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Recall of Sunflower Seeds Expanded

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A nationwide recall of sunflower seeds has been expanded amid continuing concerns over listeria contamination, according to the Food and Drug Administration.

SunOpta, a Minnesota supplier, voluntarily recalled sunflower seeds, snacks and salad toppers earlier this month after a spot check indicated some of the seeds may have been contaminated. The recall also includes some Planter’s brand products. 

The recall was expanded last week to include products made between Feb. 1, 2016 and April 21, 2016, when SunOpta halted production. No illnesses have been reported, according to the FDA.

Affected products were sent to distribution centers in more than a dozen states in March and April and may have been sold nationwide. Kroger and Pittsburgh-based Gold Eagle are among the retailers to sell them.

"SunOpta is committed to ensuring consumer safety and providing quality products and ingredients to customers. The Company has completed its root cause analysis and is working with food safety experts to implement corrective and preventative measures," the company said in a statement. "In an abundance of caution, SunOpta is voluntarily extending the period during which it is recalling a limited number of sunflower kernel products that have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes."

The full list of affected products is available on the FDA's website.



Photo Credit: Food and Drug Administration
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Toyota Adding 1.6M Vehicles to Takata Air Bag Recall

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Toyota Motor Corp. is recalling nearly 1.6 million vehicles in the U.S. to replace potentially faulty front passenger air bag inflators made by Takata Corp. of Japan. 

The action expands what was already the biggest automotive recall in U.S. history. The U.S. government announced earlier this month that 17 automakers — including Toyota — are adding 35 million to 40 million Takata inflators to the 28.8 million that have already been recalled after multiple investigations showed more vehicles could be affected. 

The latest recall includes Toyota, Scion and Lexus models from the 2006-2011 model years.

The air bags can deploy with too much force, breaking apart the metal inflator and spewing shrapnel into the vehicle. They are responsible for at least 11 deaths and more than 100 injuries worldwide.

The government said the inflators must be replaced before they reach a minimum of six years old, when the risk of rupture increases. 

The recall expansion will be announced in phases based on the age of vehicles and where they are registered. Takata uses ammonium nitrate to create a small explosion that inflates air bags in a crash. But the chemical can degrade over time and when exposed to humidity and a large number of hot and cool temperature cycles. 

The first phase of the expansion covers vehicles from the 2011 model year or older that are registered in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. 

Toyota said it will notify customers by mail. Here are the latest additions to the recall: 

THE MODELS: 2009 -2011 Toyota Corolla and Matrix; 2006-2011 Toyota Yaris; 2010-2011 Toyota 4Runner; 2011 Toyota Sienna; 2008-2011 Scion xB; 2007-2011 Lexus ES; 2010-2011 Lexus GX; 2006-2011 Lexus IS. 

THE FIX: Toyota will notify owners by mail. Depending on the model, dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator or the front passenger air bag assembly. The repairs will be free.

Copyright Associated Press / NECN


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Ford Recalls 271K Pickup Trucks Over Leaking Brake Fluid

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Ford is recalling 271,000 of its top-selling vehicles in the U.S. to fix a fluid leak that can reduce braking power. 

The recall covers F-150 pickups in North America from the 2013 and 2014 model years that have 3.5-liter V6 engines. 

Ford says brake fluid can leak from the master cylinder. That could reduce the ability of the front brakes to stop the trucks. 

The company reports nine alleged crashes with no injuries, but one person reported suffering a knee injury while applying the brakes. 

Dealers will replace the brake master cylinder for free. They'll also replace the brake booster if they find leaks from the master cylinder. Ford says it's working with suppliers to get parts to dealers and will begin notifying customers the week of July 11. 

Ford says the problem is not related to an investigation by federal safety regulators into power brake assist failures in F-150 pickups. That probe by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration into electric vacuum pump failures was closed earlier this month after Ford extended warranties and the agency determined that the trucks could still be stopped by drivers.

Copyright Associated Press / NECN



Photo Credit: Getty Images

Mayborn USA Recalls 3.1M Sippy Cups Over Risk of Mold

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Mayborn USA is recalling 3.1 million Tommee Tippee Sippee spill-proof cups after nearly 70 children became ill drinking from moldy valves, the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) said Friday.

