New Zealand Food Safety has announced a recall of imported sesame seeds distributed by Davis Trading Company due to potential Salmonella contamination. Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause serious infections, especially in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Background
The potential presence of Salmonella was discovered through routine testing.
The affected sesame seeds were imported from India but were not re-exported from New Zealand to other countries.
These products were sold at Davis Food Ingredients in Auckland and subsequently distributed to supermarkets and smaller retailers nationwide. The products have been removed from retail sale.
New Zealand Food Safety said that it is working with Davis Trading Company to trace the product and investigate the source of contamination to prevent future occurrences.
New Zealand’s food safety system places responsibility on importers for ensuring the safety of imported food products.
Product Details
- Product Name – Sesame Seed Kernels White Hulled
- Packaging – Plastic packet
- Size – 1 kg
- Batch Number – AAI/3890
- PO Number – 780004
Consumer Action
Consumers should check their homes for the specific batch number and PO number on the product label.
As with all food recalls, consumers should not consume the recalled product even if it looks or smells safe to eat.
Consumers should return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund or dispose of it immediately.
Consumers with additional questions or concerns can contact Davis Trading Company Ltd by phone at 09 574 2250.
Health Risks
As of now, no illnesses or adverse reactions have been reported in connection with this product. However, consumers who have been exposed to the recalled product and are experiencing symptoms of Salmonella food poisoning should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
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 weakened immune systems.
Last week, Food Poisoning News reported on a similar New Zealand Food Safety recall of tahini paste due to potential Salmonella contamination. That recall soon expanded to other countries, including the United States.
Commenting on this article, one national food safety attorney said, “Although sesame seeds are a seemingly low-risk product, this incident shows that food safety management is an ongoing need. Even the simplest of foods can lead to foodborne illness if contaminated.”
