Kroger, Tyson Ground Beef Recalled for E Coli

Kansas Firm Recalls Ground Beef Products Due To Possible E. Coli O157:H7 Contamination Recall Release CLASS I RECALL FSIS-RC-077-2011 HEALTH RISK: HIGH Congressional and Public Affairs (202) 720-9113 Richard J. McIntire WASHINGTON, Sep 27, 2011 - Tyson Fresh Meats Inc., an Emporia, Kan. establishment, is recalling approximately 131,300 pounds of ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The following products are subject to recall: PREPARING GROUND BEEF FOR SAFE CONSUMPTION USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-888-MPHOTLINE or visit www.fsis.usda.gov Wash hands with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling raw meat and poultry. Wash cutting boards, dishes and utensils with hot, soapy water. Immediately clean spills. Keep raw meat, fish and poultry away from other food that will not be cooked. Consumers should only eat ground beef or ground beef patties that have been cooked to a safe internal temperature of 160° F. Color is NOT a reliable indicator that ground beef or ground beef patties have been cooked to a temperature high enough to kill harmful bacteria such asE. coli O157:H7. The only way to be sure ground beef is cooked to a high enough temperature to kill harmful bacteria is to use a thermometer to measure the internal temperature. Refrigerate raw meat and poultry within two hours after purchase or one hour if temperatures exceed 90° F. Refrigerate cooked meat and poultry within two hours after cooking. 5-pound chubs of Kroger-brand "GROUND BEEF 73% LEAN - 27% FAT," packed in 40-pound cases containing eight chubs. Cases bear an identifying product code of "D-0211 QW." These products were produced on Aug. 23, 2011 and were shipped to distribution centers in Ind. and Tenn. for retail sale. 3-pound chubs of Butcher’s Brand "GROUND BEEF 73% LEAN - 27% FAT," packed in 36-pound cases each containing 12 chubs. Cases bear an identifying product code of "D-0211 LWIF." These products were produced on Aug. 23, 2011 and were shipped to distribution centers in N.C. and S.C. for retail sale. 3-pound chubs of a generic label "GROUND BEEF 73% LEAN - 27% FAT," packed in 36-pound cases each containing 12 chubs. Cases bear an identifying product code of "D-0211 LWI." These products were produced on Aug. 23, 2011 and were shipped to distribution centers in Del., Fla., Ga., Md., Ill., Ind., Mo., N.Y., Ohio, Tenn., Texas and Wis. for retail sale. The products subject to recall have a "BEST BEFORE OR FREEZE BY" date of "SEP 12 2011" and the establishment number "245D" ink jetted along the package seam. When available, the retail distribution list(s) will be posted on FSIS’ website atwww.fsis.usda.gov/FSIS_Recalls/ Open_Federal_Cases/index.asp. FSIS and the establishment are concerned that consumers may freeze the product before use and that some product may be in consumers’ freezers. FSIS strongly encourages consumers to check their freezers and immediately discard any product subject to this recall. FSIS became aware of the problem yesterday (Sept. 26, 2011) when the agency was notified by the Ohio Department of Health of E. coli O157:H7 illnesses located in Butler County. Illness onset dates range from Sept. 8, through Sept. 11, 2011. The on-going investigation involved collecting leftover ground beef from the patients’ home on Sept. 19 which tested positive for E. coli O157:H7 by the Ohio Department of Agriculture’s laboratory today (Sept. 27). FSIS is continuing to work with Ohio public health partners on this investigation. What is E. Coli? E. coli O157:H7 is a bacterium that can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and in the most severe cases, kidney failure. The very young, seniors and persons with weak immune systems are the most susceptible to foodborne illness. Individuals concerned about an illness should contact a health care provider. FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. FSIS advises all consumers to safely prepare their raw meat products, including fresh and frozen, and only consume ground beef that has been cooked to a temperature of 160° F. The only way to confirm that ground beef is cooked to a temperature high enough to kill harmful bacteria is to use a food thermometer that measures internal temperature. Consumers with questions regarding the recall should contact the company at (866) 328-3156. Media with questions regarding the recall should contact the company’s Director of Public Relations, Gary Mickelson at (479) 290-6111. Consumers with food safety questions can "Ask Karen," the FSIS virtual representative available 24 hours a day atAskKaren.gov. The toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) is available in English and Spanish and can be reached from l0 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day.

Carol's Cuts Fruit Medley Recalled

Photo credit: Babiychuk

Carol’s Cuts Recalls Fresh Cut Cantaloupe 

and 

Cut Mixed Fruit Containing Cantaloupe Because of Possible Health Risk

Distributed in KS, MO, and NE

Consumer contact:
Chris Ream
913-281-5200

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - September 23, 2011 - Carol’s Cuts LLC, Kansas food processor, is recalling 594 pounds of fresh cut cantaloupe packaged in 5-pound trays as chunks and as an ingredient in 8-ounce mixed fruit medley because it has 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 high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriage and stillbirths among pregnant women.

Carol’s Cuts Fruit Medley, packaged in 8-ounce individual serving clamshell containers (6 packages per case) and 5-pound bulk trays of cantaloupe chunks were distributed to institutional food customers, including restaurants, in Overland Park, Kansas, Kansas City and Maryland Heights, Missouri and Omaha, Nebraska. Institutional customers may have used the cantaloupe on salad bars and as fruit menu items. Some institutional customers may have placed the 8-ounce servings in retail venues. Carol’s Cuts has notified all institutional customers of the recall and asked that the contaminated cantaloupe be returned or destroyed.

The Carol’s Cuts Fruit Medley product was shipped to customers on August 26 and September 12, 2011 and can be identified by oval label stickers stating Fruit Medley and having Best if Used By dates of September 3, 2011 and September 19, 2011 respectively. The 5-pound bulk trays of cantaloupe chunks were shipped to customers on August 26 and August 29, 2011 and are identified with tray stickers showing a Lot # 72361 and a Best if Used By date of September 3, 2011; and shipped September 12, 2011 and are identified with tray stickers showing a Lot # 72700 and a Best if Used By date of September 19, 2011.