Mold can develop on the removable, one-piece, white valve inside the cups when it remains wet or moist and is infrequently cleaned, according to the recall alert.

Mold ingestion can cause gastrointestinal symptoms and infections in people with compromised immune systems, according to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The Massachusetts-based Mayborn USA has received 3,066 reports of mold in the removable valve, including 68 reports of children experiencing diarrhea, vomiting or other symptoms associated with drinking from a cup with mold in the valve.

Five types of spill-proof Tommee Tippee Sippee cups all with a removable, one-piece white valve are involved in the recall: First Sips Transition cup, Trainer Sippee cup, Sippee cup (including Cute Quips), Sportee bottle and Insulated Swiggle/Sippee tumblers.

The plastic drinking cups have spill-proof tops, easy-grip sides with detachable handles and were sold in clear with colored lids and a variety of colors and character prints. Some of the cups include short phrases on the front of the cups including: “You Pour I’ll Fling,” or “Drink Drop Repeat.” The cups have a 7 to 10 oz. capacity and were sold for children ages 4 to 12 months.

The cup were made in China and sold at BuyBuy Baby, CVS, Giant, Kohl’s, Marco Baby, Marshalls, Meijer, Sam’s Club, Ross Stores, Target, Bealls Outlet, Walgreens and Wal-Mart and other stores nationwide and online at Amazon.com, Babyhaven.com, and Diapers.com from December 2014 through May 2016.  

Consumers who bought the cups should stop using them and contact the company to receive a free replacement cup at www.tommeetippee.us or 877-248-6922. 



Photo Credit: CSPC

8 Automakers Recall 12 Million Vehicles Over Takata Air Bags

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Eight automakers are recalling more than 12 million vehicles in the U.S. to replace potentially dangerous Takata air bag inflators. 

Documents detailing recalls by Honda, Fiat Chrysler, Toyota, Mazda, Nissan, Subaru, Ferrari and Mitsubishi were posted Friday by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 

They're part of a massive expansion of Takata air bag recalls announced earlier this month. Seventeen automakers are adding 35 million to 40 million inflators to what already was the largest auto recall in U.S. history. 

In addition, the Japanese transport ministry on Friday announced 7 million more Takata-related recalls covering air bag inflators without a chemical drying agent. 

Friday's U.S. recalls include passenger air bags in older models in areas along the Gulf Coast with high heat and humidity. But other areas of the country are also affected depending on the age of vehicles. 

Takata uses the chemical ammonium nitrate to create a small explosion that inflates air bags in a crash. But the chemical can deteriorate over time when exposed to high heat and humidity and burn faster than designed. That can blow apart a metal canister, spewing hot shrapnel into vehicles. 

The inflators are responsible for 11 deaths and more than 100 injuries worldwide. Two more deaths are under investigation in Malaysia. 

The recalls are among the first unveiled by automakers since Takata agreed May 4 to the recall expansion, and more will be announced in the coming week. The recalls are being phased in by the government due to a lack of available replacement parts. Models from 2011 or older in high heat and humidity areas will get first priority, followed by 2008 and older models in Southern-tier states, then 2004 and older models in the rest of the country. 

Research has shown that it takes at least six years for the ammonium nitrate to deteriorate. That's the reason older models get priority. 

Honda had the biggest recall total on Friday with more than 4.5 million inflators, while Fiat Chrysler reported 4.3 million. The Honda total includes about 2,700 Gold Wing motorcycles with optional front air bags. 

Honda says the latest recall covers only about 2.2 million additional Honda and Acura vehicles. The other 2.3 million vehicles were recalled previously for Takata problems. Honda expects the recalls to start in late summer for automobiles and in late fall for the motorcycles. 

Fiat Chrysler said it's not aware of any crashes or injuries involving its vehicles that are part of the recall. 

The latest recalls cover mainly front passenger inflators without the chemical drying agent. The jury is still out on whether Takata will have to recall millions more inflators with the drying agent. Takata has to prove to the government that those are safe by the end of 2019, or they will be recalled. 

