Tuesday, June 26, 2018

This blog has moved

I wanted to thank all of you for being a part of this blog and let you know that the entire blog has relocated to a new site.

The new blog is located at http://www.doctormckeown.com

Cheers,

Dr. Mc Keown

Thursday, June 21, 2018

New #foodsafety #recall possible #Salmonella #contamination of Now Real Food® Zesty Sprouting Mix

Now Health Group Inc. Recalls Select Now Real Food® Zesty Sprouting Mix Because of Possible Health Risk

June 21, 2018

Contact

Consumers

NOW’s Customer Service Department 
888-669-3663

Media

Alana Horinko
 Alana.horinko@nowfoods.com 
630-545-9098

Announcement

NOW Health Group, Inc. (NOW), of Bloomingdale, Illinois, is recalling its NOW Real Food® Zesty Sprouting Mix – Product Code 7271, Lot #3031259 and Lot #3038165 – because its primary ingredient, Crimson Clover Seeds, has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which 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 (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis, and arthritis.
Approximately 10,000 units of Zesty Sprouting Mix were distributed online and in retail stores nationwide since December 2017.
Recalled products include:
UPC CodeDescriptionLot NumberBest By Date
733739072719NOW Real Food® Zesty Sprouting Mix, 16 oz.3031259 (located on back of package)12/20
733739072719NOW Real Food® Zesty Sprouting Mix, 16 oz.3038165 (located on back of package)01/21
No other products are affected or are involved in this recall. No illnesses have been reported to date.
Evidence of potential contamination was implicated in ongoing FDA and CDC investigations into multistate outbreaks of Salmonella infections, of which the clover seed supplier was notified.
NOW has provided information on this recall to all its retailers who purchased this product and has encouraged retailers to make every effort to contact their customers to facilitate the return of affected products.
Consumers who have purchased the recalled Zesty Sprouting Mix should stop using the product immediately and return it to place of purchase for a full refund. Receipt is not required for refund.
Consumers with questions regarding this recall can contact NOW’s Customer Service Department by phone at 888-NOW-FOODS (888-669-3663) Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Central time.
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Wednesday, June 20, 2018

New #foodsafety #recall possible #Ecoli #contamination of 489 lbs of frozen raw, ground beef products

Texas Natural Meats Recalls Frozen Raw Ground Beef Products

Class I Recall051-2018
Health Risk: HighJun 20, 2018
Congressional and Public Affairs
Jeremy J. Emmert
(202) 720-9113
Press@fsis.usda.gov

WASHINGTON, June 20, 2018 – Texas Natural Meats, a Lott, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 489 pounds of frozen raw, ground beef products that may be contaminated with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) O103, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The frozen raw, ground beef items were produced on Aug. 8, 2017.  The following products are subject to recall:  [View Label (PDF only)]
      
• 1.00-lb. bags of “Green Field Farms Rogers Texas Ground Beef.”  The bags display the “PRODUCTION DATE 08.08.2017” and also display the “EXPIRATION DATE 08.08.2020.”  The bags are labeled “COOK USE ONLY” with the instruction “DO NOT refreeze after defrosting.”  
 
The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST. 34449” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped to a retailer who sold the product at a farmer’s market in Roger, Texas.
                            
The problem was discovered on June 19, 2018 by FSIS during routine inspection activities. The product was tested by the establishment and found to be positive for STEC O103 under their sampling program.
People can become ill from STECs 2–8 days (average of 3–4 days) after consuming the organism. Most people infected with STEC O103 develop diarrhea (often bloody) and vomiting. Some illnesses last longer and can be more severe. Infection is usually diagnosed by testing of a stool sample. Vigorous rehydration and other supportive care is the usual treatment; antibiotic treatment is generally not recommended. Most people recover within a week, but, rarely, some develop a more severe infection. Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a type of kidney failure, is uncommon with STEC O103 infection. HUS can occur in people of any age but is most common in children under 5 years old, older adults and persons with weakened immune systems. It is marked by easy bruising, pallor and decreased urine output. Persons who experience these symptoms should seek emergency medical care immediately.

FSIS is concerned that some product may be frozen and in consumers’ freezers Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

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. When available, the retail distribution list(s) will be posted on the FSIS website at www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls.
           
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, http://1.usa.gov/1cDxcDQ.
Media and consumers with questions regarding the recall can contact C.W. Whorton, Plant Manager, at (254) 584-0115.

