Food recalls shared by the FDA and USDA in December highlighted the importance of consumer awareness to avoid serious health risks. More than two dozen recalls were initiated for reasons such as contamination with pathogens like listeria and salmonella, and labeling errors that could lead to allergic reactions. Recalled products included cucumbers, salads, wraps, mustard greens, vegetable medleys, and gyro sandwich kits.
The FDA shared a notice on December 2 about Baloian Farms recalling cucumber products due to possible salmonella contamination. Russ Davis Wholesale also issued a recall for products containing cucumbers from Baloian Farms. Baker Farms recalled mustard greens over Listeria concerns, while 4Earth Farms recalled vegetable medleys possibly contaminated with E. coli. SunFed cucumbers led to recalls of various products at Kroger stores, including Yummi Sushi products and Supreme Produce items. Atkinson Milling Company and JFE Franchising, Inc. also initiated recalls due to potential allergen contamination.
In response to the Baloian Farms cucumber recall, Fresh Creative Foods and F&S Fresh Foods recalled products containing contaminated tzatziki sauce made with the cucumbers. Hardie’s Fresh Foods also issued a recall for cucumber select packages sold at Costco stores. MadeGood granola bars were recalled due to potential metal contamination, while Borsari Food Co’s Bloody Mary Mix was recalled over undeclared allergens. Sprouts Farmers Market Gyro Family Kits were recalled for salmonella concerns, and New Age International Inc. recalled enoki mushrooms for possible Listeria contamination.
Frito-Lay recalled Lay’s Classic Potato Chips due to undeclared milk, while NAIL Factory recalled frozen fish products due to improper sourcing. Lidl US recalled buttered vegetables over milk concerns, and Impero Foods & Meats, Inc. recalled raw pork sausage products produced without federal inspection. Ralph’s Packing Company also recalled pork and beef bologna products that may contain milk without proper labeling. Other recalls included Jose Madrid Salsa queso with undeclared food dyes, Gardners Candies Cappuccino Meltaway Bars with undeclared cashews, and Palermo Villa pizza due to a foreign contaminant.
Consuming contaminated food can lead to common infections like salmonellosis, which presents with symptoms such as abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and fever. E. coli infections can cause more severe symptoms like dehydration and kidney failure, especially in children and the elderly. Listeriosis can result in serious illness, with pregnant individuals and newborns being at higher risk. Undeclared allergens in food products can trigger anaphylaxis in those with allergies, requiring immediate medical attention for symptoms like throat swelling and difficulty breathing.
The FDA works with food producers to facilitate voluntary recalls when necessary to ensure consumer safety. Regulations like the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act grant the agency mandatory recall authorities in cases of serious foodborne illness outbreaks. Maintaining awareness of food recalls and practicing safe food handling and preparation can help to reduce the risk of harmful health effects from consuming contaminated products.
