The most recent food recalls have honestly been a bit astounding to me.
We have recalls occurring in foods from facilities with inspection reports that are appalling. Disgusting. Unbelievable. Scary.
& whether it is up to the FDA or the USDA to monitor that particular food & circumstance, the takeaway is pretty clear to me... both agencies have similar standards... Both have allowed a lax stance that has lead to deaths. THIS is the food and nutrition crisis and issue we should all be yelling and talking about..!
So... Let's just dive straight into "The Dirty Truth"... Round ....... 3 ..........
Between the shock of Boar's Head facility conditions to the shock of an E.coli O157:H7 outbreak...
When is CURRENT FOOD SAFETY actually going to get better?
McDonald's, the Quarter Pounder, and E.coli O157:H7 Recall.
There is an ongoing E. coli outbreak in the U.S. linked to McDonald's Quarter Pounder hamburgers. The outbreak has resulted in 49 confirmed illnesses across multiple states, 10 hospitalizations, and one death. The CDC has issued a food safety alert, and investigations are still ongoing. This has led to a significant impact on McDonald's, including a drop in their stock price. The contaminated hamburgers were sold in the western part of the U.S., though the exact cause is still under investigation.
McDonald’s U.S. President Joe Erlinger said in an interview on the “Today” show that the company has removed the Quarter Pounder from its menu in the 10 states where dozens of people were sickened, as well as in several other states. You can catch the President of USA McDonald's speaking on the TODAY show, here:
Oct 22 (Reuters) - One person died and dozens fell ill from E. coli infections linked to McDonald's (MCD.N), opens new tab Quarter Pounder hamburgers in 10 states, led by Colorado, where 26 people were sickened, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control said on Tuesday. The E. coli outbreak, linked to one of McDonald's most popular menu items, has sickened 49 people and sent 10 to the hospital, officials say.
McDonald's has removed slivered onions and beef patties from several stores
Restaurants impacted are in states: Colorado, Kansas, Utah, Wyoming, and portions of Idaho, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, and Oklahoma
Shares fall 6% after hours
E. coli O157:H7 can be particularly harsh, and has previously been associated with the deadly 1993 Jack-In-The-Box outbreak, which is featured in Netflix Documentary film, "Poisoned" (read more about this below!). That recall helped change way for beef production in the U.S. to this day.
Waffles & Pancakes Recalled
A recent recall has been issued by TreeHouse Foods, Inc. for certain frozen waffle products due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. This voluntary recall, announced on October 18, 2024, affects multiple frozen waffle brands sold across the U.S. and Canada. While no illnesses have been reported yet, Listeria poses a serious health risk, particularly to young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. Consumers are advised to check their freezers and either dispose of the products or return them to the point of purchase. On October 22, 2024, the recall was expanded to include frozen toaster waffle, Belgian waffle and pancake products, due to the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes as well. Brands range from store-brand and beyond so make sure to take a peek!
The contamination was identified during routine testing at the production facility. The recall covers several products identified by their UPC codes and best-by dates, with detailed information available on the FDA’s website. If you're concerned or have questions, TreeHouse Foods has set up a consumer hotline; Consumers with questions may contact TreeHouse Foods at 1-800-596-2903, Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (CST).
FDA webpage regarding waffle & pancake recall: https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/treehouse-foods-announces-voluntary-recall-certain-waffle-products-due-potential-listeria
Waffles:
Full Product List Impacted: https://www.fda.gov/media/182860/download?attachment
Images of Products:: https://s202.q4cdn.com/734602292/files/doc_downloads/2024/10/Brantford-Waffles-Press-Release-Final-Draft-All-Images-Only-JC.pdf
Pancakes:
Images of Products: https://img1.wsimg.com/blobby/go/0be287aa-642e-4e0d-a9bd-0185a1eece94/Sku%20List%20US%2010222024.pdf
Ready-To-Eat Chicken & Poultry Recall
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9, 2024 – BrucePac, a Durant, Okla. establishment, is recalling approximately 11,765,285 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) meat and poultry products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes. The ready-to-eat meat and poultry items were produced from May 31, 2024, to October 8, 2024. These products were shipped to other establishments and distributors nationwide then distributed to restaurants, schools and institutions. They were used in quick meals and Ready-To-Eat / Grab-and-Go Items across the nation..
