Agricola Zaragoza, Inc. Recalls Jalapeno Peppers Because of Possible Health Risk

Contact:
Raymundo Cavazos
956-631-6405

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- June 21, 2008 -- Agricola Zaragoza, Inc. of McAllen, TX is recalling Jalapeno Peppers distributed since June 30th, 2008 because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.

The Jalapeno Peppers were distributed to customers in GA and TX.

The Jalapeno Peppers being recalled were shipped in 35lb. plastic crates and in 50lb. bags with no brand name or label.

The recall is a result of sampling by FDA, which revealed that these Jalapeno Peppers were contaminated with the same strain of Salmonella Saintpaul responsible for the current Salmonella outbreak. It is unknown at this time which, if any, of the more than 1,200 illnesses reported to date are related to this particular product or to the grower who supplied this product.  Distribution of these products has been suspended while FDA, the Texas Department of State Health Services and the company continue their investigation as to the source of the problem.

Consumers and retailers who purchased Jalapeno Peppers should contact their supplier to determine if their products are involved in the recall. Commercial manufacturers that have used these recalled Jalapeno Peppers as an ingredient in other products (i.e. salsas, etc.) are encouraged to contact their local FDA office to determine if these products should be recalled.  Additionally, restaurants, retail food stores, and similar retail institutions that have used these Jalapeno Peppers as a garnish or as an ingredient to prepare entrees, salsas or other products are asked to dispose of these products making sure that all such peppers are not inadvertently made available for purchase, salvage or donation and therefore preventing any possibility for human or animal consumption..  Consumers with questions may contact the company at (956)-631-6405.

Publix Issues Recall for No Sugar Added Cherry Pie

Contact:
Maria Brous
(863) 680-5339

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- LAKELAND, FL -- July 24, 2008 -- Publix Super Markets is issuing a voluntary recall on three codes of No Sugar Added Cherry Pie with a sell-by-date of July 8 – July 27. UPC numbers for the affected product may be found on the back label below the Nutritional Facts panel:

Publix NSA 8inch Cherry Pie, UPC: 41415-65990
Publix NSA 1/2 Cherry Pie, UPC: 03000-00225
Publix NSA 1/4 Cherry Pie, UPC: 41415-66990

These products were sold in the retail bakeries and were recalled due to the undeclared soy ingredient. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to soy run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products. The recall affected stores in Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, Tennessee and Florida stores in Citrus County south through Monroe County, excluding Orlando proper stores.

"The packaging error was detected during a routine label review," said Maria Brous, Publix media and community relations director. "As part of our commitment to food safety, we routinely inspect our product labeling for accuracy and for product quality. There have been no reported cases of illness. Customers who have purchased the product may return it to their store for a full refund or replacement. Consumers with questions may contact Publix at 1-800-242-1227."

FDA Extends Consumer Warning on Serrano Peppers from Mexico


Laboratory testing by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has confirmed that both a sample of serrano pepper and a sample of irrigation water collected by agency investigators on a farm in the state of Nuevo Leon, Mexico, contain Salmonella Saintpaul with the same genetic fingerprint as the strain of bacteria that is causing the current outbreak in the United States.

As a result, until further notice, the FDA is advising consumers to avoid raw serrano peppers from Mexico, in addition to raw jalapeño peppers from Mexico, and any foods that contain them.

The test results announced today are part of the FDA's continuing intensive investigation into the outbreak of Salmonella Saintpaul. The investigation has involved tracing back, through complex distribution channels, the origins of products associated with clusters of illness in the United States, as well as inspections and evaluation of farms and facilities in this country and in Mexico, and the collection and testing of environmental and product samples. One of these tracebacks led to a packing facility in Mexico, and to a particular farm, where the agency obtained the samples.

Previously, FDA inspectors collected a positive sample of jalapeño pepper from a produce-distribution center owned by Agricola Zaragosa in McAllen, Texas. The FDA continues to work on pinpointing where and how in the supply chain this first positive jalapeño pepper sample became contaminated. It originated from a different farm in Mexico than the positive samples of serrano pepper and irrigation water.
The FDA is still analyzing many of the samples taken at various farms in Mexico. If laboratory results warrant, the FDA will provide consumers with additional cautions or warnings necessary to protect their health.

On July 17, the FDA announced it had determined that fresh tomatoes now available in the domestic market are not associated with the current outbreak. As a result, the agency removed its June 7 warning against eating certain types of red raw tomatoes.

