Feed aggregator

Memphis-based Sedgwick is out with a firehose of data about product recalls during the first quarter of 2024 with mixed results for food safety.

According to the Recall Index, overall, U.S. product recalls were up 8 percent during the first quarter of 2024 over the previous quarter. Sedgwick counted 909 recalls during the first period, the highest single quarter total over five years.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recalls rose 27.6 percent over the previous quarter for 134 events during the first period of 2024. USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) recalls fell 31.6 percent to 13 during the first quarter of 2024.

Only three previous quarters during the past five years recorded more FDA events.   Of the current total, 51 FDA recalls were for undeclared allergens, making it the leading cause of food recalls. The weight of FSIS recalls did increase by 22.1 percent to 378,055 pounds for 2024’s first quarter.

Sedgwick reported that the FDA, USDA, and the Federal Trade Commission are working to keep consumers safe and provide them with accurate information about food being purchased.  “However, the new measures also illustrate how many entities are involved in food safety and the complexities the food industry faces,” the report states.  “Stakeholders must monitor regulatory activity and enforcement actions closely.”

Sedgwick also reports that “after  being finalized last year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) final rule is now being enforced by the agency.” 

“The goal of the law is to improve organic control systems and farm-to-market traceability to address “organic fraud.” It applies to the National Organic Program (NOP) and puts in place regulations around the production, handling, and sale of agricultural products labeled as organic,” it said.

The comments also included these:

“Companies will closely follow how strictly the USDA will monitor producers and suppliers and when the first enforcement actions will be.”

“One area that is a focus of enforcement is lead contamination, especially in food products aimed at children. In response to an ongoing recall of applesauce found to contain extremely high lead levels, the FDA has increased testing and issued more voluntary recalls for cinnamon and cinnamon products. The theory is that criminal actors intentionally add lead to ground cinnamon to increase the weight, and thus the price.”

“Another issue affecting children is the ongoing 2022 infant formula crisis analysis. In March, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) released a report exploring the market factors contributing to the supply disruptions that followed product recalls.”

The analysis highlights three key factors. First, only a few manufacturers have controlled the U.S. infant formula market for decades. 

“Second is how rebates are structured under the USDA’s Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program that gives market exclusivity to companies that participate in the program. And third is the FDA’s extensive regulation of infant formula, which includes a 15-week preclinical study and long premarket submission periods, acting as a barrier to entry, according to the FTC.”

“The FDA is also tackling health risks believed to be linked to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). In February, the agency announced that manufacturers’ voluntary phase-out of certain types of PFAS used to grease-proof food-packaging materials was complete. The FDA said these substances were no longer being sold in the U.S. for food packaging.”

About Sedgwick 

With 31,000 people in 80 countries, Sedgwick is a leading global provider of technology-enabled risk, benefits, and integrated business solutions. It provides a broad range of resources tailored to clients’ specific needs in casualty, property, marine, benefits, brand protection, and other areas.

(To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News, click here.)

Scientists have been unable to find the source of a rare type of Salmonella that affected some people in China.

Two children with diarrhea visited a healthcare facility within 24 hours in August 2023. Salmonella Grumpensis was detected in stool samples by a public health laboratory in Shanghai.

According to the study published in China CDC Weekly, the local Chinese Salmonella genome database contained no recorded instances of the serotype, suggesting it is an infrequent occurrence.

Scientists say that discovering two instances of this unusual serotype within 24 hours signals a red flag for a possible outbreak and underscores the pathogen’s transmission capability.

Two young boys, aged 1 and 2 years old, went to the hospital in August with similar clinical symptoms of bloody diarrhea and abdominal pain.

A gap in understanding
Initial findings showed no evidence of typical sources of infection such as dining out, travel, contact with symptomatic individuals, consumption of raw water, undercooked foods, or owning pets. The epidemiological investigation did not yield a probable source due to limited data, but the possibility of a shared infection was deemed feasible.

Laboratory personnel collected specimens from the household of one case. They included stool from family members, uneaten food, and environmental swabs. No Salmonella was detected.

Whole genome sequencing results suggested a strong genetic similarity of both isolates, pointing to a common source.

Analysis of 51 Salmonella Grumpensis genomes in the NCBI database revealed it had been found in 11 countries, with the highest numbers being Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Strains were isolated between 2005 and 2023, and sample types included humans, food, plants, and poultry.

“The limited availability of information on Salmonella Grumpensis globally highlights a gap in understanding its sources and transmission patterns. This serotype has been prevalent in 11 countries and regions globally since 2005, with sources ranging from animal products to plant-based items like chili powders,” said scientists.

“This study highlights the crucial contribution of public health laboratories in identifying and addressing outbreaks of uncommon Salmonella serotypes. It underscores the common dilemma public health departments face in confirming outbreaks that exhibit typical characteristics but are challenging to confirm through regular surveillance due to few cases or unidentified sources.”

Prevalence and diversity of pathogens in Beijing
Researchers examined 1,011 stool samples from suspected foodborne illness cases in another study and found 35 pathogens. The analysis indicated a significant presence of Clostridium perfringens, Salmonella, enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC), and adenovirus. Also, co-infections were identified in 720 samples.

From January 2022 to April 2023, scientists studied stool specimens from patients diagnosed with foodborne diseases in 28 hospitals across Beijing.

Clostridium perfringens had the highest positivity rate at 52 percent among the samples analyzed, followed by Salmonella, ETEC, and adenovirus. Enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) and enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC) were also prevalent.

Pathogens found in 5 percent to 15 percent of samples included Staphylococcus aureus, Campylobacter jejuni, rotavirus, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Shigella/Enteroinvasive E. coli (EIEC), Cronobacter, Aeromonas spp., norovirus, and Vibrio cholera.

Of the co-infections, most involved one, two, or three pathogens, with rare cases having up to nine pathogens detected.

Researchers said while detecting Clostridium perfringens is of interest, it does not suggest a pathogenic role in each instance.

“This finding highlights the critical need to differentiate between true pathogens and commensal organisms within the gastrointestinal tract, offering insights for future efforts to identify bona fide pathogens.”

Scientists plan to extend sample collection efforts and conduct assessments between culture-independent diagnostic test (CIDT) results and traditional culture methods.

(To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News, click here.)

The Kankakee County Health Department and Illinois Department of Public Health are investigating an outbreak of Salmonella infections associated with a Cracker Barrel restaurant.

As of May 14, the county department had identified eight people who had eaten food prepared at the restaurant at 50 Ken Hayes Dr. in Bourbonnais with Salmonella infections.

Cracker Barrel voluntarily closed the restaurant on May 4 and is cooperating with the county health department to determine a source of the infections. The department performed an environmental assessment of Cracker Barrel and provided guidance on safe food handling practices and environmental cleaning to prevent further spread of disease.

