A voluntary recall by Big Bottom Milk Company, based in Rutherfordton, North Carolina that was first announced on August 28, 2024 because required pasteurization temperatures were not achieved remains ongoing. If proper pasteurization temperatures are not reached, food products may still contain harmful bacteria, which increases the risk of foodborne illness.
Background
No press release was issued for this recall and the company has not yet released information on how the issue was discovered.
This is classified as a Class II recall, which means that a recalled product has a low chance of causing serious injury or death, but there is still the possibility of adverse health consequences.
Distribution
The recalled products were distributed in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina.
Product Details
| Brand | Product | Size | Expiration Date | UPC Code | Production Quantity |
| Big Bottom Milk Company | Chocolate milk grade A | US gallon (3.78 liters) | September 9, 2024 September 13, 2024 | 850061506047 | 84 units |
| US half gallon (1.89 liters) | 850061506054 | 251 units | |||
| US pint (0.473 liters) | 850061506078 | 701 units |
Consumer Action
As with all food recalls, consumers are strongly advised to discontinue use of the affected products even if they look or smell safe to eat.
Anyone in possession of the recalled products should not sell, serve, or distribute them.
The recall notice did not state whether or not the products could be returned to the place of purchase so they should be thrown away immediately.
Health Risks
The company has not released information on whether or not there have been any injuries in connection with consumption of the recalled products.
Any consumer who has been exposed to the affected products, and is experiencing adverse reactions or symptoms associated with foodborne illness, should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Pasteurization is a method of heating milk to a certain temperature for a specific amount of time to eliminate harmful bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, Listeria, Campylobacter, and others that can cause serious, and sometimes deadly, foodborne illness.
Commenting on this article, one national food poisoning lawyer said, “If pasteurization temperatures are not reached, food products may still contain dangerous pathogens, which can increase the risk of foodborne illness. I strongly recommend that any consumer in possession of the recalled milk should throw it out as soon as possible.”
