Wednesday, December 29, 2010

J&D Produce Announces Precautionary, Voluntary Recall Of Fresh Greens

Voluntary Recall Of Fresh Greens
December 28, 2010
- Including packaging details; states affected; and clarifying product only packed on two dates (Nov. 30 and Dec. 6, 2010) is covered by tbis recall - Following confirmation from regulators of a positive test for salmonella on curly parsley in Quebec and cilantro in Detroit, J&D Produce Inc. is initiating a precautionary, voluntary recall of these two items and other potentially affected products packed only Nov. 30 and Dec. 6, 2010. There have been no reported illnesses.

Where Distributed are listed below.

CURLY PARSLEY, PLU # 4899, Ontario, Washington. Massachusetts, Quebec, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, New Jersey, Missouri, Rhode Island, New York, Texas, Ohio, Connecticut

CILANTRO, PLU #4889, Ontario, Massachusetts, Washington, Quebec, New York, Illinois, Texas, Colorado, Michigan, New Jersey, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Ohio

ARUGULA. PlU #4884, Ontario, Rhode Island, Texas

BEETS, PLU # 4539, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Ontario, Wisconsin, Quebec, Texas, Illinois, Rhode Island

PRECAUTIONARY, VOLUNTARY RECALL

COLLARDS, PLU # 4614, Ontario, Texas, Wisconsin, Quebec, Michigan, Ohio

CURLY MUSTARD, PLU # 4616, Quebec, Texas

DIAKON, does not contain PLU or UPC, Ontario, New York, Texas, Quebec

DILL, PLU # 4891, Ontario, Massachusetts, Quebec, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Texas, New Jersey, Wisconsin

GOLDEN BEETS, PLU # 3273, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Wisconsin, Texas

GREEN KOHLRABI, PLU # 4628, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Quebec, Wisconsin

GREEN SWISS CHARD, PLU # 4586, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Quebec, Rhode Island, Texas

KALE, PLU # 4627, Ontario, Quebec, Texas, Wisconsin, Montreal, Michigan, Illinois, Rhode Island, New York, Ohio, Toronto

LEEK, PLU # 4629 Texas

METHlLEAF, UPC # 664781 10500 4, Ontario, Texas

MINT, PLU # 4896, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Michigan

PARSLEY, PLU # 4901, Ontario, Washington, Quebec, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio, New Jersey, Connecticut

RAINBOW CHARD, UPC # 66478140610 1, Illinois, Connecticut

RED SWISS CHARD, PLU # 4587, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Ontario, Quebec, Rhode Island, Texas

TEXAS MUSTARD, PLU # 4618, Oklahoma, Texas

TURNIPS WITH TOPS, PLU #4810, Texas, Michigan

TURNIP TOPS, PLU # 4619, Texas

All commodities are packed in red, white, and blue waxed cartons under the Little Bear brand. The individual bunches are banded, except for Diakon, using a rubber band or a twist tie identified by a flag tag that shows a little bear with a cowboy hat, a red handkerchief and a Texas flag. See Exhibit 1 showing Little Bear flag tags and bands. All products were distributed through retail stores
and wholesale terminal markets.

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

House Passes an Inportant Overhaul of Food Safety Laws

One of the most important pieces of legislature pertaining to the food industry has just passed the house of representatives. This is way overdue and it is my hopes that it is only the start to making the food supply in the US the safest in the world.

The House of Representatives gave final approval Tuesday to a long-awaited modernization of the nation’s food safety laws, voting 215-144 to grant the Food and Drug Administration greater authority over food production.

The bill, which President Barack Obama has indicated he will sign, is meant to change the mission of the FDA, focusing it on preventing food-borne illnesses rather than reacting after an outbreak occurs. The overhaul comes after several major outbreaks and food recalls in recent years involving salmonella in eggs and peanuts, and E. coli in spinach and other leafy greens.

Under the legislation, food manufacturers will be required to examine their processing systems to identify possible ways that food products can become contaminated and to develop detailed plans to keep that from happening. Companies must share those plans with the FDA and provide the agency with records, including product test results, showing how effectively they carry them out.


Voice your opinion on this historic bill and how it will affect you and your operation as a food service professional...or as a consumer.

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

An Alert On Uneviscerated Fish...Potential for Clostridium Botulinum Spores

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - December 17, 2010 - JFC INTERNATlONAL INC. at 40 VARICK AVE, BROOKLYN, NY 11237 is recalling frozen CAPELIN discovered by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors during a routine inspection and subsequent analysis of product by Food Laboratory personnel confirming that the fish was not properly eviscerated prior to processing.

This product may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum spores, which can cause Botulism, a serious and potentially fatal food borne illness. Symptoms of botulism include blurred vision, general weakness and poor reflexes, difficulty in swallowing and respiratory paralysis.

The sale of un-eviscerated fish is prohibited under New York State Agriculture and Markets regulations because Clostridium botulinum spores are more likely to be concentrated in the viscera than any other portion of the fish. Un-eviscerated fish has been linked to outbreaks of botulism poisoning.

The recalled FROZEN CAPELIN comes in a PLASTIC WRAPPED STYROFOAM TRAY with the following codes: FROZEN CAPELIN 7L8P, FROZEN CAPELIN 7L5P, FROZEN CAPELIN 6L10P, FROZEN CAPELIN 6L8P, FROZEN CAPELIN 6L5P, FROZEN CAPELIN 5L10P, FROZEN CAPELIN 5L8P and is a product of VIETNAM. This product was sold NATIONWIDE.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem. Consumers who have FROZEN CAPELIN are advised not to eat it and should return it to the place of purchase. Consumer with questions may contact the company at Mr. Kiyoshi Tamai at (800) 633-1004.

Monday, December 20, 2010

Recall...2,541 Cases Undeclared Milk & Soybean

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - December 17, 2010 - YNot Foods, Inc. of Madison, WI is recalling 2,541 cases because it may contain undeclared milk and soybean. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk and/or soybean run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

Product was distributed in AR, IL, KS, OH, OK, TX and Mexico through foodservice and retail channels.

Specific information on how the product can be identified are as follows:

Upsides™ Orzo Toscano, 6/2.5lb (distributed by J.R. Simplot Co. Boise, ID).

SKU 10071179011392

The first 12 digits of the production codes (lots) affected are listed below.

* 987SEP301001
* 987OCT071001
* 987OCT081001


No illnesses have been reported to date and no other codes (lots) are affected by this issue.

The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product containing milk and soybean was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of milk and soybean. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company's production and packaging processes.

Consumers who have purchased these code dates are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-608-222-2860.

Friday, December 17, 2010

Cheese Recall for Possible E.coli

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - December 17, 2010 - Sally Jackson Cheese of Oroville, WA is recalling all cheese products, including cow, goat, and sheep, because they may be contaminated with Escherichia coli O157:H7 bacteria (E. coli O157:H7). E. coli O157:H7 causes a diarrheal illness, often with bloody stools. Although most healthy adults can recover completely within a week, some people can develop a form of kidney failure called Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS). HUS is most likely to occur in young children and the elderly. The condition can lead to serious kidney damage and even death.

Sally Jackson brand cheeses made from raw cow, goat, and sheep milk were distributed nationwide. The cheeses were distributed to restaurants, distributors, and retail stores.

The three types of cheese are all soft raw milk cheeses in various sized pieces. The products do not have labels or codes. The cow and sheep milk cheeses are wrapped in chestnut leaves, the goat cheese is wrapped in grape leaves and all are secured with twine. The cheeses may have an outer wrapping of waxed paper.

The products have been identified as a possible source of E. coli infections currently under investigation.

