The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced on April 9 that it has found hazardous levels of selenium in samples of certain flavors of the dietary supplement products "Total Body Formula" and "Total Body Mega Formula." The FDA has received 43 reports of persons from nine states who experienced serious adverse reactions using these products.
On March 27, the FDA warned consumers not to purchase or use "Total Body Formula" in flavors Tropical Orange and Peach Nectar and "Total Body Mega Formula" in the Orange/Tangerine flavor of these products after receiving reports of adverse reactions in users in Florida and Tennessee. The adverse reactions generally occurred after five to 10 days of daily ingestion of the product, and included significant hair loss, muscle cramps, diarrhea, joint pain, deformed fingernails, and fatigue.
Selenium, a naturally occurring mineral, is needed only in very small amounts for good health. Selenium can boost the immune system. Generally, normal consumption of food and water provides adequate selenium to support good health. Excessive intake of selenium is known to cause symptoms to include significant hair loss, muscle cramps, diarrhea, joint pain, fatigue, loss of finger nails and blistering skin.
Presently, FDA has 43 reports of adverse reactions including cases from Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas.
Analyses of samples of the products by FDA laboratories have now found most of the samples contain extremely high levels of selenium--up to 40,800 micrograms per recommended serving, or more than 200 times the amount of selenium per serving (i.e., 200 micrograms) indicated on the labels of the products.
The FDA continues to investigate the matter to determine how excessive amounts of selenium were added to the products.
FDA is advising consumers to stop using "Total Body Formula" in flavors Tropical Orange and Peach Nectar and "Total Body Mega Formula" in the Orange/Tangerine flavor and discard them by placing them in a trash receptacle outside of the home. "Total Body Formula" products are sold in eight-ounce and 32-ounce plastic bottles. "Total Body Mega Formula" is sold in 32-ounce plastic bottles. Both product lines are distributed by Total Body Essential Nutrition of Atlanta, which is listed on the products' labels.
Consumers who have been taking the products and have experienced adverse reactions should consult their health care professional. Consumers and health care professionals are encouraged to report adverse events to the FDA's MedWatch program at 800-FDA-1088 or online at www.fda.gov/medwatch/how.htm.
The sole distributor of the "Total Body Formula" and "Total Body Mega Formula" products has voluntarily recalled the affected products. According to the company, the products were distributed nationwide.
Showing posts with label health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label health. Show all posts
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Monday, April 7, 2008
With warm weather coming, watch out for pool and spa dangers
A timely warning:
More here.
The 15-year-old went underwater to see how long she could hold her breath when suddenly, something pulled on her, slamming her back against the bottom and sending her legs up toward the sky.
Walker dislodged herself and noticed her back hurt badly. Later she saw how her skin had been sucked into the drain leaving an imprint on her back.
Her mom dubbed it a "Florida tattoo." But it's no joke. That mark demonstrates how close her daughter came to dying.
I figured Walker had gotten off the drain because she's athletic and strong.
But experts in suction entrapment, the term used to describe what happened, told me that she was saved by a couple of inches of fabric.
"Her bathing suit strap stopped her from making a full seal. If it hadn't, she would have never gotten off," said Anthony Sirianni, president of Stingl Products, a company that sells safety devices that prevent these types of accidents.
More here.
Sam Adams recalls some beer for possible presence of glass
During a routine bottle inspection at one of our breweries, we detected possible defects in a small percentage of bottles resulting in the random presence of bits of glass, most the size of grains of sand, but some small slivers in some bottles as well. Based on this sample, we quickly began testing bottles of Samuel Adams at all of our breweries and identified that the problem appeared to be isolated to a single glass plant of the five that supply us.
More here.
Malt-O-Meal recalls cereals for possible salmonella contamination
Malt-O-Meal announced on April 5, 2008 that it is voluntarily recalling its unsweetened Puffed Rice and unsweetened Puffed Wheat Cereals produced with "Best If Used By" codes between April 8, 2008 (coded as "APR0808") and March 18, 2009 (coded as "MAR1809") because they may have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
The recalled product was distributed nationally, marketed under the Malt-O-Meal brand and as some private label brands including Acme, America's Choice, Food Club, Giant, Hannaford, Jewel, Laura Lynn, Pathmark, Shaw's, ShopRite, Tops and Weis Quality. A comprehensive listing of impacted products can be found at www.malt-o-meal.com/recallinfo.