Before the latest expansion, automakers had recalled 28.8 million Takata inflators, so as many as 69 million could be recalled in the U.S. alone. The numbers have raised concerns about Takata's financial survival. The Japanese parts supplier has hired advisory firm Lazard to restructure its finances, and automakers likely will have to shoulder some costs. 

Since the recalled models vary by state and age, officials say that the best way to see if your car is affected is to go to https://vinrcl.safercar.gov/vin/ and key in the vehicle identification number. That number can be found on the driver's side of the dashboard near the windshield or on state vehicle registrations. It may take several weeks for all the newly recalled vehicles to be entered into the databases. 

Here are models covered by the recalls announced Friday: 

HONDA: Certain 2003-2006 Acura MDX, 2005-2011 Acura RL, 2009-2011 Acura TSX, 2010-2011 Acura ZDX, 2008-2011 Honda Accord, 2010-2011 Honda Accord Crosstour, 2006-2011 Honda Civic, 2005-2011 Honda CR-V, 2003-2011 Honda Element, 2010-2011 Honda FCX Clarity, 2007-2011 Honda Fit, 2010-2011 Honda Insight, 2002-2004 Honda Odyssey, 2003-2011 Honda Pilot, 2006-2011 Honda Ridgeline, certain 2006-2010 Honda Gold Wing motorcycles.

FIAT CHRYSLER: Certain 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen SUVs, 2005-2012 Chrysler 300, 2008-2012 Dodge Challenger, 2006-2012 Dodge Charger, 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota pickups, 2004-2009 Dodge Durango SUVs, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum wagons, 2004-2008 Ram 1500 pickups, 2005-2009 Ram 2500 pickups, 2006-2009 Ram 3500 pickups, 2007-2010 Ram/Ram 3500 cab chassis, 2008-2010 Ram/Ram 4500/5500 cab chassis, 2007-2012 Jeep Wrangler SUVs, 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider pickups, 2008-2009 Sterling/Bullet 4500/5500 cab chassis.

TOYOTA: Certain 2008-2011 Scion xB and Lexus IS F, 2009-2011 Toyota Corolla and Matrix, 2006-2011 Toyota Yaris, Lexus IS250 and Lexus IS350, 2010-2011 Toyota 4Runner, Lexus IS250C, Lexus IS350C and Lexus GX460, 2011 Sienna, 2007-2011 Lexus ES350, and 2009-2010 Pontiac Vibes designed for General Motors by Toyota. 

MAZDA: Certain 2009-2011 Mazda6, 2007-2011 CX-7 and CX-9, 2004-2011 RX-8, 2004-2006 MPV, 2003-2008 Mazda6, 2006-2007 Mazdaspeed6

SUBARU: Certain 2003-2004 Legacy and Outback, 2006 Saab 9-2x made by Subaru, and 2003-2006 Baja pickups. Also certain 2009-2011 Legacy, Outback and Forester; 2006-2011 Impreza and Tribeca.

NISSAN: Certain 2005-2008 Infiniti FX35 and FX45, 2003-2004 Infiniti I30 and I35, 2006-2010 Infiniti M35 and M45, and 2007-2011 Nissan Versa.

FERRARI: Certain 2009-2011 Ferrari California and 2010-2011 458 Italia.

MITSUBISHI: Certain 2006-2007 Lancer and Lancer Evolution cars.

Copyright Associated Press / NECN



Photo Credit: Getty Images - File

10 Million Pounds of Flour Recalled

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Health experts are investigating a multistate outbreak of E. coli that has infected dozens of people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Thirty-eight people were infected in 20 states, including California, New York, Massachusetts, Maryland, Virginia, Texas, Illinois and Pennsylvania. 

Ten of those infected have been hospitalized, and no deaths have been reported, the CDC said. 

According to health experts, the source of the outbreak was flour produced from the General Mills facility in Kansas City, Missouri.

On May 31, the company recalled about 10 million pounds of flour from the affected states. 

The brands affected are Gold Medal flour, Wondra flour and Signature Kitchens flour sold in Safeway, Albertsons, Jewel, Shaws, Vons, United, Randalls and Acme.

General Mills said Tuesday that E. coli wasn't been found in any of its flour products, but was still carrying out the recall out of "an abundance of caution."