The Carol’s Cuts recall is part of a larger recall involving cantaloupe traced to Rocky Ford cantaloupes produced by Jensen Farms in Holly, Colo. The Food and Drug Administration confirmed that listeria was found in samples taken from a Denver-area store and the Jensen Farms packing facility. The melons were shipped to at least 17 different states across the U.S. between July 29 and Sept. 10. As of Thursday there were eight deaths and 55 illnesses related to the contaminated cantaloupe.

 Remember, Food Matters!

Jensen Farms earlier issued a voluntary nationwide recall of its cantaloupes after news of the multi-state outbreak. Jenson Farms has ceased production and distribution of the product while FDA and the company continue their investigations as to what caused the problem.

Consumers who may have the recalled Carol’s Cuts product in their possession should return it to the place of purchase for a full refund or destroy it.

Carol’s Cuts LLC is located at 1247 Argentine Boulevard, Kansas City, KS 66105. Consumers with questions may contact the company at (913) 281-5200, Monday thru Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm.

Obesity and Health Care

On September 23, a visitor took a moment to leave me this thoughtful message:

Photo Credit: CreativeStock

"Please carry out an intelligent and careful examination of the problem obesity and health care. It is nice to read the considered response, which makes me think."

(Thank-you for asking!)  This is a topic that is near and dear to my heart.  My opinion regarding obesity as it pertains to health care would be considered controversial in some circles, but I will offer it here, and I welcome your comments and opinions as well!

It is my considered opinion that in the majority of cases, obesity is nothing more (or less!) than a symptom of serious and chronic malnutrition. 

Now, don't get me wrong.  By using the word malnutrition, I do not mean to say that the obese person got to be obese by not eating enough--but he did get there by starving himself of all the vitamins, minerals, living enzymes, pure water, essential fatty acids, proteins, complex carbohydrates, bioflavinoids, and other phytonutrients we all need to grow, repair, cleanse and maintain our bodies on the cellular level.

Like it or not, we live and die at the cellular level.  If enough of our cells become sick and congested with waste and toxins, tissues die.  As enough living tissue dies, organs begin to fail and die.  When organs fail, our whole body embarks upon a path leading inexorably toward death.

As obesity pertains to health care, it is almost always considered a "risk factor" for every known chronic disease state. Diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, cancers, vascular disease, dementia...you name it, and the medical community will tell you that if you are obese, your risk factor for developing any of these diseases is increased dramatically as compared to the normal-weight individual.

Photo Credit: ulina c

I would argue, however, that obesity is not a risk factor as much as it is a disease state unto itself; obesity being a function of malnourishment.  In as much as malnutrition (and the resulting cellular toxicity) is the root cause of obesity, it is also at the root of all chronically debilitating health care issues.

When people eat freely of plant and animal foods that are naturally grown on healthy soil, wholesome whole foods that have been minimally processed and have not been exposed to every herbicide, fungicide and pesticide known to mankind--they will be healthy and thrive.

People should eat abundantly and with much joy and thanksgiving for what God has so graciously given us, and they will never become obese when they generously nourish their bodies with foods that are locally and organically grown.  Remember, Food Matters!

Palo Duro Meat of Amarillo, TX Recalls 40,000 lbs.Ground Beef Products for E. coli O157:H7

Texas Firm Recalls Ground Beef Due To Possible E. Coli O157:H7 Contamination

Recall Release CLASS I RECALL FSIS-RC-075-2011 HEALTH RISK: HIGH Congressional and Public Affairs (202) 720-9113 Neil Gaffney WASHINGTON, Sep 23, 2011 - Palo Duro Meat, an Amarillo, Texas, establishment, is recalling 40,000 pounds of frozen fine ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The products subject to recall include: PREPARING GROUND BEEF FOR SAFE CONSUMPTION USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-888-MPHOTLINE or visit www.fsis.usda.gov Wash hands with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling raw meat and poultry. Wash cutting boards, dishes and utensils with hot, soapy water. Immediately clean spills. Keep raw meat, fish and poultry away from other food that will not be cooked. Consumers should only eat ground beef or ground beef patties that have been cooked to a safe internal temperature of 160° F. Color is NOT a reliable indicator that ground beef or ground beef patties have been cooked to a temperature high enough to kill harmful bacteria such as E. coli O157:H7. The only way to be sure ground beef is cooked to a high enough temperature to kill harmful bacteria is to use a thermometer to measure the internal temperature. Refrigerate raw meat and poultry within two hours after purchase or one hour if temperatures exceed 90° F. Refrigerate cooked meat and poultry within two hours after cooking. 40-lb boxes containing four 10-lb chubs of fine ground beef. Each case bears “Est. 7282” inside the USDA mark of inspection and a production code of 19110. The frozen product was produced on Sept. 9, 2011, and shipped to two warehouses in Georgia for further distribution to institutions. The institutions include six school districts in Georgia associated with the National School Lunch Program. The bulk of the product has not left the warehouses and at this time, FSIS is not aware of any product having been served as part of school lunches in the districts. The problem was discovered by the company after a review of lab results that confirmed a positive result for E. coli O157:H7 on September 22. The problem may have occurred as a result of a sample tracking error that allowed the product in question to be inadvertently shipped into commerce. FSIS and the company have received no reports of illnesses associated with consumption of these products. Individuals concerned about an illness should contact a healthcare provider. FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and to ensure that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. E. coli O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and in the most severe cases, kidney failure. The very young, seniors and persons with weak immune systems are the most susceptible to foodborne illness. FSIS advises all consumers to safely prepare their raw meat products, including fresh and frozen, and only consume ground beef that has been cooked to a temperature of 160° F. The only way to confirm that ground beef is cooked to a temperature high enough to kill harmful bacteria is to use a food thermometer that measures internal temperature. Consumers and media with questions regarding the recall should contact the company’s Vice President, Trevor Caviness at (806) 372-5781. Consumers with food safety questions can "Ask Karen," the FSIS virtual representative available 24 hours a day at AskKaren.gov. The toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) is available in English and Spanish and can be reached from l0 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day.