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this situation. All other Malt-O-Meal products are unaffected by this action and are safe for continued sale and consumption. The products affected by this recall represent less than one-half of one percent of the company's annual production of ready-to-eat cereal.
"Our first and highest priority is the safety of the consumers who use our products," said Malt-O-Meal President and CEO Chris Neugent. "It's important that we spread the word about this situation quickly and broadly in order to remove even the slightest possibility that someone will consume something harmful. We apologize for this situation and promise to do everything to complete the recall as quickly as possible."
The recall was initiated after the company's internal routine food safety testing detected the presence of Salmonella in a product produced on March 24, 2008. The company immediately commenced an investigation to determine the root cause of this one positive finding as well as the extent of any possible exposure. Initial results from this follow-up investigation indicate that additional product may have been exposed to this contaminant. Thus, out of an abundance of caution to protect consumers, the company has chosen to voluntarily remove all unsweetened Puffed Rice and unsweetened Puffed Wheat products with "Best If Used By" codes between April 8, 2008 (coded as "APR0808") and March 18, 2009 (coded as "MAR1809"). Investigation into the source of the Salmonella has determined a root cause of this situation and corrective measures have been taken to ensure that there is no reoccurrence of this issue.
Persons infected with Salmonella may experience a variety of symptoms and illnesses. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, persons infected with Salmonella may experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in more severe illnesses, some potentially life threatening.
Consumers who have purchased any products covered by this recall are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-877-665-9331. Information regarding this recall, including images of the Malt-O-Meal product packaging, also will be posted to the company's website at www.malt-o-meal.com/recallinfo.
Source: The FDA
The recalled product was distributed nationally, marketed under the Malt-O-Meal brand and as some private label brands including Acme, America's Choice, Food Club, Giant, Hannaford, Jewel, Laura Lynn, Pathmark, Shaw's, ShopRite, Tops and Weis Quality. A comprehensive listing of impacted products can be found at www.malt-o-meal.com/recallinfo.
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this situation. All other Malt-O-Meal products are unaffected by this action and are safe for continued sale and consumption. The products affected by this recall represent less than one-half of one percent of the company's annual production of ready-to-eat cereal.
"Our first and highest priority is the safety of the consumers who use our products," said Malt-O-Meal President and CEO Chris Neugent. "It's important that we spread the word about this situation quickly and broadly in order to remove even the slightest possibility that someone will consume something harmful. We apologize for this situation and promise to do everything to complete the recall as quickly as possible."
The recall was initiated after the company's internal routine food safety testing detected the presence of Salmonella in a product produced on March 24, 2008. The company immediately commenced an investigation to determine the root cause of this one positive finding as well as the extent of any possible exposure. Initial results from this follow-up investigation indicate that additional product may have been exposed to this contaminant. Thus, out of an abundance of caution to protect consumers, the company has chosen to voluntarily remove all unsweetened Puffed Rice and unsweetened Puffed Wheat products with "Best If Used By" codes between April 8, 2008 (coded as "APR0808") and March 18, 2009 (coded as "MAR1809"). Investigation into the source of the Salmonella has determined a root cause of this situation and corrective measures have been taken to ensure that there is no reoccurrence of this issue.
Persons infected with Salmonella may experience a variety of symptoms and illnesses. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, persons infected with Salmonella may experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in more severe illnesses, some potentially life threatening.
Consumers who have purchased any products covered by this recall are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-877-665-9331. Information regarding this recall, including images of the Malt-O-Meal product packaging, also will be posted to the company's website at www.malt-o-meal.com/recallinfo.
Source: The FDA
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Gas water heaters recalled for fire and carbon monoxide hazards
On April 3, 2008 the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Natural and Propane Gas Water Heaters
Units: About 1,500
Manufacturer: A.O. Smith Water Products Co., of Ashland City, Tenn.