The county health department has also issued an alert to area physicians about the outbreak, providing medical guidance. 

The county health department is monitoring closely for additional reports of illness. If you experience diarrheal illness after consuming food from this establishment, contact the department at 815-802-9400 option 3 to option 3 to file a suspected food poisoning complaint.

About Salmonella infections
Food contaminated with Salmonella bacteria does not usually look, smell, or taste spoiled. Anyone can become sick with a Salmonella infection. Infants, children, seniors, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of serious illness because their immune systems are fragile, according to the CDC.

Anyone who has eaten at the restaurant and developed symptoms of Salmonella infection should seek medical attention. Sick people should tell their doctors about the possible exposure to Salmonella bacteria because special tests are necessary to diagnose salmonellosis. Salmonella infection symptoms can mimic other illnesses, frequently leading to misdiagnosis.

Symptoms of Salmonella infection can include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 12 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food. Otherwise, healthy adults are usually sick for four to seven days. In some cases, however, diarrhea may be so severe that patients require hospitalization.

Older adults, children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients, are more likely to develop a severe illness and serious, sometimes life-threatening conditions.

Some people get infected without getting sick or showing any symptoms. However, they may still spread the infections to others.

Illnesses among patrons of Coho Cafe in Issaquah, WA, spurred an investigation by public health officials, which is being reported on now.

Reports of sick people All had symptoms suggesting norovirus infection, according the Seattle & King County Public Health Department. The department could not find a specific food or drink item that could have been the cause of the outbreak, which included six people.

Symptoms reported by the sick people included vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and chills. No sick employees were identified at the restaurant.

“After the initial reports of illness, Environmental Health Investigators visited the restaurant on March 27, 2024. We directed restaurant management to do a thorough cleaning and disinfection because we suspected norovirus, a very common cause of gastrointestinal illness,” according to the report from the health department.

“During our visit, we observed an employee putting on gloves before washing their hands, a potential risk factor for spreading illness. We had the employee wash their hands and discussed proper hand washing with staff. We also provided further education about preventing the spread of norovirus. Prevention measures include proper handwashing, preventing bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods, and appropriate cleaning and disinfection.”

Health department staff revisited the restaurant on April 10 and found they had done appropriate cleaning and disinfection with correct handwashing practices in place.

The health department received another report of sick people after that and Environmental Health Investigators visited the restaurant again on April 24. All staff at the restaurant were interviewed about symptoms of illness. Health inspectors also required all remaining staff confirm to management that they were not sick before starting their next shift. We directed them to conduct a second round of deep cleaning and disinfection and helped update their staff illness policy to meet food code requirements.

The health department staff reviewed the restaurant’s practice for letting staff return to work after they are sick with gastrointestinal illness. Staff must wait at least 24 hours after symptoms stop before returning to work. When the illness might be norovirus, staff must wait at least 48 hours after symptoms stop before returning to work.

(To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News,click here)

M-C McLane International of Houston, TX is recalling canned jalapenos because of glass contamination.

According to the details posted online by the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), the recall was initiated on Feb. 10, 2024, and is ongoing.

The recalled products were distributed in Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin.

Recalled product:

Jalapenos packed in 6lb 10oz cans. 6 cans per case

• Product Quantity: 2991 cases
• Code Information: manufactured 6/8/2023 Item# 7245444 Lots: 1305/1377

Consumers should not use this product. Recalled products should be thrown out or returned to their place of purchase.

(To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News, click here.)

The FDA has declared tara flour as a not “Generally Recognized As Safe” food and banned its use and importation in the United States. The action comes almost two years after an outbreak linked to the ingredient.

The flour was the implicated ingredient in Daily Harvest French Lentil + Leek Crumbles, and Revive Superfoods’ Mango & Pineapple Smoothies that sickened about 500 people in the United States and Canada in 2022.

The determination of tara flour as not Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) means that it or any food made with it is considered adulterated and therefore illegal for sale or use in the United States.

Congress created the GRAS designation in 1958 for food additives with a long history of safe use in food. The GRAS designation allows food companies to bypass the traditional premarket approval process for ingredients by showing that there is a consensus among scientific experts that a substance is safe for its intended use. 

The action by the Food and Drug Administration on May 15 comes after a letter from a toxicologist at the agency’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN) on April 10 this year that outlines problems with tara flour. The names of the toxicologist and the CFSAN administrator to whom the letter was written have been redacted.

“The serious adverse events and liver injury with food products containing tara flour raise serious safety questions. Overall, at this time, the available data are insufficient to support the safety of tara flour for use as a food ingredient that will be consumed by the general public,” according to the toxicologist’s letter. “… Currently, there are no internationally recognized food standards or specifications to support the safe processing and consumption of tara flour as an ingredient in food.”

Similar findings in Canada resulted in the ban of use of tara flour in that country in September of 2023.

About 470 people across 39 U.S. states became ill after consuming Daily Harvest French Lentil + Leek Crumbles in 2022. Additional people reported becoming ill after consuming Revive Superfoods’ Mango & Pineapple Smoothies made with tara flour that year. No other foods had been or were at that time manufactured with tara flour for consumption in the United States. 

The patients developed food poisoning symptoms plus liver and gallbladder problems. More than 40 people had to have their gallbladders removed.

On July 19, 2022, Daily Harvest issued a communication to its customers, informing them that internal investigations pinpointed tara flour sourced by Smirk’s from Molinos Asociados, Peru, as the root cause of the illnesses associated with its Crumbles product. 

In December 2023, food safety attorney Bill Marler sent a letter to FDA’s Deputy Commissioner for Foods Jim Jones about tara flour and urging the agency to take action against it. Marler represents a number of the patients who became sick after consuming the foods containing tara flour.

“Scientific studies published in peer-reviewed journals report that exposure to, and consumption of, tara flour has already caused bodily injury to hundreds of American and Canadian consumers. In response, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) issued a notice on September 28, 2023, advising businesses to cease the sale and procurement of tara flour or any products incorporating it, citing its classification as a ‘novel food’ that ‘has not been assessed for safety by Health Canada,’ ” Marler wrote. 

“I urge the Food and Drug Administration to take similar action in response to these findings. The evidence shows that the cause of the Daily Harvest outbreak was tara flour, an ingredient manufactured by Molinos Asociados in Peru. This tara flour was imported from Peru to the United States by Smirk’s, a Colorado company, and then supplied to Stone Gate Foods, a Minnesota-based manufacturer. Stone Gate Foods used this tara flour in the production of the Daily Harvest French Lentil + Leek Crumbles implicated in the outbreak.”