Mattern Sausage Recalled Mislabled Tongue and Blood Sausage

California Firm Recalls Tongue and Blood Sausage Product Due To Mislabeling and Undeclared Allergen

Recall Release CLASS II RECALL FSIS-RC-74-2011 HEALTH RISK: LOW Congressional and Public Affairs (202) 720-9113 Neil Gaffney WASHINGTON, Sept 22, 2011 - Mattern Sausage, an Orange, Calif., establishment is recalling approximately 72 pounds of tongue and blood sausage because of mislabeling and an undeclared allergen. The product contains hydrolyzed soy protein, which is not declared on the label, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. Soy is a known allergen. The product subject to recall includes: 4-lb to 8-lb chubs of “MATTERN SAUSAGE TONGUE AND BLOOD SAUSAGE” The product subject to recall bears the establishment number “EST. 7696” inside the USDA mark of inspection on the package label. The product was produced on Sept. 6, 2011, and was shipped to sandwich shops near Orange, Calif. The problem was discovered during a routine label assessment by FSIS personnel and may have occurred because of a change in ingredient formulation by the company. FSIS and the company have received no reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about a reaction should contact a healthcare provider. FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and to ensure that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. Consumers and media with questions about the recall should contact the company’s President, Mike Mattern, at (714) 628-9630. Consumers with food safety questions can "Ask Karen," the FSIS virtual representative available 24 hours a day at AskKaren.gov. The toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) is available in English and Spanish and can be reached from l0 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day. Ask Karen is available as an app for your iPad, iPhone, or Android mobile device, so you can take her with you to the grocery store, to the barbecue grill, or wherever you may have food safety questions. Go to m.AskKaren.gov on your mobile device's browser, or download the app for free from the Android app store.

Chicken Breast Recalled, Not Fully Cooked!

Wisconsin Firm Recalls Fully Cooked Chicken Breast Products That May Be Undercooked

Recall Release CLASS I RECALL FSIS-RC-73-2011 HEALTH RISK: HIGH Congressional and Public Affairs (202) 720-9113 Atiya Khan  WASHINGTON, Sept 21, 2011 - Roundy’s Supermarkets Inc., a Milwaukee based company with an establishment in Kenosha, Wisc., is recalling approximately 360 pounds of breaded chicken breast products, that should have been fully cooked, because they may have been undercooked, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The following product is subject to recall: 5-lb. cases, each containing 10 pieces of “CHEF’S COLLECTION CHICKEN MILANESE BREAST,” bearing the identifying item code of “037496,” and lot code of “171589-2561.” Each case bears the establishment number "P-33997" inside the USDA mark of inspection. The products subject to recall were produced on Sept. 13, 2011, and sold to retail establishments in Ill., Minn. and Wisc. These products would have been sold to consumers at deli counters, and the original branding is not transferred at the deli counters to consumer packages. While these products are no longer available for purchase, consumers who may have purchased them for later consumption are urged to discard them. The retail distribution list is available on FSIS' website at:  www.fsis.usda.gov/FSIS_Recalls/ Open_Federal_Cases/index.asp. The problem was discovered through a consumer complaint brought to the attention of the company. The company believes the problem occurred because one tray of the product did not undergo the final cooking process. FSIS and the company have received no reports of illnesses due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an illness should contact a healthcare provider. FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. Consumers and news reporters with questions about the recall should contact the company’s Director of Public Affairs, Vivian King, at (414) 231-5555. Consumers with food safety questions can "Ask Karen," the FSIS virtual representative available 24 hours a day at AskKaren.gov. The toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) is available in English and Spanish and can be reached from l0 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day.

USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) - Retail Recall Update

This page contains summary data on active recall cases. After a recall is completed, it will be removed from this listing, but will be included in the Recall Case Archive. The link under Product Recalled will take you to a news release (Class I and II recalls) or a Recall Notification Report, or RNR (for Class III recalls). Both news releases and RNRs contain complete information about the recall. RELATED INFORMATION: Public Health Alerts (Jul 29, 2011)