Monday, December 13, 2010

Milk Free Product Recalled...Possible Trace Level Milk Contamination

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - December 10, 2010 - Tofutti Brands Inc. has announced a precautionary recall of 25 pallets of its 4-Pack YOURS TRULY frozen dessert cones (UPC 0-20188-01500-9) due to possible trace level milk contamination reported for one lot of product shipped which was produced in August of 2010. YOURS TRULY CONES are labeled as Milk Free and persons who have an allergy or severe sensitivity or intolerance to Milk products run the risk of serious or life-threatening injury if they consume products with milk ingredients. Tofutti Brands uses stringent quality controls to prevent milk contamination of its products and sells tens of millions of ice cream novelty products each year.

The 25 pallets from the suspect lot are being recalled. The bulk of these 25 pallets were sold along the east coast and the Midwest. None of the suspected lot was sold to any west coast distributors or stores.

The product in the above 25 pallets is identified by the labeled Manufacturing facility code 18-497 which will appear printed on one of the two end flaps of the box of the YOURS TRULY CONES along with a production code of either 2330 or 2350, which will follow right after the plant code. Consumers who may have purchased YOURS TRULY CONES bearing these codes are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. This recall does not involve any of the Company's other frozen dessert products. Consumers with questions may contact the Company at 908-272-2400, Monday-Friday, from 9:00AM-5:00PM EST, or email us at info@tofutti.com.

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Product may be contaminated with Clostridium Botulinum spores

S&S Food Inc. at 1560 Troy Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11203 is recalling DRIED FISH VOBLA GUTTED discovered by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors. This product may be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum spores, which can cause Botulism, a serious and potentially fatal food borne illness. Symptoms of botulism include blurred vision, general weakness and poor reflexes, difficulty in swallowing and respiratory paralysis. The recalled dried fish Vobla gutted comes in a coded, plastic vacuum packed bag with the following code: Production date: 21.06.2010, lot # 280610140 and is a product of Germany.
This product was sold nationwide.
Consumers who have DRIED FISH VOBLA GUTTED are advised not to eat it and should return it to the place of purchase. Consumer with questions may contact the company at (718) 677-6888.

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Wisconsin Business Recalls Smoked Fish Spread

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 30, 2010 - Rushing Waters Fisheries, Palmyra, is recalling about 225 pounds of smoked trout and smoked salmon spreads, because the products may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.

No illnesses have been reported from eating this product. The contamination was discovered through routine testing conducted by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection.


The recalled products are smoked trout spread labeled lot number 00694 with a sell-by date of Dec 13, and smoked salmon spread labeled with lot 50012 with a sell-by date of Dec 11. Lot numbers and dates are on the bottom of the container. Affected smoked fish spreads were sold in eight-ounce containers and 4.5-pound round plastic tubs in southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois.

Consumers who have this product in their refrigerator can discard it or return it to the place of purchase
for a refund. For more information contact Rushing Waters at 1-800-378-7088.

Monday, December 6, 2010

FDA RECALL...Gourmet Cheese Popcorn

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 24, 2010 Lobby Shoppes, Inc. of Springfield, OH, is recalling the following three (3) products from distribution: Gourmet Cheese Popcorn in 12 oz. bags UPC Code 08299 11201 and 24 oz. bags; Chicago Triple Mix Popcorn in 12 oz. bags UPC Code 08299 11203; and (Delicious) Caramel Corn in 2 ½ lb. bags, 4 lb. bags, and 9 oz. tubs UPC Code 08299 11202. All recalled products are packaged in either clear plastic bags or clear plastic tubs.

The recalled Gourmet Cheese Popcorn, Chicago Triple Mix Popcorn and Caramel Corn were distributed in grocery stores throughout Ohio and were sold in the Lobby Shoppes, Inc. showroom in Springfield, Ohio.

Sunday, December 5, 2010

Bumble Bee...Chicken on the Run!


Illinois Firm Recalls Canned Chicken Salad Products That May Contain Foreign Materials

WASHINGTON, Dec. 5, 2010 - The Suter Company, Inc., a Sycamore, Ill., establishment, is recalling approximately 72,000 pounds of canned chicken salad products that may contain foreign materials, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The products subject to recall include:

* 8.2-ounce packages of "BUMBLE BEE LUNCH ON THE RUN CHICKEN SALAD COMPLETE LUNCH KIT." The package contains a 2.9-ounce can of Bumble Bee Chicken Salad along with crackers, mixed fruit, a cookie and a spoon. The package label indicates the product is "Mixed and Ready to Eat." The product package indicates a "Best-by" date of 08/11.

* 3.5-ounce packages of "BUMBLE BEE CHICKEN SALAD WITH CRACKERS." The package contains a 2.9-can of Bumble Bee Chicken Salad and crackers. The package label indicates the product is "Ready to Eat." The product package indicates a "Best-by" date of 02/12.

The cans of chicken salad bear the establishment number "P-169" inside the USDA mark of inspection and the lot code "0225XXQBC" printed on the package. The chicken salad products were assembled between Aug. 14 and Aug 28, 2010, and shipped to distributors and retail stores nationwide.

The problem was discovered after consumer complaints about finding hard plastic in the product. FSIS has not received any reports of injury at this time. Anyone concerned about an injury from consumption of this product should contact a physician.

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Potential Salmonella Contamination---Nutmeg

In response to a recall commenced by its supplier (Mincing Overseas Spice Company, Dayton, New Jersey), Frontier Natural Products Co-op, is voluntarily recalling two products manufactured with non-organic nutmeg that were sold under the Frontier brand and under the Whole Foods Market brand listed below that contain nutmeg supplied by Mincing Overseas Spice Company. The nutmeg has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

Recalled products were sold in all 50 states and in some parts of Canada to distributors, retailers and consumers. Below is the list of products containing the nutmeg:

Frontier Bulk Product
Brand Full Product Name Size/Weight UPC Code Lot Code
Frontier Bulk Nutmeg Ground 16.00 oz. 0-89836-00165-8 0306

Frontier Bulk Product
Brand Full Product Name Size/Weight UPC Code Lot Code
Whole Foods 365 Nutmeg Ground 1.92 oz. 0-99482-41931-8 0321


Frontier is initiating recall notices to our accounts who received any of the above recalled products with instructions for returning or destroying the recalled products and for notifying their customers of the recall. Consumers should not consume these products. Please contact Frontier with any questions or to inquire about replacement or reimbursement at 1-800-669-3275. Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm Central time. If you have a Whole Foods item please contact your local store. Images of the products above can be seen by going to the following link: http://www.frontiercoop.com/recall/nutmeg10

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

GOLDEN DIPT FRY BATTER RECALL

McCormick & Company, Incorporated (NYSE:MKC) has announced a voluntary recall of Golden Dipt® Fry Easy All-Purpose Batter, 10 OZ, with UPC Code 4123470111 and “BEST BY” date of NOV 17 11 AH. A very limited number of packages of Golden Dipt® All-Purpose Batter with this date code contain an undeclared egg ingredient.
The recall is isolated to one geographical region of the US. The Golden Dipt® Fry Easy All-Purpose Batter packages were distributed to grocery stores in the southeastern United States beginning on January 22, 2010. The affected product is packaged in 10 OZ cartons, and the date code is found printed in white ink on the bottom of the carton.

The recall was initiated after the discovery of a packaging error that resulted in a pouch of funnel cake batter (which contains an egg ingredient) being packaged in the Golden Dipt® Fry Easy All-Purpose Batter package. The ingredient statement on the package does not list egg as an ingredient.


The “BEST BY” date of NOV 17 11AH is the only date code affected by the recall. No illnesses or allergic reactions have been reported to date and no other McCormick products are involved in this recall.

All grocery outlets that sell Golden Dipt® Fry Easy All-Purpose Batter product are being notified to remove the affected product (UPC Code 4123470111 and date code BEST BY NOV 17 11AH) from their shelves immediately. Consumers do not need to return the product to the store where it was purchased. Instead, consumers are urged to contact McCormick’s Consumer Affairs team at 1-800-632-5847, weekdays from 9:30 AM to 9:00 PM, or weekends from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Eastern Time), for a replacement or full refund, as well as instructions on what to do with the product.