For more information consult
http://www.fda.gov/oc/opacom/hottopics/tomatoes.html.

C.F. Sauer Foods Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in one lot of Gold Medal Spaghetti Sauce Mix – 1.37 ounce pouch

Contact:
CF Sauer Foods Inc,
1-800-688-5676

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- August 4, 2008 – CF Sauer Foods Inc, of Richmond, VA is recalling all packages of Gold Medal Spaghetti Sauce Mix with the code date as follows: 8119R. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milkrun the risk of serious or life threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

GOLD MEDAL SPAGHETTI SAUCE MIX was distributed through retail stores in Mississippi, Kentucky, and Alabama.

The Spaghetti Sauce Mix comes in 1.37 ounce pouch and was sold under the name Gold Medal displaying a UPC code of 0-52500-02104-7.

The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the Spaghetti Sauce Mix containing milk was distributed in packaging that did not declare the presence of milk. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by an oversight in the company's development process.

Consumers who have purchased these products are urged to return it to the location of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-800-688-5676 or www.cfsauer.com.

Home Made Brand Foods Recalls Tuna Salad Because of Possible Health Risk

Contact:
Rick Walters
(978) 462-3663 ext. 314

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Newburyport MA – August 11, 2008 -- Home Made Brand Foods, 2 Opportunity Way, Newburyport MA 01950 is voluntarily recalling approximately 4890 pounds of "Ready-to-Eat" Tuna Salad with an expiration date of 8/19/08. This product has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

The following products are subject to recall:

99/ 5 lbs. units of "Home Made Brand Foods Tuna Salad" dated 8/19/08 expiration
412/10 lb. units of "Stop and Shop Tuna Salad" dated 8/19/08 expiration
366/12 oz. units of "Stop and Shop Tuna Salad" dated 8/19/08 expiration

The problem was discovered after routine sampling at the customer level and subsequent analysis of the product by an independent laboratory which found the product to be positive for Listeria monocytogenes. All product lots produced prior to and after the above listed affected lot were found to be negative for Listeria monocytogenes through independent laboratory analysis.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.

Consumers who have purchased the Tuna Salad should not consume it, but should return it to the place of purchase. Consumers with questions may contact Rick Walters at (978) 462-3663 ext 314.

Whole Foods Market® Issues Recall on 365 Organic Everyday Value™ Popcorn, Lightly Salted Due to Undeclared Dairy Allergen

Contact:
Libba Letton
512-542-3038
Libba.letton@wholefoods.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- AUSTIN, Texas -- August 14, 2008 -- Whole Foods Market today is recalling 365 Organic Everyday Value Popcorn, Lightly Salted because it may contain undeclared milk ingredients. The popcorn in these packages was incorrectly flavored with a white cheddar seasoning which includes milk ingredients; the seasoning may not be visibly apparent. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk ingredients run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

This product was distributed to and sold in Whole Foods Market retail stores in California, Arizona, Nevada, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Oregon, New Jersey, New York and Washington.

The product is sold in a blue and white 5 ounce bag with a picture of popcorn in a red and white container. The product is labeled as 365 Organic Everyday Value Organic Popcorn, Lightly Salted with a UPC of 9948240552. The recalled product's lot code is stamped on the front top right corner and reads "Sell By 10/28/08" or "Sell By 10/29/08".

No illnesses have been reported to date.

The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the product containing milk ingredients was incorrectly packaged in bags that did not reveal the presence of milk ingredients. Subsequent investigations indicate the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the producer's packaging processes.

Consumers who have purchased 365 Organic Popcorn Lightly Salted with a lot code of "Sell By 10/28/08" or "Sell By 10/29/08" are urged to return it to any Whole Foods Market for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 512-542-0656.

Manufacturer for Publix Brand Vanilla Wafers Issues a Recall for Undeclared Soy

Contact:
Roy Peterson, General Manager
Toufayan Bakery
roy@toufayan.com
813-754-5565

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- August 15, 2008 – The manufacturer of Publix Vanilla Wafers is recalling a limited number of 12oz boxes of Vanilla Wafers with a code date of 030409A as they may contain undeclared soy. Persons who have an allergy to soy run the risk of a serious or possible life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume the affected product. The UPC number may be found on the side label below the Nutrition Facts panel:

Publix Vanilla Wafers, UPC: 41415-00609

The product was distributed throughout the chain to include stores in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama and Tennessee.

The vanilla wafers are packaged in 12 oz. paperboard boxes.