"While attempting to track the cause of the illness, CDC found that approximately half of the individuals reported making something homemade with flour at some point prior to becoming ill," according to the company's statement.

Some of those who became ill may have also consumed raw dough or batter, the company said.

Get package descriptions including UPC codes and sell-by dates here.

Copyright Associated Press / NECN



Photo Credit: Getty Images

Kashi Recall Over Listeria Fears

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The Kashi Company is voluntarily recalling some snack bars and granola sold in the U.S. over concerns the products may contain sunflower seeds contaminated with listeria.

The two affected products are the Trail Mix flavor of Kashi Chewy Granola Bars and the Cinnamon + Sunflower Butter flavor of Bear Naked Soft Baked Granola.

The company said the products contain sunflower seed ingredients distributed by SunOpta, a Minnesota-based company that has recalled dozens of products sold around the country.

The ingredients may contain listeria monocytogenes, bacteria that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, the elderly and other people with weakened immune systems. Pregnant women are also at risk.

There were no reports of illness as of May 31, according to Kashi. No other Kashi or Bear Naked products are impacted by the recall, the company said.

Those who purchased the recalled products should discard them and contact Kashi for a full refund. The consumer hotline is 1-877-747-2467.

For the UPC codes and expiration dates of affected products, go to Kashi’s recall page.



Photo Credit: The Kashi Company

Ford Recalls 1.9M Vehicles to Replace Air Bags

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Ford Motor Co. is recalling nearly 1.9 million vehicles in North America to replace faulty passenger-side front air bags made by Japanese supplier Takata Corp. 

The recall is part of a nationwide expansion of an ongoing Takata air bag recall, which was already the largest U.S. recall in history. 

Certain Takata air bags can inflate with too much force and spew shrapnel into the vehicles. At least 11 deaths worldwide are related to the defect. 

The vehicles affected in the expanded Ford recall are the 2007-2010 Ford Edge, 2006-2011 Ford Fusion, 2005-2011 Ford Mustang, 2007-2011 Ford Ranger, 2007-2010 Lincoln MKX and 2006-2011 Lincoln MKZ, Zephyr and Mercury Milan. 

Ford says it's not aware of any injuries in these vehicles. It will notify customers and replace the air bags for free.

Copyright Associated Press / NECN



Photo Credit: Bloomberg via Getty Images

Automakers Still Installing Defective Air Bags: Report

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At least four automakers are selling new vehicles that have potentially deadly Takata air bag inflators, according to a new Senate report.

Some Fiat Chrysler, Mitsubishi, Toyota and Volkswagen vehicles from the 2016 and 2017 model years are equipped with a type of inflator that is prone to rupture and presents a potential danger to drivers and passengers, Democrats on the Senate Commerce Committee said in the report issued Wednesday. 

The problematic inflators contain ammonium nitrate, which can deteriorate over time when exposed to moisture and high temperatures. Takata Corp. has agreed to recall original equipment inflators that lack a chemical drying agent in phases by the end of 2018. So far, 17 car and truck companies are recalling as many as 69 million Takata inflators in the U.S. alone. 

At least 11 people have been killed worldwide by Takata's inflators. Two other deaths in Malaysia are under investigation. 

The new cars equipped with the inflators currently aren't under recall and can be sold legally. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has said that its tests show it takes at least six years for the inflators to deteriorate and become dangerous. But Sen. Bill Nelson of Florida, the committee's top Democrat, wants the automakers to replace the inflators before the cars are sold so they don't have to be recalled. 

"Consumers are buying new cars not realizing that they're going to be recalled," Nelson said. 

Mitsubishi and Volkswagen identified the new models that have Takata inflators without the drying agent. They include the 2016 Volkswagen CC, 2016 Audi TT, 2017 Audi R8, and the 2016 and 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV. Toyota and Fiat Chrysler did not specify models. 

According to the report, Toyota said it expects to make about 175,000 unspecified vehicles with defective Takata inflators from March 2016 to July 2017. Messages were left seeking comment from Toyota. 

