Karlin Food Products, Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in 'Market Basket Complete Pancake & Waffle Mix'

Contact:
Kristine Guenther
847-441-8330 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE --Northfield, Ill.-- July 10, 2007 --- Karlin Food Products, Inc., of Northfield, IL, is recalling its 32-oz (2-lb) cartons of "Market Basket Complete Pancake & Waffle Mix" because it contains undeclared milk. People who have allergies to milk run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product.

The recalled "Market Basket, Complete Pancake & Waffle Mix" was distributed in the States of Massachusetts and New Hampshire, DeMoulas Super Markets/Market Basket retail stores.

The product comes in a 32-oz (2-lb) red carton with UPC # 49705-14852 on the bottom and an expiration date of 08 29 07 stamped on the top.

The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of milk. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by the discovery of dry milk as a sub-ingredient.

Production of the product has been suspended until FDA and the company are certain that the problem has been corrected.

Consumers who have purchased 32-oz (2-lb) cartons of "Market Basket Complete Pancake & Waffle Mix" with this code date are urged to return them to DeMoulas Super Market/Market Basket Stores for a full refund or dispose of them directly. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-888-441-8330.

Gerber® Announces Nationwide Voluntary Recall of Gerber ORGANIC Rice™ and Gerber ORGANIC Oatmeal™ 8 Ounce Cereals Due to a Potential Choking Hazard

Contact:
David Mortazavi
646-326-3926

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- July 13, 2007, Gerber Products Company, a division of Novartis Consumer Health, is voluntarily recalling all packages of Gerber ORGANIC Rice and ORGANIC Oatmeal Cereals due to a potential choking risk. A limited quantity of product may contain lumps of cereal, which do not dissolve in water or milk and pose a potential choking hazard. Gerber has received choking complaints, but no reports of injury. The FDA is aware of this recall.

The product has been distributed in the United States, Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. If a consumer has Gerber ORGANIC Rice or Gerber ORGANIC Oatmeal Cereal, they should not use the product and call the Gerber Parents Resource Center 1-800-443-7237 or 1-231-928-3000 to return the product and receive a full refund.

Gerber ORGANIC Rice and ORGANIC Oatmeal Cereals are sold in 8 ounce boxes and all codes are being recalled. Gerber ORGANIC Rice UPC Code is 15000 12504. Gerber ORGANIC Oatmeal UPC Code is 15000 12502. These numbers can be found on the bottom right side of the box.

Hot dog chili sauce in botulism recall
By ANDREW BRIDGES, Associated Press Writer


Federal health officials warned consumers Wednesday to throw away certain cans of hot dog chili sauce after the product was linked to the first cases of botulism in commercially canned foods in decades.

Four people were hospitalized. The warning applies to 10-ounce cans of Castleberry's, Austex and Kroger brands of hot dog chili sauce with "best by" dates from April 30, 2009, through May 22, 2009, the Food and Drug Administration said. It wasn't immediately clear how widely the products were distributed.

The contamination by the toxin is extremely rare for a commercially canned product. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention medical epidemiologist Dr. Michael Lynch said the last such U.S. case dates to the 1970s. The roughly 25 cases reported each year typically involved home-canned foods, Lynch said.

The victims — two each in Texas and Indiana — were seriously ill but expected to survive. The Texas cases involved children who are siblings. The Indiana cases involved an adult couple. No other details were available.

The products were made by the Castleberry's Food Co., owned by Bumble Bee Seafoods LLC, based in San Diego.

"We are taking the recall as a precautionary measure until we fully understand the facts of these cases and determine the cause of any contamination," Dave Melbourne, Castleberry senior vice president of marketing, said in a statement.

FDA has sent experts to the Castleberry's plant in Augusta, Ga., where the products were canned, said Robert Brackett, director of the FDA's Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. The company is voluntarily recalling all potentially contaminated product and is cooperating with state and federal officials, Brackett added.

Botulism is a muscle-paralyzing disease caused by a toxin made by a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum, according to the CDC.

Brackett urged consumers to discard any of the recalled cans without opening them.

"The toxin is so potent if they get it on their hands or it sprays in their face, it could make them ill," he said.

Typically, commercially canned foods are heated long enough and to high enough temperatures to kill the spores.

"It's been a triumph of food safety that canning is safe. That's what makes this so unusual," Lynch said.

Symptoms of botulism include double or blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth and muscle weakness that moves down the body, according to the CDC.

Eventually, paralysis can cause a person to stop breathing and die, unless supported by a ventilator. Most victims eventually recover after weeks to months of care.