 “The recall was initiated after the discovery of gingersnap cookies co-packaged with vanilla wafers. This resulted in the undeclared soy ingredient.” said Roy Peterson, Toufayan Bakery general manager. "As part of Publix commitment to food safety, they are asking customers to return the product for a full refund or replacement.  There have been no reported cases of illness. Consumers with questions may contact Publix at 1-800-242-1227."

"Fresh from the Deli" American Sub Sandwich Recalled by Landshire, Inc. Because of Possible Health Risk

Contact:
Jeanne Gannon
(618) 398-8122

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Belleville, IL – August 28, 2008 – Landshire, Inc. is recalling its American Sub sandwich because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria Monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.  Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women. 

The American Sub sandwiches were distributed in the Midwestern States of:  Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio and Pennsylvania.  The product was sold to Circle K Convenience Stores exclusively.  There were 812 sandwiches produced on lot number 21882.

The sandwich label identifies it as: "Fresh from the Deli" American Sub.  This is a pre-packaged, individually wrapped (clear plastic) with a black tray inside of package.  Sandwich weight is 9.75ounces (276grams).  UPC code is 9748800540.  The sandwiches involved have a lot number of 21882.  The lot number is printed in black ink on the side of the package.
No illnesses have been reported to date.

The recall was the result of a routine sampling taken by the Ohio Department of Agriculture for retail food establishments.  Landshire has ceased the production and distribution of the product as the Company continues its investigation as to the source of the problem.

Consumers who have purchased the "Fresh from the Deli" American Sub are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.  Consumers with questions may contact Landshire, Inc at 800-468-3354.

Starway Inc. Issues Alert on Undeclared Sulfites in Ego Brand Preserved Peaches

Contact:
Chris Lee
718-417-1788

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- September 3, 2008 -- Starway Incorporated, located at 137 Grattan Street, Brooklyn, NY, 11237, is recalling EGO brand Preserved Peaches because the product contains undeclared sulfites. People who have severe sensitivity to sulfites run the risk of serious or life-threatening reactions if they consume this product.

EGO brand Preserved Peaches is sold in a 14 ounce, un-coded, clear plastic package and was distributed nationwide. It is a product of Malaysia.

The recall was initiated after routine sampling by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors and subsequent analysis of the product by Food Laboratory personnel revealed the presence of sulfites in EGO brand Preserved Peaches which were not declared on the label. The consumption of 10 milligrams of sulfites per serving has been reported to elicit severe reactions in some asthmatics. Anaphylactic shock could occur in certain sulfite sensitive individuals upon ingesting 10 milligrams or more of sulfites.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.

Consumers who have purchased EGO brand Preserved Peaches are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 718-417-1788.

Sprouters Northwest, Inc. Recalls Alfalfa Sprout Products Because of Possible Health Concern
Contact:
Joe Campbell
253-872-0577

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- September 5, 2008 -- Sprouters Northwest, Inc. of Kent, Washington is recalling its alfalfa sprout products (alfalfa sprouts, onion sprouts, and salad sprouts) because they may be linked to a recent outbreak of Salmonellosis in Oregon and Washington State. To date, 13 cases of Salmonella Typhimirium infection have been associated with the consumption of raw alfalfa sprouts.

Salmonella Typhimiriumis an organism that 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 maybe 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 (swelling of the lining of the heart) and arthritis. Individuals who may have experienced any of the above symptoms after eating any of the recalled products should contact their health care provider.

The recalled sprouts were distributed in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Alasks in retail stores and through wholesale produce suppliers.

The products are Sprouters Northwest brand and include all lot numbers with a best by date of 9/17/08 or earlier of:  5oz alfalfa sprout cups UPC - 033383701417, 4oz alfalfa clamshells UPC-815098001088, 1lb bags of alfalfa sprouts UPC - 079566123508, 2lb trays of alfalfa sprouts UPC – 079566123492, 5oz salad cups UPC - 033383702674, 4oz salad clamshells UPC - 815098002061, 5oz alfalfa onion sprout cups UPC - 033383701905, and 4oz onion sprout clamshells UPC – 815098002054.

Sprouters Northwest, Inc. is working closely with state officials and the Food and Drug Administration to determine the cause of this problem and what steps can be taken to combat it.

Consumers who have purchased any of these items are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Wholesalers / retailers should remove the product from sale, cease distribution, and arrange for product return. Questions can be directed to the company at 253-872-0577.