Distribution List for Recall 028-2024: BrucePac Recalls Ready-To-Eat Meat and Poultry Products Due to Possible Listeria Contamination. Some of the brands that are part of this recall include: 7Eleven, Amazon Fresh, Amazon Kitchen, Atkins, Bell & Evans, Boston Market, Central Eats, Dole, Eat!, El Monterey, Fresh Express, Fusia, Giant Eagle, Gordon Choice, Good & Gather, Great Value, H-E-B, HMS, Home Chef, Jenny Craig, KitchenMate, Kroger, Little Salad Bar, Marketside, Meijer, Michael Angelo’s Gourmet Foods, Michelina’s, Mom’s Meals, RaceTrac, Raley’s, Ready Meals, Red's, Save Mart, Signature Select, Taylor Farms, Trader Joe’s, Udi’s, Wegmans, Whitsons. This recall also includes Freeze Dried Diced Chicken White Meat and more.
This list is extensive. I just found that we have consumed a few of these products actually... Make sure to take a good look through!
ICYMI + Updates - Boar's Head Deli Meat Recall
Boar's Head deli meats have come under fire after a Listeria outbreak led to a big recall in late July. The recall involved several products, sparking concerns over food safety. A recent CBS News report uncovered shocking conditions at the processing facility, including leaks, mold, mildew, and bugs—disturbing findings for a place handling Ready-To-Eat meats.
Maybe even more shocking?.. Boar's Head has 69 instances of noncompliance and concern documented over the last year...
View the list of impacted products here:
"A U.S. Department of Agriculture inspection report detailing significant sanitation failures at a Boar’s Head meat processing facility in Jarratt, VA, has revealed significant sanitation issues. This revelation comes as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to monitor the Listeria outbreak linked to the company’s deli meats. The inspection report, obtained by CBS News through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request, documents 69 instances of noncompliance observed by USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) inspectors between Aug. 1, 2023, and Aug. 2, 2024."
Boar's Head has recently released a statement on this which can be found in full here: https://boarshead.com/products-recall-2024
When I first heard of this recall and the concerns, I never imagined hearing reports of such horrendous conditions. & while it seems the concern is genuine, WHY did it take this type of outbreak to change ways? To actually seem to care? 69 violations in 1 year is A LOT.... especially when you look at the type of violations we are seeing... These unsanitary conditions have been connected to an outbreak that has resulted in 59 cases of illness, 59 hospitalizations across 19 states and even, 10 deaths.
As my lovely friends at Food Safety News shared, some of the key findings from the inspection report included:
Below is a list of some of the violations found at the Boar’s Head Jarratt plant:
Aug. 3, 2023: Inspectors found heavy discolored meat buildup on a hydraulic pump and meat particles in injection needles. The area emitted a strong odor, and inspectors observed meat, wood pieces, and plastic debris on the floor.
Aug. 25, 2023: Beaded condensation was found along the doorframe of a cooler in the Ready-to-Eat (RTE) Packaging Department. This could lead to contamination of products stored in the cooler.
Sept. 22, 2023: Inspectors found meat residue on food contact surfaces within the Stitch Pump department, including in tank hoppers and on injector needles. A drain in a saddle tank was also clogged with meat, creating an unsanitary condition.
Nov. 7, 2023: An inspection revealed that five HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) documents had discrepancies in thermometer calibration, posing a risk to food safety.
Jan. 9, 2024: A black mold-like substance was found throughout the holding cooler between the smokehouses and stitch pump. The affected areas ranged in size from small spots to several feet in diameter.
Feb. 21, 2024: Multiple combos in the Raw Receiving cooler were found saturated with blood and heavily soiled, with a rancid odor permeating the area.
March 13, 2024: Inspectors observed significant buildup of meat protein and trash in the Inedible Room #2, along with improperly handled inedible products, including whole pork muscles left inside stainless-steel vats.
March 20, 2024: A product tree of Boar’s Head Brand Bologna in the RTE department’s Equalization Cooler #2 was missing proper ID tags or labeling, leading to concerns about product traceability.
May 20, 2024: The Frank Stuffing Department was found with white meat residue covering multiple areas of the floor, a backed-up drain causing overflow, and pieces of meat embedded in production lines.
June 7, 2024: Three metal product tree racks in the New Gourmet staging area were found with meat residue from prior production on their food contact surfaces.
