Month / June 2018

by admin

New #foodsafety #recall of 3,592 lbs of ready-to-eat (RTE) beef pastrami products due to underprocessing

Agri Star Meat And Poultry LLC Recalls Beef Pastrami Products due to Possible Processing Deviation

Class II Recall052-2018
Health Risk: LowJun 21, 2018
Congressional and Public Affairs

Jeremy J. Emmert
(202) 720-9113
Press@fsis.usda.gov

WASHINGTON, June 21, 2018 – Agri Star Meat and Poultry LLC, a Postville, Iowa establishment, is recalling approximately 3,592 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) beef pastrami products due to processing deviations that may have led to underprocessing of products and resulted in inadequate curing, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The RTE beef pastrami items were produced on April 3 and April 4, 2018. The following products are subject to recall:  [View Labels (PDF only)]

  • 21.6-lb. average case weight of fully cooked pastrami that are vacuum-packed using clear plastic and labeled “Aaron’s BEST Beef French Roast Pastrami WATER & CARRAGEENAN PRODUCT.” Both the product and the shipping box display a sticker indicating “BEST BEFORE 09/10/18.”
  • 23.1-lb. average case weight of fully cooked pastrami that are vacuum-packed using clear plastic and labeled “SHOR HABOR GLATT KOSHER Beef French Roast Pastrami WATER & CARRAGEENAN PRODUCT.” Both the product and the shipping box display a sticker indicating “BEST BEFORE 09/11/2018.”

The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST. 4653A” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped to distributors in California, Florida, Illinois, New York and Washington.

The problem was discovered on June 20, 2018, after the firm received a consumer complaint about product discoloration. The firm conducted an investigation and product testing and determined that not all products contained an adequate amount of the curing solution. The establishment notified FSIS on June 21, 2018.

There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact a healthcare provider.

Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

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.

Consumers and members of the media with questions about the recall can contact Lisa Beatty, Quality Assurance Manager at 563-864-7811 or Yaakov Labowitz, Vice President of Sales, at 514-648-8171 ext. 260.

by admin

Welcome to my new blog.

As some of you may know, I have moved my blog from blogger to WordPress and created the new doctormckeown.com website as well. I will continue to post #foodsafety #recalls, but I will also start posting other items, such as discussions on issues in hospitality, recipes that I am trying at home, new restaurants that I am learning about, and so forth. If there is a topic you are interested in hearing or learning about, please feel free to let me know. The email for my blog is edward@doctormckeown.com

Cheers!

by admin

New #foodsafety #recall possible #Salmonella #contamination of Now Real Food® Zesty Sprouting Mix

Now Health Group Inc. Recalls Select Now Real Food® Zesty Sprouting Mix Because of Possible Health Risk

June 21, 2018

Contact

Consumers

NOW’s Customer Service Department 
 888-669-3663

Media

Alana Horinko
  Alana.horinko@nowfoods.com 
 630-545-9098

Announcement

View Product Photos
NOW Health Group, Inc. (NOW), of Bloomingdale, Illinois, is recalling its NOW Real Food® Zesty Sprouting Mix – Product Code 7271, Lot #3031259 and Lot #3038165 – because its primary ingredient, Crimson Clover Seeds, 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.
Approximately 10,000 units of Zesty Sprouting Mix were distributed online and in retail stores nationwide since December 2017.
Recalled products include:
UPC Code Description Lot Number Best By Date
733739072719 NOW Real Food® Zesty Sprouting Mix, 16 oz. 3031259 (located on back of package) 12/20
733739072719 NOW Real Food® Zesty Sprouting Mix, 16 oz. 3038165 (located on back of package) 01/21
No other products are affected or are involved in this recall. No illnesses have been reported to date.
Evidence of potential contamination was implicated in ongoing FDA and CDC investigations into multistate outbreaks of Salmonella infections, of which the clover seed supplier was notified.
NOW has provided information on this recall to all its retailers who purchased this product and has encouraged retailers to make every effort to contact their customers to facilitate the return of affected products.
Consumers who have purchased the recalled Zesty Sprouting Mix should stop using the product immediately and return it to place of purchase for a full refund. Receipt is not required for refund.
Consumers with questions regarding this recall can contact NOW’s Customer Service Department by phone at 888-NOW-FOODS (888-669-3663) Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Central time.
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by admin

New #foodsafety #recall possible #Ecoli #contamination of 489 lbs of frozen raw, ground beef products