Several studies about the outbreaks and the safety of tara flour were conducted in the United States after the outbreak. They all found problems with the ingredient. 

According to Marler’s letter to the FDA deputy commissioner, the manufacturer of the tara flour, Molinos Asociados in Peru, conducted one small study before exporting the product to the U.S. market.

“It has come to our attention that Molinos conducted its sole study on tara flour’s potential for toxicity in January 2021 at the Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia. The study involved feeding tara to rats over a span of six weeks. It encompassed an evaluation of the rats’ liver function through liver profile testing and an examination of the histology of their liver and kidney tissues,” according the the letter.

“The study begs the question as to how Molinos knew to specifically test for liver function and whether there were prior indications or concerns about the potential for tara to cause liver injury. It also raises questions as to why Smirk’s (the importer) proceeded with the import and distribution of tara flour, especially given the absence of GRAS status for tara flour, the restricted scope of Molinos’ study, and the paucity of other studies at the time.”

Tara, is a small leguminous tree native to Peru and found growing in other regions of South America. The fruiting body of the tara plant is a flat yellow to orange oblong pod that contains four to seven round black seeds that redden with maturation. Tara is cultivated and its pods harvested as an industrial source of hydrolysable tannins utilized in leather production, according to the letter from the CFSAN toxicologist. 

“Notably, tara gum is distinct from tara flour, as it is predominantly composed of galactomannan polysaccharides, and its safety profile is well established supporting its use as a thickening agent and/or stabilizer in human foods,” according to the letter.

“Tara flour derived from the tara seed germ has not been adequately characterized nor previously utilized as a human food ingredient in the United States. On June 17, 2022, tara flour was identified by the food company, Daily Harvest Inc., as the likely causative agent in a foodborne illness outbreak related to consumption of a French Lentil and Leek Crumbles product which resulted in hundreds of reports of adverse events in consumers, including gastrointestinal distress, hepatotoxicity, and hospitalization (Daily-Harvest, 2022). FDA has not provided comment or confirmation on these statements made by Dailey Harvest Inc.”

At this time, the FDA is not aware of evidence that shows that tara flour is a food ingredient being developed domestically or that there are any products containing tara flour that are currently being manufactured in the U.S., according to the agency’s May 15 announcement.

The FDA instituted screening at ports of entry for tara flour used as an ingredient in imported food or imported for sale in bulk. The agency has not detected any recent shipments of tara flour in imported products as of May 15.

(To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News,click here)

The back-to-back bans on the making or sale of cultivated meat in Florida and Alabama are getting answered around the world in Singapore.

That’s where GOOD Meat begins the first retail sales of cultivated chicken, a product called GOOD Meat 3. It’s being sold at retail at Huber’s Butchery in Singapore under a partnership involving GOOD Meat and Huber’s.

Previously in the United States, some rarely cultivated meat sales were at two high-end restaurants in San Francisco and Washington D.C., but those were discontinued.

GOOD Meat is the cultivated meat unit of the food technology company Eat Just Inc.

GOOD Meat announced on May 15 that for the first time ever, cultivated meat will be sold at retail for shoppers to purchase and take home to cook. 

GOOD Meat and Huber’s Butchery are partnering in the world-exclusive launch in Singapore to sell a new, lower-cost formulation using just 3 percent cultivated chicken while maintaining the same taste, texture and experience as conventional chicken. 

This new product, GOOD Meat 3, is now available in the freezer section of Huber’s Butchery for the remainder of 2024 and will be priced at SGD 7.20 for a 120-gram package. That’s about $5.35 in U.S. Dollars, depending on the currency exchange.

The partners said GOOD Meat 3 was developed to meet strong consumer demand for cultivated meat in Singapore and to create opportunities for people to try it in the comfort of their own homes. 

They say using a smaller percentage of cultivated chicken in combination with plant proteins, which have always been used in GOOD Meat cultivated chicken products, also helps reduce costs associated with the production of cultivated meat, one of the main challenges that exist to scaling this developing industry.

 Consumer studies of cultivated meat reportedly show  “tasting is believing, “which remains true for GOOD Meat 3. Sensory testing has yielded exceptional feedback on measures such as taste, texture and appearance, a result of GOOD Meat’s  patented production process as well as the simple recipe of plant proteins, cultivated chicken, and seasonings that flavor the chicken.

“This is a historic day for our company, for the cultivated meat industry, and for Singaporeans who want to try GOOD Meat,” said Josh Tetrick, co-founder and CEO of Eat Just, the parent company of GOOD Meat. “Before today, cultivated meat had never been available in retail stores for regular people to buy, and now it is. This year, we will sell more servings of cultivated chicken than in any prior year. At the same time, we know there is much more work to prove that cultivated meat can be made at large scale, and we remain focused on that objective.”

After an extensive renovation, the GOOD Meat 3 will officially launch as part of Huber’s grand re-opening.  The retail outlet is well-known in Singapore and beyond as a premier producer and supplier of high-quality meat products and has joined the country’s push for food innovation to increase food security.

“Having the latest version of GOOD Meat 3 cultivated chicken available for retail is another step in making cultivated meat available to a bigger audience,” said  Andre Huber, Executive Director, Huber’s Pte Ltd. “People will have the opportunity to prepare the product how they want and experience how it can fit into their home-cooked meals. We look forward to hearing feedback from our discerning customers so that we can work with GOOD Meat to improve the product continuously.”

The retail sales announcement comes on the heels of actions in the United States, where GOOD Meat is based, to restrict or outright ban cultivated meat production and sales. Earlier this month, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill into law criminalizing the sale of cultivated meat in that state, a move that threatens to curtail consumer freedom and hinder innovation. In contrast, countries like Singapore and South Korea, which recently established a “regulation-free zone” to foster innovation for cultivated meat and biotech firms, have embraced novel food technologies that have the potential to help address problems like climate change, food security, and animal suffering. 

Since 2020, when Singapore granted GOOD Meat the world’s first regulatory approval for cultivated meat, GOOD Meat has been producing and selling its chicken in a campaign-style model, offering opportunities to try cultivated chicken in fine dining establishments, via food delivery apps, at beloved hawker stalls, and of course, in the Bistro at Huber’s Butchery.

More than a year ago, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDFA) completed its pre-market evaluation of food made from cultured animal cells by GOOD Meat. FDA said the firm uses animal cell culture technology to take living cells from chickens and grow the cells in a controlled environment to make the cultured animal cell food.

And the FDA had no more questions about it.

(To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News,click here)

A survey of consumers in Europe and the United Kingdom has revealed a decrease in trust in the food sector but a high level of confidence in safety.

The Trust Report surveyed 19,642 people from 18 countries on their level of trust in the food system and found that less than half of consumers have trust in food. Work was conducted by Ipsos in August and September 2023 and included people in Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Spain, and the UK.