One common thing I have seemed to notice.... many of these companies have had concerns documented in the past. Why didn't things change??
Boar's Head is not different. It seems their concerns, issues, and disengaged attitude has also long created issues for this dual-family owned business. Including lawsuits against each other for share holdings, trust funds, land and equipment, and so much more...
In fact, there is current litigations and such going on at the moment! - I found one 'suit from 2021 that appears to be ongoing in August & September 2024.... Many of the current back & forth fighting's are regarding the sealing and confidentiality of certain documents...
The Wall Street Journal did a great article and history run down of this family and company. Check it out here: https://www.wsj.com/business/boars-head-ownership-battle-brunckhorsts-bischoffs-93a163c6
Cinnamon Updates! - A Spice That Continues to Give & Give...
Remember when the Cinnamon Applesauce Pouches were recalled due to elevated lead levels?....
Followed eventually by recalls of cinnamon specifically across a variety of brands....
As of October 2024, the FDA expanded its recall of multiple ground cinnamon products due to elevated levels of lead contamination. Several brands, including products from Dollar Tree, Patel Brothers, and others, were found to contain lead levels between 2.03 and 7.01 parts per million (ppm), which can pose serious health risks, particularly for children. Although no illnesses have been reported, prolonged exposure to lead can contribute to developmental and neurological issues, such as learning disabilities and lowered IQ. Consumers are advised to stop using and discard the affected cinnamon products.
This marks the third FDA alert this year regarding cinnamon, as the agency continues testing products for contamination. It’s essential for consumers to check their pantries and avoid using these recalled products to prevent potential lead exposure
Remember, when in doubt, it's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to food safety. Stay safe & stay informed!
Netflix released a documentary in 2023, titled,
"Poisoned: The Dirty Truth About Your Food"
& it literally feels like we are living 1993 all over again...
This documentary is based on a book, Poisoned, The Deadly E.Coli Outbreak That Changed The Way Americans Eat. by Jeff Benedict https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16057390-poisoned
This film also recently received a nomination for Outstanding Current Affairs Documentary for the 45th Annual News and Documentary Emmy Awards! - AND IT WON!!!!!!!
The documentary follows various foodborne illness outbreaks, primarily focusing on the last 30 years. It specifically starts by talking about a deadly and multi-state E.coli outbreak that occurred in 1992-1993. I was ~2 and 1/2 years old👶 & while you’ll learn that there were some “good things” gained from the horrible experience… (I won't *spoil* anything for those who haven't had a chance to tune in yet!)
We are FAR from “out of the woods” when it comes to food safety here in the USA..😞
That’s painful to admit.🥴
I now have a 3 year old son, myself.👩👦 As we can see from above, he has already lived through some major food recalls including the Similac / Abbott Nutrition infant formula Recall in 2022, the Hepatitis A outbreak linked to frozen fruits. listeria linked to sliced meats, salmonella & listeria linked to a variety of vegetables.... These are foods consumed daily/weekly by my kids. And quite frankly, I am becoming scared…😞😫
- WHEN is it going to change?!
This documentary features outbreaks of (scroll to the bottom to learn a bit more about each of these, including signs & symptoms and common sources!)
E. coli 0157
Salmonella
Campylobacter (not a major focus, but is mentioned)
Cronobacter sakazakii (not mentioned during this documentary, but the foodborne illness 'germ' that changed my trajectory .. just as many of these individuals describe as well. I will always share about this one)
As we travel through the evolution and time of recent major foodborne illness outbreaks, we also meet some of my favorite players in the food safety arena. These are the folks who have been on the ground, pushing for better. Pushing for more.
These include (not a complete list of all who are featured in this documentary*):
Bill Marler - food safety attorney and advocate. He has been involved in every recall mentioned in this film, representing those who have been injured or impacted by foodborne illness. You'll get to know him in this film. His work is pretty incredible.
Rosa DeLauro - Congresswomen and U.S. Representative from Connecticut, & one who is truly out in front when it comes to representing food safety & policy!
Marion Nestle - molecular biologist and author (Safe Food: The Politics of Food Safety, Food Politics: How the Food Industry Influences Nutrition and Health), a wonderful advocate exposing the science and politics that often play roles.
Darin Detwiler - father turned food safety advocate and professor, following the loss of his own son to a foodborne illness. He now teaches our next generations about food safety, food policy, and nutrition in this type of manner!