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Being thankful!

Happy Thanksgiving...loving life!
Today we took a walk on the beach after having a full Thanksgiving dinner with friends. Truly there are many things to be thankful for in life.
Walking on the beach at one of our National parks in Titusville, Florida. Miles of clean, natural beach. No restaurants, bars, T-shirt shops. Just sun, wind, clean sand, and nature. One of many reasons to give thanks.

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Connecticut Firm Recalls Appetizer Products for Possible Listeria Contamination

Recall Release CLASS I RECALL
FSIS-RC-061-2010 HEALTH RISK: HIGH



WASHINGTON, November 23, 2010 - Calabro Cheese, a East Haven, Conn. establishment is recalling approximately 57 pounds of Rotolini, meat and cheese roll appetizer products, that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The products subject to recall include:
* 8-ounce packages of "CALABRO All Natural ROTOLINI Mozzarella & Prosciutto." The packages also bear a white sticker with the lot number "3190" and establishment number "34051M" inside the USDA mark of inspection.

The antipasto products were produced on Nov. 15, 2010, and distributed to warehouses and retail outlets in Boston and Springfield, Mass. as well as Westport, Conn. The product was not part of the National School Lunch Program.

The problem was discovered through microbiological sampling by FSIS personnel. FSIS has received no reports of illnesses associated with consumption of this product.


Consumers with questions about the recall should contact company Customer Service Representative Tijae Silva at (203) 469-1311, Ext. 101. Media inquiries should be directed to Tim Sciarrillo, Calabro Cheese COO, at (203) 469-1311, Ext 105.

GET INSTANT E-MAIL FDA FOOD RECALLS

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JAY'S POTATO CHIPS RECALLED!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 19, 2010 - In order to be overly cautious and protect public health, Krunchers! Inc. is recalling all Jays Original Potato Chips that were produced the day of the incident; nevertheless, 18 cases are affected.

The recall is the result of seasoning containing a milk allergen in an Original Potato Chip bag. The bag does not display a milk allergen warning. Krunchers! Inc. has notified their customers and is in the process of pulling products from retail stores. The company is working with FDA to conduct the recall.

Jay Original Potato Chips are distributed throughout the Midwest in Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Illinois.

The product can be identified by a code in the upper right corner of the bag reading: JAN16CA542011 (see photo). Each of the 18 cases of affected product contains ten 12-ounce bags that are priced at $3.99.

No illnesses have been reported. People who have allergies to milk or dairy products run the risk of allergic reaction if they consume these undeclared dairy affected products.

The product in question was produced at the company’s Jeffersonville, Indiana plant. In the meantime, all remaining Krunchers! and Jays products are unaffected.

Consumers who have purchased Jays Original Potato Chips are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Krunchers! Inc. at 1-800-233-7125 between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm Eastern Time.

Monday, November 22, 2010

FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER!


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Thursday, November 18, 2010

Possible Listeria in Cheese

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 17, 2010 - Del Bueno of Grandview, WA is recalling all size packages of Queso Fresco Fresh Cheese, Queso Panela Fresh Cheese, Requeson Mexican Style Ricotta Cheese, and Queso Enchilado Dry Cheese because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

Del Bueno distributed the cheese to retail markets in Washington and Oregon and to the flea market in Pasco, WA.

The following products are being recalled:

* Queso Fresco Fresh Cheese, UPC 75318225028 for 16 oz. package, UPC 753182814063 for 3 lbs. package, date code up to and including Feb 10 2011.
* Queso Panela Fresh Cheese, UPC 753182814056, date code up to and including Feb 10 2011.
* Requeson Mexican Style Ricotta Cheese, UPC 753182814070, date code up to and including Jan 10 2011
* Queso Enchilado Dry Cheese, no UPC date code up to and including Mar 15 2011.

The date code is stamped on the back of the packages. This date code is to signify the expiration date. The cheese is packaged either in 1 lb. or 3 lbs. plastic vacuum bags.

No illnesses have been reported to date.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Wild Hibiscus in Rose Syrup


New item just in time for the holiday party season. 100% natural, sustainably farmed, edible, whole Wild Hibiscus Flowers which are crimson in color hand packed in natural essence of two dozen Bulgarian roses. Serve as a garnish in drinks or in both sweet and savory food recipes. Two year shelf life, 3 months once opened. Both syrup and flowers are heat stable for cooking applications. A gloriously feminine indulgence bursting with Joie de vivre! Contact Jacki @ 321-567-4644 for more information and to place your pre-holiday season order. OR visit Chef Johnny's Products shopping cart:

WILD HISBISCUS IN ROSE SYRUP 15ct click

Monday, November 15, 2010

Costco Recalls Cheese...E.coli.

State health department officials are warning consumers who purchased Mauri Gorgonzola cheese with sell by dates January 13, 2011, and January 14, 2011, that the product has been recalled by the distributor, DPI Specialty Foods of Tualatin, Ore., because E. coli O157:H7 was found in an unopened package tested at the state health department's laboratory. When notified of the positive result on Wednesday, the company immediately recalled the cheese.

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Possible Listeria Contamination

Recall Release CLASS I RECALL
FSIS-RC-060-2010 HEALTH RISK: HIGH


Texas Firm Recalls Fully Cooked Ready-To-Eat Turkey Breast Products for Possible Listeria Contamination.

WASHINGTON, November 14, 2010 - New Braunfels Smokehouse, a New Braunfels, Texas, establishment, is recalling approximately 2,609 pounds of fully cooked, ready-to-eat smoked turkey breast products that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes (Lm), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The products subject to recall include:

* 1-pound packages of “New Braunfels Smokehouse Sliced Smoked Turkey” with package code “2210” on the label;
* 4 to 6 lb. packages of “New Braunfels Honey-Glazed Spiral Sliced Smokehouse Hickory Smoked Boneless Breast of Turkey” with package code “2180” on the label;
* 4 to 6 lb. whole breast packages of “Stegall Boneless Hickory Smoked Turkey Breast” with package code “2210” on the label;
* 4 to 6 lb. whole breast packages of “Stegall Spiral Sliced Hickory Smoked Turkey Breast” with package codes “2180” or “2210” on the label.

Each package bears the USDA mark of inspection and the number “P-975” inside the mark of inspection. The fully cooked, ready-to-eat smoked turkey breast products were produced on August 4, 2010, and distributed nationwide, including catalog and internet sales.

Monday, November 8, 2010

Recall...Possible Salmonella Contamination

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Orval Kent announced today that it is voluntarily recalling 23 products as a precautionary measure because the products may be contaminated with Salmonella. The Orval Kent products are being recalled because they contain fresh cilantro produced and distributed by EpicVeg, Inc. of Lompoc, CA. Epic Veg, Inc. issued the notice to recall one lot of cilantro with the UPC code 033383801049 and lot 6127R on November 3, 2010.