The recall covers the following universal product codes:

_Castleberry's Hot Dog Chili Sauce, 10 oz can (UPC 3030000101)

_Austex Hot Dog Chili Sauce, 10-ounce can (UPC 3030099533)

_Kroger Hot Dog Chili Sauce, 10-ounce can (UPC 1111083942)

_Morton House Corned Beef Hash, 15-ounce can (UPC 7526665830)

_Cattle Drive Chili With Beans, 15-ounce can (UPC 3030001598)

_Southern Home Corned Beef Hash, 15-ounce can (UPC 0788015359)

_Meijer Corned Beef Hash, 15-ounce can (UPC 4125095229)

_Castleberrys Chili With Beans, 15-ounce can (UPC 3030001017)

_Castleberrys Barbecue Pork, 10-ounce can (UPC 3030000402)

_Bunker Hill Chili No Beans, 10-ounce can (UPC 7526604112).

Consumers with questions may call the company toll-free at 888-203-8446.

Castleberry's Food Co.: http://www.castleberrys.com/

CDC botulism information: http://www.bt.cdc.gov/agent/botulism/index.asp

FDA Expands Its Warning about the Risk of Botulism Poisoning From Certain Castleberry Food Products and Dog Food


The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is expanding its July 18 warning to consumers. This expansion is for consumers and pet owners regarding canned food products and dog food produced by Castleberry Food Company of Augusta, Ga., due to the risk of botulinum toxin. Castleberry is expanding the recall to include all of the following canned products with all "best by" and code dates, and FDA is warning consumers not to purchase or eat any of the canned products listed in the table below.

Hot Dog Chili Sauces /  SIZE /  UPC CODES
 
Austex Onion Hot Dog Chili Sauce
 10 OZ
 30300-97101
 
Austex Hot Dog Chili Sauce
 10 OZ
 30300-99533
 
Castleberry's Hot Dog Chili Sauce
 10 OZ
 30300-00101
 
Castleberry's Onion Hot Dog Chili Sauce
 10 OZ
 30300-07101
 
Bunker Hill Hot Dog Chili Sauce
 10 OZ
 75266-04152
 
Kroger Hot Dog Chili Sauce
 10 OZ
 11110-83942
 
Meijer Hot Dog Chili Sauce
 10 OZ
 41250-85862
 
Food Lion Hot Dog Chili Sauce
 10 OZ
 35826-06911
 
Bloom Hot Dog Chili Sauce
 10 OZ
 25439-92448
 
Thrifty Maid Hot Dog Chili Sauce
 10 OZ
 21140-21367
 
Natural Balance Eatables dog food varieties:
 
Irish Stew with Beef Dog Food
 15 OZ
 23633-59860
 
Chinese Take Out with Sauce with Vegetables and Chicken Dog Food
 15 OZ
 23633-59861
 
Southern Style Dumplings with Gravy with Chicken and Vegetables
Dog Food
 15 OZ
 23633-59862
 
Hobo Chili with Chicken Pasta Dog Food
 15 OZ
 23633-59863


The agency is expanding its warning based in part on FDA test results and information obtained during a joint FDA and U.S. Department of Agriculture inspection of the Castleberry’s facility in Augusta, Ga.

Exposure to botulinum toxin can be fatal and two people in Texas and two people in Indiana remain seriously ill and hospitalized with botulism poisoning associated with eating Castleberry's Hot Dog Chili Sauce.

While the previous recall and the known illnesses are linked to production dates of April 30 to May 22, 2007, the firm has extended the recall to include all products listed irrespective of "best by" date. The firm is cooperating with FDA in the recall of these products and has ceased processing and distribution.

In addition, Castleberry is recalling other products containing meat, which are regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. USDA is also warning the public not to eat certain brands of Castleberry products containing meat. The list of these USDA-regulated products can be viewed at this link to the USDA website: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/Recall_033_2007_Release/index.asp

Consumers who have any of these products or any foods made with these products should throw them away immediately. Double bag the cans in plastic bags that are tightly closed then place in a trash receptacle for non-recyclable trash outside of the home. Additional instructions for safe disposal can be found at www.cdc.gov/botulism/botulism_faq.htm

Retailers that have any of these products are asked to assure that they are removed from use and do not accidentally get reintroduced for sale, service or donation.

Symptoms of botulism poisoning in humans can begin from 6 hours to 2 weeks after eating food that contains the toxin. Symptoms may include double vision, blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and muscle weakness that moves progressively down the body, affecting the shoulders first then descending to the upper arms, lower arms, thighs, calves, etc. Botulism poisoning can also cause paralysis of the breathing muscles which can result in death unless assistance with breathing (mechanical ventilation) is provided. Individuals who show these symptoms and who may have recently eaten one of the Castleberry’s products currently under recall should seek immediate medical attention.