The latest EIT Food Trust Report, now in its sixth year, showed that 45 percent of Europeans have trust in food, related to the taste, safety, health, authenticity, and sustainability of the food system.

EIT Food is supported by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), a body of the European Union.

Support for safety

The study showed that consumers are mostly confident that the food they eat is safe at 53 percent and 42 percent believe food is authentic.

The survey found consumers do not worry about food safety in their day-to-day purchases and are generally confident in the quality of food and the way this is checked.

Durk Bosma, head of thought leadership at the Future of Food Institute, said these findings were expected and in line with previous years.

“There is another group who gives a neutral answer to the question about food safety. The group that considers food unsafe is 23 percent. And even for this group, it doesn’t lead to worrying in daily purchases. We can interpret their answers as ‘not all food is safe’, not as ‘all food is unsafe’.”

For authenticity, 31 percent didn’t believe food was authentic and 26 percent were neutral.

The report suggests that people cannot determine authenticity themselves and must rely on other information, such as packaging and labels. Since this information and the parties providing it are not broadly trusted, confidence can be low. 

A 2022 Eurobarometer on food safety in the EU revealed that almost half considered food safety important and 41 percent took it for granted that the food they buy was safe.

A trust issue

The EIT Food survey demonstrated a decline in consumer trust in the overall food sector, in terms of the competency, openness, and care of actors such as farmers, manufacturers, authorities, restaurants, and retailers.

Farmers remain the most trusted group, with 65 percent of consumers expressing trust in them. This is down from 67 percent in the previous year.

Retailers are the second most trusted group, with half of consumers reporting trust in this sector and restaurants and caterers scored 48 percent.

Less than half of respondents trust food manufacturers or authorities such as government agencies at national and EU level while 27 percent and 32 percent respectively actively mistrust them.

Consumers generally trust European manufacturers to bring safe foods to the market and that the EU has strict regulations that producers must follow. People understand that authorities have the final responsibility on whether food is safe.

The 2022 Eurobarometer survey found 8 in 10 trusted scientists for food safety information and trust in national and EU institutions was at about two-thirds.

(To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News, click here.)

Iceland has been warned for not following the rules concerning the import and transit of products of animal origin. 

Iceland is part of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). The EFTA Surveillance Authority (ESA) monitors how the country implements European Economic Area (EEA) rules on food and feed safety, animal health, and welfare.

ESA sent a letter of formal notice to Iceland over the non-compliance. This is the first step in infringement proceedings. Iceland has two months to respond before ESA takes the case further.

Incident timeline

In 2017, ESA verified that official controls related to importing and transporting products of animal origin, animal by-products, and live animals were conducted in line with EEA legislation.

Among the shortcomings uncovered was the lack of a system to ensure that consignments from non-EEA countries in transit and/or transshipment undergo veterinary checks when required by law.

ESA also identified “insufficient” coordination and information-sharing between Iceland Customs and Revenues (Customs) and the Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority (MAST). Similar problems were highlighted during audits in 2010 and 2012.

These issues meant Icelandic authorities could not guarantee that products of animal origin in transit or transshipment had been subject to the required checks before being customs-cleared. The 2017 audit found it could not be excluded that non-conforming shipments of animal products were entering Iceland and freely circulating on the EEA market.

In 2020, Iceland introduced a legislative amendment aimed at solving the problem. Customs also informed ESA of plans to connect its IT facilities to the European Commission’s Trade and Control Expert System (TRACES). 

However, in 2022, the amendment was repealed following complaints from stakeholders. Iceland has not yet updated ESA on progress to improve the cooperation between Customs and MAST. ESA also has not received information to indicate that Customs has access to TRACES. These developments led to the ESA deciding that Iceland has failed to fulfill its obligations under EEA rules.

Poultry meat audit

ESA also revealed Iceland has strengthened food safety controls for poultry and poultry meat products. The report was published after a follow-up audit in February 2024.

During an audit in 2022, ESA found that Iceland needed to strengthen its control system to ensure safe food. The recent audit evaluated the implementation and effectiveness of Iceland’s corrective actions on four recommendations.

Based on corrective actions taken and planned by Icelandic authorities, one suggestion related to post-mortem inspection conditions was closed in February 2023.

ESA concluded that all other shortcomings had been addressed. These included weak animal health controls before slaughter (ante-mortem inspection) and weak controls of slaughtered animals for signs of disease (post-mortem inspection) to ensure that meat is safe for consumers.

MAST has employed additional official veterinarians, and further training is planned.

An online registration system for data collection is being developed, which should make data analysis related to areas such as hygiene controls, animal welfare, and post-mortem findings easier.

(To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News, click here.)

First, thank you to the people that work at the FDA.  Yes, I have often been a critic of the organization (or lack thereof), but the people at the FDA have always been heroes.

In December of 2023 I wrote to the FDA urging them to take a hard look at tara flour as a likely illegally imported adulterated food ingredient. Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) posted on its website its determination that tara flour in human food does not meet the Generally Recognized As Safe (or GRAS) standard and is an unapproved food additive. The FDA also posted the underlying analysis. According to the FDA:

The serious adverse events and liver injury with food products containing tara flour raise serious safety questions. Overall, at this time, the available data are insufficient to support the safety of tara flour for use as a food ingredient that will be consumed by the general public.

Due to the lack of adequate data and information in the scientific literature to support the safe use of tara flour in food, DFI is unable to conclude that the addition of tara flour to food meets the statutory criteria for classification as GRAS. As such, there is an absence of consensus among qualified experts regarding the safety of tara flour use as a food ingredient. Therefore, based on the current status of data and information, tara flour does not meet the experience based on common use in food (prior to 1958) criterion, or technical evidence of safety and the general recognition of safety necessary for it to be GRAS for use in food. Further, there is no food additive regulation establishing safe conditions of use of tara flour. Based on a review of the available information, the use or intended use of tara flour in conventional food for humans is not eligible for a listed exception to regulation as a food additive [Section 201(s)(1)-(6) of the FD&C Act]. Accordingly, when tara flour is added or intended for addition to conventional food, it constitutes the use of an unapproved food additive and, therefore renders it an unsafe food additive within the meaning of Section 409(a) of the FD&C Act. Food that is, bears, or contains an unsafe food additive, such as tara flour, is adulterated under 402(a)(2)(C)(i) of the FD&C Act. Introducing or delivering for introduction an adulterated food into interstate commerce is a prohibited act under Section 301(a) of the FD&C Act.

As a result of this determination, the importer of tara flour faces potential civil and criminal liability. Under the FDCA, a person committing a prohibited act “with the intent to defraud or mislead” is guilty of a felony, punishable by imprisonment, substantial fines, or both. The key factor is the intentional nature of the act.