There have been no reports of illness to date in connection with the items listed below.
UPC Item Use By
7945388187 Bistro 28 Cranberry Mango Pico de Gallo 12/12/2010 BJJIDJ
7978185105 CA Pizza Kitchen BBQ Chopped Chicken Salad 11/24/2010 BJJGAG
7978191705 CA Pizza Kitchen BBQ Chopped Chicken Salad 11/25/2010 BJJGAH
7978185105 CA Pizza Kitchen BBQ Chopped Chicken Salad 11/27/2010 BJJGHG
7978185105 CA Pizza Kitchen BBQ Chopped Chicken Salad 12/1/2010 BJJIGE
7978191705 CA Pizza Kitchen BBQ Chopped Chicken Salad 12/2/2010 BJJIGD
7978191705 CA Pizza Kitchen BBQ Chopped Chicken Salad 12/2/2010 BKKOGD
77509663208 Chef Solutions Mexican 5 Layer Dip 12 oz. 12/11/2010 BJJGFG
1345435529 Fish House Foods Ceviche 5 lb. 10/30/2010 BJJIAC
1345435529 Fish House Foods Ceviche 5 lb. 12/7/2010 BJJIAC
1345435800 Fish House Foods Fajita Chicken Salad Kit 1 lb. 1/28/2011 BJJFHD
1345435800 Fish House Foods Fajita Chicken Salad Kit 1 lb. 2/4/2011 BJJJEC
1345437117 Fish House Foods SW Fajita Bean Salad w Chk 11/21/2010 BJJGAI
1345435301 Fry's Krab Ceviche Fry 12 oz. 12/9/2010 BJJHJC
1345435574 Orval Kent Chipotle Chicken Pasta Kit 1/2/2011 BJJFHH
7945330215 Orval Kent Cilantro Pecan Dip 8 oz. 12/1/2010 BJJHDD
36420 Trader Joe's Cilantro Dressing 12 oz 2/9/2011 BJJFFA
76986 Trader Joe's Cilantro Pecan Dip 7 oz 11/20/2010 BJJGHC
(West Coast Stores Only) 11/24/2010 BJJIH
80947 Trader Joe's Spicy Peanut Vinaigrette 12 oz 1/9/2011 BJJFFD

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Now we have been in Florida for one week. Finally taking a look at the beach and not just a look, a drive! Seeing it is one thing, but, driving a car down the beach while a hurricane is hundreds of miles off shore is another. Huge pounding waves and strong winds brought out the wind surfers. Sure beats the snow and 30 degree weather we left last week in Ohio. Enjoy!

Saturday, November 6, 2010

CLASS I RECALL HEALTH RISK: HIGH

California Firm Recalls Ready-To-Eat Chicken Pasta Salad Products Due To Possible Salmonella Contamination

WASHINGTON, Nov. 5, 2010 - APPA Fine Foods, a Corona, Calif., establishment, is recalling approximately 7,325 pounds of ready-to-eat chicken pasta salad products because they contain cilantro that may be contaminated with Salmonella, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The following products are subject to this recall:

* 12 oz. packages of "Spicy THAI STYLE PASTA SALAD"

The chicken pasta products were produced on Oct. 25, 27, and 29, 2010. The packages bear the establishment number "P-21030" within the USDA Mark of Inspection as well as a "USE BY" date of Oct. 31 or Nov. 1-6, 2010.

FSIS learned of the problem from the company as a result of an ongoing investigation into a cilantro recall issued by an FDA-inspected establishment. FSIS has received no reports of illnesses associated with the consumption of these ready-to-eat chicken pasta salad products.

Thursday, November 4, 2010

HIGH RISK RECALL


WASHINGTON, Nov. 4, 2010 - Eickman's Processing, Establishment Number 31776, in Seward, IL, is recalling approximately 12,086 pounds of meat and poultry products because they may have been underprocessed, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The following products are subject to recall:
* 14-ounce glass jars of "Lena UMW Country Mince Meat"
* 14-ounce glass jars of "Eickman's Canned Chicken" with bar code # 03340 00050
* 14-ounce glass jars of "Eickman's Canned Pork" with bar code # 03340 00040
* 14-ounce glass jars of "Eickman's Canned Beef" with bar code # 03340 00030
* 14-ounce glass jars of "CJ's Country Canned Beef" with bar code # 91411 00001


The products subject to recall were produced between Nov. 4, 2007, and April 7, 2010, and distributed to retail establishments in the northern Illinois area. When available, the retail distribution list(s) will be posted on FSIS' website at www.fsis.usda.gov/FSIS_Recalls/Open_Federal_Cases/
index.asp.

Tuna Recall...Scombroid Poisoning

Beaver Street Fisheries, Inc. of Jacksonville, FL is recalling 5-7 lb Tuna Loins Lot 928378, because they have the potential to be contaminated with elevated levels of histamine. High levels of histamine can produce an allergic reaction called scombroid poisoning when the fish is consumed.

The tuna loins were distributed to wholesalers and distributors in Alabama, Florida, Tennessee, Texas, & Virginia.

The tuna loins were distributed in 20 lb. bulk cartons containing individual vacuumed packed tuna loins weighing 5-7 lbs. each. The cartons bear the lot number 928378. Additionally, the cartons are marked with a SN# 43910, Best By: 07/06/12, UPC code 10075391967918 and item number 6217408.

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Expanded Health Alert

FSIS is expanding its October 30 public health alert for an undetermined amount of various meat and poultry products produced without the benefit of federal inspection by N.Y. Gourmet Salads Inc., a Brooklyn, N.Y. establishment.

WASHINGTON, Nov. 3, 2010 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is expanding its Oct. 30 public health alert for an undetermined amount of various meat and poultry products produced without the benefit of federal inspection by N.Y. Gourmet Salads Inc., a Brooklyn, N.Y. establishment.

This public health alert was initiated based on evidence collected during an ongoing investigation being conducted by FSIS involving this establishment. The evidence showed that the establishment has been producing products without federal inspection and distributing them into commerce. Federal inspection services at N.Y. Gourmet Salads Inc. were suspended in Nov. 2009. It should be noted that the establishment previously conducted a recall of products produced without the benefit of federal inspection on March 11, 2010. FSIS will continue to provide information as it becomes available, including information about any related recall activity.

Additional products subject to this expanded alert include, but are not limited to, the following:

* 4.5-pound and 5-pound containers of "Lemon Grilled Chicken"
* 5-pound containers of "Grilled Chicken"
* 4.5-pound and 5-pound containers of "Breaded Chicken"
* 6-pound containers of "Stuffed Cabbage"
* 5-pound containers of "Grilled Chicken, Plain"
* 5-pound containers of "Teriyaki Grilled Chicken"
* 5-pound containers of "Chopped Chicken Liver"


The implicated products were produced between April 20, 2010, and Oct. 29, 2010, and were distributed to retail establishments in New York.

The products in the Oct. 30 alert included the following:

* 5-pound tubs of "Chicken Salad" (This product was observed in commerce bearing the N.Y. Gourmet Salads Inc. label.)
* 5-pound trays of "Meatballs & Sauce"
* 5-pound trays of "Meatballs"
* 5-pound trays of "Swedish Meatballs"
* 5-pound trays of "Sausage & Pepper"


The implicated products were produced between March 11, 2010, and Oct. 29, 2010, and were distributed to retail establishments in New York.

All of the above products may have been repackaged by retailers into smaller units and sold to consumers.

Monday, November 1, 2010

Live and Back On Line

Live and back on line in Florida. After a week of moving and living with very little tech stuff, out computer is now live and back on line.

Monday, October 25, 2010

IMMEDIATE & SERIOUS THREAT TO HUMAN LIFE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 20, 2010 - The Texas Department of State Health Services today ordered Sangar Fresh Cut Produce in San Antonio to stop processing food and recall all products shipped from the plant since January. The order was issued after laboratory tests of chopped celery from the plant indicated the presence of Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause severe illness.

State law allows DSHS to issue such orders when conditions exist that pose "an immediate and serious threat to human life or health."

The recalled products – primarily cut fresh produce in sealed packages – were distributed to restaurants and institutional entities, such as hospitals and schools, and are not believed to be sold in grocery stores.

The testing was done as part of a DSHS investigation into 10 listeriosis cases, including five deaths, reported to the department over an eight-month period. Six of the 10 cases have been linked to chopped celery from the Sangar plant. The illnesses occurred in Bexar, Travis and Hidalgo counties. All of the illnesses were in people with serious underlying health problems.

Health officials said pinpointing a Listeria source is often difficult due to the small number of cases, the illness' long incubation period and difficulty collecting complete information about what people ate.

DSHS inspectors also found sanitation issues at the plant and believe the Listeria found in the chopped celery may have contaminated other food produced there. The department found a condensation leak above a food product area, soil on a preparation table and hand washing issues. DSHS food safety personnel are contacting distributors, restaurants and institutions believed to have received the recalled products to ensure they are taking appropriate action to protect consumers.