The disease has only been seen occasionally in dogs and has not been reported in cats. Ferrets are highly susceptible to botulinum toxin. The incubation period can be 2 hours to 2 weeks; in most cases, the symptoms appear after 12 to 24 hours. Botulism is characterized by progressive motor paralysis. Typical clinical signs may include muscle paralysis, difficulty breathing, chewing and swallowing, visual disturbances and generalized weakness may also occur. Death usually results from paralysis of the respiratory or cardiac muscles. Pet owners who have used these products and whose pets have these symptoms should contact their veterinarian immediately. At this time we are not aware of pet illnesses associated with these products although we recommend that all these products should be discarded.

Castleberry recommends consumers with any questions or concerns about this recall should go to Castleberry’s website (www.castleberrys.com) or call Castleberry’s consumer hotline at 1-800-203-4412 or 1-888-203-8446.

Consumers with questions can call FDA at 1-888-SAFEFOOD.

California Department of Public Health Warns Consumers Not to Eat De La Rosa Pulparindo Candy

Contact:
Suanne Buggy or Lea Brooks
916-440-7259

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Sacramento, CA -- July 20, 2007 -- California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Director Dr. Mark Horton today warned consumers not to eat to De La Rosa Pulparindo candy imported from Mexico after tests conducted by CDPH found high levels of lead that could cause health problems. Eating lead-contaminated candy is particularly harmful to infants, young children and pregnant women. Consumers in possession of this product should discard it.

"Lead is toxic to humans, especially infants, young children and developing fetuses, and can result in learning disabilities and behavioral disorders that could last a lifetime," Horton said. "Today's warning is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of foods sold in California."

De la Rosa Pulparindo is a tamarind pulp candy packaged in 10-ounce boxes that contain individually wrapped 0.49 ounce candies. The 10-ounce boxes are bright red in color with the word "Pulparindo" boldly printed in black letters. The individual candy packages are also bright red in color with the word "Pulparindo" boldly printed in black letters and "Extra Hot and Salted Tamarind Pulp Candy" boldly printed in yellow lettering with green trim located underneath the word "Pulparindo."

Dul-Mex Guadalajara Inc. of Hayward, the distributor where the De La Rosa Pulparindo was sampled, has initiated a voluntary recall of the product and is working with CDPH to ensure that all products still in commerce are promptly removed. CDPH is working to identify any other California distributors that might also sell De La Rosa Pulparindo in an effort to ensure that the product is removed from store shelves statewide.

According to a recent analysis by CDPH, the candy contained between 0.12 and 0.18 parts per million (ppm) of lead. California considers candies with lead levels in excess of 0.1 ppm adulterated. This level is consistent with guidance issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in November 2006 on the recommended maximum lead level of 0.1 ppm in candy products likely to be consumed by children.

Assembly Bill 121, signed by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger in 2006, provided additional resources to CDPH so more testing of candy can be conducted to ensure these products are not adulterated with lead and other contaminants.

Pregnant women and parents of children who may have consumed any of the above mentioned candy should consult with their physician or health care provider to determine if further medical testing is warranted. For more information about lead poisoning, parents and caretakers should contact their local childhood lead poisoning prevention program or local public health department. Additional information and a list of local childhood lead prevention programs are available at CDPH's Web site at http://www.dhs.ca.gov/childlead.

The public is encouraged to report any sellers of the candy by calling CDPH's complaint hotline at 1-800-495-3232.

True Leaf Farms, LLC Announces Precautionary Withdrawal of Finished Spring Mix and Arugula from Marketplace

No Reports of Illness or Problem, but Internal Tests of Numerous Samples Indicated Potential Presence of Salmonella in One Sample

Contact:
Church Brothers Produce
(831) 796-1000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Salinas, CA -- July 24, 2007 -- True Leaf Farms, LLC is contacting its wholesale and retail outlets to request they remove certain batches of spring mix and arugula from store shelves and preparation counters as a precautionary step.

During a series of regular internal tests known as 'test and hold', one of the many samples taken indicated the possible presence of salmonella, a human pathogen that may pose a potential health risk. To exert the utmost caution, all cases of spring mix and arugula produced between July 19 and July 25, 2007 are being withdrawn. There have been no reports of illness or problems connected to this product.

"There simply can be nothing more important than consumer safety,' said Jared Gill, Plant Manager of True Leaf Farms. "Withdrawing all of the product, and not just the one lot found with a potential problem is simply the right thing to do. It is essential we do all we can to protect our consumers."

Appropriate authorities have been informed and consulted about the precautionary withdrawal and are being kept updated on developments.

Church Brothers Produce, which handles the sales and marketing for True Leaf Farms, is contacting directly all outlets who are known to have received shipments of the finished product from the affected dates.

For more information contact:

Church Brothers Produce (831) 796-1000.

Castleberry’s Updates Status of National Canned Food Recall
Officials Express Urgent Need for Retailers and Consumers to Identify and Discard Recalled Items

Contact:
Doug McGraw
Fleishman-Hillard
(212) 453-2202

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- AUGUSTA, Ga. – August 1, 2007 – Citing a continuing threat to public health, Castleberry's Food Company is urging retailers, food service operations, food banks, charitable organizations and consumers to be diligent in identifying and discarding canned products subject to Castleberry's national recall.