Tuesday, June 19, 2018

New #foodsafety #recall undeclared #sulfite #allergen in Dried Apricots Sour

Golden Star Wholesale Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Sulfites in Dried Apricots Sour

June 19, 2018

Contact

Consumers

Saad Shammas 
248-577-5080

Announcement

Golden Star Wholesale of Troy, MI 48084 is recalling, AL Reef  Dried Apricots Sour, because it may contain undeclared sulfites. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to sulfites run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume this product.
The recalled AL Reef  Dried Apricots Sour, 12 oz clear plastic container, un-coded were sold via retail stores in MI, NY,MN,KY,WI,FL,NC,VA,OR,MA,OH,TX,MO between November 2017 and May 2018.
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.
The recall was initiated after routine sampling of the product by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets food inspectors and subsequent analysis by Department food laboratory personnel revealed the presence of undeclared sulfites in Al Reef Dried Apricot Sour package that did not declare sulfites on the label.
Consumers who have purchased AL Reef Dried Apricot Sour should return it to the place of purchase. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 248-577-5080.
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Saturday, June 16, 2018

Updated & Expanded #foodsafety #recall possible #Cyclospora #contamination in Del Monte Fresh Vegetable Trays

Del Monte Fresh Produce N.A., Inc. Voluntarily Recalls Limited Quantity of Vegetable Trays in a Multistate Outbreak of Cyclospora Illnesses in Select Retailers in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, Because of Possible Health Risk


For Immediate Release
June 15, 2018

Contact

Consumers

Del Monte Fresh
Contact-US-Executive-Office@freshdelmonte.com
1-800-659-6500

Announcement

CORAL GABLES, FL. - Del Monte Fresh Produce N.A., Inc. ("Del Monte Fresh") announced today, the voluntary recall of a limited quantity of 6 oz., 12 oz. and 28 oz. vegetable trays containing fresh broccoli, cauliflower, celery sticks, carrots, and dill dip sold to select retailers in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Del Monte was notified by state agencies of the outbreak and its potential involvement. Del Monte has recalled the products because they may be linked to this recent cluster of illnesses and have the potential to be contaminated with Cyclospora, a parasite that can cause the intestinal illness Cyclosporiasis. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the infection usually is not life threatening. Symptoms of Cyclosporiasis may include the following: watery diarrhea (most common), loss of appetite, weight loss, cramping, bloating, increased gas, nausea, fatigue. Other symptoms that may occur but are less common include the following: vomiting and/or low-grade fever.
The recalled products were distributed to: Kwik Trip, Kwik Star, Demond's, Sentry, Potash, Meehan's, Country Market, Food Max Supermarket and Peapod in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin and have "Best If Enjoyed By" date of June 17, 2018 or earlier. The recalled products were distributed for sale in clear plastic containers with the following labels and markings:
Product NameMost Recent
Best By date
ComponentsUPC Code
Del Monte 6 oz. Veg Tray w/dip6/17/2018Baby carrots, broccoli, cauliflower and dill dip7 1752472715 2
Del Monte 12 oz. Veg Tray w/dip6/17/2018Baby carrots, broccoli, cauliflower and dill dip7 1752472518 9
Del Monte 28 oz. Small Veg Tray w/dip6/17/2018Baby carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, celery sticks and dill dip7 1752478604 3
 
Consumers who believe that they are in possession of any of the above products affected by this recall should dispose of the product in an appropriate waste container. For any inquiries, consumers may call 24 hour customer service line at 1-800-659-6500 or email Del Monte Fresh at Contact-US-Executive-Office@freshdelmonte.com.
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Grand Opening of Your Pie Flagstaff today

Today was the grand opening of the new "Your Pie" pizza restaurant here in Flagstaff, AZ. I arrived early to get a good spot and to be the first person in line, which I was. The food was excellent, just like during the soft opening earlier this week. Here is a picture of the Grand Opening Crew. A great group of employees.

I made a video of me ordering my pizza and going through the line up until I received my pizza and cheese sticks. The video is 5 minutes and 28 seconds in length, and that is exactly how long it took for me to order my pizza, pay, and have it delivered to me. My order on the video is a pizza with a white crust (versus wheat or gluten free) and marinara sauce. I then have them add extra shredded mozzarella cheese, mushrooms, jalapenos, and pepperoni. Last time (Monday, during the soft opening), i did not ask for some Parmesan cheese and oregano to be added on top. Today I did add those two items and it made the pizza much better, in my opinion. I hope you enjoy a look at how the process works.



Again, I would highly recommend that you go out and give Your Pie a taste. If there is a line, it may take a bit longer than the five minutes you see in my video, but the wait is definitely worth it. Trust me. I will be back to try different items.