DSHS continues to investigate possible sources of contamination and where the products were distributed. Sangar's customers are advised to discard or return the products. Cooking the products is not recommended.

Symptoms of listeriosis can include fever, muscle aches, diarrhea and vomiting. People with these symptoms should consult a physician. Symptoms typically occur three to 70 days after exposure. The disease affects primarily older people, pregnant women, newborns and people with weakened immune systems.

The order prohibits the plant from reopening without DSHS approval.

Thursday, October 21, 2010

Del Monte Fresh Announces Recall


Del Monte Fresh Produce N.A., Inc. Announces Limited Voluntary Cantaloupe Recall In And Around Detroit, Michigan

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 21, 2010 - Del Monte Fresh Produce N.A., Inc ("Del Monte Fresh") announced today the voluntary recall of certain cantaloupes grown in and shipped from Arizona. The affected product was distributed to limited customers in and around Detroit, Michigan and is being recalled because these cantaloupes have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
Approximately eighty one (81) cartons of cantaloupes, each containing fifteen (15) cantaloupes per carton, were distributed to wholesalers in Detroit who in turn sell to other wholesalers and or to retail and foodservice outlets beginning on October 11, 2010. The cantaloupes have a light brown color skin on the exterior; with orange flesh. Each cantaloupe has a Del Monte® sticker with the words "Cantaloupe USA". The cantaloupes were distributed for sale in bulk in cardboard cartons. The recalled cartons of cantaloupes are dark brown cardboard with the "Del Monte" logo in red lettering and "cantaloupes" in yellow lettering on a green background. The cantaloupes have the lot codes W-11-147-43-size 15 or W-11-14-19 size 15.

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Possible Salmonella Contamination

North Carolina Firm Recalls Ready-To-Eat Pork Barbeque Products Due To Possible Salmonella Contamination

Recall Release CLASS I RECALL
FSIS-RC-055-2010 HEALTH RISK: HIGH


WASHINGTON, Oct. 20, 2010 - The Murphy House, a Louisburg, N.C. establishment, is recalling approximately 4,920 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) pork barbeque products that may be contaminated with Salmonella, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The following products are subject to recall: [View Labels]

* 1 lb. and 5 lb. plastic tubs of "MURPHY HOUSE Unskinned Pork with Barbeque Sauce-TEXTURED VEGETABLE PROTEIN ADDED" written in green lettering on the container's top.
* 1 lb. and 5 lb. plastic tubs of "MURPHY HOUSE PREMIUM PORK BARBEQUE-COOKED, UNSKINNED PORK WITH BARBEQUE SAUCE ADDED " written in red lettering on the container's top.

Monday, October 18, 2010

FDA RECALL...Consumer Alert

**CONSUMER ALERT**
Pats Exotic Beverage Recalls "Carrot Juice" Beverage, "Carrot Beet" Beverage, "Carrot Lime" Beverage and "Cucumber" Beverage Due to Possible Health Risk



October 15, 2010 - New York State Agriculture Commissioner Patrick Hooker today alerted consumers that Pats Exotic Beverages Inc., located at 2919 Tiemann Avenue, Bronx, New York, is recalling all packages of "Carrot Juice" beverage, "Carrot Beet" beverage, "Carrot Lime" beverage and "Cucumber" beverage, because the products have been determined to be inadequately processed and may contain food borne pathogens. CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL STORY

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

SMOKED FISH...FDA RECALL

D & M Smoked Fish, Inc. is Recalling Specific Lots of Haifa Smoked Fish Brand Products
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 7, 2010 - D & M Smoked Fish, Inc. (DBA Haifa Smoked Fish) in Jamaica, NY is recalling specific lots of Haifa Smoked Fish brand products listed below because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may possibly suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women. More info...Click Here

Monday, October 11, 2010

Georgia and Carolina Shrimping

Several years ago I had the privilege to go shrimping several times off the coast of Georgia and South Carolina. Shrimping with Captain Woody out of a marina on Hilton Head Island was an experience of a lifetime. Getting up at 4am, a time most don't even think is human, and grabbing a bag lunch and coffee is the first struggle of the day. After arriving at the boat, there is a several hour trip to the shrimping grounds. Long hot days and hard work will some times, but not always, pay off with a good catch. Shrimp is the catch of the day, however, you also get horseshoe crab, small shark, jelly fish and other sea creatures that the likes I had never seen. Captain Woody had to explain what to touch and what not to touch. Working a full 14 hour day on a small one man shrimp boat puts fishing in a different light. This experience puts a new appreciation to the men and women who fish our waters and for the seafood we love to consume. Lets be more respective of these hard working fisherman in a dangerous profession. Lets also be more respective of our natural treasure...the sea. Think green and don't pollute our waters.

Help with Childhood Nutrition

I remember those days of school lunches in a small town in Ohio. Back then we were served peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Not pre-made sandwiches, but, family style sandwich fixings. You got two slices of bread and on your table was a bowl of USDA peanut butter, jelly, and dill pickle slices. Things have certainly changed, but, are they better. Look at today's school lunch program. Vending machines with soda and snack foods. Pre-made or deep fried most everything. Your kids deserve better. Because Congress failed to pass the Child Nutrition Bill last week, bad school lunches will remain bad. While the bill wasn't perfect, it would have created stronger nutritional standards and provided more money for the school lunch program -- adding six cents per lunch for the first time in 30 years. Only six cents per lunch! How many of us buy a coffee at the gas station (notice I did not say service station) and pay a buck or more. Lets put our priorities in the right place. Missed opportunities, to fight childhood obesity and increase the nutrition of our children, are had to recover. Sound off on your opinion regarding childhood nutrition and obesity. Help find a solution. Get involved! Contact the American Culinary Federation Chef and Child Foundation to find out how you can help.

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Alaska Seafood Resource

The Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute has released a new resource for operators designed to help them educate customers interested in knowing where their food comes from. Titled “Like Their Fathers Before Them,” the 10-page brochure shares the stories of four Alaskan fishing families. The families profiled come from various areas of Alaska, and are among the 52,000 people who make their living by fishing. To receive a free copy of “Like Their Fathers Before Them,” call 800-806-2497.

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

American Lamb Roast

Last night the American Culinary Federation-Maumee Valley Chefs' Assoc. of Toledo, OH had its monthly meeting. The educational program was one of its members, Chef Marshall Goldstein, creating a boneless leg of lamb roast. A boneless leg roast is a favorite of many chefs because it can be stuffed with a range of ingredients or simply roasted and sliced. Domestically raised lamb are often on a grain diet, the meat has a mild yet distinctive flavor. The evenings meal was prepared by the culinary class of Owens Community College and featured roasted pork loin. And, of course, Chef Goldstein roasted a second leg of lamb to perfection and it too was carved to order.
To learn more about American Lamb, visit their web site at: www.americanlamb.com
To learn more about the ACF-Maumee Valley Chefs' visit: www.acfmvca.org

Monday, October 4, 2010

$39 Billion Loss

How safe is our nation's produce supply? Did you know that according to a recent study, by the Produce Safety Project, that there is nearly $39 Billion loss annually attributed to produce? This study was released in March of 2010 by the PSP as part of a report on the foodborne illness costs to our nation. A staggering annual cost of $152 Billion for all foodborne illness costs. Sound off and tell your thoughts on what should be done about the safety of our food supply.

Read the full report on produce safety by clicking on the link.
www.producesafetyproject.org

Sunday, October 3, 2010

Luck and Opportunity!

"Luck is the sense to recognize an opportunity and the ability to take advantage of it."
-- Samuel Goldwyn, entertainment executive


Are you taking advantage of all of the opportunities to control hazards in your food service operation? If not, you are just leaving it up to luck! Take a moment to recognize opportunities for education and knowledge to improve food safety. Join us on facebook to jump into a new discussion regarding food safety and HACCP. Our facebook link is under our links section.