A misdemeanor conviction under the FDCA does not require proof of fraudulent intent or knowing or willful conduct. Instead, a person may be convicted if they held a position of responsibility or authority in a firm that could have prevented the violation. Misdemeanor convictions are punishable by up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $250,000, or both.

However, fines for violations are typically much higher than those prescribed by the statute. Here are a few examples of criminal misdemeanor penalties imposed:

Blue Bell: $19,500,000 fine

Con Agra: $11,200,000 fine

Chipotle: $25,000,000 fine

Wright County Egg (DeCoster): $7,000,000 fine and three months in jail

Odwalla: $1,500,000 fine

Research funded in part by the CDC has shown that food irradiation could reduce the number of foodborne outbreaks caused by pathogens.

For the project, researchers looked at 2,153 foodborne outbreaks from 2009 to 2020 caused by Campylobacter, Salmonella, E. coli, or Listeria monocytogenes. Of those, 482 included information regarding processing methods other than unknown or missing values. None of those had irradiation listed as a processing method.

A variety of foods sold in the United States are eligible for irradiation. Those foods include meat, poultry, fresh shell eggs, spices, some fruit, and fresh produce. Of the 482 outbreaks, 155 were linked to irradiation-eligible food, none of which were irradiated.

“Food irradiation has been studied globally for decades and is a safe, effective means of reducing foodborne illness-causing pathogens, sterilizing insects, delaying ripening or sprouting, and extending shelf life,” according to the researchers. 

“The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved various foods for irradiation, including meat, poultry, fresh shell eggs, and spices. However, irradiation has not been widely adopted in the United States because of high fixed costs and the perception of consumer unwillingness to purchase irradiated food. Estimates of the amount of irradiated food available in the United States are scarce. Still, as of 2010, approximately one-third of spices consumed and  less than 0.1 percent of imported fruit, vegetables, and meats were irradiated.”

Of the 482 outbreaks known to have not had irradiation as part of processing, 155 were linked to a food eligible for irradiation. Those outbreaks resulted in 3,512 illnesses, 463 hospitalizations, and 10 deaths. The most common sources were chicken with 52 outbreaks, beef with 31, and eggs with 29, comprising 72 percent of outbreaks linked to irradiation-eligible foods, according to researchers.

“These results suggest that irradiation could prevent or mitigate some outbreaks. Prioritizing food irradiation efforts, particularly for chicken, beef, and eggs, could substantially reduce outbreaks and illnesses,” researchers concluded.

“The illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths associated with outbreaks linked to irradiation-eligible foods might have been prevented or reduced had these foods been irradiated. Irradiation has repeatedly been proposed as a strategy to reduce foodborne disease outbreaks. Irradiation typically eliminates a large proportion of pathogenic microorganisms.”

Food irradiation does not use radiation perceived as radioactive and does not leave food with a radioactive charge. If used at sufficient doses, it can neutralize Campylobacter, Salmonella, E.coli, and Listeria monocytogenes, the leading pathogens behind foodborne illnesses in the United States.

“Irradiation typically eliminates a large proportion of pathogenic microorganisms. The efficacy of irradiation depends on factors like temperature and water content. Food may become contaminated after irradiation. Irradiation can improve food safety, complementing existing food safety practices. Consumer demand for irradiated foods may be increased through education,” according to the researchers.

Dr. Marta Zlotnick, the lead researcher on the project, is an Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education Fellow at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, GA. Her work focuses on preventing zoonotic diseases originating from food or animal contact.

(To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News,click here)

The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has completed its review of the Nov. 4, 2022 petition from Iceland’s TopIceland.com

The petition asked FSIS to clarify that regulations that prescribe the requirements for importing small amounts of meat products for the importer’s consumption apply to those purchased over the Internet. 

ToppIceland.com  claimed that the U.S.  Food and Drug Administration (FDA) defines a product for personal importation as not for further sale or distribution into U.S. commerce. The products may be carried in baggage or shipped by courier or international mail. 

The petition argued that, like the FDA, FSIS should not distinguish between delivery modes for importing products for personal consumption.  The FSIS Office of Policy and Program Development reviewed the rule-making request.

TopIceland.com is a small e-commerce business located in Grundarfjordur, Iceland. It’s been in business since 2017, with the U.S. as a primary market.

In response to the Icelandic business, FSIS writes:  “In your petition, you referred to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA)“definition” of personal import and stated that because “the FDA does not distinguish between mode of delivery when defining products for own consumption… 

“TopIceland would thus kindly petition that our imports, which fall under the definition of being for personal import only, would be covered under Regulation 9 CFR 327.16.

”The FDA definition and link cited in your petition are from a statement on an FDA website, not a definition codified in the Code of Federal Regulations. Additionally, the FDA and FSIS have separate statutory authorities and regulatory requirements. The products are under their respective jurisdictions. USDA’s regulations governing imported products in 9 CFR part 327 do not define “personal importation” or “own consumption.”

The response explains the regulations:  “9 CFR part 327 contains the rules governing the importation of meat products into the U.S., including FSIS’ inspection process. Imported meat products must originate from eligible countries with an equivalent food safety regulatory system as determined by the Administrator of FSIS (9 CFR 327.2).

“Within eligible countries, only those establishments that are determined and certified by a responsible official of the country’s meat inspection system to meet requirements equivalent to those of the U.S. are eligible to have their products imported into the U.S. After a country is determined to be an eligible country, FSIS relies on the country’s government inspection personnel to carry out inspection activities. For each consignment imported into the U.S., a foreign inspection certificate issued by an official of the foreign government agency responsible for inspection and certification of the product is required (9 CFR 327.4).”

In denying TopIceland’s petition, FSIS also refused to provide a two-year “adjustment” period in which it could continue to ship products into the United States.

FSIS explained it this way:

“When meat products are brought into the U.S. by travelers, travelers must declare the products on their U.S. Customs declaration form. Custome and Border Protection agriculture specialists at the point of entry will examine the products to determine if they meet entry requirements. 

“FSIS also has the authority and opportunity to inspect any product offered for importation under 9 CFR 327.16 to determine whether it falls under this regulation to be exempt from the standard import requirements and inspection process contained in 9 CFR part 327. This system allows the U.S. government to inspect any imported product to determine whether the products are in the class eligible to be imported. 

“The same opportunity does not exist when products are sent via the mail or courier services because these products are not accompanied by documentation to certify that they meet the criteria to qualify for an exemption from the import regulations in 9 CFR part 327.  The current system also promotes food safety by limiting the amount of uninspected meat products permitted to enter the United States. For these reasons, we have decided to deny your petition.”