"Our primary focus is making sure that no potentially contaminated products are on grocery shelves, in peoples' homes or in emergency food supplies," said Steve Mavity, SVP Technical Services/Quality Assurance for Castleberry's. "Surveys by our own audit team, as well as those by inspectors from federal, state and local health agencies, confirm that some retail outlets, especially smaller independent and convenience stores, may still have recalled products available for sale. We are renewing our warning not to sell, open, or consume these products."

Castleberry's voluntarily instituted the recall on July 18 due to the risk of botulinum toxin, a toxin which can cause botulism, a potentially life-threatening illness. The company broadened the scope of its recall on July 21 and has temporarily ceased production in its Augusta, Ga. plant, where it is suspected that there was a processing problem on one of the facility's canning lines. Castleberry's continues to work with the FDA and USDA to identify and correct any production issues.

What Consumers and Retailers Should Do
"Consumers, retailers, restaurants, food pantries and others should reconfirm that all products included in the recall, regardless of best-by date, are immediately disposed of," Mavity said. "Check the product description and can size of products included in the recall and follow disposal instructions communicated by Castleberry's and recommended by governmental agencies. In addition, consumers should notify family members and friends about the recall."

Mavity added, "To strengthen our outreach to smaller independent grocers, gas stations, and convenience stores, we've re-directed all of our direct retailer, distributor and wholesaler customers to contact their respective customers downstream, to ensure they are aware of the recall and follow the proper removal and disposal instructions."

Castleberry's will assist retailers in disposing of the products through Carolina Supply Chain Services (CSCS). The retailer/distributor hotline to arrange for pickup is 1-800- 821-5293. "CSCS will arrange for immediate collection," Mavity said.

In disposing of any cans that remain in homes, or in retail establishments with just a few cans on hand, Castleberry's and health officials are instructing people to double bag the cans in plastic bags that are tightly closed before being placed in a trash receptacle for non-recyclable trash outside of the home. If any of the cans are swollen, bulging or leaking, the consumer should put on gloves and eye protection before double-bagging and disposing of the cans. Slowly remove gloves and dispose of them after use. People should then wash their hands with soap and running water for at least two minutes.

Individuals who feel ill after handling or accidentally consuming any of the recalled products should seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include general weakness, dizziness, double vision, and trouble speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation are also common symptoms.

There is no need to return cans to stores. For refunds and answers to questions, consumers should contact the consumer hotline at 1-800-203-4412 or visit www.castleberrys.com.

Outreach Efforts Continue
Since the recall was announced July 18, Castleberry's has:

Issued public warnings through the news media
Established a toll-free hotline for consumers that has handled more than 20,000 calls
Posted recall information and guidance on the company's Web site at www.castleberrys.com
Instituted a refund program available online or via mail (requiring no return of product to retailers)
Deployed recall audit teams to conduct on-site inspections at retail outlets across the country (as of July 31, more than 17,500 stores have been audited)
Placed recall advertising in consumer publications
Begun an effort to reach Spanish-speaking consumers and retailers (the company's Espanol section of Web site dedicated to Spanish speakers will launch August 1)
Full Recalled Product Listing
"We want to remind consumers that as an added level of safety, we are recalling all products listed below, regardless of 'best by dates' printed on the cans," Mavity said. "We encourage consumers and retailers to focus on the product description and can size as these are the critical details in identifying the recalled products. In order to avoid any potential confusion around case and label UPC codes, we're publishing the complete list without UPC codes."

The products included in the voluntary recall have not changed since the recall was expanded on July 21.

Brand
 Product
 Can Size
 
Austex
 Beef Stew
 15oz
 
Austex
 Chili no Beans
 15oz
 
Austex
 Chili no Beans
 19oz
 
Austex
 Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Austex
 Chili with Beans
 19oz
 
Austex
 Hot Dog Chili Sauce
 10oz
 
Austex
 Onion Hot Dog Chili Sauce
 10oz
 
Best Yet
 Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Best Yet
 Corned Beef Hash
 15oz
 
Big Y
 Chili no Beans
 15oz
 
Big Y
 Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Big Y
 Corned Beef Hash
 15oz
 
Black Rock
 Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Bloom
 Hot Dog Chili Sauce
 10oz
 
Bryan
 Chili no Beans
 15oz
 
Bryan
 Chili no Beans
 10oz
 
Bryan
 Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Bryan
 Corned Beef Hash
 15oz
 
