The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has announced a recall of Chalo! Brand Paneer Unripened Soft Cheese due to package bloating. Bloated packaging may be indicative of microbial contamination that could potentially cause foodborne illness.
Background
No information has yet been provided as to what led to the recall of the affected product.
Distribution
The recalled paneer cheese was distributed to retail locations in the provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, and Saskatchewan.
Product Details
- Brand – Chalo!
- Product – Paneer Unripened Soft Cheese
- Size – 300 grams
- Best Before Dates – All dates up to and including September 23, 2024
- UPC Code – 6 27985 00100 8
Consumer Action
Consumers should search their homes for the recalled products.
As with all food recalls, consumers are advised to stop use of the affected product even if it looks or smells safe to eat.
Consumers should dispose of any found products immediately. The company has not said if the recalled product can be returned to the place of purchase for a refund.
Anyone with additional questions or concerns can contact the CFIA toll free by phone in Canada or the US at 800-442-2342 or by email at [email protected].
Health Risks
The recall notice did not specify if there have been any illnesses or injuries in connection with the recalled paneer cheese. However, any consumer that has been exposed to the affected product, and is experiencing symptoms of food poisoning, should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
In most cases, bloated food packaging occurs when microorganisms in perishable items generate gas, like carbon dioxide. These microorganisms can lead to food spoilage, and in some instances, they may cause foodborne illnesses.
Consumers should avoid buying any items with bloated packaging and ensure food is stored under the right conditions and protected from extreme heat or sunlight, which can harm packaging. Expiration dates should always be checked before eating. If food is past its expiration and the package appears unusually swollen, discard it for safety.
Commenting on this article, one national food poisoning lawyer said, “While it does not appear that any pathogens, which could cause foodborne illness, have been discovered in the recalled product, I still recommend that consumers throw away any recalled items in their possession for safety’s sake.”
