Author: Kit Redwine

In cooperation with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Lidl US, a popular supermarket chain, has issued a recall for its Deluxe branded Macarons Party Edition due to the presence of undeclared allergens. The affected macarons may pose a serious health risk to individuals with specific allergies. Background The recall was initiated because Lidl found that the product contains undeclared allergens after it was delivered to their retail stores. The undeclared allergens include: Egg, Milk, Soy, Tree Nuts (specifically almonds, coconut, and pistachios), and Wheat. Distribution The recalled product was distributed to all Lidl US store locations in the following…

AvKARE, LLC., a pharmaceutical company, has issued a voluntary recall for a specific lot of its Atovaquone Oral Suspension, USP 750 mg/5 mL. The reason behind this recall is the possible contamination of the product with Bacillus cereus, a bacterium that can pose serious health risks. Background The recall was initiated because the potential for Bacillus cereus contamination was found through 3rd party testing. According to AvKARE, “Atovaquone Oral Suspension, USP is indicated for prevention and treatment of Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PCP) in adults and children 13 years of age and older who cannot tolerate other medicines, such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.”…

In cooperation with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Tropicale Foods, a California-based company, has issued a voluntary recall for 5,224 units of their Helados Mexico Mini Cream Variety Pack. The reason behind this recall is the potential for Salmonella contamination in the product. Background The recall was initiated after product testing showed the potential for Salmonella contamination in the mango bars of the variety pack. Distribution The affected product was distributed to retail locations in the following states: Product Details What Consumers Should Do Potential Health Risks Fortunately, no illnesses have been reported to date but consumers should check…

Lead, a heavy metal once commonly found in household products and paints, has long been recognized as a silent menace to children’s health. Its insidious effects can be devastating, even at low levels of exposure. The recent WanaBana recall has thrust this danger into the spotlight, leaving parents grappling with fear and uncertainty. The WanaBana Recall: A Shocking Revelation In October 2023, WanaBana, a popular brand of fruit puree pouches marketed to toddlers and young children, issued a nationwide recall. The reason? Dangerous levels of lead contamination in their cinnamon applesauce pouches. Parents who had innocently fed their little ones…

Halal and kosher—two distinct culinary traditions steeped in religious practices—have shaped the way millions of people around the world approach food. Let’s explore the nuances that set these dietary guidelines apart. Origins and Definitions Slaughtering Practices Food Pairings Kosher and Halal Permitted Animals Restricted Foods Commenting on this article, one national food safety attorney said, “While kosher and halal laws are centuries old, both traditions emphasize cleanliness, hygiene, and meticulous food handling, all of which are key ingredients to food safety in today’s world.” Kosher and halal diets reflect the rich tapestry of religious observance. While they diverge in specific…

The rise of home food delivery services has transformed the way we access meals. Whether it’s a still-sizzling burger, a gourmet salad, or a cook-it-yourself meal kit, these services offer convenience and variety. However, behind the scenes, ensuring food safety remains a critical responsibility for both providers and consumers. The FoodNet Surveillance Data The CDC’s FoodNet program diligently monitors foodborne illnesses across the United States. In 2020, they observed a significant decrease in reported infections compared to previous years. While this decline is noteworthy, it’s essential to consider external factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which likely influenced detection rates.…

Food allergies affect millions of people worldwide, causing adverse reactions when certain foods are consumed. These allergies can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening emergencies. Let’s delve into the nine most common food allergens and explore their causes and symptoms to ensure that consumers make informed choices. Cow’s Milk Cow’s milk allergies are common and prevalent among infants and toddlers, affecting approximately 2–3% of this age group. Fortunately, the vast majority of children outgrow this allergy by the age of 3 and is thus less common in adults. Symptoms may manifest quickly, often within minutes of milk consumption or can…

As the weather starts to warm and the days get longer, our culinary habits shift. Spring and Summer bring picnics, barbecues, and fresh produce galore. But alongside these delightful experiences, consumers must also consider the seasonal implications for food safety. Let’s explore how rising temperatures impact our meals and what precautions we should take Bacterial Growth Accelerates Higher temperatures create an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. As the mercury rises, so does the risk of foodborne illnesses. Pathogens like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria thrive in warm conditions. To mitigate this, follow these guidelines: Picnics and Outdoor Dining Challenges Outdoor…

In February 2024, health authorities launched an investigation into a multistate outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 infections. As previously reported in Food Poisoning News, the investigation began after 10 individuals were infected with E. coli following consumption of Fresno, California-based RAW FARM-brand’s Raw Cheddar cheese. The recalled product was Original Flavor and Cheddar with added Jalapeno Flavor that came in both blocks and shredded packages with best buy dates through 10/4/2024 and 5/10/2024, respectively. The recalled product was distributed nationwide but states with E. coli cases were limited to California, Colorado, New Jersey, Texas, and Utah. Consumers in any state…

In cooperation with the Food and Drug Administration, KALO Foods, LLC has issued recalls for its Single Slice Carrot Cake and Single Slice Chocolate Cake due to an undeclared soy allergen, which can pose a risk to individuals with soy allergies who may unknowingly consume the product. Background The recall was initiated when a customer notified KALO Foods, LLC that packages labeled as Carrot Cake contained the ingredient panel for Chocolate Cake and that packages labeled as Chocolate Cake contained the ingredient panel for Carrot Cake. However, the packages with the actual Carrot Cake product contain soy, which is not…