Hazard: The water heater’s flue gas temperatures can exceed safe limits and produce excessive temperatures in the venting unit, posing a fire hazard. Also, the water heater’s exhaust can leak into the surrounding room, posing a carbon monoxide hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: This recall involves 75 gallon natural and propane gas water heaters. “A.O. Smith” or “State” is printed on the side of the unit. A.O. Smith and State model and serial numbers included in this recall are listed in the chart below. Model and serial numbers are printed on the water heater’s rating plate.
Sold by: Independent contractors and plumbers nationwide from November 2007 through January 2008 for between $1,000 and $2,500.
Manufactured in: United States
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled water heater and contact A.O. Smith to arrange for a free repair.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact A.O. Smith toll-free at (866) 880-4661 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.hotwater.com
Name of Product: Natural and Propane Gas Water Heaters
Units: About 1,500
Manufacturer: A.O. Smith Water Products Co., of Ashland City, Tenn.
Hazard: The water heater’s flue gas temperatures can exceed safe limits and produce excessive temperatures in the venting unit, posing a fire hazard. Also, the water heater’s exhaust can leak into the surrounding room, posing a carbon monoxide hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: This recall involves 75 gallon natural and propane gas water heaters. “A.O. Smith” or “State” is printed on the side of the unit. A.O. Smith and State model and serial numbers included in this recall are listed in the chart below. Model and serial numbers are printed on the water heater’s rating plate.
| Brand Name | Model Number | Serial Number Ranges |
|---|---|---|
| A.O. Smith | FCG-75 300 | L07A071460 through L07A144966 or M07A009387 through M07A072884 |
| FCG-75 301 | ||
| State | GS6 75 XRR S | |
| GS6 75 CRR S |
Sold by: Independent contractors and plumbers nationwide from November 2007 through January 2008 for between $1,000 and $2,500.
Manufactured in: United States
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled water heater and contact A.O. Smith to arrange for a free repair.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact A.O. Smith toll-free at (866) 880-4661 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.hotwater.com
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Children's Sweatshirts recalled for strangulation hazard
On April 2 the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a voluntary recall of the following product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Hooded Youth Sweatshirts and Jackets
Units: About 7,400
Manufacturer: Brents-Riordan Inc. LLC, of Shreveport, La.
Hazard: The garments have a drawstring through the hood, which can pose a strangulation hazard to children. In February 1996, CPSC issued guidelines (pdf) to help prevent children from strangling or getting entangled on the neck and waist by drawstrings in upper garments, such as jackets and sweatshirts.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: This recall involves the Youth Hooded Sweatshirt (item # 11037Y-39) and the Youth Insulated Bomber with Hood (item # 1113Y-39). The item number is found in a label located underneath the care label. The sweatshirts have a camouflage design and “Photoflauge™” is printed on them.
Sold at: Various retail stores nationwide from July 2007 through December 2007 for between $20 and $30.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should immediately remove the drawstrings to eliminate the hazard or return the sweatshirts to either the place of purchase or Brents-Riordan for a full refund.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact the company toll-free at (866) 835-6357 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.brentsinc.com
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Cabot Recalls Deck Cleaner for Inhalation and Fire Hazard
On April 2 the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Cabot Composite Deck Cleaner
Units: About 24,000
Distributor: Cabot Stains (a division of Valspar Corp.), of Newburyport, Mass.
Hazard: One of the components of the composite cleaner can react with metal foil residue on the packaging, releasing heat and chlorine gas. This poses a fire and inhalation hazard to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: Cabot has received one report of the composite cleaner’s plastic container partially melting and emitting a chlorine odor. No injuries were reported.
Description: This recall involves the Cabot Composite Deck Cleaner #3502. The deck cleaner is a granular concentrate that, when mixed with water, is used to clean composite surfaces such as decks, railings, steps, fences and siding. It was sold in a 2-pound plastic container. The label on the container reads: “Cabot Composite Cleaner” and has number 3502 at the bottom of the front of the label.
Sold at: Home improvement centers and hardware stores nationwide from February 2007 through February 2008 for about $20.
Manufactured in: United States
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the product and return it to the store of purchase for a full refund. If the container looks deformed or if it feels hot to the touch, immediately call Cabot anytime to arrange for the safe handling of the product.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Cabot at (877) 755-3336, or visit the company’s Web site at www.cabotstain.com/recall (pdf)
Lock and Leash™ Locks recalled for lead paint violation
On April 1, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Lock and Leash™ Locks
Units: About 27,000
Importer: Master Lock, of Oak Creek, Wis.