Open Federal Cases Product Recalled Date of Recall Retail Distribution List* 072-2011, Chicken, Beef, Veal and Pork Products (undeclared allergen) | En Español PDF Sep 20, 2011 Sep 21, 2011 (PDF Only)  071-2011, Ground Turkey Products (Salmonella) | En Español PDF Sep 11, 2011 Sep 15, 2011 (PDF Only)  070-2011, Chicken Caesar Salads (misbranding / undeclared allergen) Aug 30, 2011 | En Español PDF (Expanded) Aug 26, 2011 | En Español PDF Aug 30, 2011 (PDF Only) 069-2011, Chicken Caesar Salad (misbranding / undeclared allergen) | En Español PDF Aug 26, 2011 Aug 26, 2011 (PDF Only) 068-2011, Chicken Caesar Salad (misbranding / undeclared allergen) | En Español PDF Aug 26, 2011 Aug 26, 2011 (PDF Only) 067-2011, Chicken Sausage Products (Undeclared Allergens) | En Español PDF Aug 26, 2011 Sept 1, 2011 (PDF Only) RNR-066-2011, Ground Beef Product (foreign material) | En Español PDF Aug 19, 2011 N/A (Class III Recall) 064-2011, Ground Beef Products (E. Coli) | En Español PDF Aug 12, 2011 Aug 15, 2011 (PDF Only) 063-2011, Diced Bacon Products (Listeria) | En Español PDF Aug 12, 2011   062-2011, Ground Beef Products (E. coli) Aug 11, 2011 | En Español PDF (Expanded) Aug 9, 2011 Aug 15, 2011 (PDF Only) Aug 10, 2011 (PDF Only) RNR-061-2011, H-E-B Fully Coooked Lean Burgers (foreign material) | En Español PDF Aug 5, 2011 N/A (Class III Recall) 060-2011, Ground Turkey Products (Salmonella) | En Español PDF Aug 3, 2011 Aug 11, 2011 (PDF Only) 059-2011, Various Meat Products (Produced Without Inspection) | En Español PDF Jul 28, 2011 Aug 3, 2011 (PDF Only) 057-2011, Imported Beef Products (Animal Drug Contaminant) | En Español PDF Jul 27, 2011 N/A (Class II Recall) 055-2011, Bacon Products (Listeria) | En Español PDF Jul 22, 2011 No retail sales 053-2011, Beef Jerky Products (Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens) | En Español PDF Jul 22, 2011 N/A (Class II Recall) 052-2011, Ready-To-Eat Chicken Products (Listeria) Jul 26, 2011 (Expanded) Jul 20, 2011 | En Español PDF August 3, 2011(PDF Only) Jul 28, 2011 (PDF Only) 051-2011, Marinated Beef Products (Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens) | En Español PDF Jul 20, 2011 N/A (Class II Recall) 050-2011, Ready-To-Eat Products (Listeria) Jul 26, 2011 (Expanded) | En Español PDF Jul 20, 2011 | En Español PDF Jul 20, 2011 (PDF Only) 049-2011, Ready-To-Eat Smoked Duck Breast Products (Salmonella) | En Español PDF Jul 14, 2011 July 18, 2011 (PDF Only) 048-2011, Ready-To-Eat Smoked Duck Breast Products (Salmonella) | En Español PDF Jul 14, 2011 No retail sales 045-2011, Boneless Serrano Ham Products (Listeria) | En Español PDF Jun 24, 2011 Jun 28, 2011 (PDF Only) 043-2011, Raw and Ready-To-Eat Sausage Products (adulterated) | En Español PDF Jun 21, 2011 No retail sales 042-2011, Burgoo Soup (mislabeling and undeclared allergen) | En Español PDF Jun 15, 2011 June 20, 2011 (PDF Only) 041-2011, Meatball Products (misbranding and undeclared allergen) | En Español PDF Jun 10, 2011 N/A (Class II Recall) 034-2011, Barbecue Beef, Pork and Chicken Products (mislabeling and undeclared allergen) | En Español PDF May 6, 2011 N/A (Class II Recall) RNR-024-2011, Smoked Ham and Bacon Products (undeclared ingredient) | En Español PDF Mar 21, 2011 N/A (Class III Recall) 012-2011, Various Meat and Poultry Products (produced without inspection) | En Español PDF Feb 24, 2011 Feb 25, 2011 (PDF Only) 003-2011, Ground Beef Products (spoilage/possible adulteration) Jan 14, 2011 (Expanded) | En Español PDF Jan 10, 2011 | En Español PDF N/A (Class II Recalls) 067-2010, Ground Beef Products (mislabeling and possible adulteration) | En Español PDF Dec 17, 2010 N/A (Class II Recall) 060-2010, Cooked Ready-To-Eat Turkey Breast Products (Listeria) | En Español PDF Nov 14, 2010 Nov 17, 2010 (PDF Only) 057-2010, RTE Pork Products (adulteration) | En Español PDF Oct 27, 2010 N/A (Class II Recall) 051-2010, Cooked Shredded Pork Skin Products (produced without inspection) | En Español PDF Sep 1, 2010 Sep 9, 2010 (PDF Only) 042-2010, Sausage Product (undeclared allergen) | En Español PDF Jun 30, 2010 Jun 30, 2010 (PDF Only) 040-2010, BBQ Chicken Pizza (foreign material) | En Español PDF Jun 25, 2010 N/A (Class II Recall) 035-2010, "SpaghettiOs" With Meatballs (underprocessing) | En Español PDF Jun 17, 2010 Jun 25, 2010 (PDF Only) 025-2010, Frontier Meats Beef Trim (E. coli O157:H7) | En Español PDF Apr 21, 2010 May 11, 2010 (PDF Only) 017-2010, Ready-To-Eat Beef Taquito and Chicken Quesadilla Products (Salmonella) | En Español PDF Mar 9, 2010 Apr 2, 2010 (PDF Only) 016-2010, Ready-To-Eat Beef Product (Salmonella) | En Español PDF Mar 9, 2010 Apr 1, 2010 (PDF Only) 015-2010, Ready-To-Eat Bacon Base (Salmonella) | En Español PDF Mar 8, 2010 No retail sales 004-2010, Beef Products (Adulterated) Feb 12, 2010 (Expanded) | En Español PDF Jan 18, 2010 (E. coli O157:H7) | En Español PDF Feb 26, 2010 (PDF Only)

Retail Distribution Lists FSIS has reason to believe that the retail locations listed received the recalled meat or poultry products described in the news release. Lists may not include all retail locations that have received the recalled product or may include retail locations that did not actually receive the recalled product. Therefore, it is important that you use the product-specific identification information in the news release, in addition to this list of retail stores, to check meat or poultry products in your possession to see if they have been recalled. For large volume recalls, it may take several days to assemble the initial list. Lists may be updated as additional information becomes available. "No retail sales" indicates that no retailers were identified for the recall in question. For example, the product may have gone exclusively to restaurants and institutions, and in this case there would be no retailers in the distribution chain. Finally, FSIS will provide lists when retail sales are associated with a Class I recall. There will be no distribution lists associated with Class II or Class III recalls.