Fiat Chrysler has only one new model with the inflators, which spokesman Eric Mayne declined to identify. "These vehicles are not currently subject to recall. They meet or exceed all applicable safety requirements," Mayne said in an email. 

The Democrats' report says completion rates for the Takata recall remain low. As of March, Honda led with almost 40 percent of inflators replaced, while Daimler Vans had completed only 0.4 percent. 

The report also says that a majority of replacement inflators that have been installed, about 4.6 million, are made by Takata and use ammonium nitrate. At least 2.1 million of those don't have the drying agent and will have to be recalled again. 

NHTSA has said there are 85 million unrecalled Takata inflators in U.S. vehicles, some with and some without the drying agent. Takata has until the end of 2019 to prove that inflators with the drying agent are safe, or they must be recalled as well.

Copyright Associated Press / NECN



Photo Credit: AP

Clif Bars Recalled Over Possible Listeria in Sunflower Seeds

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Three Clif Bar products are being pulled from store shelves as part of a larger recall of sunflower seeds that could be contaminated with listeria.

Clif Bar & Company is voluntarily recalling Clif Bar Nuts & Seeds energy bars, Clif Bar Sierra Trail Mix energy bars and Clif Mojo Mountain Mix trail bars, which contain sunflower seeds produced by Minnesota-based supplier SunOpta.

SunOpta announced its recall in May after a spot check indicated some of its sunflower seeds could be contaminated with listeria.

The latest extension of the recall applies to the following Clif Bar products:

 

  • Clif Bar Nuts & Seeds energy bars with best-by dates from June 8, 2016 through Jan. 21, 2017
  • Clif Bar Sierra Trail Mix energy bars with best-by dates ranging from June 5, 2016 through March 24, 2017
  • Clif Mojo Mountain Mix trail mix bars with best-by dates from June 16, 2016 through Feb. 2, 2017

No illnesses have been reported, according to the Food and Drug Administration. Customers can call 1-888-851-8456 with questions.



Photo Credit: Clif Bar & Company

Hostess Recalls Snack Cakes, Donuts

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Hostess Brands is recalling snack cakes and donuts because they may have come in contact with peanut residue. 

The company said it was recalling 710,000 cases of different brands of snack foods “out of an abundance of caution.” 

The products affected include single serve (snack cakes and donuts), multipack boxes and bagged donuts. Brands include Ding Dongs and Zingers.

They were sold in grocery stores, dollar stores, drug stores and convenience stores across the United states and Mexico. 

The products, Hostess said in the recall, were produced using flour that came into contact with peanut residue. 

Anyone with an allergy or severe sensitivity to peanuts who consumes any of the snacks involved in the recall may run into the risk of a serious or life-threatening reaction. Hostess has only received notices of two allergic reactions related to the products to date. 

The company urges anyone who bought the affected snack items to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. 

The full list of products is on the FDA's website.



Photo Credit: Getty Images

Rold Gold Pretzels Recalled Over Peanut Traces

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Frito Lay is recalling Rold Gold pretzels that could contain peanuts not listed on the labels.

Certain packages of Rold Gold Tiny Twists, Rold Gold Thins, Rold Gold Sticks and Rold Gold Honey Wheat Braided pretzels were made with flour containing peanut residue, according to the Food and Drug Administration.

The affected products contain "guaranteed fresh" dates from June 28, 2016 through Aug. 23, 2016 and have the digits "32" in the second and third positions of a nine-digit manufacturing code on the label (ex. x32xxxxxx).

They were sold around the country individually and in several multipack items, including Baked & Popped Mix, Sunchips & Rold Gold Mix, Fun Times Mix, Baked & Popped Variety Pack and Home Town Favorite Variety Pack.

The recall applies to the following:

  • Rold Gold Tiny Twists: 1 ounce, 2 ounce, 16 ounce and 20 ½ ounce packages
  • Rold Gold Thins: 4 ounce and 16 ounce packages
  • Rold Gold Sticks: 16 ounce packages
  • Rold Gold Honey Wheat Braided: 10 ounce packages

No illnesses have been reported. More information is available online or by calling 888-256-3090.