(To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News, click here.)

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has canceled the company’s license because of food safety concerns.

Since late March 2024, SFA has received several complaints about the safety of home-delivery catered meals provided by five web-based businesses.

Some of the problems included undercooked and moldy food or the presence of foreign matter such as hair and insects.

An investigation found that the food provided by these online businesses was all supplied by Sakura Buffet Pte, licensed by SFA to offer catering services.

Previous violations reported
SFA also discovered another seven web-based businesses linked to Sakura Buffet Pte.

Inspections at the licensed premises of Sakura Buffet Pte at Geylang Bahru from March to May uncovered several food safety lapses. They included a failure to keep the premises clean and false labeling on the time-stamping of packed food. The food safety management system was also poorly implemented at the site.

SFA had taken enforcement action against Sakura Buffet Pte on four occasions from November 2023 to April 2024 for various food safety and hygiene violations. The agency said despite this, the company failed to improve.

SFA said it canceled the company’s license to protect consumers against any further food safety violations. This means Sakura Buffet Pte cannot operate at their Geylang Bahru premises.

Consumers were advised not to place orders with the 12 web-based businesses linked to Sakura Buffet Pte. They are Yu Mummy Confinement Meals, Home Tingkat Catering, Happy Mamapapa Catering, Vegetarian Buffet, Angel Confinement Meals, After Surgery Food Delivery / Catering, Healthy Meals Catering, Keto Meals Catering, Grain Luscious, Royal Cuisine Group / The Garden Kitchen Pte; Nonya Buffet; and Pregnancy Meals Catering.

Other Enforcement
Several other fines and food seizures were also reported in May in Singapore.

The partner of Suri Rao Coconut Trading was fined SG $8,000 (U.S. $5,900) in court for illegally importing meat products from Malaysia.

In October 2022, Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers at Tuas Checkpoint detected a truck containing frozen poultry, which was falsely declared as processed food. The case was referred to the Singapore Food Agency, and an investigation found more than 1,200 kilograms of illegally imported poultry.

In another case, Sino You International Pte was fined SG $6,500 (U.S. $4,800) for illegally importing fresh and processed produce. Director Zhang Bao Yin was also fined the same amount for failing to prevent the offense.

In February 2023, officers from the Singapore Food Agency detected more than 2.6 tons of undeclared and under-declared fresh and processed produce in consignments imported from China. The produce included oranges, red and green chilies, chives, and peeled garlic.

In January 2024, SFA officials inspected the premises of Deep Sea Gourmet Pte and found frozen seafood products, such as shrimps, crabmeat, and abalone, stored in three freezers. The site is not licensed as a cold store, and 390 kilograms of frozen seafood products were seized. Deep Sea Gourmet Pte was fined SG $3,000 (U.S. $2,200) for operating an unlicensed cold store.

In May 2024, the Singapore Food Agency seized around 1.6 tons of fresh vegetables and processed food imported illegally from Malaysia.

SFA and the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority conducted the operation on vegetable delivery trucks entering Singapore via the Woodlands Checkpoint. Produce included bayam, bitter gourd, tomato, turnips, and peeled onion, imported by two importers in two trucks.

Finally, Lim Guozhi Benjamin, sole proprietor of Polymath Wholesales Trading, was fined SG $8,000 (U.S. $5,900) by the court for illegally importing meat products from Thailand.

In May 2023, inspectors from the Singapore Food Agency checked a refrigerated container vehicle. The officers found about 6.3 tons of meat products, such as chicken, duck, and mutton, that the company imported without a valid permit.

(To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News, click here.)

Frito Lay is recalling certain snacks in Canada, including Sun Chips, because of Salmonella contamination. The company distributed the snacks nationwide.

According to a recall notice posted by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, the company initiated the recall. No background was given for the company’s action.

Individual bags and cases of product are included in the recall.

Consumers are urged to check their homes for the recalled products and throw away any that they may have on hand. The products have long shelf life, so consumers and retailers are encouraged to check the best-by dates on the packages.

BrandProductSizeUPCCodesFrito LaySunChips Multigrains Harvest Cheddar SnacksAll sizes060410040591
060410066232
060410001295
060410037249
060410003923
060410053942
0604100531192024 JL 16
to
2024 AU 13
inclusivelyFrito LayOriginal Munchies Snack MixAll sizes060410001806
060410003862
060410067826
060410054826
060410054628
0604100393422024 JL 16
to
2024 AU 13
inclusivelyFrito LayVariety Packs Cheesy Mix448 g0604100748172024 JL 16
to
2024 AU 13
inclusivelyFrito LaySunChips Multigrains Harvest Cheddar Snacks32 packs0604100372562024 JL 16
to
2024 AU 13
inclusivelyFrito LaySunChips Multigrains Harvest Cheddar Snacks40 packs0604102227682024 JL 16
to
2024 AU 13
inclusivelyFrito LayOriginal Munchies Snack Mix40 packs0604102212282024 JL 16
to
2024 AU 13
inclusively

About Salmonella infections

Food contaminated with Salmonella bacteria does not usually look, smell, or taste spoiled. Anyone can become sick with a Salmonella infection. Infants, children, seniors, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of serious illness because their immune systems are fragile, according to the CDC.

Anyone who has eaten any of the recalled products and developed symptoms of Salmonella infection should seek medical attention. Sick people should tell their doctors about the possible exposure to Salmonella bacteria because special tests are necessary to diagnose salmonellosis. Salmonella infection symptoms can mimic other illnesses, frequently leading to misdiagnosis.

Symptoms of Salmonella infection can include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 12 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food. Otherwise, healthy adults are usually sick for four to seven days. In some cases, however, diarrhea may be so severe that patients require hospitalization.

Older adults, children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients, are more likely to develop a severe illness and serious, sometimes life-threatening conditions.

Some people get infected without getting sick or showing any symptoms. However, they may still spread the infections to others.

(To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News,click here)

Natural Sourcing International is recalling Great Value Organic Black Chia Seeds 32 oz. because of potential Salmonella contamination.

Anyone who has eaten any of the recalled products and developed symptoms of Salmonella infection should seek medical attention. Sick people should tell their doctors about the possible exposure to Salmonella bacteria because special tests are necessary to diagnose salmonellosis. Salmonella infection symptoms can mimic other illnesses, frequently leading to misdiagnosis.

The recalled product was sent to Walmart for distribution nationwide via retail sales.

Recalled products:

NameSizeLot CodeExpiration DateUPCGreat Value Organic Black Chia Seeds32 oz24095 C018October 30, 2026078742300665

These products can be identified by the main label on the pouch and the lot number that is printed on the bottom of the back panel of the packaging – see the example below:

As of the posting of this recall, there have been no reported adverse events associated with the products.