Related Information: Public Health Alerts In addition to the recall press releases listed above, these Public Health Alerts have been issued in 2011: FSIS Issues Public Health Alert For Frozen, Fresh Ground Turkey Products (Jul 29, 2011) | En Español PDF

Last Modified: September 21, 2011

FDA confirms Listeria monocytogenes on Jensen Farms’ Rocky Ford-brand cantaloupes

FDA PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release: Sept. 19, 2011
Media Inquiries: Doug Karas, 301-796-2805, douglas.karas@fda.hhs.gov
Consumer Inquiries: 1-888-INFO-FDA

Jensen Farms voluntarily recalled product last week in response to outbreak

Today, the Food and Drug Administration announced that it found Listeria monocytogenes in samples of Jensen Farms’ Rocky Ford-brand cantaloupe taken from a Denver-area store and on samples taken from equipment and cantaloupe at the Jensen Farms’ packing facility. Tests confirmed that the Listeria monocytogenes found in the samples matches one of the three different strains of Listeria monocytogenes associated with the multi-state outbreak of listeriosis.

Jensen Farms recalled its Rocky Ford-brand cantaloupes on Sept. 14 in response to the multi-state outbreak of listeriosis. Cantaloupes from other farms in Colorado, including farms in the Rocky Ford growing area, have not been linked to this outbreak.

To date, the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention reports that 35 people in 10 states, including four deaths, have been infected with the outbreak strains of Listeria monocytogenes.

FDA investigators collected cantaloupes and environmental samples from a Denver-area store and from the Jensen Farms packing facility in Granada, Colo., after Colorado state health officials identified Jensen Farms’ Rocky Ford-brand cantaloupes as the common food eaten by several listeriosis patients.

Jensen Farms, based in Holly, Colo., is cooperating with the FDA and state officials in Colorado. The company is working with federal and state authorities to ensure the recalled cantaloupes are promptly removed from the marketplace. Jensen Farms is also helping federal and state authorities determine the root cause of how the cantaloupes became contaminated.

The FDA’s root-cause investigation and environmental assessment includes the on-site expertise of FDA and state of Colorado microbiologists, environmental health specialists, veterinarians and investigative officers. The experts conducting the assessment will analyze the evidence, determine the most likely cause of contamination and identify potential controls to help prevent contamination in the future. The FDA will use the findings to help inform agency policy regarding Listeria and produce food safety best practices.
Jensen Farms shipped the recalled cantaloupes from July 29 through Sept. 10 to at least 17 states with possible further distribution.

The FDA advises consumers—especially persons at high risk for listeriosis, including older adults, persons with weakened immune systems and pregnant women—not to eat the recalled cantaloupes and to throw them away. Do not try to wash the harmful bacteria off the cantaloupe as contamination may be both on the inside and outside of the cantaloupe. Cutting, slicing and dicing may also transfer harmful bacteria from the fruit’s surface to the fruit’s flesh.

For additional information about the recalled products, including product labels: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm271879.htm¹.

For additional information about the outbreak:
• FDA warns consumers not to eat Rocky Ford Cantaloupes shipped by Jensen Farms²• CDC Investigation on multi-state listeriosis outbreak³• FoodSafety.gov on Listeria⁴

The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, products that give off electronic radiation, and for regulating tobacco products.

FDA Oral Contraceptives Recalled!

Qualitest Pharmaceuticals Oral Contraceptives: Recall - Packaging Error 
Includes the following medications:

• Cyclafem 7/7/7
• Cyclafem 1/35
• Emoquette
• Gildess FE 1.5/30
• Gildess FE 1/20
• Orsythia
• Previfem
• Tri-Previfem

AUDIENCE: Consumer, Pharmacy, OB/GYN

ISSUE: Qualitest Pharmaceuticals issued a nationwide, retail-level recall of multiple lots of oral contraceptives because a packaging error may result in the daily regimen for these products being incorrect and could leave women without adequate contraception, and at risk for unintended pregnancy. Select blisters were rotated 180 degrees within the card, reversing the weekly tablet orientation and making the lot number and expiry date no longer visible.

BACKGROUND: These packaging defects do not pose any immediate health risks. Pharmacies are being instructed to contact consumers who have received affected product.

RECOMMENDATION: Consumers exposed to affected packaging should begin using a non-hormonal form of contraception immediately and consult their health care provider or pharmacist. Consumers who have affected products should contact Qualitest for information or to arrange return of any affected product.

Healthcare professionals and patients are encouraged to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of these products to the FDA's MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program:

• Complete and submit the report Online: www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm
• Download form or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178

FDA warns consumers not to eat Rocky Ford Cantaloupes shipped by Jensen Farms

For Immediate Release: Jensen Farms recalls Rocky Ford cantaloupe due to potential link to a multi-state outbreak of listeriosis

Fast Facts

• The FDA is warning consumers not to eat Rocky Ford Cantaloupe shipped by Jensen Farms and to throw away recalled product that may still be in their home.
• Jensen Farms is voluntarily recalling Rocky Ford Cantaloupe shipped from July 29 through September 10, 2011, and distributed to at least 17 states with possible further distribution.  
• The recalled cantaloupes have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria and may be linked to a multi-state outbreak of listeriosis.
• The CDC reports that at least 22 people in seven states have been infected with the outbreak-associated strains of Listeria monocytogenes as of September 14.
• Patients reported eating whole cantaloupes they purchased from grocery stores marketed from the Rocky Ford growing region of Colorado.
• While all people are susceptible to Listeria, older adults, persons with weakened immune systems and pregnant women are at particular risk.

What is the Problem?

The FDA is warning consumers not to eat Rocky Ford Cantaloupe shipped by Jensen Farms of Granada, Colo. The majority of the patients reported eating cantaloupe marketed from the Rocky Ford growing region. FDA’s traceback data from the State of Colorado about their confirmed cases of Listeria monocytogenes have identified a common producer of Rocky Ford cantaloupes. That producer is Jensen Farms. Although the investigation is ongoing, no other Rocky Ford cantaloupe producer has been found in common in the Colorado traceback.

