UBC Food Distributors, based in Dearborn, Michigan, has issued a recall for its Baraka-brand Ground Black Pepper. The recall was prompted by concerns over potential contamination with Salmonella, a bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections.
Background
Routine sampling by the New York Department of Agriculture and Markets found Salmonella in some 7 ounce packages of Baraka-brand ground black pepper. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) then alerted UBC Food Distributors of the presence of Salmonella in the product.
The recalled product was sold in retail stores across the country. As of this writing, the company has not identified specific states or retail outlets.
UBC Food Distributors and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have opened an investigation into the source of the contamination. Production of the affected black pepper has currently been halted, pending an outcome of the inquiry.
Product Details
- Product – Ground Black Pepper
- Brand Name – Baraka
- Packaging – Clear plastic containers with a red lid
- Size – 7 ounces
- UPC Code – 8 22514 26626 6
- Expiration Date – January 2026 (located on back label)
Consumer Action
Consumers are advised to check their kitchens and pantries for the affected product.
As with all recalls, consumers are strongly advised to not consume the recalled black pepper, even if it smells or appears safe to eat.
Consumers who have purchased the affected product can return them to the point of purchase for a full refund.
Consumers with additional questions or concerns can call UBC Food Distributors at 313-846-8117 from Monday through Friday between 9 am and 5 pm.
Health Risks
As of now, no illnesses or injuries have been reported related to this recall.
Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause severe gastrointestinal illness in humans. Symptoms typically include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, appearing six hours to six days after exposure to the bacteria. While most people recover without specific treatment, the infection can be severe, especially for young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Commenting on this story, one national food safety lawyer said, “Consumers should stay informed about food recalls. To protect themselves and their family, consumers can regularly visit sites like www.fda.gov or Food Poisoning News for recalls and public health alerts.”