Consumers are directed to throw away products subject to the recall. Natural Sourcing International will provide replacement product upon proof of purchase. Consumers seeking replacement product or with questions regarding this recall can contact Natural Sourcing International, by calling Customer Service at 1-818-405-9705 Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. EST or emailing the company at customerservice@organically-simple.com.

About Salmonella

Food contaminated with Salmonella bacteria does not usually look, smell, or taste spoiled. Anyone can become sick with a Salmonella infection. Infants, children, seniors, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of serious illness because their immune systems are fragile, according to the CDC.

Symptoms of Salmonella infection can include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 12 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food. Otherwise, healthy adults are usually sick for four to seven days. In some cases, however, diarrhea may be so severe that patients require hospitalization.

Older adults, children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients, are more likely to develop severe illness and serious, sometimes life-threatening conditions.

Some people get infected without getting sick or showing any symptoms. However, they may still spread the infections to others.

(To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News, click here.)

Two U.S. states and one European country are banning manufacturing, selling, and distributing cultivated meat and poultry products. Italy enacted a ban last year, and Florida and Alabama enacted their laws on the books in only the last few days.

The bans were enacted after the robust cultivated meat industry saw billions in investments but did not leave it with a widely available commercial product.  Just as product samples would go a long way toward building support, so would the filing of a Novel food application with the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

The EFSA is the European Union’s agency that provides independent scientific advice and communicates on existing and emerging risks associated with the food chain.  Lab-cultivated products have won approval from the FDA and USDA in the United States, but some are waiting for a tougher review by EFSA.

Nonetheless, the latest to pass into law is Alabama Senate Bill 23, which makes it unlawful for any person to manufacture, sell, hold or offer for sale, or distribute any cultivated food product in the state. “Cultivated food product” means any food produced from cultured animal cells.

Anyone violating the new law can be found guilty of a misdemeanor.  A food sales establishment found violating the ban could have its food safety permits suspended or revoked. The Alabama law allows state research and development on cultivated products to continue.  The ban becomes effective on Oct 1, 2024.

Without producing much in the way of cultivated projects, about 150 companies worldwide have enlisted in the industry, including 43 based in the United States.

According to the Fiscal Note, SB23 “could increase receipts to the State General Fund and municipal general funds from fines; increase receipts to the State General Fund, county general funds, municipal general funds, and other funds to which court costs are deposited; and could increase the obligations of the State General Fund, district attorneys, and local jails by an undetermined amount dependent upon the number of persons charged with and convicted of the offenses provided by this bill and the penalties imposed.”

“In addition, this bill could further increase receipts to the State General Fund from civil penalties (ranging from $100 for a Class II violation up to $10,000 for a Class V violation), imposed on food sales establishments that violate the provisions of this bill.

This bill could also increase the administrative obligations of the Department of Public Health and the Department of Agriculture and Industries for the adoption of rules determined necessary to implement the provisions of this bill.

Gov. Kay Ivey signed SB23 just ahead of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis putting his signature on SB1084, his state’s lab-meat ban.

Lab-grown meat has existed since 2013, when it was produced at Maastricht. University.  But it is rare for a consumer to have even a taste.  FDA approvals still only cover lab-grown meat from two companies — Upside Foods and Good Meat.  And it’s not sold in their stores. 

Last year, there were a couple of high-end restaurants in Washington, D.C., and another in San Francisco that offered tastes of lab-grown products, but both have stopped making even those limited servings available.

The problem is how to scale up cell production while bringing down the incredible costs,

In signing the Florida ban, Gov. DeSantis said his state was pushing back against the global elite who want to force people to “eat bugs.”

While the state legislative season is largely over, more bans are possible, even if they aren’t that necessary. Advocates of the cultivated products say consumer freedom and choice argue for letting the market dictate the future.

Also, a coalition of European Union member states in January called for a public debate on lab-grown meat when it comes to assessing the risk and labeling of cell-based foods.

Austria, France, and Italy, along with nine other countries (Czech Republic, Cyprus, Greece, Hungary, Luxembourg, Lithuania, Malta, Romania, and Slovakia), are raising questions on the potential impact of “cell-based food production practices” over ethical, economic, sustainability, transparency, social and legal questions.

 to Food Safety News, click here(To sign up for a free subscription.)

Authorities in Saudi Arabia have blamed contaminated mayonnaise for causing an outbreak of botulism.

The Ministry of Municipal Rural Affairs and Housing provided an update over the weekend on the recent illnesses at the Hamburgini restaurant chain in Riyadh.

The Ministry of Health revealed 75 cases were identified, including 69 citizens and six residents, and one person died. As of early May, 50 cases had been diagnosed with Clostridium Botulinum. Of these, 43 had recovered and left the hospital, 11 were hospitalized, and 20 patients were monitored in intensive care units.

According to the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), laboratory tests found the presence of Clostridium Botulinum in a sample of BON TUM mayonnaise served at the restaurant.

The presence of Clostridium Botulinum has also been confirmed after checks at one of the factories.

Distribution of BON TUM mayonnaise has been halted and withdrawn from the market and food establishments in all cities of the country. All remaining stock is to be destroyed. The production factory has also been suspended, and legal procedures are pending, said the Ministry of Municipal Rural Affairs and Housing.

Customers of the factory, including restaurants and food establishments, have been told to dispose of any of the implicated products.

Officials said they would continue monitoring, investigation, and inspection campaigns to ensure the safety of food offered to the public.

In 2022, 176 outbreaks were recorded, with 1,188 cases, according to data from the Ministry of Health.

Botulinum poisoning is a rare but life-threatening condition caused by toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria. In foodborne botulism, symptoms generally begin 18 to 36 hours after eating contaminated food. However, they can occur as soon as six hours or up to 10 days later.

Symptoms may include double or blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing or breathing, paralysis — particularly of muscles used for breathing — a thick-feeling tongue, dry mouth, and muscle weakness.

(To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News, click here.)

Scientists have traced the source of a multi-year Listeria outbreak in Finland to ready-to-eat, plant-based food products, including fava beans.

Six cases were reported to the Finnish Infectious Diseases Registry between 2015 and 2019. Patient interviews and hospital menus were used to target traceback investigations of implicated foods. In 2021 and 2022, similar Listeria was detected from a ready-to-eat (RTE) product with fava beans.

Listeriosis cases were linked to the product based on an investigation that combined data on the hospital menu served to patients during the incubation period and a comparison of Listeria monocytogenes isolates detected at the production plant and from patients.

Contamination of the fava bean product after pasteurization and during processing or packaging was the likely cause of the outbreak, said researchers in the journal Eurosurveillance.