Jensen Farms is voluntarily recalling Rocky Ford Cantaloupe. The recalled cantaloupes were shipped from the Rocky Ford growing region of Colorado from July 29 through September 10 and are potentially linked to a multi-state outbreak of listeriosis. The recalled cantaloupes were distributed to at least 17 states with possible further distribution. 

What are the Symptoms of Listeriosis?

Listeriosis is a rare and serious illness caused by eating food contaminated with bacteria called Listeria. Persons who think they might have become ill should consult their doctor. A person with listeriosis usually has fever and muscle aches.

Who is at Risk?

Listeriosis can be fatal, especially in certain high-risk groups. These groups include older adults, people with compromised immune systems and certain chronic medical conditions (such as cancer), and unborn babies and newborns. In pregnant women, listeriosis can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, and serious illness or death in newborn babies, though the mother herself rarely becomes seriously ill.

What Do Consumers Need To Do?

Consumers should not eat Rocky Ford Cantaloupe shipped by Jensen Farms and should immediately discard the recalled cantaloupes in the trash in a sealed container so that children and animals, such as wildlife, cannot access them. Consumers who are concerned about illness from Listeria monocytogenes should consult their healthcare professionals.

What Does the Product Look Like?

The cantaloupe may be labeled: Colorado Grown, Distributed by Frontera Produce, USA, Pesticide Free, Jensenfarms.com, Sweet Rocky Fords. http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm271882.htm

The cantaloupes are packed in cartons that are labeled: Frontera Produce, www.fronteraproduce.com or with Frontera Produce, Rocky Ford Cantaloupes. Both cartons also include: Grown and packed by Jensen Farms Granada, CO and Shipped by Frontera Produce LTD, Edinburg, Texas.

Not all of the recalled cantaloupes are labeled with a sticker. Consumers should consult the retailer if they have questions about the origin of a cantaloupe.

Where is it Distributed?

The recalled cantaloupes were distributed to the following states: IL, WY, TN, UT, TX, CO, MN, KS, NM, NC, MO, NE, OK, AZ, NJ, NY, PA. Further distribution is possible.

What is Being Done about the Problem?


Jensen Farms is working with the FDA and the State of Colorado to remove its Rocky Ford Cantaloupe from the marketplace. The FDA is also working with CDC, the states and other regulatory partners to investigate where in the supply chain the contamination occurred.

This is the first time a Listeria monocytogenes outbreak has been reportedly linked to whole cantaloupe. Foods that typically have been associated with foodborne outbreaks of Listeriosis are deli meats, hot dogs, and Mexican-style soft cheeses made with unpasteurized milk. Listeriosis has not often been associated with the consumption of fresh produce with the exception of two foodborne illness outbreaks related to consumption of sprouts in 2009 and fresh-cut celery in 2010.

Because of this unusual circumstance, FDA’s newly formed Coordinated Outbreak Response and Evaluation (CORE) Network is working with FDA Districts, CDC, the States and other regulatory partners on a root cause analysis to determine where in the supply chain and what circumstances likely caused the implicated cantaloupe to be contaminated. FDA is exploring whether harvesting and/or postharvest practices may have contributed to this contamination, as well as what could be done differently to prevent future occurrences.

For more information:

CDC Investigation on multi-state listeriosis outbreak:

http://www.cdc.gov/nczved/divisions/dfbmd/diseases/listeriosis/outbreak.html

Listeria page on FS.gov: http://www.foodsafety.gov/poisoning/causes/bacteriaviruses/listeria/index.html

Produce Safety page on FDA: http://www.fda.gov/Food/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/ucm114299

Coordinated Outbreak Response and Evaluation (CORE) Network: 

http://www.fda.gov/Food/FoodSafety/CORENetwork/default.htm

Media Inquiries: Siobhan DeLancey, 301-796-4668, siobhan.delancey@fda.hhs.gov

Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA

Cargill Turkey Recalled - High Risk! - Updated Information

 Updated information is now available. An updated list of retail consignees has been posted for recall 071-2011, Arkansas Firm Recalls Ground Turkey Products Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination (Sep 12, 2011).

FSIS has reason to believe that the following retail location(s) received ground turkey products that have been recalled by Cargill Meat Solutions Corporation. This list may not include all retail locations that have received the recalled product or may include retail locations that did not actually receive the recalled product. Therefore, it is important that you use the product-specific identification information, available at http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/Recall_071_2011_Release/index.asp, in addition to this list of retail stores, to check meat or poultry products in your possession to see if they have been recalled.

Arkansas Firm Recalls Ground Turkey Products Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination

