In 2023, food recalls in the U.S. surged to their highest levels since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a recent report released by the nonprofit U.S. Public Research Interest Group Education Fund. The increase in recalls was primarily due to undisclosed allergens and listeria contamination. Here are the key findings from the report:
Recall Numbers and Impact
- A total of 313 food recalls and alerts were announced in 2023. These consisted of recalls – products that were still on sale and alerts – products no longer on sale but possibly in consumers’ hands.
- Contaminated food caused six deaths and over 1,100 illnesses in 2023. However, researchers believe the actual number of affected individuals might be higher, as many people recover from food poisoning without needing medical care.
Commonly Recalled Foods
Snack foods like cookies and granola bars accounted for one in five recalls.
Other frequently recalled items included fruit (especially cantaloupes), beef, soup, salads, leafy greens, poultry, cheese, vegetables, supplements, and pet food.
Reasons for Recalls
- Nearly half (49.3%) of all recalls last year were for undeclared allergens on packaging.
- Additional significant causes for recalls included instances of listeria contamination, accounting for 15% of recalls, salmonella contamination, contributing to 8.6% of recalls, and the presence of uninspected products, making up 6.1% of recalls.
- The rise in undisclosed allergen incidents was partly influenced by the addition of sesame as a mandated disclosed allergen, which contributed to 39% of the increase, starting in January 2023.
Notable Recalls So Far in 2024
- Dairy products were implicated in a “multi-year, multistate” listeria outbreak investigation, resulting in recalls of items such as queso fresco and cotija cheese. This affected major retailers including Costco, Walmart, and Trader Joe’s.
- Quaker Oats broadened its recall of products in January following an initial recall in December due to potential salmonella contamination. The expanded recall encompassed more than 20 items, including granola, protein and cereal bars, cereals, instant oatmeals, and snack mixes, all sold nationwide. Fortunately, there have been no reports of any injuries related to this issue.
- Trader Joe’s recalled more than 61,000 pounds of their steamed chicken soup dumplings due to potential contamination with hard plastic pieces originating from a permanent marker. Fortunately, there have been no reports of any injuries related to this issue.
- Dairy products were implicated in a “multi-year, multistate” listeria outbreak investigation, resulting in recalls of items such as queso fresco and cotija cheese. This affected major retailers including Costco, Walmart, and Trader Joe’s.
- After elevated levels of lead in six ground cinnamon products were discovered, the FDA issued a warning in March. These items were available in stores such as Dollar Tree and Family Dollar across multiple states. The alert followed an investigation into the recall of cinnamon applesauce tainted with lead in 2023, which resulted in over 500 reports of adverse events in children.
- Wenders LLC, the manufacturer of Trader Joe’s cashews, issued a recall in March for four batches of Trader Joe’s 50% Less Sodium Roasted & Salted Whole Cashews due to possible salmonella contamination. The cashews were distributed in 16 states. Fortunately, there have been no reports of any injuries related to this issue.
- Greater Omaha Packing Company initiated a recall after routine testing discovered the presence of E. coli in tainted beef used to manufacture ground beef products. The products were distributed to food service institutions and retail outlets nationwide.
- Infinite Herbs initial recall of organic basil due to potential salmonella contamination grew to cover not only Trader Joe’s, but also Fruit Center Marketplace and Dierberg’s grocery retailers across 29 states.
- Multiple brands were affected by a recall from Palmer Candy Company. Walmart, Hyvee, Target, Dollar General, United Supermarkets, and other distributors pulled various white-coated confectionery items from shelves due to potential salmonella contamination.
- Cargill Meat Solutions recalled more than 16,000 pounds of raw ground beef products due to potential contamination with E. coli. The affected product was distributed to Walmart retail locations nationwide.
Commenting on this story, one national food safety attorney said, “The increase in food recalls emphasizes the critical need for diligence in ensuring food safety. Consumers should stay informed about recalls, pay attention to allergen labels, and promptly seek medical help if they experience symptoms related to food poisoning.”