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Old Friends & Shrimp!

Today my wife and I spent the majority of the morning and afternoon at a food show in Detroit. The typical food show with lots of cooks, chefs, restaurant owners and yes; lots of food. The best part of a large annual food show, this one was hosted by US Food Service, is meeting old friends. Not just those you see from your regional area that you talk to or see at functions from time to time. But, those you only talk to on occasion or see every year or so. Today we a treat. I meet an old business friend that is the Regional Sales Manager for Contessa Premium Foods, Michael Blight. We did the customary shop talk and reminisce of other times we saw each other. Times like the American Culinary Federation national conventions and other culinary events. Today's visit with Michael brought to mind several great recipes using shrimp, and of course, Contessa's shrimp would be my shrimp of choice. Here is a recipe I love making using the 36/40 size shrimp.

Shrimp Stew


1 onion, chopped

1/4 cup of chopped green bell pepper

1/2 cup of chopped celery

4 tablespoons of oil

1 3/4 cups of 36/40 peeled and deveined shrimp

3 1/2 cups of water

3 tablespoons of flour

1 tablespoon of liquid browning sauce (like Kitchen Bouquet)

Salt and Pepper to taste

Saute onions, bell peppers and celery in oil; add shrimp and simmer five minutes on a low heat. Add three cups of the water and bring to a boil. Mix flour and one-half cup of the water until it is smooth; add to the shrimp mixture. Reduce heat and continue stirring until thoroughly mixed; add liquid browning sauce and simmer 15 minutes. I like this served over steamed white rice.

This tasty recipe is from the Acadiana Profile, the Magazine of the Cajun Country in Louisiana. This recipe from Mollie Prince of the Ascension Parish.

Saturday, September 25, 2010

Sausage Products Recalled

Wisconsin Firm Recalls Cured UncoLabel, recalled product oked Sausage Products Due To Mislabeling and an Undeclared Allergen

WASHINGTON, September 24, 2010 - Mekong Fresh Meats, a Mosinee, Wis., establishment, is recalling approximately 29,893 pounds of cured uncooked pork ginger sausages because they contain an undeclared allergen, wheat, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. Wheat is a known allergen, which is not declared on the label.

The products subject to recall include: MEKON Fresh Meats Inc.

* 5-lb. bags of "CURED UNCOOKED PORK GINGER SAUSAGE 50 PCS."
* 16-ounce packages of "CURED UNCOOKED PORK GINGER SAUSAGE."
* 20-ounce packages of "CURED UNCOOKED PORK GINGER SAUSAGE."
* 32-ounce packages of "CURED UNCOOKED PORK GINGER SAUSAGE."


Each package bears the establishment number "EST. 27488A" inside the USDA mark of inspection. The sausage products were produced between June 21, 2010 and September 21, 2010. These products were distributed to retail establishments in Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Georgia, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma and Wisconsin.

The problem was discovered by FSIS during a labeling review at the establishment. FSIS and the company have received no reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an allergic reaction should contact a physician.

Thursday, September 23, 2010

The Creole Roux


Butter Roux


Butter roux was made in early New Orleans by the Creoles. They had access to volumes of butter from vendors in the marketplace. Cajuns traditionally used butter on hot French bread, and they considered it wasteful to use good butter in a roux.

Sunday, September 19, 2010

Potentially Dangerous Bacteria Found

Crab meat products recalled!
From Rick Martin, CNN
September 19, 2010 3:33 a.m. EDT


(CNN) -- An Oregon seafood company is recalling packaged crab meat products after testing revealed some products contained bacteria that could cause serious or fatal infections.

Hallmark Fisheries, based in Charleston, Oregon, is recalling crab meat sold under brand names Hallmark, Peacock, Quality Ocean International and Yaquina Bay.

Recalled products come in 5-pound cans, 1-pound vacuum packs, 1-pound plastic tubs and 8-ounce plastic tubs, according to a company press release.

The meat was distributed in California, Nevada and Oregon, mainly to food service companies.

The company said routine testing revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes, "an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems."

Healthy people can suffer short-term symptoms, but the bacteria can cause miscarriages and stillbirths for pregnant women.

Consumers can find a list of the product codes involved in the recall at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's website.

Hallmark has stopped crab production at its Charleston facility and was investigating what caused the problem, the release said.

Customers can return recalled products to the place of purchase for a refund.

Saturday, September 18, 2010

Carolina Rub

BBQ season is slowing winding down and there is still time to do some serious outdoor cooking. Try this rub for that low country flavor on pork chops or pork loin.




1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Rub the pork with the spice mixture and let stand 10 minutes. Place pork on grill rack coated with cooking oil spray. Grill 4 minutes. Turn pork; grill 2 minutes. Brush each chop with 1 tablespoon of barbecue sauce and grill 2 minutes or until desired degree of doneness. Serve this with Cole slaw and grilled sweet corn for an outstanding outdoor cooking experience.

Monday, September 13, 2010

Cooked Beef Product Recall

Recall Notification Report
CLASS III RECALL FSIS-RC-052-2010
Sep 13, 2010

WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2010 - Sampco, Inc., a Chicago, Ill., establishment is recalling approximately 258,000 pounds of cooked beef products that were imported from an ineligible Brazilian establishment, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

Brazilian establishment SIF 337 was delisted on May 6, 2010 after repeat violative levels of the animal drug Ivermectin were confirmed in its products. FSIS has recently determined that eight lots of product from Brazilian establishment SIF 337 have been shipped into commerce despite the firm's ineligible status. As a result, FSIS and Sampco, Inc. are taking action to remove the products from commerce. Consumers who have purchased any of these products should return them to their point of purchase.

The following products are subject to recall:

* 12-ounce cans of "Libby Corned Beef" bearing a production code "100315U," "100316U," "100322U," or "100326U." These products were sent to distribution centers in Florida, and Pennsylvania for retail sales.
* 7-ounce pouches "Brushy Creek Shredded Beef" bearing a production code "100121," "100128," "100129," "100308,"or "100322." These products were sent to distribution centers in Missouri, New Jersey, and Ohio, for retail sales.
* 10-ounce "Brushy Creek Roast Beef" bearing a production code "100226," "100309," or "100311." These products were sent to distribution centers in California, Missouri, New Jersey, and Texas for retail sales.
* 12-ounce cans of "Kroger Corned Beef" bearing a production code "100224U." These products were sent to distribution centers in Indiana for retail sales.

Monday, September 6, 2010

A tour of the Whitehouse!

Top Chef Competition

Copyright: Howard County Times
September 2, 2010


The Atholton High School students whose buffalo chicken wrap won the Howard County schools' Top Chef competition in 2009 were invited to tour the White House last weekend. The students were invited on the tour after an aide to first lady Michelle Obama read about the Howard County contest (which challenged high school culinary students to create a healthy entree to be added to school lunch offerings) and saw how the effort aligns with the first lady's Let's Move! program.

Read more: CLICK HERE

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

National Environmental Health Association on-line HACCP

"Managing Food Safety Hazards at the Retail Level"

Presenting the highest quality HACCP training, now available online, from one of America's most trusted sources - The National Environmental Health Association - NEHA. In much less time than you would expect, you can train quickly and cost effectively identify and prevent sources of food borne illness, using both the classic approach to HACCP and the Process approach. By voluntarily developing and implementing a food safety management system like the one suggested, you can take a proactive role in ensuring that the food served or sold in your establishment is safe. Accessible from any internet enabled connection 24/7/365. All materials have been reviewed and accepted as meeting the standards for HACCP from the International HACCP Alliance and FDA.