Photo Credit: Getty Images

Nature Made Vitamins Recalled

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Pharmavite LLC announced Tuesday it is recalling some of its Nature Made adult gummy vitamins and folic acid tablets due to potential Salmonella or Staphylococcus aureus contamination.

The Northridge, California-based company said the recall of various Nature Made products was initiated out of "an abundance of caution."

The products went out nationwide to "various major retailers," and Pharmavite is notifying distributors and retailers to remove them from store shelves immediately, the release said.

The recalled products and lot numbers are:

  • Nature Made Adult Gummies Multi vitamins: 1196071, 1196066 and 1205052
  • Nature Made Adult Gummies Multi + Omega-3: 1173600
  • Nature Made Adult Gummies Multi for Her plus Omega-3s: 1196048 and 1196050
  • Nature Made Super B Complex w/C Folic Acid Tablets: 1204735, 1173146, 1173779, 1204001 and 1170987

Additionally, Pharmavite is recalling the following products that were not listed in their original press release "out of an abundance of caution for other reasons," the company said on its website:

  • Nature Made Adult Gummies Hair, Skin, Nails: 1198437, 1198438
  • Nature Made Vitamin D 1000 IU Tablets: 1147550, 1174782, 1176755, 1140172, 1175637, 1176756, 1147978, 1147557

The products are being recalled because they were not tested properly for salmonella or staphylococcus aureus contamination, the release said.

Salmonella can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, elderly people, and those with a weakened immune system. Healthy people infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Staph aureus toxin in food can cause food poisoning, which induces nausea, vomiting, retching and abdominal cramping, the CDC says.

Customers are encouraged to return affected products to their retailer for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PST at 1-800-276-2878.



Photo Credit: Courtesy Nature Made

FDA Still Taking Months to Recall Tainted Food: Investigators

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Federal health officials failed to force a recall of peanut butter and almond products for three months after advanced DNA testing confirmed salmonella contamination, government investigators reported Thursday.

Despite new legal powers to compel recalls and sophisticated technology to fingerprint pathogens, the Food and Drug Administration allowed some food-safety investigations to drag on, placing consumers in jeopardy of death or serious illness, according to the inspector general's office at the Department of Health and Human Services.

In an unusual urgent warning called an "early alert," the internal watchdog said the FDA needs to pay "immediate attention" to the problem and follow clear procedures to get manufacturers to promptly recall tainted foods.

"Months and weeks when peoples' lives are on the line?" asked lead investigator George Nedder. "It needs to be done faster."

Responding to the findings, the FDA's top food safety official said the cases singled out by investigators were "outliers," a "very selective sample" in which recalls did not proceed quickly and efficiently in a matter of days.

Nonetheless, Deputy Commissioner Stephen Ostroff said the FDA has set up a group of food safety officials to review cases on a weekly basis that don't seem to be moving. "That way we will be able to take action much more quickly in circumstances where there seems to be some reluctance at the firm," he said.

Food safety has long been a weakness for the FDA, an agency thinly stretched to oversee about 80 percent of the nation's food supply, including seafood, dairy, fruits and vegetables.

The FDA traditionally has relied on voluntary recalls to remove tainted products from the market, saying that's the fastest route. But a 2011 law gave FDA power to order recalls in cases that have the potential for serious harm. More recently, the government rolled out whole genome sequencing — precise DNA mapping — to link bugs from people who got sick with samples from products or manufacturing facilities.

It didn't seem to make much difference in two cases from 2014 that were examined by the inspector general. They are part of a review of 30 recalls from 2012 to 2015; complete results will be announced later.

The inspector general said one case involved peanut butter and almond products voluntarily recalled by nSpired Natural Foods Inc. on Aug. 19, 2014. That recall came 165 days after the FDA first discovered salmonella in samples from a company manufacturing plant, and a little more than three months after DNA mapping concluded that the salmonella from the facility was "indistinguishable" from samples taken from patients.

Salmonella is a bacterial illness that can cause serious and potentially fatal infections in young children, older adults, and people with compromised immune systems. Most patients develop diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps and usually recover without treatment.

Ostroff said it was the first time FDA had used DNA mapping in an investigation, and "it just isn't accurate" to suggest that the agency did nothing for three months after making a definitive link.