Recall Release CLASS I RECALL FSIS-RC-071-2011 HEALTH RISK: HIGH Congressional and Public Affairs (202) 720-9113 Adam Tarr WASHINGTON, September 11, 2011 - Cargill Meat Solutions Corporation, a Springdale, Ark. establishment, is recalling approximately 185,000 pounds of ground turkey products that may be contaminated with a strain of Salmonella Heidelberg, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The products subject to recall include: Fresh Ground Turkey Chubs 16 oz. (1 lb.) chubs of Fresh HEB Ground Turkey 85/15 with Use or Freeze by Dates of 09/12/2011, 09/13/2011, 09/19/2011 and 09/20/2011 16 oz. (1 lb.) chubs of Honeysuckle White 85/15 Fresh Ground Turkey with Use or Freeze by Dates of 09/19/2011, 09/20/2011 and 09/21/2011 Fresh Ground Turkey Trays 19.2 oz. (1.2 lb.) trays of Honeysuckle White 85/15 Ground Turkey with Use or Freeze by Dates of 09/10/2011 and 09/12/2011 48.0 oz. (3 lb.) trays of Kroger Ground Turkey Fresh 85/15 with Use or Freeze by Dates of 09/17/2011, 09/18/2011 and 09/19/2011 48.0 oz. (3 lbs.) trays of Honeysuckle White 85/15 Ground Turkey Family Pack with Use or Freeze by Dates of 09/11/2011, 09/12/2011, 09/13/2011, 09/15/2011, 09/17/2011 and 09/18/2011 16 oz. (1 lb.) trays of Honeysuckle White 85/15 Ground Turkey with a Use or Freeze by Date of 09/11/2011 Fresh Ground Turkey Patties 16.0 oz. (1 lb.) trays of Honeysuckle White Ground Turkey Patties with a Use or Freeze by Date of 09/18/2011 16 oz. (1 lb.) trays of Kroger Ground Seasoned Turkey Patties Fresh 85/15 with a Use or Freeze by Date of 09/17/2011 Recommendations for Preventing Salmonellosis Wash hands with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling raw meat and poultry. Also wash cutting boards, dishes and utensils with hot soapy water. Clean up spills right away. Keep raw meat, fish and poultry away from other food that will not be cooked. Use separate cutting boards for raw meat, poultry and egg products and cooked foods. Cook raw meat and poultry to safe internal temperatures before eating. The safe internal temperature for ground meat such as beef and pork is 160° F, and 165° F for poultry, as determined with a food thermometer. Refrigerate raw meat and poultry within two hours after purchase (one hour if temperatures exceed 90° F). Refrigerate cooked meat and poultry within two hours after cooking. The products subject to recall today bear the establishment number "P-963" inside the USDA mark of inspection. The products were produced on August 23, 24, 30 and 31 of this year. The strain of Salmonella Heidelberg in question is identical to that of an outbreak of Salmonellosis that resulted in an August 3, 2011 recall of ground turkey products. Although a sample tested positive for the outbreak related strain of Salmonella, including the identical XbaI and BlnI PFGE patterns matching the August 3 outbreak strain, at this time, neither FSIS nor the plant is aware of any illnesses associated with product from the above dates. An FSIS incident investigation team collected samples at the establishment following the previous recall. Today's recall occurred after a product sample collected on August 24 tested positive for the outbreak strain of Salmonella Heidelberg. The firm is recalling product from August 30 based on pending positive match samples. The products subject to recall are derived from bone-in parts. These products were distributed at the retail level nationwide. Cargill Meat Solutions Corporation requests that consumers who may have purchased these products return them to the point-of-purchase. 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. Consumers with questions about this recall should contact Cargill's consumer relations toll free telephone number at 1-888-812-1646. Media with questions regarding the recall should contact Cargill's media contact Mike Martin at michael_martin@cargill.com or (316) 291-2126. FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. To prevent salmonellosis and other foodborne illnesses, wash hands with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling raw meat and poultry, and cook poultry-including ground turkey-to 165° F, as determined with a food thermometer. FSIS is continuing to work with CDC, affected state public health partners, and the company on the investigation. If you have symptoms, consult a health care provider. Consumption of food contaminated with Salmonella can cause salmonellosis, one of the most common bacterial foodborne illnesses. Salmonella infections can be life-threatening, especially to those with weak immune systems, such as infants, the elderly, and persons with HIV infection or undergoing chemotherapy. The most common manifestations of salmonellosis are diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 6 to 72 hours. Additional symptoms may be chills, headache, nausea and vomiting that can last up to seven days. The outbreak strain of Salmonella Heidelberg is resistant to several commonly prescribed antibiotics; this antibiotic resistance may be associated with an increased risk of hospitalization or possible treatment failure in infected individuals. Consumers with food safety questions can "Ask Karen," the FSIS virtual representative available 24 hours a day at AskKaren.gov. The toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) is available in English and Spanish and can be reached from l0 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day.

August 2011 Safety Labeling Changes: 44 Medical Product Labels with Changes to Prescribing Information

The MedWatch August 2011 Safety Labeling Changes posting includes 44 products with safety labeling changes to the following sections: BOXED WARNINGS, CONTRAINDICATIONS, WARNINGS, PRECAUTIONS, ADVERSE REACTIONS, PATIENT PACKAGE INSERT, and MEDICATION GUIDE.

The following drugs had modifications to the BOXED WARNINGS, CONTRAINDICATIONS and WARNINGS sections:



The Following Drugs are Affected:

• Accolate (zafirlukast) tablets
• Actos (pioglitazone hydrochloride) Tablets
• Bentyl (dicyclomine hydrochloride, USP) Capsules/Tablets, Oral Syrup and Injection
• Betapace and Betapace AF (sotalol HCl) Tablets
• BiCNU (carmustine for injection)
• Celexa (citalopram hydrobromide) Tablets and  Oral Solution
• DepoCyt (cytarabine liposome injection)  
• Ditropan (Oxybutynin chloride) Tablets
• Dostinex (cabergoline) Tablets
• Exjade (deferasirox) Tablets for Oral Suspension
• Haldol (haloperidol) Injection and Haldol Decanoate (haloperidol) IM Injection
• Hyzaar (losartan/hydrochlorothiazide) Tablets
• Kerledex (betaxolol hydrochloride/chlorthalidone) Tablets
• Kerlone (betaxolol hydrochloride) Tablets
• Lamictal (lamotrigine) Tablets, Chewable Dispersible Tablets, Lamictal  Orally Disintegrating Tablets, and Lamictal XR Extended-Release Tablets
• Mobic (meloxicam) Tablets and Oral Suspension
• Multaq (dronedarone hydrochloride) Tablets
• Neurontin (gabapentin) Capsules, Tablets, and Oral Solution
• Platinol (cisplatin for injection, USP)
• Prinzide (lisinopril/hydrochlorothiazide) Tablets
• Reclast (zoledronic acid) Injection
• Saphris (asenapine)  Sublingual Tablets
• Sensipar (cinacalcet) Tablets
• Tenoretic (atenolol/chlorthalidone) Tablets
• Tenormin (atenolol) Tablets
• Tenoretic (atenolol/chlorthalidone) Tablets
• Thallous Chloride [Tl-201] Injection
• Zoloft (sertraline hydrochloride) Tablets and Oral Concentrate

The "Summary Page" provides a listing of drug names and safety labeling sections revised:

http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/ucm268289.htm

Clicking on a drug product name in the Summary View will take you to the "detailed view" page, which identifies safety labeling sections and subsections revised, along with a brief summary of new or modified safety information.