REGISTER: www.nehahaccp.org

“SPECIAL 15% OFF DISCOUNT
BY ENTERING COUPON CODE #720616
WHEN REGISTERING ON-LINE”

Saturday, August 28, 2010

Possible E. coli O26 Contamination

Pennsylvania Firm Recalls Ground Beef Products

Recall Release CLASS I RECALL
FSIS-RC-050-2010 HEALTH RISK: HIGH


WASHINGTON, August 28, 2010 - Cargill Meat Solutions Corp., a Wyalusing, Pa. establishment, is recalling approximately 8,500 pounds of ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O26, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The product subject to recall includes:

* 42-pound cases of "GROUND BEEF FINE 90/10," containing three (3) - approximately 14 pound chubs each. These products have a "use/freeze by" date of "07/01/10," and an identifying product code of "W69032."

The products subject to recall bears the establishment number "EST. 9400" inside the USDA mark of inspection. These products were produced on June 11, 2010, and were shipped to distribution centers in Connecticut and Maryland for further distribution. It is important to note that the above listed products were repackaged into consumer-size packages and sold under different retail brand names. Check back to this site for later listing of different retail brand names of recalled ground beef.

What action do you think needs to be taken to help the consumer receive notices of consumer food recalls? Post your ideas and comments.



Monday, August 23, 2010

Recalled Deli Meats...Listeria Contamination

380,000 Pounds of Deli Meat Recalled

CLASS I RECALL
FSIS-RC-049-2010 HEALTH RISK: HIGH


Zemco Industries, a Buffalo, N.Y., establishment, is recalling approximately 380,000 pounds of deli meat products that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. These products were distributed to delicatessens where they were further processed into sandwiches.

The products subject to recall include:

* 25.5-pound cases of "Marketside Grab and Go Sandwiches BLACK FOREST HAM With Natural Juices Coated with Caramel Color" with the number 17800 1300.
* 28.49-pound cases of "Marketside Grab and Go Sandwiches HOT HAM, HARD SALAMI, PEPPERONI, SANDWICH PEPPERS" with the number 17803 1300.
* 32.67-pound cases of "Marketside Grab and Go Sandwiches VIRGINIA BRAND HAM With Natural Juices, MADE IN NEW YORK, FULLY COOKED BACON, SANDWICH PICKLES, SANDWICH PEPPERS" with the number 17804 1300.
* 25.5-pound cases of "Marketside Grab and Go Sandwiches ANGUS ROAST BEEF Coated with Caramel Color" with the number 17805 1300.


The packages also bear vendor number "398412808" and the USDA mark of inspection. The meat products were produced on various dates from June 18 to July 2, 2010, and have various "Use By" dates ranging from August 20 to September 10, 2010. The products were distributed nationwide to a single retail chain.

Friday, August 20, 2010

EGG RECALL UPDATE!

The egg brands affected by the recall include: Lucerne, Albertson, Mountain Dairy, Ralph’s, Boomsma’s, Sunshine, Hillandale, Trafficanda, Farm Fresh, Shoreland, Lund, Dutch Farms, and Kemps.

Eggs are packed in 6- 12- or 18-egg cartons with Julian dates ranging from 136 to 225 and plant numbers 1026, 1413, and 1946.

Dates and codes can be found stamped on the end of the egg carton. The plant number begins with the letter P and then the number. The Julian date follows the plant number, for example: P-1946 223.

Consumers should not eat the eggs and should return recalled eggs to the store where they were purchased for a full refund.

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

EGG RECALL EXPANDED TO 380 MILLION

WASHINGTON (Reuters) – A nationwide recall of eggs linked to an outbreak of salmonella that has sickened hundreds of people in three U.S. states has been expanded and now covers 380 million eggs.

The eggs all came from a farm in Iowa linked to salmonella cases in California, Colorado and Minnesota over the last three months, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said.

Affected by the recall are eggs packaged under brand names Lucerne, Albertson, Mountain Dairy, Ralph's, Boomsma's, Sunshine, Hillandale, Trafficanda, Farm Fresh, Shoreland, Lund, Dutch Farms and Kemps.

Wright County Egg, of Galt, Iowa, expanded a nationwide recall to 380 million eggs on Wednesday from the initial recall of 228 million, the Egg Safety Center said. Salmonella outbreaks nationwide have increased fourfold since May, sparking an investigation of the foodborne illness in 13 states, said the FDA. No deaths have been reported.

State and local officials were investigating salmonella cases in Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, Minnesota, North Carolina, Nevada, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Texas, the FDA said.

Are we really safe? What needs to be done to improve consumer safety? Post your comments.

Major Salmonella Outbreak---EGGS

228M Eggs Recalled following Salmonella Outbreak

By MARY CLARE JALONICK, Associated Press Writer
– Tue Aug 17, 11:55 pm ET


WASHINGTON An Iowa egg producer is recalling 228 million eggs after being linked to an outbreak of salmonella poisoning.

The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said eggs from Wright County Egg in Galt, Iowa, were linked to several illnesses in Colorado, California and Minnesota. The CDC said about 200 cases of the strain of salmonella linked to the eggs were reported weekly during June and July, four times the normal number of such occurrences.

State health officials say tainted eggs have sickened at least 266 Californians and seven in Minnesota.

The eggs were distributed around the country and packaged under the names Lucerne, Albertson, Mountain Dairy, Ralph's, Boomsma's, Sunshine, Hillandale, Trafficanda, Farm Fresh, Shoreland, Lund, Dutch Farms and Kemp.

The Food and Drug Administration is investigating.

In a statement, company officials said the FDA is "on-site to review records and inspect our barns." The officials said they began the recall Aug. 13.

The most common symptoms of salmonella are diarrhea, abdominal cramps and fever within eight hours to 72 hours of eating a contaminated product. It can be life-threatening, especially to those with weakened immune systems.


This is a major recall with a very HIGH Risk factor to many segments of the population. Are we doing enough to provide food safety to our country? What needs to be done to increase the level of food safety and consumer awareness of the risks? Post your comments!


For more on egg food safety...go to this link. http://www.eggsafety.org/

Monday, August 16, 2010

TACO BELL SALMONELLA UPDATE

Taco Bell Sued over Salmonella Illness
By Food Safety News
Copyright: Marler Clark


Georgetown, Kentucky, resident Jo Anne Smith filed a Salmonella lawsuit against Yum Brands, the parent company of Taco Bell, Friday. Since mid-April, at least 155 people who have purchased food from Taco Bell locations in 21 states have become infected with Salmonella Hartford or Salmonella Baildon. Smith is one of 28 Salmonella outbreak victims from Kentucky.

According to the lawsuit filed by Smith's attorneys, she purchased two tacos garnished with lettuce, cheese, and sour cream from a Frankfort Taco Bell location on May 24. Smith became ill with symptoms of Salmonella infection on May 26, and her symptoms continued to worsen over the course of the next several days.Smith's symptoms continued to worsen, and on May 29 she was so weak and dehydrated that she called her husband and asked him to take her to the emergency room. Smith's husband and their son, who elected to leave the competition due to the severity of his mother's illness, took her to the ER, where she underwent an array of diagnostic tests and procedures, and received a variety of medications and supplements to address her severe symptoms.Smith is represented Marler Clark, the Seattle-based law firm that has represented thousands of victims of Salmonella outbreaks.

"We've represented victims of two prior food poisoning outbreaks at Taco Bell," said attorney and food safety advocate Bill Marler, who represented indivudals injured when in 2000, when green onions served at the chain were determined to be the source of an outbreak, and again in 2006 when an E. coli outbreak traced to lettuce sickened many patrons. "My hope is that these two experiences will lead Yum! Brands to step up quickly to address the needs of customers who have been infected with Salmonella."

Friday, August 6, 2010

ONE MILLION pounds of Beef RECALLED


CLASS I RECALL
FSIS-RC-048-2010 HEALTH RISK: HIGH

Valley Meat Company, a Modesto, Calif. establishment, is recalling approximately one million pounds of frozen ground beef patties and bulk ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7.