"I won't tell you this went as quickly as we would like it go," he said. "Now that we have more experience with this technology, we hope we don't see similar timelines."

At least 14 people in 11 states were sickened in the outbreak.

The second case involved various cheese products voluntarily recalled by Oasis Brands Inc. on three separate occasions during 2014. At least nine people were sickened in six states, including an infant who died, the inspector general said.

The final recall came 81 days after Virginia's agriculture department first notified the FDA that it had discovered listeria in one of the company's cheese products.

Listeria is a bacterium that causes flu-like symptoms. It is highly dangerous for pregnant women and can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth, even if the mother felt no symptoms. The inspector general said two women lost the babies they were carrying as a result of illnesses linked to the outbreak.

The FDA inspected the company's manufacturing operation twice during the 81 days, and found listeria both times.

Nedder said the problem was that the first two recalls didn't get all the products that were potentially contaminated. That only happened with the final recall on Oct. 17, 2014.

"If you were playing Russian roulette with three bullets in the chamber, would you feel safe if you took one or two of them out?" asked Nedder. "Dangerous product remained in the food supply."

Ostroff said food safety investigators can't always get a full picture immediately. "Some recalls start small and they grow," he said. "We act upon the best information available at the time."

The inspector general's office is not prescribing a particular timetable for FDA investigations, but Nedder said the agency needs to spell out concrete steps that will lead to faster action.

Copyright Associated Press / NECN



Photo Credit: AP

Some COMBOS Recalled Due to Peanuts

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Mars Chocolate North America is recalling some COMBOS because they may contain undeclared peanut residue, the company said Tuesday. 

Mars initiated the recall after its supplier, Grain Craft, recalled wheat flour that has the potential to contain low levels of peanut residue. The COMBOS products subject to the recall may have been produced using the recalled flour.

Products affected by the recall include COMBOS Cheddar Cheese Pretzel, COMBOS Cheddar Cheese Cracker, COMBOS Pizzeria Pretzel, COMBOS Sweet and Salt Caramel Pretzel, COMBOS Pepperoni Cracker and COMBOS Buffalo Pretzel. The recall applies to certain dates of production. Click here for details.

The FDA has said the amount of peanut exposure from the flour is low and not expected to cause adverse health effects in most consumers allergic to peanuts, though anyone who is allergic to peanuts is advised to avoid the products as a precaution. 

Mars says it has received no reports of related illness to date and is recalling the products out of an abundance of caution. No other Mars products are affected by the recall. The company said it would work with impacted retailers to ensure the recalled products are taken off the shelves. 



Photo Credit: Handout

List of Recalls Related to Peanut Residue Grows

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Peanut residue accidently included in some of the country's most well-known snacks is creating a lengthening roster of recalls.

Kellogg and Mars joined the list this week after supplier Grain Craft recalled certain lots of flour for undeclared peanut residue.

Kellogg Co. is recalling some Mother's, Keebler, Kellogg's, Special K brownies, Murray and Famous Amos snacks and cookies. Mars Chocolate North America is recalling some Combos.

Neither company has received reports of any illnesses related to the recalls.

Hostess Brands earlier this month announced a related recall covering more than 700,000 cases of Ding Dongs, Zingers, Chocodiles and doughnuts sold in grocery, dollar, drug and convenience stores in the U.S. and Mexico.

Copyright Associated Press / NECN



Photo Credit: Kellogg

Spicy Sweet Chili Doritos Recalled

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Spicy Sweet Chili Doritos are being recalled because they could contain ingredients not listed on the labels, including milk, according to the Food and Drug Administration.

Frito-Lay, which manufactures Doritos, announced Wednesday that some bags of Spicy Sweet Chili Doritos tortilla chips were accidentally filled with Nacho Cheese Doritos.

The Nacho Cheese Doritos contain milk, yellow and red dyes, artificial flavor, tomato powder, lactic acid, citric acid and red and green bell pepper powder, all of which can cause allergic reactions.

According to Frito-Lay, the recalled products were distributed in Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia.

The packages have a "guaranteed fresh" date of Aug. 9. A manufacturing code of 2711 152 05 OR 2712 152 05 appears on the front of the package and a UPC code of 28400-42119 is printed on the back.