Manufacturer: Fullyear-Brother Enterprise Co. Ltd, of Taiwan
Hazard: Red surface paint on the locks contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: This recall involves red Lock and Leash™ locks with model number 1551D. The locks have a matching red coiled cable used to anchor items. Master Lock® is printed in white above the combination display. Other colors are not affected by this recall.
Sold at: Hardware stores and Internet retailers from March 2007 through January 2008 for about $8.
Manufactured in: Taiwan
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled locks and return them to Master Lock Company Return Goods c/o All in One Warehouse, 2050 North Smokey Lane, Suite B, Nogales, AZ 85621 for a full refund.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Master Lock at (800) 464-2088 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT or visit the firm’s Web site at www.masterlock.com (pdf)
Monday, February 11, 2008
Icy Hot - a little too hot
The Food and Drug Administration announced today that Chattem, Inc., of Chattanooga, Tenn., is recalling several varieties of its Icy Hot Heat Therapy Air-Activated Heat patches "because it has received some consumer reports of first, second and third degree burns as well as skin irritation resulting from consumer use or possible misuse of these products."
Read more here at ABC News.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Is microwave popcorn safe?
From the AP:
The smell of buttery microwave popcorn can be intoxicating. But can it also be dangerous?
The question took on new significance recently when a doctor alerted federal regulatory agencies that a Colorado man who ate at least two bags every night for several years had "significant lung disease" similar to that seen in some microwave popcorn workers.
The illness - the first suspected case in a consumer - was linked to the man's habit of inhaling fumes from extra-buttery microwave popcorn, which contains the chemical diacetyl. The additive gives foods a buttery taste and has been linked to severe lung disease in some microwave popcorn and flavor plant workers.
Click here to read the rest.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Fisher-Price Recalls Bongo Band Toys
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Big Big World 6-in-1 Bongo Band toys
Units: About 8,900
Importer: Fisher-Price Inc., of East Aurora, N.Y.
Hazard: Surface paints on the toys contain excessive levels of lead, which violates the federal law prohibiting lead paint on children's toys.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: The recalled toys have two bongos, including one with a yellow and green plastic drum base with a blue drum surface. The other bongo is yellow and green plastic drum base with an orange drum surface with “It’s a Big, Big World” printed on it. The toys were sold with animal shaped accessories including a monkey, bird, tambourine and drum stick. The toys have product number K9343 inside the orange drum. A date code between 139-7SH and 232-7SH is printed on the drum’s orange ring surface. Bongo Band toys included in this recall must have both the product number and date code.
Sold at: Retail stores nationwide from July 2007 through August 2007 for about $20.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children and contact Fisher-Price for instructions on returning the product in order to receive a free replacement toy.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Fisher-Price at (888) 496-8330 anytime or visit the firm’s Web site at www.mattel.com/safety
Name of Product: Big Big World 6-in-1 Bongo Band toys
Units: About 8,900
Importer: Fisher-Price Inc., of East Aurora, N.Y.
Hazard: Surface paints on the toys contain excessive levels of lead, which violates the federal law prohibiting lead paint on children's toys.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: The recalled toys have two bongos, including one with a yellow and green plastic drum base with a blue drum surface. The other bongo is yellow and green plastic drum base with an orange drum surface with “It’s a Big, Big World” printed on it. The toys were sold with animal shaped accessories including a monkey, bird, tambourine and drum stick. The toys have product number K9343 inside the orange drum. A date code between 139-7SH and 232-7SH is printed on the drum’s orange ring surface. Bongo Band toys included in this recall must have both the product number and date code.
Sold at: Retail stores nationwide from July 2007 through August 2007 for about $20.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children and contact Fisher-Price for instructions on returning the product in order to receive a free replacement toy.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Fisher-Price at (888) 496-8330 anytime or visit the firm’s Web site at www.mattel.com/safety
Fisher-Price Recalls Geo Trax Locomotive Toys Due To Lead Paint Fears
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Geo Trax Locomotive Toys
Units: About 90,000
Importer: Fisher-Price Inc., of East Aurora, N.Y.