Texas Natural Meats Recalls Frozen Raw Ground Beef Products

Class I Recall051-2018
Health Risk: HighJun 20, 2018
Congressional and Public Affairs
Jeremy J. Emmert
(202) 720-9113
Press@fsis.usda.gov
WASHINGTON, June 20, 2018 – Texas Natural Meats, a Lott, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 489 pounds of frozen raw, ground beef products that may be contaminated with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) O103, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The frozen raw, ground beef items were produced on Aug. 8, 2017.  The following products are subject to recall:  [View Label (PDF only)]
      
• 1.00-lb. bags of “Green Field Farms Rogers Texas Ground Beef.”  The bags display the “PRODUCTION DATE 08.08.2017” and also display the “EXPIRATION DATE 08.08.2020.”  The bags are labeled “COOK USE ONLY” with the instruction “DO NOT refreeze after defrosting.”  
 
The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST. 34449” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped to a retailer who sold the product at a farmer’s market in Roger, Texas.
                            
The problem was discovered on June 19, 2018 by FSIS during routine inspection activities. The product was tested by the establishment and found to be positive for STEC O103 under their sampling program.
People can become ill from STECs 2–8 days (average of 3–4 days) after consuming the organism. Most people infected with STEC O103 develop diarrhea (often bloody) and vomiting. Some illnesses last longer and can be more severe. Infection is usually diagnosed by testing of a stool sample. Vigorous rehydration and other supportive care is the usual treatment; antibiotic treatment is generally not recommended. Most people recover within a week, but, rarely, some develop a more severe infection. Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a type of kidney failure, is uncommon with STEC O103 infection. HUS can occur in people of any age but is most common in children under 5 years old, older adults and persons with weakened immune systems. It is marked by easy bruising, pallor and decreased urine output. Persons who experience these symptoms should seek emergency medical care immediately.

FSIS is concerned that some product may be frozen and in consumers’ freezers Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

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/recalls.
           
FSIS advises all consumers to safely prepare their raw meat products, including fresh and frozen, and only consume ground beef that has been cooked to a temperature of 160°F. The only way to confirm that ground beef is cooked to a temperature high enough to kill harmful bacteria is to use a food thermometer that measures internal temperature, http://1.usa.gov/1cDxcDQ.
Media and consumers with questions regarding the recall can contact C.W. Whorton, Plant Manager, at (254) 584-0115.
by admin

New #foodsafety #recall undeclared #sulfite #allergen in Dried Apricots Sour

Golden Star Wholesale Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Sulfites in Dried Apricots Sour

June 19, 2018

Contact

Consumers

Saad Shammas 
 248-577-5080

Announcement

View Product Photos
Golden Star Wholesale of Troy, MI 48084 is recalling, AL Reef  Dried Apricots Sour, because it may contain undeclared sulfites. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to sulfites run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume this product.
The recalled AL Reef  Dried Apricots Sour, 12 oz clear plastic container, un-coded were sold via retail stores in MI, NY,MN,KY,WI,FL,NC,VA,OR,MA,OH,TX,MO between November 2017 and May 2018.
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.
The recall was initiated after routine sampling of the product by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets food inspectors and subsequent analysis by Department food laboratory personnel revealed the presence of undeclared sulfites in Al Reef Dried Apricot Sour package that did not declare sulfites on the label.
Consumers who have purchased AL Reef Dried Apricot Sour should return it to the place of purchase. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 248-577-5080.
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by admin

Updated & Expanded #foodsafety #recall possible #Cyclospora #contamination in Del Monte Fresh Vegetable Trays

Del Monte Fresh Produce N.A., Inc. Voluntarily Recalls Limited Quantity of Vegetable Trays in a Multistate Outbreak of Cyclospora Illnesses in Select Retailers in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, Because of Possible Health Risk