Bryan
 Hot Dog Chili Sauce with Beef
 10oz
 
Bunker Hill
 Chili no Beans
 10oz
 
Bunker Hill
 Hot Dog Chili Sauce
 10oz
 
Bunker Hill
 Spicier Chili no Beans
 10oz
 
Castleberry's
 Barbecue Beef
 10oz
 
Castleberry's
 Barbecue Pork in Barbecue Sauce
 10oz
 
Castleberry's
 Barbecue Pork in Barbecue Sauce
 14.5oz
 
Castleberry's
 Beef Stew
 15oz
 
Castleberry's
 Brunswick Beef Stew Chicken & Beef
 15oz
 
Castleberry's
 Chili no Beans
 10oz
 
Castleberry's
 Chili no Beans
 15oz
 
Castleberry's
 Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Castleberry's
 Corned Beef Hash
 15oz
 
Castleberry's
 Creamed Chip Beef Gravy
 10oz
 
Castleberry's
 Georgia Hash
 15oz
 
Castleberry's
 Hot Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Castleberry's
 Hot Dog Chili Sauce
 10oz
 
Castleberry's
 Onion Hot Dog Chili Sauce
 10oz
 
Castleberry's
 Sausage Gravy
 10oz
 
Cattle Drive
 Beef Stew (Steak)
 15oz
 
Cattle Drive
 Chicken Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Cattle Drive
 Chili no Beans
 15oz
 
Cattle Drive
 Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Firefighters
 Chicken Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Firefighters
 Chili no Beans
 15oz
 
Firefighters
 Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Food Club
 Chili no Beans
 15oz
 
Food Club
 Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Food Club
 Corned Beef Hash
 15oz
 
Food Lion
 Hot Dog Chili Sauce
 10oz
 
Goldstar
 Chili
 15oz
 
Goldstar
 Original Chili
 10oz
 
Goldstar
 Tex-Mex Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Great Value (Canada Only)
 Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Great Value (Canada Only)
 Hot Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Kroger
 Beef Stew
 15oz
 
Kroger
 Chili no Beans
 15oz
 
Kroger
 Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Kroger
 Hot Dog Chili Sauce
 10oz
 
Lowes Foods
 Chili no Beans
 15oz
 
Lowes Foods
 Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Lowes Foods
 Corned Beef Hash
 15oz
 
Meijer
 Chili no Beans
 15oz
 
Meijer
 Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Meijer
 Corned Beef Hash
 15oz
 
Meijer
 Hot Dog Chili Sauce
 10oz
 
Morton House
 Chili with Beans (Beef & Chicken)
 15oz
 
Morton House
 Corned Beef Hash
 15oz
 
Paramount
 Chili Hot Dog Chili
 15oz
 
Paramount
 Chili no Beans
 15oz
 
Paramount
 Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Paramount
 Hot Dog Chili Sauce
 10oz
 
Piggly Wiggly
 Chili no Beans
 10oz
 
Piggly Wiggly
 Chili no Beans
 15oz
 
Piggly Wiggly
 Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Piggly Wiggly
 Corned Beef Hash
 15oz
 
Prudence
 Corned Beef Hash
 15oz
 
Southern Home
 Chili no Beans
 15oz
 
Southern Home
 Chili no Beans
 10oz
 
Southern Home
 Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Southern Home
 Corned Beef Hash
 15oz
 
Steak 'n Shake
 Chili with Beans
 10oz
 
Thrifty Maid
 Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Thrifty Maid
 Corned Beef Hash
 15oz
 
Thrifty Maid
 Hot Dog Chili Sauce
 10oz
 
Triple Bar Ranch
 Chili no Beans
 15oz
 
Triple Bar Ranch
 Chili with Beans
 15oz
 
Triple Bar Ranch
 Chili with Beans Slow Cooked
 15oz
 
Value Time
 Beef and Chicken Chili with Beans
 15oz
 

 
 
 
Pet Food Products
 
 
 
Natural Balance
 Eatables for Dogs Chinese Take Out with Sauce with Vegetables and Chicken
 15oz
 
Natural Balance
 Eatables for Dogs HOBO Chili with Chicken and Pasta
 15oz
 
Natural Balance
 Eatables for Dogs Irish Stew with Beef, Potatoes and Carrots
 15oz
 
Natural Balance
 Eatables for Dogs Southern Style Dumplings with Chicken and Vegetables
 15oz
 

Web Site Information and Resource
Complete information on the Castleberry's recall for consumers and retailers is available by visiting:
www.castleberrys.com
www.cfsan.fda.gov
www.fsis.usda.gov/
www.cdc.gov/botulism/

HEALTH ALERT:  Children's Toys made in China.  USPSC issues national recall of Fisher Price toys made in China with excessive lead.

Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of product:  Sesame Street, Dora the Explorer, and other products.