Hazard: Surface paints on the toys contain excessive levels of lead.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: The recall involves the Geo Trax Freightway Transport and Geo Trax Special Track Pack locomotive toys. These toys are red with yellow paint on the ladder and horn details. The recalled models were manufactured between July 31, 2006 and August 20, 2007 and have a date code between 212-6CK through 325-6CK or 001-7CK through 232-7CK marked on the bottom of the product. The packaging on the Freightway Transport model is marked H5705 and the packaging on the Special Track Pack model is marked K3013.
Sold at: Retail stores nationwide from September 2006 through August 2007 for between $3 and $16.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children and contact Fisher-Price. Consumers will need to return the product in order to receive a free replacement toy.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Fisher-Price toll-free at (888) 496-8330 anytime or visit the firm's Web site at www.service.mattel.com
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Mattel Recalls Various Barbie® Accessory Toys
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Various Barbie Accessory Toys
Units: About 675,000
Importer: Mattel Inc., of El Segundo, Calif.
Hazard: Surface paints on the toys contain excessive levels of lead which is prohibited under federal law.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: The recall involves various Barbie accessory toys that were manufactured between September 30, 2006 and August 20, 2007. The model names, product numbers and affected date code numbers are listed in the chart below. The product and date code numbers are printed on the largest component of the toy sets.
Sold at: Retail stores nationwide from October 2006 through August 2007 for about $10.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children and contact Mattel for instructions on how to receive a free replacement toy of equal value.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Mattel’s Fisher-Price hotline at (888) 496-8330 anytime, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.mattel.com/safety
Name of Product: Various Barbie Accessory Toys
Units: About 675,000
Importer: Mattel Inc., of El Segundo, Calif.
Hazard: Surface paints on the toys contain excessive levels of lead which is prohibited under federal law.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: The recall involves various Barbie accessory toys that were manufactured between September 30, 2006 and August 20, 2007. The model names, product numbers and affected date code numbers are listed in the chart below. The product and date code numbers are printed on the largest component of the toy sets.
| Product | Product Number | Date Code Number | Product Photo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barbie® Dream Puppy House™ (lead paint on dog) | J9485 | 286-6JX through 365-6JX or 001-7JX through 232-7JX |  |
| Barbie® Dream Kitty Condo™ Playset (lead paint on cat) | J9486 | 286-6JX through 365-6JX or 001-7JX through 232-7JX |  |
| Barbie® Table and Chairs Kitchen Playset (lead paint on dog, chip platter, dinner plates) | K8606 | All |  |
| Barbie® Bathtub and Toilet Playset (lead point on cat) | K8607 | All |  |
| Barbie® Futon and Table Living Room Playset (lead paint on cat) | K8608 | All |  |
| Barbie® Desk and Chair Bedroom Playset (lead paint on dog) | K8609 | All |  |
| Barbie® Couch & Table Living Room Playset (lead paint on purse) | K8613 | All |  |
Sold at: Retail stores nationwide from October 2006 through August 2007 for about $10.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children and contact Mattel for instructions on how to receive a free replacement toy of equal value.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Mattel’s Fisher-Price hotline at (888) 496-8330 anytime, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.mattel.com/safety
Monday, September 10, 2007
Toys "R" Us recalls coloring cases over lead fears
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Imaginarium Wooden Coloring Cases
Units: About 27,000
Importer / Retailer: Toys "R" Us Inc., of Wayne, N.J.
Hazard: The printed ink on the outer packaging of the wood case contains lead. Also, some of the black watercolor paint contains excessive levels of lead, which violates the federal lead paint standard.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: The recall involves the Imaginarium brand 213 Piece Wooden Coloring Case which includes crayons, pastels, colored pencils, fiber pens, paintbrush, pencil, water colors, palette, white paint, ruler and pencil sharpener in a light tan wooden carrying case. The case measures about 14 inches high by 19 inches wide.
Sold by: Toys "R" Us stores nationwide and toysrus.com from October 2006 through August 2007 for about $20.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the products away from children and return the item to the nearest Toys "R" Us store for store credit.