Patients up to 2019; product positives years later
In April to June 2019, four cases were identified. One person fell sick in 2015, and another in 2018. The ages of patients ranged from late 40s to mid-70s, and both men and women were affected. The 2019 cases were treated in two hospital wards in southern Finland, while the two cases in 2015 and 2018 were from eastern and western Finland.

Patients had underlying conditions such as kidney failure, cancer, hypertension, or diabetes or were otherwise immunocompromised. Two people died within 15 days of listeriosis diagnosis.

The 2019 patients were given snacks prepared by the hospital food service during dialysis treatment. Snacks had been served several times over several weeks before the onset of symptoms. No food served to cases was available for sampling, and Listeria monocytogenes were not detected from 10 surface samples taken from the hospital kitchen in July 2019.

In a routine inspection of hospital kitchen facilities in May 2019, the food control officer identified deficiencies in cleanliness, cleaning equipment storage, washbasin equipment, and the automatic temperature monitoring system for chilled and frozen food.

In December 2021 and August 2022, Raisio, the producer of fava bean products, issued a recall of affected batches and informed consumers of potential Listeria contamination.

Concerning the 2022 recall, Raisio said the Listeria problem affected products packed in a subcontractor’s facility, which underwent cleaning and sampling before operations were restarted.

In November 2021, Listeria monocytogenes was detected in a sample of a fava bean product the food business took. This was analyzed at a local official food laboratory, and the whole genome was sequenced at the Finish Food Authority (Ruokavirasto).

In August 2022, two isolates from samples of another fava bean product from the same company were sequenced at the Finish Food Authority. All three isolates were similar to those from the six cases. No Listeria monocytogenes were found in fava bean product samples in 2019 and 2020.

In December 2021, 591 surface samples were taken from the company’s processing environment, and Listeria monocytogenes were detected in 41 samples from floors and nearby surfaces and from a ripening machine.

Heating requirement added
Products were made from whole fava beans produced in Finland. They have been sold nationwide since 2016 and are widely available to consumers. An explanation for no other cases could be that the novel fava bean product is more prevalent among younger age groups, who tend to be in better health and are less susceptible to severe illness, said scientists.

Inspections by the manufacturer and local food control authority indicated that Listeria persisted in the production environment and products were contaminated after pasteurization. However, the origin of contamination was not found.

Official controls at the production plant from 2019 to 2021 noted deficiencies around labeling and sampling, cleanliness management of the site, separation of activities requiring different hygiene levels, and the working hygiene of employees. In December 2021, measures to control Listeria monocytogenes contamination in the food handling area included an updated sampling of products and the production area, intensifying cleaning and disinfection procedures, and further staff training.

In November 2022, Raisio was asked to add a heating requirement to pack labels for fava bean products since the source of Listeria in products and in the production environment was not found. Researchers said that finding Listeria in surface samples indicates that cleaning and disinfection measures were insufficient to control the pathogen.

In March 2023, the heating requirement was extended to all products manufactured and packed in the facility, except for items that undergo sufficient Listeria destruction treatment in their final packaging.

Researchers recommended national guidelines for people with weakened immune systems, including plant-based RTE products as a risk food for Listeria and appropriate labeling so consumers can follow the instructions.

(To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News, click here.)

Healthwest Minerals, Inc. d/b/a Mt. Capra Products of Chehalis, WA, is recalling 1,506 boxes of Goat Milk Formula Recipe Kit on the recommendation of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and advises consumers to immediately discontinue use of the product as infant formula. 

The FDA is concerned that the formula does not meet all FDA requirements for infant formula, does not provide sufficient nutrition when used as an infant formula, and the storage instructions may be insufficient for the product. Infants consuming the recalled product without additional iron supplementation can develop iron deficiency anemia and feeding intolerance.

The Goat Milk Formula Recipe Kit 10 lb 8 oz was sold through Mt. Capra’s web store (mtcapra.com) or one retail store in Chehalis, WA, from May 1, 2023 to May 1, 2024.

Recalled product cases have one of the following affected lot codes:

• 13150423, 13150723, 13151223, 13151323, 13151623, 13151823, 13151923, 13152123, 13152423, 13152523, 13152623, 13152823, 13153023, 13153123, 13153423, 13153523, 13153723, 13153923, 13154123, 13154423, 13154523, 13154723, 13154923, 13155023, 13155223, 13150124, 13150424, 13150624, 13150924, 13151024, 13151124, 13151224, 13151424, 13151624, 13151724, 13151824.

FDA notified Mt. Capra of an adverse event report of anemia in one infant. FDA determined that while the caregivers were using the Goat Milk Formula Recipe Kit and recipe, the caregivers substituted some ingredients with a different brand of multivitamin, which created a product deficient in vitamin B12 as well as folate and ultimately resulted in the development of anemia.

The firm does not recommend using this product for infants from 0-12 months of age. If you have prepared and fed your infant Mt. Capra formula from their Goat Milk Formula Recipe Kit, we recommend you contact a healthcare provider to discuss if testing for nutritional deficiencies is recommended.

The safety of our customers and products is Mt. Capra’s primary concern. 

Customers are advised to destroy or return product.

(To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News, click here.)

CN Frozen Foods, Inc. of Coral Gables, FL is recalling Sysco Classic Riced Cauliflower after the product tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes.

According to the details posted online by the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), the recall was initiated on April 27, 2024 and is ongoing.

The recalled product was sold in Texas.

Recalled product:

Sysco Classic Riced Cauliflower packed in a 4lb plastic bag (6 units of 4 lb. per carton box)

• Product Quantity: 3,240 cases
• Manufacture #: 30.05.2023
• Best Buy Date: 05/2025
• Reorder #: 5087729

Consumers should not use this product. Recalled products should be thrown out or returned to their place of purchase.

About Listeria infections
Food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes may not look or smell spoiled but can still cause serious and sometimes life-threatening infections. Anyone who has eaten any recalled products and developed symptoms of Listeria infection should seek medical treatment and tell their doctors about the possible Listeria exposure.

Also, anyone who has eaten any of the recalled products should monitor themselves for symptoms during the coming weeks because it can take up to 70 days after exposure to Listeria for symptoms of listeriosis to develop. 

Symptoms of Listeria infection can include vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headache, and neck stiffness. Specific laboratory tests are required to diagnose Listeria infections, which can mimic other illnesses. 

Pregnant women, the elderly, young children, and people such as cancer patients who have weakened immune systems are particularly at risk of serious illnesses, life-threatening infections, other complications and death. Although infected pregnant women may experience only mild, flu-like symptoms, their infections can lead to premature delivery, infection of the newborn, or even stillbirth.

(To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News, click here.)