C.J. Dannemiller Co., a Norton, Ohio company, has initiated a recall of industrial-sized bags of sunflower kernels due to the possibility of contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria that can cause potentially lethal infections, particularly in the elderly, young children, and other individuals who otherwise have suppressed immune system, such as individuals on chemotherapy or with autoimmune conditions.
Dannemiller Recalls SunOpta-Supplied Sunflower Kernels
The recall affects SunOpta 50# bags and 30# cases of “sunflower kernels roasted no salt” and “roasted sunflower kernels roasted and salted,” and is part of a larger SunOpta recall announced by the production and distribution company on May 4th.
Distribution of the recalled sunflower kernels occurred in Arkansas, Virginia, Indiana and Michigan between February 22nd and May 17th. The kernels were distributed in bulk packaging.
The affected sunflower kernels may be identified by their packaging.
The 50# kernels are packaged in 50 lb. white paper bags. The bags are marked with one of the following lot codes, which are stamped on the top center or the bag: 8B6M17, 8D6M12, or 8D6M11.
The 30# cases of kernels come in 30 lb. brown corrugated cases, and are marked with a “MFG DATE” – which appears on the label of the product – of either 3/21/16 or 3/28/16.
“Production of the product has been suspended while the FDA and the company continue their investigation as to the source of the problem,” the company recall notice stated.
The company, a self-described “leading nutmeat and concession supplier” that “roast[s] its own peanuts and other nutmeats…thereby ensuring that what [they] sell is the freshest possible,” is encouraging customers that purchased the larger 50 pound bags of recalled sunflower kernels to return them to the place that they were purchased for a full refund.
The company recall notice is silent as to what consumers should do with purchased 30 pound cases.
For customers with questions, C. J. Dannemiller Co. has established a phone line to answer consumer questions. A company representative may be reached between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm Eastern Standard Time at 1 (800) 624-8671.
At this time, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the C. J. Dannemiller recall or the larger SunOpta recall.