Consumer Contact: For more information, contact Toys "R" Us at (800) TOYSRUS/869-7787 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. ET Monday through Saturday, and between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Sunday, or visit the company’s Web site at www.toysrus.com
Friday, August 31, 2007
Mojito Sauce recalled over salmonella concerns
From the FDA:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- August 30, 2007 -- Stirrings LLC, of Fall River, Massachusetts is recalling its 3.5 oz packages of Rimmer® Brand Mojito Cocktail Garnish (UPC# 80999 00046) with the best by codes 10/27/08, 10/30/08, 11/23/08, 12/01/08, 12/04/08 and 01/03/09 printed on the side of the tin. The recall may involve approximately 5,000 cases of its Rimmer® Brand Mojito Cocktail Garnish supplied by Van de Vries Spice Corporation (formerly Atlantic Quality Spice) of Edison, NJ because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. Although Stirrings LLC's tests of finished product samples were negative for the presence of Salmonella, parsley powder, one of several ingredients supplied by Van de Vries Spice, tested positive for Salmonella.
The presence of Salmonella can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail, or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more serious illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e. infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
Rimmer® Brand Mojito Cocktail Garnish was distributed nationwide through distributors, retail stores, internet sales and cocktail establishments.
Immediately after Van de Vries brought to Stirrings attention that a parsley powder used in a single lot of Mojito Rimmer product potentially could contain Salmonella based on FDA testing, Stirrings retained expert laboratories, primarily Shuster Laboratories of Canton, Massachusetts to test samples of its Mojito Rimmer product for Salmonella. Testing of 24 samples drawn from the Van de Vries lot of Mojito Rimmer failed to reveal the presence of Salmonella in the Mojito Rimmer product.
No illnesses have been reported to date.
Stirrings CEO Paul Nardone explained, "We have removed parsley powder from our Rimmer Cocktail Garnish formula. This ingredient represents less than one half of one percent of the blend and was used primarily as a natural colorant." Nardone further stated, "We have initiated a recall as a precaution and assurance to our customers that we stand behind our product quality 100%."
Consumers who have purchased Rimmer® Brand Mojito Cocktail Garnish with the best by codes noted above are asked to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the Company toll-free at 866-648-8239.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- August 30, 2007 -- Stirrings LLC, of Fall River, Massachusetts is recalling its 3.5 oz packages of Rimmer® Brand Mojito Cocktail Garnish (UPC# 80999 00046) with the best by codes 10/27/08, 10/30/08, 11/23/08, 12/01/08, 12/04/08 and 01/03/09 printed on the side of the tin. The recall may involve approximately 5,000 cases of its Rimmer® Brand Mojito Cocktail Garnish supplied by Van de Vries Spice Corporation (formerly Atlantic Quality Spice) of Edison, NJ because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. Although Stirrings LLC's tests of finished product samples were negative for the presence of Salmonella, parsley powder, one of several ingredients supplied by Van de Vries Spice, tested positive for Salmonella.
The presence of Salmonella can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail, or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more serious illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e. infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
Rimmer® Brand Mojito Cocktail Garnish was distributed nationwide through distributors, retail stores, internet sales and cocktail establishments.
Immediately after Van de Vries brought to Stirrings attention that a parsley powder used in a single lot of Mojito Rimmer product potentially could contain Salmonella based on FDA testing, Stirrings retained expert laboratories, primarily Shuster Laboratories of Canton, Massachusetts to test samples of its Mojito Rimmer product for Salmonella. Testing of 24 samples drawn from the Van de Vries lot of Mojito Rimmer failed to reveal the presence of Salmonella in the Mojito Rimmer product.
No illnesses have been reported to date.
Stirrings CEO Paul Nardone explained, "We have removed parsley powder from our Rimmer Cocktail Garnish formula. This ingredient represents less than one half of one percent of the blend and was used primarily as a natural colorant." Nardone further stated, "We have initiated a recall as a precaution and assurance to our customers that we stand behind our product quality 100%."
Consumers who have purchased Rimmer® Brand Mojito Cocktail Garnish with the best by codes noted above are asked to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the Company toll-free at 866-648-8239.
