The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) and Al-Safa US LLC, based in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada have announced a critical recall of approximately 2,010 pounds of imported frozen ready-to-eat chicken products due to potential presence of Listeria monocytogenes (“Listeria”). Listeria is a bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Background
The recall was initiated by Al-Safa US LLC after routine FSIS testing indicated potential Listeria contamination.
The affected products, produced on June 5, 2024 in Canada, imported to the U.S. on June 13 and June 21, 2024 and distributed to retail outlets across the country.
Product Details
- “Al Safa Halal Charcoal Grilled Chicken Seekh Kebab Grilled, Minced, Chicken Patty Kebab” in 12.1 ounce cardboard box packaging with “NOV 30 25” and “0605404” printed on a sticker on the box.
- “Al Safa Halal Fully Cooked Chicken Chapli Kebab Seasoned Chicken Patty” in 14.11 ounce cardboard box packaging with “NOV 30 25” and “0605416” printed on a sticker on the box.
Both products bear the establishment number “866” inside the Canadian mark of inspection.
Consumer Action
Some products may still be in consumers’ freezers. FSIS urges consumers who have purchased these products not to consume them. As with all recalled food products, they should not be consumed even if they smell or look safe to eat.
FSIS says they “routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. When available, the retail distribution list(s) will be posted on the FSIS website at www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls.”
The affected items should be discarded or returned to the place of purchase.
Consumers with additional questions or concerns can contact Marwan Mahaboob Basha at Al-Safa US LLC by calling 800-268-8174.
Health Risks
While no adverse reactions have been reported thus far, those who have consumed the products and are experiencing flu-like symptoms, particularly individuals in high-risk categories, it is advised to seek medical care promptly and inform healthcare providers about the potential exposure
Listeriosis is an infection that causes fever, gastrointestinal symptoms, and muscle aches and is caused by the consumption of food contaminated by bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. Unlike other strains of bacteria, listeria multiplies in foods stored in the refrigerator. Pasteurization and thorough cooking are the most effective methods of killing the bacteria and preventing infection.
Commenting on this story, one national food safety attorney said, “Listeriosis has the potential to be dangerous. I recommend that any consumer with the affected products throw them away immediately or return them to the place where they were purchased.”