For Immediate Release
June 15, 2018

Contact

Consumers

Del Monte Fresh
Contact-US-Executive-Office@freshdelmonte.com
1-800-659-6500

Announcement

View Product Photos
CORAL GABLES, FL. – Del Monte Fresh Produce N.A., Inc. (“Del Monte Fresh”) announced today, the voluntary recall of a limited quantity of 6 oz., 12 oz. and 28 oz. vegetable trays containing fresh broccoli, cauliflower, celery sticks, carrots, and dill dip sold to select retailers in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Del Monte was notified by state agencies of the outbreak and its potential involvement. Del Monte has recalled the products because they may be linked to this recent cluster of illnesses and have the potential to be contaminated with Cyclospora, a parasite that can cause the intestinal illness Cyclosporiasis. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the infection usually is not life threatening. Symptoms of Cyclosporiasis may include the following: watery diarrhea (most common), loss of appetite, weight loss, cramping, bloating, increased gas, nausea, fatigue. Other symptoms that may occur but are less common include the following: vomiting and/or low-grade fever.
The recalled products were distributed to: Kwik Trip, Kwik Star, Demond’s, Sentry, Potash, Meehan’s, Country Market, Food Max Supermarket and Peapod in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin and have “Best If Enjoyed By” date of June 17, 2018 or earlier. The recalled products were distributed for sale in clear plastic containers with the following labels and markings:
Product Name Most Recent
Best By date		 Components UPC Code
Del Monte 6 oz. Veg Tray w/dip 6/17/2018 Baby carrots, broccoli, cauliflower and dill dip 7 1752472715 2
Del Monte 12 oz. Veg Tray w/dip 6/17/2018 Baby carrots, broccoli, cauliflower and dill dip 7 1752472518 9
Del Monte 28 oz. Small Veg Tray w/dip 6/17/2018 Baby carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, celery sticks and dill dip 7 1752478604 3
 
Consumers who believe that they are in possession of any of the above products affected by this recall should dispose of the product in an appropriate waste container. For any inquiries, consumers may call 24 hour customer service line at 1-800-659-6500 or email Del Monte Fresh at Contact-US-Executive-Office@freshdelmonte.com.
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by admin

Grand Opening of Your Pie Flagstaff today

Today was the grand opening of the new “Your Pie” pizza restaurant here in Flagstaff, AZ. I arrived early to get a good spot and to be the first person in line, which I was. The food was excellent, just like during the soft opening earlier this week. Here is a picture of the Grand Opening Crew. A great group of employees.

I made a video of me ordering my pizza and going through the line up until I received my pizza and cheese sticks. The video is 5 minutes and 28 seconds in length, and that is exactly how long it took for me to order my pizza, pay, and have it delivered to me. My order on the video is a pizza with a white crust (versus wheat or gluten free) and marinara sauce. I then have them add extra shredded mozzarella cheese, mushrooms, jalapenos, and pepperoni. Last time (Monday, during the soft opening), i did not ask for some Parmesan cheese and oregano to be added on top. Today I did add those two items and it made the pizza much better, in my opinion. I hope you enjoy a look at how the process works.

Again, I would highly recommend that you go out and give Your Pie a taste. If there is a line, it may take a bit longer than the five minutes you see in my video, but the wait is definitely worth it. Trust me. I will be back to try different items.

by admin

New #foodsafety #recall & #investigation possible #Cyclospora #contamination of Del Monte Vegetable Trays sold at Kwik Trip/Kwik Star locations in IA, MN, and WI

FDA Investigates Multistate Outbreak of Cyclospora illnesses linked to Del Monte Vegetable Trays

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state and local officials have been investigating a cluster of cyclosporiasis illnesses associated with recalled Del Monte vegetable trays from Kwik Trip/Kwik Star locations in the United States.

What is the Problem and What is Being Done About It?

FDA, CDC, state, and local partners are currently investigating several Cyclospora illnesses associated with recalled Del Monte 6oz and 12oz vegetable trays containing broccoli, cauliflower, carrots and dill dip that were sold by Kwik Trip/Kwik Star locations in IA, MN, and WI. Additionally, Del Monte is recalling “small veggie trays,” which are 28oz and include broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, celery and dill dip that were distributed to Illinois and Indiana.
As of June 15, 2018, CDC has reported 78 laboratory-confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis in persons from IA, MN, WI and MI who reportedly consumed the vegetable trays. The two cases from Michigan reportedly purchased the vegetable tray in Wisconsin and therefore Michigan is not impacted from this outbreak.
On June 8, 2018, Del Monte withdrew their 6oz and 12oz vegetable trays from retail market locations, and they are not currently available for purchase. However, consumers who purchased these trays before the withdrawal may still have product in their homes since the expiration date is June 17, 2018 or earlier. The 28oz vegetable trays that were distributed to IL and IN are being recalled as of June 15, 2018. Del Monte reports the recalled products were distributed to: Kwik Trip, Kwik Star, Demond’s, Sentry, Potash, Meehan’s, Country Market, FoodMax Supermarket and Peapod in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin and have “Best If Enjoyed By” date of June 17, 2018 or earlier.
FDA has not identified which of the ingredients is the vehicle for this outbreak; each component of these vegetable trays is under consideration. FDA is currently reviewing distribution and supplier information related to the vegetable trays; the investigation is ongoing.