Smoked Indian Sardine Tamban recalled over botulism fears
From the FDA:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Bayonne, NJ -- August 29, 2007 -- Everlasting Distributors, Inc. of Bayonne, NJ, is recalling its Blue Ocean Smoked Indian Sardine Tamban 8oz. packaged frozen products because it has the potential to be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium which can cause life-threatening illness or death. Consumers are warned not to use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled.
Botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning, can cause the following symptoms: general weakness, dizziness, double-vision and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation may also be common symptoms. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.
Blue Ocean Smoked Indian Sardine Tamban was distributed in New York and New Jersey areas and it reached consumers through retail stores.
Blue Ocean Indian Sardine Tamban comes in an uncoded white styropor foam tray and vacuum packed with a clear plastic bag.
The potential for contamination was noted after routing testing.
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.
Consumers who have purchased the Blue Ocean Smoked Indian Sardine Tamban 8oz. frozen product are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Everlasting Distributors, Inc. at (201) 823-0800.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Bayonne, NJ -- August 29, 2007 -- Everlasting Distributors, Inc. of Bayonne, NJ, is recalling its Blue Ocean Smoked Indian Sardine Tamban 8oz. packaged frozen products because it has the potential to be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium which can cause life-threatening illness or death. Consumers are warned not to use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled.
Botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning, can cause the following symptoms: general weakness, dizziness, double-vision and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation may also be common symptoms. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.
Blue Ocean Smoked Indian Sardine Tamban was distributed in New York and New Jersey areas and it reached consumers through retail stores.
Blue Ocean Indian Sardine Tamban comes in an uncoded white styropor foam tray and vacuum packed with a clear plastic bag.
The potential for contamination was noted after routing testing.
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.
Consumers who have purchased the Blue Ocean Smoked Indian Sardine Tamban 8oz. frozen product are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Everlasting Distributors, Inc. at (201) 823-0800.
Metz Fresh recalls spinach
From the FDA:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Salinas, CA -- August 28, 2007 -- Metz Fresh, LLC is voluntarily recalling bagged spinach as a result of a positive test for Salmonella found during routine company testing.
The spinach is distributed under the label Metz Fresh, in both retail and food service packages. These include 10 and 16 oz bags as well as 4-2.5 lb. and 4 lb. cartons. The only Metz Fresh product affected is spinach that bears the tracking codes 12208114, 12208214 and 12208314. It was distributed in the continental United States and Canada.
There have been no reports of illness or problems related to this spinach.
Salmonella is a common food borne pathogen that can cause severe illnesses, including fever, abdominal cramps and diarrhea. While most individuals recover in three to five days without medical intervention, the infection can be life-threatening to young children, the elderly and those with compromised immune systems. Consumers with any of these symptoms should call their physician.
Consumers are advised to discard this product or return it to the place of purchase for a refund. Consumers with questions about the recall should contact 831-386-1018.
"Nothing is more important to Metz Fresh than the safety of our consumers, period," said Andrew Cumming, President of Metz Fresh. "As soon as we learned of the presumptive positive test, we directed all customers to hold all boxes of the spinach affected as a precaution. Now, with this positive test confirmation, there is no question that we would recall and destroy all spinach bearing these three codes."
The positive test came during independent lab testing Metz Fresh conducts on all of its products. Through its labeling and numbering system, Metz Fresh has already tracked, located and put 'holds' on the vast majority of the cartons of spinach affected. That spinach will not be released into the marketplace.
While the positive test came from only one sample of many on three packing lines, Metz Fresh has, as a precaution, chosen to recall all of the spinach from the ‘field lot’ packed that day on all three lines.
Metz Fresh is keeping appropriate authorities updated on the status of the voluntary recall.
Allergy Alert in "Death By Chocolate" Cookies
From the FDA, an announcement of a recall of the most unfortunately named product I can think of, given the circumstances:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Atlanta, GA -- August 27, 2007 -- Bella Cucina of Atlanta, Georgia is recalling units of Death by Chocolate cookies if your bag does not correctly state that the product contains walnuts. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to Walnuts run the risk of serious or life threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.