FDA Issues Health Information Advisory on Infant Formula


In response to reports of contaminated milk-based infant formula manufactured in China, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today is issuing a Health Information Advisory. This is to assure the American public that there is no known threat of contamination in infant formula manufactured by companies that have met the requirements to sell infant formula in the United States. Although no Chinese manufacturers of infant formula have fulfilled the requirements to sell infant formula in the United States, FDA officials are investigating whether or not infant formula manufactured in China is being sold in specialty markets which serve the Asian community.

The FDA is advising caregivers not to feed infant formula manufactured in China to infants. This should be replaced with an appropriate infant formula manufactured in the United States as mentioned below. Individuals should contact their health care professional if they have questions regarding their infant’s health or if they note changes in their infant’s health status.

The FDA began investigating the reports of contamination immediately and received information from the companies who manufacture infant formula for the American market that they are not importing infant formula or source materials from China. The following manufacturers have met the necessary FDA requirements for marketing milk-based infant formulas in the United States: Abbott Nutritionals, Mead Johnson Nutritionals, Nestle USA, PBM Nutritionals, and Solus Products LLC. Also, one manufacturer, SHS/Nutricia, Liverpool, England, markets an amino acid based exempt infant formula that does not contain any milk-derived ingredients.

We are asking state officials to work with the Agency to assist with the removal of any Chinese infant formula found on store shelves, and to warn members of the Asian community to avoid using Chinese manufactured infant formula.

It has been reported that a number of infants in China who have consumed Chinese manufactured infant formula are suffering from kidney stones, a condition which is rare in infants.  The Chinese manufactured infant formula may be contaminated with melamine. Melamine artificially increases the protein profile of milk and can causes kidney diseases such as those seen in these Chinese infants.

FDA requires that all infant formula manufacturers register with the Agency and adhere to specific labeling and nutritional requirements.  All properly registered infant formula manufacturers marketing infant formula in the United States undergo an annual inspection of their production facilities.

Wegmans Expands Dates of Bagel Recall and Includes Additional Bakery Products

Contact:
Jo Natale
585-429-3627

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- September 11, 2008 -- Rochester, NY - Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. has expanded the voluntary recall of in-store made bagels and bialys first announced on Wednesday, September 10.  The recall is now expanded to include Challah bread and in-store baked bagels, bialys and rolls. These products were sold in Wegmans’ bakery department between June 19 and September 11, 2008.   

The recall was initiated because a mixer part (metal spring) may have entered the dough, which is produced at Wegmans’ Central Bakeshop in Rochester, posing a possible choking hazard.  The problem was initially discovered as a result of a customer complaint.   Further investigation by Wegmans prompted the company to expand the dates and products included in the recall.  There have been no reported injuries associated with the consumption of these products.   The recalled products are as follows:

(Rolls are sold both individually in bins and pre-packaged)

Wegmans Kaiser Rolls (6-Pack UPC:  77890 28697)                                     
Wegmans Sub Rolls   (6-Pack UPC:  77890 58953)    (Rolls used in our Old Fashioned Sub Shop are not included.)               
Wegmans Old-Fashioned Dinner Rolls (12-Pack UPC:  77890 75813)
Wegmans Wheat Rolls  (6-Pack UPC:  77890 82778)
Wegmans Challah Rolls  (6-Pack UPC:  77890 85195)
Wegmans Old-Fashioned Vienna Rolls  (6-Pack UPC:  77890 12391)
Wegmans Mini Kaiser Rolls (sold individually only)
Wegmans Challah Bread  (UPC:  77890 91040) 
Bagels and Bialys - All varieties sold individually
Bagels sold in six packs – see below

Cinnamon Raisin    77890 62804
Assorted               77890 62807
Plain                     77890 62786
Sesame                 77890 62795
Honey Wheat       77890 62816

Important:  This recall does not affect packaged breads and rolls sold in the commercial bakery section of Wegmans’ stores, the area where Wegmans and national brand packaged breads/rolls are sold.  It also does not affect Wegmans bagels sold in the dairy or frozen food departments.
 
The bagels, rolls and bread were sold in Wegmans’ stores located in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia and Maryland. Wegmans estimates that approximately 100,000 cases of bagels, rolls and Challah bread are included in the recall, although the company believes that only a very small percentage could actually be affected.  

Customers may return the product to Wegmans for a full refund.  Consumers who have questions or concerns about this recall should contact Wegmans Consumer Affairs Department at 585-464-4760 (in Rochester) or toll free at 1 (800) WEGMANS (934-6267) Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.  Visit www.wegmans.com for a list of all product recalls.