Drug Safety Data: How to Analyze, Summarize, and Interpret to Determine Risk

Cobert's Manual of Drug Safety and Pharmacovigilance

The Future of Drug Safety

USDA - Ground Turkey Recall due to Salmonella - High Risk!

Arkansas Firm Recalls Ground Turkey Products Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination

Recall Release CLASS I RECALL FSIS-RC-071-2011 HEALTH RISK: HIGH Congressional and Public Affairs (202) 720-9113 Adam Tarr WASHINGTON, September 11, 2011 - Cargill Meat Solutions Corporation, a Springdale, Ark. establishment, is recalling approximately 185,000 pounds of ground turkey products that may be contaminated with a strain of Salmonella Heidelberg, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The products subject to recall include: Fresh Ground Turkey Chubs 16 oz. (1 lb.) chubs of Fresh HEB Ground Turkey 85/15 with Use or Freeze by Dates of 09/12/2011, 09/13/2011, 09/19/2011 and 09/20/2011 16 oz. (1 lb.) chubs of Honeysuckle White 85/15 Fresh Ground Turkey with Use or Freeze by Dates of 09/19/2011, 09/20/2011 and 09/21/2011 Fresh Ground Turkey Trays 19.2 oz. (1.2 lb.) trays of Honeysuckle White 85/15 Ground Turkey with Use or Freeze by Dates of 09/10/2011 and 09/12/2011 48.0 oz. (3 lb.) trays of Kroger Ground Turkey Fresh 85/15 with Use or Freeze by Dates of 09/17/2011, 09/18/2011 and 09/19/2011 48.0 oz. (3 lbs.) trays of Honeysuckle White 85/15 Ground Turkey Family Pack with Use or Freeze by Dates of 09/11/2011, 09/12/2011, 09/13/2011, 09/15/2011, 09/17/2011 and 09/18/2011 16 oz. (1 lb.) trays of Honeysuckle White 85/15 Ground Turkey with a Use or Freeze by Date of 09/11/2011 Fresh Ground Turkey Patties 16.0 oz. (1 lb.) trays of Honeysuckle White Ground Turkey Patties with a Use or Freeze by Date of 09/18/2011 16 oz. (1 lb.) trays of Kroger Ground Seasoned Turkey Patties Fresh 85/15 with a Use or Freeze by Date of 09/17/2011 Recommendations for Preventing Salmonellosis Wash hands with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling raw meat and poultry. Also wash cutting boards, dishes and utensils with hot soapy water. Clean up spills right away. Keep raw meat, fish and poultry away from other food that will not be cooked. Use separate cutting boards for raw meat, poultry and egg products and cooked foods. Cook raw meat and poultry to safe internal temperatures before eating. The safe internal temperature for ground meat such as beef and pork is 160° F, and 165° F for poultry, as determined with a food thermometer. Refrigerate raw meat and poultry within two hours after purchase (one hour if temperatures exceed 90° F). Refrigerate cooked meat and poultry within two hours after cooking. The products subject to recall today bear the establishment number "P-963" inside the USDA mark of inspection. The products were produced on August 23, 24, 30 and 31 of this year. The strain of Salmonella Heidelberg in question is identical to that of an outbreak of Salmonellosis that resulted in an August 3, 2011 recall of ground turkey products. Although a sample tested positive for the outbreak related strain of Salmonella, including the identical XbaI and BlnI PFGE patterns matching the August 3 outbreak strain, at this time, neither FSIS nor the plant is aware of any illnesses associated with product from the above dates. An FSIS incident investigation team collected samples at the establishment following the previous recall. Today's recall occurred after a product sample collected on August 24 tested positive for the outbreak strain of Salmonella Heidelberg. The firm is recalling product from August 30 based on pending positive match samples. The products subject to recall are derived from bone-in parts. These products were distributed at the retail level nationwide. Cargill Meat Solutions Corporation requests that consumers who may have purchased these products return them to the point-of-purchase. 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. Consumers with questions about this recall should contact Cargill's consumer relations toll free telephone number at 1-888-812-1646. Media with questions regarding the recall should contact Cargill's media contact Mike Martin at michael_martin@cargill.com or (316) 291-2126. FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. To prevent salmonellosis and other foodborne illnesses, wash hands with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling raw meat and poultry, and cook poultry-including ground turkey-to 165° F, as determined with a food thermometer. FSIS is continuing to work with CDC, affected state public health partners, and the company on the investigation. If you have symptoms, consult a health care provider. Consumption of food contaminated with Salmonella can cause salmonellosis, one of the most common bacterial foodborne illnesses. Salmonella infections can be life-threatening, especially to those with weak immune systems, such as infants, the elderly, and persons with HIV infection or undergoing chemotherapy. The most common manifestations of salmonellosis are diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 6 to 72 hours. Additional symptoms may be chills, headache, nausea and vomiting that can last up to seven days. The outbreak strain of Salmonella Heidelberg is resistant to several commonly prescribed antibiotics; this antibiotic resistance may be associated with an increased risk of hospitalization or possible treatment failure in infected individuals. Consumers with food safety questions can "Ask Karen," the FSIS virtual representative available 24 hours a day at AskKaren.gov. The toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) is available in English and Spanish and can be reached from l0 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day.