Death by Chocolate cookies may have been sold directly to consumers in the following retail stores:
Store | Contact Information |
|---|---|
Ballins, LTD | Wendy Legarde |
At Home Store | At Home Store |
Perfect Package | Perfect Package |
Lincoln Finishing Touches-NE | Lincoln Finishing Touches-NE |
Farm Fresh To You Store | Farm Fresh To You Store |
The Fig Pantry | The Fig Pantry (bill) |
Black Salt | Black Salt |
Great American | Great American |
Kiawah Island Resort | Osprey Point |
Trapp & Co | Trapp & Co. |
Joli Home and Events | Joli Home & Events |
James Welch | James Welch |
Crabby Chic | Crabby Chic |
McArdles Forest and Garden Center | McArdle's Forest & Garden Ctr |
BCAF Grand Central Station | Bella Cucina Artful Food - GCS |
Wines of Distinction, Inc. | Wines of Distinction, Inc. |
Domaine Carneros | Domaine Carneros |
Build a Basket | Build A Basket |
Design Line Interiors | Design Line Interiors |
BCAF Virginia Highlands | BCAF-Virginia Highlands |
Nest | Nest |
Counrty Store - CA | Country Store -CA |
Graeagle Gift Shop | NO CONTACT |
Moravian Florist | Moravian Florist |
The Cheshire Cat | The Cheshire Cat |
Kimball Shop | Kimball Shop |
Sayville General Store Inc | Sayville General Store, Inc |
Chintz & Company | Chintz & Company |
English Green Interiors | English Green Interiors |
Bella Donna Designs | Bella Donna Designs |
Equipment Di Vin | Equipment Di Vin |
Celebrations - FL | Celebrations-FL |
French's Kitchen & Bath | French's Kitchen & Bath |
Fanciful Gift Baskets | Fanciful Gift Baskets |
Harris & Clark General Store | Harris & Clark General Store |
Breckenridge Cheese and Chocolate | Breckenridge Cheese & Chocolate |
Son of Moon Fine Foods | Son of the Moon |
Roche Bros Supermarket | Roche Bros. #101 |
Tenzie & Co | Tenzie & Co. |
Pine Away | Pine Away |
Bee Entertaining | Bee Entertaining |
The country Farmer | The Country Farmer |
All stores have been notified of the incident.
The Death by Chocolate cookies in bags are in a 6oz. bag with a sleeve label. The UPC code for this product is 19193 00020. These cookies have a three month shelf life. The cookies being recalled were made on June 14, 2007 and also July 5, 2007 for a total of 36 cases, 12 units per case. The cookie ingredient list did not contain Walnuts.
No Illness have been reported to date.
Consumers should contact Bella Cucina directly at 678.539.8400 so we can refund or replace the cookie bag.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Are there high levels of formaldehyde in Chinese clothes?
As if food safety concerns are not enough, there comes this story from New Zealand:
Full story here from ABC News of Australia.
First it was pet food, then toys. Now the safety of Chinese-made clothes is being called into question.
New Zealand's Ministry of Consumer Affairs is investigating claims that clothes contaminated with high levels of formaldehyde are being sold in New Zealand.
Exposure to high levels of formaldehyde can cause cancer in humans.
The claims are being aired on NZ television program Target.
The program's director, Candace McNabb, says her team arranged scientific tests when they came across the story.
"We were tipped off by a consumer who contacted us because her son had bought 100 per cent cotton pants and had an allergic reaction to them," she said.
"So we started looking into the types of chemicals that are used in production and manufacture of clothing and treatments that they receive along the way. For example, something like formaldehyde is used to prevent mould and mildew, things like that."
Full story here from ABC News of Australia.
Toys R Us removes vinyl bibs on account of lead concerns
Still more Chinese lead concerns.
Read the rest here at CNN.
Toys "R" Us Inc. on Friday said it was removing all vinyl baby bibs from its Toys "R" Us and Babies "R" Us stores as a precaution after two bibs made in China for one supplier showed lead levels that exceeded Toys "R" Us standards.
Toys "R" Us, which operates over 1,500 stores, said the result came in testing this month of bibs supplied by Hamco Inc. and marketed under the Koala Baby, Especially for Baby and Disney Baby labels.
Read the rest here at CNN.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)