What is Cyclospora?

Cyclospora cayetanensis is a microscopic parasite of humans. This parasite, when it contaminates food or water and is then ingested, can cause an intestinal illness called cyclosporiasis.
The Cyclospora parasite needs time (days to weeks) after being passed in a bowel movement to become infectious for another person. Therefore, it is unlikely that cyclosporiasis is passed directly from one person to another.
For more information on Cyclospora: http://www.cdc.gov/parasites/cyclosporiasis/  

What are the Symptoms of Cyclosporiasis?

Most people infected with Cyclospora develop diarrhea, with frequent, sometimes explosive, bowel movements. Other common symptoms include loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps/pain, bloating, increased gas, nausea, and fatigue. Vomiting, body aches, headache, fever, and other flu-like symptoms may be noted. Some people who are infected with Cyclospora do not have any symptoms. If not treated, the illness may last from a few days to a month or longer. Symptoms may seem to go away and then return one or more times (relapse).

Who is at Risk?

People can become infected with Cyclospora by consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite. People living or traveling in countries where cyclosporiasis is endemic, including certain tropical or subtropical regions of the world, may be at increased risk for infection.

What Do Restaurants and Retailers Need To Do?

We do not expect retailers to have any of this recalled product; however, if they think they may, retailers should discard and not sell any Del Monte vegetable trays related to this warning.

What do Consumers Need to Do?

Consumers who have purchased recalled Del Monte 6oz, 12oz and 28oz vegetable trays from IA, IL, MN, and WI should discard the product immediately. Cooking or heating produce at high temperature will kill most pathogens, including parasites such as Cyclospora, and thus significantly reduces the likelihood of illness. This holds true for any produce that may contain Cyclospora. Washing or cleaning processes may not be sufficient to eliminate the pathogen.

Who should be Contacted?

Contact your healthcare provider if you have diarrhea that lasts for more than three days. The FDA encourages consumers with questions about food safety to Submit An Inquiry, or to visit www.fda.gov/fcic for additional information.

Additional Information

Sample Product Images

Del Monte Small Veg Tray with Dip Sample Label 1
Del Monte Small Veg Tray with Dip Sample Package 1
Del Monte Small Veg Tray with Dip Sample Label 3
Del Monte Small Veg Tray with Dip Sample Package 2
Del Monte Small Veg Tray with Dip Sample Label 2
Del Monte Small Veg Tray with Dip Sample Package 3
by admin

Updated #foodsafety #recall of Kellog’s Honey Smacks due to #Salmonella #contamination

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state and local partners, are investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Mbandaka illnesses that may be linked to Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal.
June 15, 2018 Update
The FDA is advising consumers to not eat and to discard any Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal. This is regardless of size or “best if used by” dates. The recall notice accounts for all of the product that is on the market within the cereal’s estimated one year shelf-life. However, Honey Smacks products with earlier dates could also potentially be contaminated.
The FDA is also disclosing a more detailed list of foreign countries to which the Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal was distributed. Here is the list of the foreign countries:
Aruba/Curaçao/Saint Maarten (Netherlands Antilles), the Bahamas, Barbados, Tortola (British Virgin Islands), Costa Rica, Guatemala, Haiti, Mexico, Panama, and Tahiti (French Polynesia). 