Complete details here:  http://www.emergencyemail.org/newsemergency/anmviewer.asp?a=228&z=1

Donnamax Inc. Issues Nationwide Voluntary Recall of Dentapro and Bright Max Brands of Toothpaste

Contact:
Raymond Zeitouny
(718) 854-0273

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Brooklyn, NY -- August 7, 2007 -- Donnamax Inc. of Brooklyn, NY, has initiated a voluntary recall of the following brands of toothpaste made in China:

DentaPro brand CAVITY FIGHTING FLUORIDE TOOTHPASTE, FRESH SPEARMINT FLAVOR, NET WT. 6.4 oz. - Item No. 9112, UPC 8 71290 – 00062 5, and
Bright Max Toothpaste, NET WT. 6.4 oz. - Item No. 9111
This recall has been initiated because the products may contain diethylene glycol (DEG), also known as “diglycol”.

The FDA is not aware of any U.S. reports of poisoning from toothpaste containing DEG. However, the agency is concerned about potential risks from chronic exposure to DEG in certain populations, such as children and individuals with kidney or liver disease. DEG in toothpaste has a low but meaningful risk of toxicity and injury to these populations. Toothpaste is not intended to be swallowed, but FDA is concerned about unintentional swallowing or ingestion of tooth paste with DEG.

CONSUMERS WHO HAVE THE PRODUCTS SHOULD STOP USING THEM, AND RETURN THEM TO THE PLACE OF PURCHASE, OR THROW THEM AWAY.

The toothpaste products were sold to retail stores located in the states of New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, Mississippi, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, and Idaho.

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

Retailers should immediately examine their inventory for the recalled brands of toothpaste, remove them from sale, destroy any units found, and report the quantity destroyed on the response form to Donnamax Inc. as soon as possible.

This voluntarily recall is being made with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or fax:

Online: www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm
Regular Mail: use postage-paid FDA form 3500 available at www.fda.gov/MedWatch/getforms.htm
Mail to MedWatch 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20852-9787
Fax: 1-800-FDA-0178

CFS Operating Ltd. DBA/Cloud's Food Service Inc., Recalls Sandwiches Because of Possible Health Risk

Contact:
David Floyd
(903) 758-7011

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Longview, TX – August 7, 2007, CFS Operating Ltd. of Longview, Texas is recalling 4219 units of Cloud's Tuna Salad Sandwiches and Egg Salad Sandwiches because they have 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.

These sandwiches are labeled with "Cloud's Tuna Salad" and "Cloud's Egg Salad" located on the product label. The product was packaged in flexible plastic film and plastic wedges. Recalled products are as follows:

Cloud's Tuna Salad Sandwich on White Bread, 5 oz., date code 62607-72507
Cloud's Egg Salad Sandwich on White Bread, 5 oz., date code 41907-72507
All sandwiches were sold in convenience stores in East Texas, West Louisiana and Southwest Arkansas.

There have been no reports of illnesses associated with the recalled product. The problem was discovered through FDA sampling during an inspection. CFS Operating Ltd. is working with the FDA to ensure that the problem has been resolved.

Consumers who have purchased Cloud's Tuna Salad and Cloud's Egg Salad sandwiches are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact David Floyd at (903) 758-7011.

Gilchrist & Soames Initiates Urgent Worldwide Toothpaste Voluntary Recall

Contact:
Cindy Duran, Borshoff Johnson Matthews
(317) 631-6400, ext. 237                                                                                   

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Indianapolis, IN -- August 13, 2007 -- Gilchrist & Soames, an Indianapolis-based provider of toiletry products for the hotel industry, has initiated a worldwide voluntary recall of its Gilchrist & Soames 0.65oz/18ml toothpaste manufactured in China for the company by Ming Fai Enterprises International Co., LTD, after independent tests showed some samples of the toothpaste contained diethylene glycol, or DEG.

The United States Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") is not aware of any U.S. reports of poisonings from toothpaste containing DEG. However, the agency is concerned about potential risks from chronic exposure to DEG and exposure to DEG in certain populations, such as children and individuals with kidney or liver disease. DEG in toothpaste has a low but meaningful risk of toxicity and injury to these populations. Toothpaste is not intended to be swallowed, but FDA is concerned about unintentional swallowing or ingestion of toothpaste containing DEG. This voluntary recall is being conducted in cooperation with the FDA. The Company also has notified the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform in the UK to enable it to notify the European Commission to launch a RAPEX notification in the European Union.

Hotels in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, Barbados, Dominican Republic or Turks & Caicos that received the recalled toothpaste from the company’s United States distribution center, and those located in the U.K., Ireland, Spain, Belgium, France, Italy, Germany, Switzerland and the UAE serviced by the company’s U.K. distribution center, are being asked to destroy any remaining inventory.

Hotel guests, who may have received the recalled toothpaste from hotels in any of these countries, should safely dispose of it.

"After receiving the FDA alert June 1 about tainted toothpaste manufactured in China, we immediately contacted our two Chinese toothpaste suppliers and initiated a series of independent lab tests in both Hong Kong and the United States to determine the possible presence of DEG," said Kathie De Voe, president of Gilchrist & Soames.

