or smell spoiled. Consumption of food contaminated with these bacteria may cause salmonellosis, a foodborne illness. In young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems, salmonellosis may cause serious and sometimes deadly infections. In otherwise healthy people, salmonellosis may cause short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhoea. Long-term complications may include severe arthritis.
The importer, Mumm's Sprouting Seeds Ltd., Parkside, SK, is voluntarily recalling the affected product from the marketplace. The CFIA is monitoring the effectiveness of the recall.
For more information, consumers and industry can call one of the following numbers:
Mumm's Sprouting Seeds Ltd. at 306-747-2935;
CFIA at 1-800-442-2342 / TTY 1-800-465-7735 (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday to Friday).
This recall taken from: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/corpaffr/recarapp/2012/20120404be.shtml
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Raw Milk, Raw Milk Cheese Recalled and More
Wed, 04/04/2012 - 2:55pm — SRutledge
Salmonella in Raw Milk & Raw Milk Cheese
Listeria in Cheese (Canada)
Salmonella Outbreak Across 19 States- Spicy Tuna Rolls to Blame?
Final Report on Jimmy John's Outbreak
This article taken from: http://www.fox43.com/news/wpmt-raw-milk-recall-in-pennsylvania-20120402,...
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This recall taken from: http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/story/2012/04/03/bc-chees...
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The investigators are reportedly honing in on spicy tuna rolls it calls "highly suspect."
Reports of the foodborne illness have mainly come from the eastern seaboard and Gulf Coast, though cases have been reported as far west as Missouri and Texas. Investigators are focusing on six clusters of restaurants in Texas, Wisconsin, Maryland, Rhode Island and Connecticut.
Symptoms of salmonella include diarrhea, abdominal cramps and fever within eight to 72 hours of eating the contaminated food. The illness can be life-threatening in people with weakened immune systems or infants and the elderly.
According to CNN, news of the investigation surfaced when an internal memo was accidentally sent to everyone at the FDA.
FDA spokesman Curtis Allen would not confirm or elaborate on the information, saying the memo "contains numbers of cases and hospitalizations that cannot be confirmed at this time."
"It is too early to speculate on the cause of the outbreak," Allen said.
CDC spokesperson Lola Russell told CNN ,"on initial interviews, many of the ill persons reported consuming sushi, sashimi, or similar foods in a variety of locations in the week before becoming ill."
The FDA is working with the CDC and state officials to identify the source of the outbreak. Investigators conduct interviews with sick patients about what they've eaten and analyze menus and food ingredients to trace the path of the bacteria.
The memo notes there is likely a 30-day lag time between when people become sick and when cases are reported to health officials.
Previous outbreaks of salmonella barely have been linked to bean sprouts, which are grown in warm, damp conditions.
This article taken from: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504763_162-57409280-10391704/salmonella-spre...
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Final Report on Jimmy John's Outbreak
By Gretchen Goetz
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a final report on the multistate outbreak of E. coli infection linked to sprouts in Jimmy John's sandwiches.
Between late December 2011 and early March of 2012, 29 individuals were infected with E. coli O26 traced to raw clover sprouts from Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwich restaurants.
The case count in the Final Case Update is up 4 from the last update on March 8, which identified 25 victims. Three of the new cases were from states that had not reported any outbreak-related illnesses as of March. Those states - Pennsylvania, Washington and West Virginia - each reported one case. Michigan's victim count rose from 2 to 3.
The final breakdown of cases by state is as follows: Alabama (1), Arkansas (1), Iowa (5), Kansas (2), Michigan (10), Missouri (3), Ohio (3), Pennsylvania (1), Washington (1), Wisconsin (1) and West Virginia (1).
Seven of the infected people were hospitalized. None have developed HUS, a potential fatal complication of E. coli infections, and no deaths have been tied to the outbreak.
Of the 27 victims interviewed, 85 percent reported eating sprouts at Jimmy John's in the 7 days before their symptoms began.
This article continues at: http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2012/04/final-report-on-jimmy-johns-e-coli...
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