Fast Facts

  • The FDA, CDC, along with state and local officials are investigating a multi-state outbreak of SalmonellaMbandaka infections. Kellogg’s Honey Smacks sweetened puffed wheat cereal are a likely source of this outbreak.
  • The CDC reports that 73 people in 31 states have become ill. There have been 24 hospitalizations and no deaths.
  • Following discussion with FDA, CDC, and state partners, the Kellogg Company voluntarily recalled Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal. The recalled products were distributed across the United States including Guam and Saipan and internationally. Consumers should not eat any Honey Smacks cereal.
  • The FDA’s staff has initiated an inspection at the facility that manufactures Kellogg’s Honey Smacks and is working quickly with the company to collect additional information.
  • As this is an ongoing investigation, the FDA will update this page as more information becomes available, such as product information, epidemiological results, and recalls.
  • The FDA provided a more detailed a list of foreign countries to which the Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal was distributed.. Here is the list of the foreign countries: Aruba/Curaçao/Saint Maarten (Netherlands Antilles), the Bahamas, Barbados, Tortola (British Virgin Islands), Costa Rica, Guatemala, Haiti, Mexico, Panama, and Tahiti (French Polynesia).
  • The FDA is advising consumers to not eat and discard any Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal. This is regardless of size or “best if used by” dates. The recall notice accounts for all of the product that is on the market within the cereal’s estimated one year shelf-life. However, Honey Smacks products with earlier dates could also potentially be contaminated.  
  • Consumers who have symptoms of Salmonella infection should contact their health care provider to report their symptoms and receive care. Most people infected with Salmonella develop diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Most infections usually lasts 4 to 7 days and most people recover without treatment, however some people develop diarrhea so severe that they need to be hospitalized.

What is the Problem and What is Being Done About It?

The FDA, CDC, along with state and local officials are investigating a multi-state outbreak of Salmonella Mbandaka infections. Epidemiologic and preliminary traceback evidence indicates that Kellogg’s Honey Smacks sweetened puffed wheat cereal is a likely source of this outbreak. 
The FDA and CDC, along with our state partners contacted The Kellogg Company and as a result of discussions, the company has voluntarily recalled Kellogg’s Honey Smacks to prevent further distribution of potentially contaminated products. The recalled products were distributed across the United States including Guam and Saipan, and internationally in certain countries.
There are 73 people ill with this strain of Salmonella in 31 states: Alabama (2), Arizona (1), California (5), Connecticut (3), Georgia (2), Illinois (1), Indiana (3), Kentucky (1), Louisiana (2), Massachusetts (5), Maryland (1), Michigan (4), Mississippi (1), Montana (1), North Carolina (3), New Hampshire (1), New Jersey (3), New York (7), Ohio (1), Oklahoma (2), Oregon (1), Pennsylvania (5), Rhode Island (2), South Carolina (1), Tennessee (1), Texas (2), Utah (1), Virginia (4), Washington (3), Wisconsin (1), West Virginia (3).The ages of the ill people range from less than one year to 87 (median 58 years) and 65% of cases are female. Reported illness onset dates range from 3/3/18 – 5/28/18. Among 55 with available information, 24 (44%) have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported.

Recalled Products

Description (Retail)
Size
BEST if Used By Date
Honey Smacks (with limited distribution outside the U.S.) 15.3 oz. JUN 14, 2018 through JUN 14, 2019
Honey Smacks 23 oz. JUN 14, 2018 through JUN 14, 2019
Kellogg’s Honey Smacks Cereal

What are the Symptoms of Salmonella Infections? 

Most people infected with Salmonella develop diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days, and most people recover without treatment. Most people infected with Salmonella develop diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps 12 to 72 hours after infection.
In some people, the diarrhea may be so severe that they need to be hospitalized. In these patients, the Salmonellainfection may spread from the intestines to the blood stream and then to other body sites and can cause death unless the person is treated promptly with antibiotics.

Who is at Risk?

Children are the most likely to get salmonellosis. The rate of diagnosed infections in children less than five years old is higher than the rate in all other people. Children younger than five, the elderly, and those people with weakened immune systems are more likely to have severe infections. It is estimated that approximately 400 persons in the United States die each year with acute salmonellosis. 

What Do Restaurants and Retailers Need To Do?

Retailers should not sell and should discard all recalled products. The recalled products were distributed across the United States including Guam and Saipan, and internationally in: 
Aruba/Curaçao/Saint Maarten (Netherlands Antilles), the Bahamas, Barbados, Tortola (British Virgin Islands), Costa Rica, Guatemala, Haiti, Mexico, Panama, and Tahiti (French Polynesia)
Retailers, restaurants, and other food service operators should always practice safe food handling and preparation measures. It is recommended that they wash hands, utensils, and surfaces with hot, soapy water before and after handling food.
  • Wash and sanitize display cases and refrigerators regularly.
  • Wash and sanitize cutting boards, surfaces, and utensils used to prepare, serve, or store food.
  • Wash hands with hot water and soap following the cleaning and sanitation process.
  • Regular frequent cleaning and sanitizing of food contact surfaces and utensils used in food preparation may help to minimize the likelihood of cross-contamination.