FSIS became aware of the problem on July 15 when the agency was notified by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) of a small E. coli O157:H7 cluster of illnesses with a rare strain as determined by PFGE subtyping. A total of six patients with illness onset dates between April 8 and June 18, 2010 were reported at that time. After further review, CDPH added another patient from February to the case count, bringing the count to seven. FSIS is continuing to work with the CDPH and the company on the investigation. Anyone with signs or symptoms of foodborne illness should contact a health care provider.

For information on Recall from Valley Meat Co. with full descriptions of products...CLICK HERE.

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

New Jersey Firm Recalls Canned Meatball Products Due To Undeclared Allergen
Tue, 03 Aug 2010 21:34:30 -0500


Ugo. DiLullo & Sons, a Westville, N.J., establishment, is recalling approximately 147,667 pounds of canned meatball products because they contain an allergen, egg, which is not declared on the label.

CLICK HERE FOR FULL FDA INFO



Monday, August 2, 2010

PRISONERS EAT BETTER THAN STUDENTS?

Do Prisoners Eat Better than School Children?
Copyright: Change.org


It's probably no secret that school lunch tastes pretty gross. Feeding kids a hot dog, bag of pretzels, sugary fruit cup, and chocolate milk isn't exactly the most nutritious meal, either. But despite cafeterias' dubious dishes, there's one place I expected to offer even worse fare — jail. The nation's youth must get better meals than grown-up, hardened criminals serving time in the slammer...right?

Well, according to a story in the Herald-Citizen, when it comes to meal selection, jail might actually be the preferable choice.

Reporter Tracey Hackett covered the meals served in Tennessee's Putnam County Justice Center. According to Hackett, the detention center's kitchen gets about $548 a day to provide prisoners with meals, which roughly works out to about $1.83 per meal. Each inmate gets two meals a day, breakfast and dinner. A typical breakfast consists of a six-ounce container of gravy, a 2.5-ounce biscuit, scrambled eggs, a hash brown patty, pineapple slices, an eight-ounce glass of milk, and some jelly. "Dinner typically consists of a sandwich or casserole, two-to-three servings of vegetables such as mashed potatoes, whole kernel corn and green beans, cornbread, sweet tea, and a serving of fruit or a dessert such as a cookie or piece of cake," Hackett reports.

Sunday, August 1, 2010

Yes we have no Mayo!


Saturday mornings in Toledo, OH there is a radio station that plays all the old tunes I listened to as a kid while at my Grandfather's home. Well I heard the old tune "Yes We Have No Bananas" a novelty song by Frank Silver and Irving Cohn from the 1922 Broadway revue "Make It Snappy", and sung by Eddie Cantor. As I started making some tuna salad today and reached for the empty jar of mayo, the tune hit me like a bolt of lightening. Now what? Yes we have no mayo! How do you make one of America's favorite lunch sandwich proteins without mayo? So I tried to think of what to substitute for the over used mayo. Maybe a lemon vinaigrette with some dry dill weed would work. Then the creative juices started to flow. The frig always has Bleu Cheese dressing or Ranch dressing for the picking. Add a little Parmesan cheese and you have a winner. Spice it up with some diced Peppadew peppers and onions. Add a slice of pepperjack cheese and make a grilled tuna melt! Now there is a song to sing. Blog your favorite alternative for mayo.

Monday, July 26, 2010

Cracker Barrel Sucess

Cracker Barrel CEO: Success comes from ignoring discount mania!
By Triangle Business Journal
Copyright: American City Business Journals, Inc.

Michael Woodhouse, president and CEO of Lebanon, Tenn.-based Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, is proud of how the chain of 594 restaurants – including five in the Raleigh-Durham area – has weathered what’s being called The Great Recession.

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Saturday, July 24, 2010

Aboard the Privateer Lynx

Chef Johnny and Steward Beau Churchill aboard the Privateer Lynx in Toledo, OH on July 25, 2010. The Lynx Educational Foundation is a non-profit, non-partisan, educational organization, dedicated to hands-on educational programs that teach the history of America's struggle to preserve its independence. The maritime challenges during the War of 1812 are taught aboard the American Privateer Schooner Lynx utilizing a comprehensive, interactive program designed to enrich personal achievement through teamwork and the discipline of sail training. The Privateer Lynx was use to teach sailing to the crew and cast of the movie Pirates of the Caribbean staring Johnny Depp. To chart the Privateer Lynx's travels go to our Blog Links.
To follow the story of the Lynx's arrival in Toledo...Click Here for Toledo Port Authority

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Federal Agencies Announce Progress...FOOD SAFETY

Federal Agencies Announce Progress in First Year of Implementing Food Safety Working Group Recommendations


WASHINGTON, July 9, 2010 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius today commended federal food safety agencies for their accomplishments supporting the charge of President Obama's Food Safety Working Group, which advises the President on how to upgrade the U.S. food safety system for the 21st century. The Food Safety Working Group, chaired by Vilsack and Sebelius, recommended a public health-focused approach to food safety based on three core principles: prioritizing prevention; strengthening inspection and enforcement; and improving response and recovery.

"I'm proud of the significant progress that has been made to protect public health since the Food Safety Working Group announced its key findings last July," said Secretary Vilsack. "There is no more basic role for government than ensuring safe food and completing the Food Safety Working Group's executive actions is an important step in strengthening the U.S. food safety system."

"HHS and USDA are focusing on public health as we work to improve the safety of our food supply, said Secretary Sebelius. "Our farm-to-table prevention approach acknowledges the complexity and diversity of all the people and organizations involved in food production."

Tuesday, July 20, 2010


Georgia Firm Recalls Frozen Chicken Nugget Products That May Contain Foreign Materials
Mon, 19 Jul 2010 18:07:44 -0500

Perdue Farms, Inc., a Perry, Ga. establishment, is recalling approximately 91,872 pounds of frozen chicken nugget products that may contain foreign materials.

FOR FULL DETAILS...CLICK HERE TO GO TO FDA RECALL SITE.


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Monday, July 19, 2010

Do restaurants really want feedback?


Feedback...Is it wanted?
INSIDE SCOOP...The Bay Area Source for Breaking Restaurant News

Communication between customers and restaurant owners should be open and direct, yet that’s not always the case. I’m frequently copied after the fact on letters or emails sent to restaurants when the owners refuse to respond; some of them are very successful restaurants. Here is a recent email from a reader wondering whether restaurants even want to listen:

I started a Yelp account a while ago as some friends of mine and co-workers wanted to know what I thought about places. I didn’t write many reviews, and they were evenly placed across the spectrum, and I was filtered out.

Anyway, I don’t really care that much for having people read my thoughts, but frequently I would like to let a restaurant know what I enjoyed, what I thought could have been better, or to say thanks. I wouldn’t ever send flatly negative criticism, and I don’t think it’s appropriate to point something out unless you have a possible suggestion for improvement.

I noticed that Acme Burgerhaus has a feedback system where you can text them immediately. I wish more restaurants would take up this system. Additionally, my question is: do restaurants even want to hear directly from customers unless it is a serious misstep or a transportive experience?

It’s stupid for any restaurant to ignore customer complaints or praise, but most of the time, people are only motivated to write after a negative experience. In this climate, customers like the one who wrote above are golden; they aren’t really looking for revenge or paybacks, but simply want to help.

Used to be the restaurants could file the complaint in the trash, but now everyone is a reviewer and can Yelp their grievances. Many restaurant chefs and owners also have Twitter and Facebook accounts, which become avenues for making your voice heard. Also, just about every restaurant has a website with contact information. However, how they respond is all over the board.

About 18 months ago Julian Guthrie wrote a story about Yelp, including how Doug Washington of Anchor & Hope responded to a negative review. He was so upset, he tracked down the reviewer at his office and asked him to explain. It may be a little in your face, but Washington and others take these criticisms seriously. Of course, not everyone does.



For restaurateurs: What makes you pay attention or ignore an email?

For consumers: If you’ve complained, or praised a restaurant with a direct letter or email, how has that been received?