At the same time, Gilchrist & Soames stopped all outgoing shipments and quarantined all of its "Made in China" toothpaste. The Company also communicated with all of its hotel clients and suggested that they stop offering Chinese-made Gilchrist & Soames toothpaste to their guests until further investigation and independent testing by Gilchrist & Soames and the FDA. The June 1 FDA Consumer Alert was attached. The Company took these steps even though its toothpaste was not among those cited in the FDA warning.

De Voe said, "The fifth round of our independent lab tests showed the presence of DEG in some samples at levels exceeding FDA guidelines from one of our China suppliers. We immediately began the process of initiating a voluntary recall of our complimentary-sized (.65oz/18ml) Gilchrist & Soames toothpaste. We want to ensure that any contaminated toothpaste is safely disposed of and/or destroyed."

Gilchrist & Soames is notifying its hotel clients in those countries where the toothpaste was distributed to discard their inventories. The Company is working with each hotel on a guest notification program. Materials will inform guests about this voluntary recall, including the FDA Web address for current toothpaste recalls (http://www.fda.gov/oc/opacom/hottopics/toothpaste.html), as well as a toll-free telephone number at Gilchrist & Soames U.S. headquarters (1-866-587-6542) that hotel guests may call if they desire more information about the recall. The European Union Web address for further information about toothpaste manufactured in China is http://ec.europa.eu/consumers/dyna/rapex/rapex_archives_en.cfm. Local contact numbers in Europe for Gilchrist & Soames are as follows: Germany – 004908000004988, Ireland – 00353 1800932251, France – 0033 0805114958, Spain – 0034800098797, Switzerland - 0041 0800 001285, Hungary – 0036 0680018077, Italy – 0039 800986779, UK – 08003112139, Belgium – 0032 080048630.

De Voe said, "We are thankful that the small size of our tubes (.65oz/18ml) may help reduce the risk. However, we strongly encourage consumers to dispose of any of the recalled toothpaste they may still have."

Gilchrist & Soames is working with its global supply chain partners to be certain they meet the standards and specifications outlined in its new testing criteria. New testing to confirm the absence of DEG will be part of that process. This recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the FDA, and the European Authorities.

Ocean King Enterprises Inc. Recalls the Following Ready-To-Eat Seafood Dips Because of Possible Health Risk

Regal King Premium Krab Dip
Regal King Cajun Krab Dip
Regal King Shrimp Dip
Regal King Smoked Salmon Dip

Contact:
Ocean King Enterprises Inc.
(215) 495-0540

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Philadelphia, PA -- August 16, 2007 -- Ocean King Enterprises Inc. of Philadelphia, PA is recalling Ready-to-Eat Seafood Dips, 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.

Products were distributed through the following A&P warehouses: A&P (C&S) Hatfield in Hatfield, MA; A&P (C&S)  Baltimore in North East, MD; and A&P (C&S) Woodbridge in Woodbridge, NJ.  Products will have reached consumers through retail stores from warehouse distribution.

The products were sold in bulk 5-pound containers to the warehouses.  The dips are then sold in the value added and deli sections of the retail stores in clear plastic containers with a Regal King label.  All flavors have a red and white repack label.  The brand name is Regal King Gourmet Seafood.  The flavors are Premium Krab Dip, Cajun Krab Dip, Shrimp Dip, and Smoked Salmon Dip.

No illnesses have been reported to date.

The recall was the result of an independent systemic sampling program conducted by Ocean King Enterprises Inc. which revealed that one finished product contained the bacteria. The company has ceased the production and distribution of the product as FDA and Ocean King Enterprises continue their investigation as to what caused the problem.

Consumers who purchased Regal King Brand ready-to-eat seafood dips should return the product to the store for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Ocean King Enterprises Inc. at (215) 495-0540.

Acme Smoked Fish Corporation Recalls Smoked Salmon

Contact:
Acme Smoked Fish Corporation
718-383-8585

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Brooklyn, NY -- August 14, 2007 -- Acme Smoked Fish Corporation is voluntarily recalling 132 lbs of 4 oz. Smoked Salmon (Acme NY Original) and 114 lbs of 8 oz. Smoked Salmon (Acme NY Original) with a batch code of 9428 and sell-by-date code of 9-26/2007. This product was distributed to retail stores in the South Florida Region.

The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in one 4 ounce package of "4 oz. Smoked Salmon (Acme Y Original)" with product code 9428 and sell-by-date code of 9/26/07. This organism can cause serious complications for pregnant women, young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.

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

Consumers who have purchased 4 oz. Smoked Salmon (Acme NY Original) and/or 8 oz. Smoked Salmon (Acme NY Original) with batch code 9428 and sell-by-date 9/26/07 are urged to contact Acme for further details and refunds. Consumers with questions may contact the Quality Assurance Department at Acme Smoked Fish Corporation at 718-383-8585.