What Do Consumers Need To Do?

The FDA is advising consumers to not eat and discard any Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal. This is regardless of size or “best if used by” dates. If already purchased, consumers should throw it away or return to the place of purchase for a refund. The FDA continues to collect information to determine any additional sources. The FDA will update this posting as soon as more information becomes available.
Consumers should always practice safe food handling and preparation measures. It is recommended that they wash hands, utensils, and surfaces with hot, soapy water before and after handling food.

Who Should be Contacted?

People who think they might have symptoms of a Salmonella infection should consult their health care provider. The FDA encourages consumers with questions about food safety to Submit An Inquiry, or to visit www.fda.gov/fcic for additional information.
by admin

New #foodsafety #recall #Salmonella #contamination of Kellog’s Honey Smacks cereal

Multistate Outbreak of Salmonella Mbandaka Infections Linked to Kellogg’s Honey Smacks Cereal

Posted June 14, 2018 8:30 PM ET

Highlights

CDC recommends people do not eat recalled Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal because it has been linked to a multistate outbreak of Salmonella infections.
  • Do not eat recalled Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal. Check your home for it and throw it away, or return it to the place of purchase for a refund.
    • Retailers should not sell or serve recalled Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal.
  • On June 14, 2018, the Kellogg Company recalled 15.3 oz. and 23 oz. packages of Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal.
    • Recalled Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal have a “best if used by” date from June 14, 2018 through June 14, 2019. The “best if used by” date is on the box top.
    • The recalled 15.3 oz. Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal has a UPC code of 38000 39103. The recalled 23.0 oz. Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal has a UPC code of 38000 14810. The UPC code is on the bottom of the box.
  • Even if some of the cereal was eaten and no one got sick, throw the rest of it away or return it for a refund.
    • If you store cereal in a container without the packaging and don’t remember the brand or type, throw it away.
    • Thoroughly wash the container with warm, soapy water before using it again to remove harmful germs that could contaminate other food.
Investigation details:
  • CDC, public health and regulatory officials in several states, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration are investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Mbandaka infections.
    • 73 people infected with the outbreak strain have been reported from 31 states.
    • 24 people have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported.
  • Epidemiologic evidence indicates that Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal is a likely source of this multistate outbreak.
  • This investigation is ongoing and CDC will provide updates when more information is available.

Initial Announcement

June 14, 2018

CDC, public health and regulatory officials in several states, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration are investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Mbandaka infections.
Public health investigators are using the PulseNet system to identify illnesses that may be part of this outbreak. PulseNet is the national subtyping network of public health and food regulatory agency laboratories coordinated by CDC. DNA fingerprinting is performed on Salmonella bacteria isolated from ill people by using techniques called pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and whole genome sequencing (WGS). CDC PulseNet manages a national database of these DNA fingerprints to identify possible outbreaks. WGS gives a more detailed DNA fingerprint than PFGE.
As of June 14, 2018, 73 people infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Mbandaka have been reported from 31 states. A list of the states and the number of cases in each can be found on the Case Count Map page.
Illnesses started on dates from March 3, 2018, to May 28, 2018. Ill people range in age from less than one year to 87, with a median age of 58. Sixty-five percent are female. Out of 55 people with information available, 24 (44%) have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported.
Illnesses that occurred after May 22, 2018, might not yet be reported due to the time it takes between when a person becomes ill and when the illness is reported. This takes an average of 2 to 4 weeks. Please see the Timeline for Reporting Cases of SalmonellaInfection for more details.

Investigation of the Outbreak

Epidemiologic evidence indicates that Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal is a likely source of this multistate outbreak.
In interviews, ill people answered questions about the foods they ate and other exposuresin the week before they became ill. Thirty (77%) of 39 people interviewed reported eating cold cereal. In interviews, 14 people specifically reported eating Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal. Ill people in this outbreak reported this cereal more often than any other cereals or food items.
On June 14, 2018, the Kellogg Company recalled 15.3 oz. and 23 oz. packages of Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal.
Recalled Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal have a “best if used by” date from June 14, 2018 through June 14, 2019. The “best if used by” date is on the box top.
The recalled 15.3 oz. Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal has a UPC code of 38000 39103. The recalled 23.0 oz. Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal has a UPC code of 38000 14810. The UPC code is on the bottom of the box.
CDC will provide updates when more information is available.