The Food and Drug Administration has issued an expanded recall of frozen cookie dough products that may be contaminated with salmonella. The recalled products include various brands, such as “Costco Chocolate Chunk Frozen Cookie Dough,” “Member’s Mark Chocolate Chunk,” and “Panera Kitchen Sink Cookie.” The recall affects a total of 29,019 cases of potentially contaminated products distributed in multiple states including California, Florida, and New York. The recall was initially announced on May 2 and was further expanded in June, classified as a Class II recall by the FDA.
A Class II recall is the second-highest classification of FDA recalls and is issued when the use of a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences, or when the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote. The FDA advises individuals who have purchased the affected products to either dispose of them or return them to the store and avoid consuming the cookies. The recall includes products sold exclusively at Sam’s Club under the “Member’s Mark” brand, as well as other brands like “Rise Baking Jumbo Chocolate Chunk.”
Salmonella is a bacterium that resides in the intestinal tracts of animals, according to the Mayo Clinic. An infection with salmonella, known as salmonellosis, can occur when a person consumes food or water contaminated with the bacteria. Symptoms may include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps within 8 to 72 hours after exposure. While most people recover from salmonella within a few days to a week, there is an increased risk of complications from dehydration or if the infection spreads beyond the gastrointestinal tract.
The FDA’s recall of the potentially contaminated frozen cookie dough products is intended to prevent further cases of salmonellosis among consumers. Consumers are advised to be cautious when purchasing frozen food products, especially if they have been part of any recent recalls. Several popular cookie brands are included in the recall, such as “Panera Chocolate Chipper Cookie” and “Mini Chocolate Chip Cookie.” The FDA has classified this recall as a Class II recall due to the potential adverse health consequences associated with consuming the contaminated products.
In light of the FDA’s expanded recall of frozen cookie dough products, it is crucial for consumers to be vigilant about food safety and follow any recall notices issued by regulatory agencies. Given the potential health risks associated with salmonella contamination, it is important to take appropriate precautions when handling and consuming food products. While most cases of salmonellosis resolve on their own, severe cases may require medical attention. By staying informed about food recalls and practicing safe food handling practices, consumers can protect themselves and their families from foodborne illnesses like salmonella.