Select Krasdale Gravy Dry Dog Food 5lb Bags Voluntarily Recalled in Five States
 
Contact:
Renee Kopkowski
(908) 850-7935

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- FRANKLIN, Tenn. -- August 21, 2007 -- Mars Petcare US, Inc. today announces a voluntary recall of select five pound bags of Krasdale Gravy dry dog food sold in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. The pet food is being recalled because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, which can cause serious infections in dogs and cats, and, if there is cross contamination, in people, especially children, the aged, and people with compromised immune systems.

The recalled product should not be sold or fed to pets. Pet owners should dispose of product in a safe manner (example, a securely covered trash receptacle) and return the empty bag to the store where purchased for a full refund.

Salmonella can potentially be transferred to people handling this pet food, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the product or any surfaces exposed to the product. Healthy people potentially infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Well animals can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

Recalled pet food
Product: Krasdale Gravy dry dog food
Size: 5 pound bag
UPC Code: 7513062596
Best Buy Date: July 16 & 17, 2008
Best Buy Date Location: Back of bag
Affected Stores: Various stores located in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania.

Mars Petcare is issuing this action out of an abundance of caution and it sincerely regrets any inconvenience to pet owners as a result of this announcement. This voluntary recall has been issued because the FDA detected Salmonella in a sample of Krasdale Gravy dry dog food with best buy dates of July 16 & 17, 2008 during a recent review.

In an effort to prevent the transmission of Salmonella from pets to family members and care givers, the FDA recommends that everyone follow appropriate pet food handling guidelines when feeding their pets. A list of safe pet food handling tips can be found at: www.fda.gov/consumer/updates/petfoodtips080307.html

This product UPC has been blocked from retail sale at these locations.

Additional information about the product is available on www.marspetcare.com. Pet owners who have questions about the voluntary recall should call (866) 298-8332, or visit the web site for more information.

FDA Expands Warning on Eating Raw Oysters from
Hood Canal in Washington State
Additional Growing Area Linked to Illness Outbreaks


The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers not to eat raw oysters harvested from an additional part (growing area 5) of the southern tip of Hood Canal in Washington state due to a foodborne illness outbreak caused by Vibrio parahaemolyticus bacteria.  This follows an earlier outbreak and August 10 warning about oysters harvested from growing area 6 of Hood Canal.

Symptoms of the illness, vibriosis, include watery diarrhea, often with abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, fever, and chills. Usually these symptoms occur within 24 hours of ingestion and last no more than three days. Severe disease is rare and occurs most commonly in people with weakened immune systems. Those who believe they have experienced these symptoms after consuming raw oysters should consult their health care provider and contact their local health department.

Raw oysters harvested from growing area 5 in Hood Canal from July 31 through August 20, 2007 have caused at least six people to become ill in Washington state. To date, records indicate that raw oysters from the area were distributed to Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Idaho, Minnesota, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Utah, Washington state, British Columbia (Canada). Bali (Indonesia), Hong Kong, Singapore, and Thailand.

The Washington State Department of Health has closed the growing area associated with the illness and has asked commercial oyster harvesters and dealers who obtained oysters from this area to recall them.

Consumers who have recently purchased oysters should check with the place of purchase and ask if they were harvested from the affected growing areas. The recall involves both shucked oysters and oyster in the shell (shell stock oysters).

Those with weakened immune systems, including people affected by HIV/AIDS, chronic alcohol abuse, liver, stomach, or blood disorders, cancer, diabetes, or kidney disease, should avoid eating raw oysters, regardless of where they are harvested.

FDA advises that consumers can continue to enjoy oysters in many cooked preparations by doing the following:

At Restaurants and other Foodservice Establishments:

Order oysters fully cooked.
In the Shell:

Purchase oysters with the shells closed
Throw away any oysters with shells already opened.
Never allow raw seafood to come into contact with cooked food.
Boil or steam the oysters:
Boil oysters until the shells open. Once shells open, boil for an additional three to five minutes.
To steam—add oysters to water that is already steaming and cook live oysters until the shells open, once open steam for another four to nine minutes.
Use smaller pots to boil or steam oysters. Using larger pots, or cooking too many oysters at one time,
Discard any oysters that do not open during cooking.
Shucked Oysters:

Never allow raw seafood to come into contact with cooked food.
Cook the oysters in one of the following ways:
Boil or simmer shucked oysters for at least three minutes or until the edges curl. \
Fry at 375° F for at least three minutes.
Broil three inches from heat for three minutes.
Bake at 450° F for 10 minutes.
For more information:
Hood canal oyster area closed — second closure due to illness outbreak
www.doh.wa.gov/Publicat/2007_news/07-143.htm