Frank Yiannas - recently retiring from his role as FDA Deputy Commissioner for Food and Policy and Response, Mr. Yiannas has been in front of the Oversight Committee, discussing roles the FDA played in the infant formula recall and shortage specifically. While his responses were somewhat limited in this documentary, I was impressed when he walked into Hearing #1 with tangible, real life changes to make and concerns to address (so far, the "best" testimony in the Hearings in that sense)
The “world’s safest food supply” shouldn’t look like this.
Many of the secrets and covered up topics discussed, are exactly on par with what we have experienced during the infant formula recall and subsequent shortage. Learning these secrets during that experience has completely reshaped and refocused the trajectory of my career. and my life. Not unlike many of these key players mention in this film themselves.. It must change. We simply cannot wait another 30 years.. I refuse to have my son take my place in this fight. I refuse to hand this down to our children. We are not going away. We are not going to stop until the American food supply truly is the "world's safest food supply".
💔🍓🗣️🥬😞🍍👎🏼🥭😟🧀😩
Now, as Bill Marler says, “I think you just have to keep fighting the battles that are in front of you, and I still think there are things more to do... so I guess I got to get busy”
**special shoutout to all who contributed to this documentary! Thank you all so much!!
& @rosa_delauro - I think I want to be you when I grow up 👏🏼❤️🤩🍓
Here is another great deep dive on the documentary!
Alright, so before we end this one, let's leave you all with some information about these germs.. Learn more about these foodborne illnesses below:
| Symptoms | Onset | Common Foods/ Contamination Sources | Impact | Extra Facts |
E. Coli 0157 | Diarrhea (often severe, may be bloody), abdominal cramps, pain, fatigue, nausea ; Severe complication = Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) which can lead to kidney failure & death | Can release a toxin that damages lining of intestines' Typical symptom onset = 3-4 days, can be 1-14 days ; Symptoms often last ~2 weeks | Leafy Greens (Spinach, lettuce, sprouts, etc.), apple juice / cider, undercooked meats (cattle, deer, sheep), salami, unpasteurized milk, contaminated water ; person - to- person | ~70,000 cases of this particular type of E.Coli are reported each year. | Approx. 8% of E.Coli 0157 infections leads to HUS ; Can release a toxin (shiga toxin) that damages the lining of the intestines'. Can be killed in proper cooking methods / heat |
Salmonella | Abdominal cramps, pain, fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, chills, headache | Often ~8-72 hours following exposure (1-3 days) but can be 6 hours up to 6 days ; Symptoms often last ~4-10 days | Chicken, eggs, poultry, meat (especially raw/ undercooked), contaminated water | 1.35 million illnesses, 26,500 hospitalizations, 420 deaths per year | Some strains of Salmonella can result in Typhoid Fever, a deadly disease This is one illness that is getting some attention as discussed in the documentary - it's about time! |
Campylobacter | Diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, vomiting, headache | Usually 2-5 days, anywhere from 1-10 days; Symptoms often last ~3-6 days | Usually 2-5 days, anywhere from 1-10 days; Symptoms often last ~3-6 days | Death is *relatively* rare unless in very high risk group -> is associated with higher risk of Guillian-Barre Syndrome, Sepsis, and additional, serious medical complications | Can be killed through heating and proper cooking methods; While death is reported to be "rare", infection in children under the age of 2 is fairly frequent and does have an increased risk of death/ complications |
Cronobacter sakazakii | Fatigue, poor feeding, fever, excessive crying, irritability, abnormal body movements/ jerking ; Can lead to serious complications such as Meningitis, Sepsis, and seizures | Likely to onset within hours on ingestion (~4-8 hours is typical) | Germ found naturally in the world, prefers dry places. Thrives in foods such as powdered formulas, powdered milk, herbal teas, starch based foods | A study in 2020 found that ~20% of infants who develop Meningitis or another blood-infection due to Cronobacter, died. This study also noted this to be 40% worldwide | Proper storage and preparation of these foods can aid in helping reduce transmission This foodborne illness will become a Reportable Illness (mandatory to report) in 2024! |
It should NOT be common practice for a simple food item, a basic need of ours... to turn into the very thing that is killing us. These germs are there. And we MUST demand more, demand better... we MUST demand for agencies to focus on these recurrent and costly problems.. for OUR SAFETY..
❤❤
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