Friday, June 15, 2018

New #foodsafety #recall & #investigation possible #Cyclospora #contamination of Del Monte Vegetable Trays sold at Kwik Trip/Kwik Star locations in IA, MN, and WI

FDA Investigates Multistate Outbreak of Cyclospora illnesses linked to Del Monte Vegetable Trays

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state and local officials have been investigating a cluster of cyclosporiasis illnesses associated with recalled Del Monte vegetable trays from Kwik Trip/Kwik Star locations in the United States.

What is the Problem and What is Being Done About It?

FDA, CDC, state, and local partners are currently investigating several Cyclospora illnesses associated with recalled Del Monte 6oz and 12oz vegetable trays containing broccoli, cauliflower, carrots and dill dip that were sold by Kwik Trip/Kwik Star locations in IA, MN, and WI. Additionally, Del Monte is recalling “small veggie trays,” which are 28oz and include broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, celery and dill dip that were distributed to Illinois and Indiana.
As of June 15, 2018, CDC has reported 78 laboratory-confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis in persons from IA, MN, WI and MI who reportedly consumed the vegetable trays. The two cases from Michigan reportedly purchased the vegetable tray in Wisconsin and therefore Michigan is not impacted from this outbreak.
On June 8, 2018, Del Monte withdrew their 6oz and 12oz vegetable trays from retail market locations, and they are not currently available for purchase. However, consumers who purchased these trays before the withdrawal may still have product in their homes since the expiration date is June 17, 2018 or earlier. The 28oz vegetable trays that were distributed to IL and IN are being recalled as of June 15, 2018. Del Monte reports the recalled products were distributed to: Kwik Trip, Kwik Star, Demond’s, Sentry, Potash, Meehan’s, Country Market, FoodMax Supermarket and Peapod in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin and have “Best If Enjoyed By” date of June 17, 2018 or earlier.
FDA has not identified which of the ingredients is the vehicle for this outbreak; each component of these vegetable trays is under consideration. FDA is currently reviewing distribution and supplier information related to the vegetable trays; the investigation is ongoing.

What is Cyclospora?

Cyclospora cayetanensis is a microscopic parasite of humans. This parasite, when it contaminates food or water and is then ingested, can cause an intestinal illness called cyclosporiasis.
The Cyclospora parasite needs time (days to weeks) after being passed in a bowel movement to become infectious for another person. Therefore, it is unlikely that cyclosporiasis is passed directly from one person to another.
For more information on Cyclosporahttp://www.cdc.gov/parasites/cyclosporiasis/  

What are the Symptoms of Cyclosporiasis?

Most people infected with Cyclospora develop diarrhea, with frequent, sometimes explosive, bowel movements. Other common symptoms include loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps/pain, bloating, increased gas, nausea, and fatigue. Vomiting, body aches, headache, fever, and other flu-like symptoms may be noted. Some people who are infected with Cyclospora do not have any symptoms. If not treated, the illness may last from a few days to a month or longer. Symptoms may seem to go away and then return one or more times (relapse).

Who is at Risk?

People can become infected with Cyclospora by consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite. People living or traveling in countries where cyclosporiasis is endemic, including certain tropical or subtropical regions of the world, may be at increased risk for infection.

What Do Restaurants and Retailers Need To Do?

We do not expect retailers to have any of this recalled product; however, if they think they may, retailers should discard and not sell any Del Monte vegetable trays related to this warning.

What do Consumers Need to Do?

Consumers who have purchased recalled Del Monte 6oz, 12oz and 28oz vegetable trays from IA, IL, MN, and WI should discard the product immediately. Cooking or heating produce at high temperature will kill most pathogens, including parasites such as Cyclospora, and thus significantly reduces the likelihood of illness. This holds true for any produce that may contain Cyclospora. Washing or cleaning processes may not be sufficient to eliminate the pathogen.

Who should be Contacted?

Contact your healthcare provider if you have diarrhea that lasts for more than three days. The FDA encourages consumers with questions about food safety to Submit An Inquiry, or to visit www.fda.gov/fcic for additional information.

Additional Information

Sample Product Images

Del Monte Small Veg Tray with Dip Sample Label 1
Del Monte Small Veg Tray with Dip Sample Package 1
Del Monte Small Veg Tray with Dip Sample Label 3
Del Monte Small Veg Tray with Dip Sample Package 2
Del Monte Small Veg Tray with Dip Sample Label 2
Del Monte Small Veg Tray with Dip Sample Package 3