No illnesses have been reported, Frito-Lay said in a statement.

Customers can return affected packages for a full refund or call Frito-Lay consumer relations at 1-800-452-4477 weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT.



Photo Credit: Frito-Lay

Minnesota-Based GNP Co. Recalls 27 Tons of Chicken

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Minnesota-based GNP Company is recalling more than 27 tons of chicken after contaminants were detected.

The company sells products under the Just BARE and Gold'n Plump brands. But it says the only affected product in grocery stores is the Just BARE whole chicken in 4-pound poly-bags, with a use-by date of June 26.

That item bears code P-322 inside the USDA mark of inspection and UPC 024105594057.

The company says the rest of the recalled meat was bulk and custom items sold through foodservice and institutional outlets.

No illnesses have been reported.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service issued the recall Saturday. The company says the affected products are linked to an isolated tampering incident at its Cold Spring plant this month. The incident is under investigation.

People who bought the chicken are urged to discard it or return it to where it was purchased for a refund.

Copyright Associated Press / NECN



Photo Credit: AFP/Getty Images

Frozen Green Peas, Mixed Veggies Recalled

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The National Frozen Food Corporation is recalling frozen green peas and frozen mixed vegetables after the company's tests revealed a potential listeria contamination, the company announced. 

The recalled items include frozen mixed vegetables and peas packaged by Bountiful Harvest, First Street, Great Value, Live Smart, Market Pantry and Sprout.  

The products being recalled were distributed in retail stores nationwide between Sept. 2, 2015 and June 2, 2016. The recalled items can be identified by the date codes printed on the back of the retail sized bag or the side of the master case. Click here for a full list of products being recalled. 

There have been no reported illnesses attributed to the recalled items, according to the National Frozen Food Corp. 

Following the cooking instructions on products can reduce infection risk, the company said. The elderly, children, pregnant women and those who suffer from weakened immune systems are the most susceptible to listeria. People who contract it usually show signs of a fever, muscle aches, nausea and diarrhea. Infection is liable to spread into areas of the gastrointestinal tract and the nervous system, and some infections can cause death.

Consumers who purchased products affected by the recall should not consume them. They may return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Consumers can also contact the company at 1-800-253-8269 Monday – Friday 8.am to 5 p.m (PT).



Photo Credit: Getty Images

Millions of Protein Shakes Recalled

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A California-based company is recalling nearly 4 million protein drinks due to possible spoilage that may have made people sick.

Bolthouse Farms said a selection of its Protein PLUS and Mocha Cappuccino Perfectly Protein shakes may appear lumpy, taste unpleasant and have an off odor. The company discovered the possible spoilage after getting consumer complaints, including reports of illness.

The cause of the possible spoilage is under investigation.

The recall includes Protein PLUS shakes with "best by" date between June 20 and Sept. 18. The following products, which were distributed nationally, should not be consumed:

Protein PLUS Chocolate 325ml/11 oz (UPC Code 0-71464-01868-9)
Protein PLUS Chocolate 450ml/15.2 oz (UPC Code 0-71464-30650-2)
Protein PLUS Chocolate 946ml/32oz (UPC Code 0-71464-30651-9)
Protein PLUS Vanilla Bean 325ml / 11 oz (UPC Code 0-71464-01867-2)
Protein PLUS Vanilla Bean 15.2 oz (UPC Code 0-71464-01639-5)
Protein PLUS Vanilla Bean 32 oz (UPC Code 0-71464-01640-1)
Protein PLUS Coffee 325ml / 11 oz (UPC Code 0-71464-01869-6)
Protein PLUS Coffee 450ml/15.2 oz (UPC Code 0-71464-01627-2)
Protein PLUS Coffee 946ml/32oz (UPC Code 0-71464-01628-9)
Protein PLUS Coconut 450ml/15.2 oz (UPC Code 0-71464-01892-4)
Protein PLUS Strawberry 450ml/15.2 oz (UPC Code 0-71464-01890-0)
Protein PLUS Strawberry 946ml/32oz (UPC Code 0-71464-01891-7)
Protein PLUS Banana Honey Almond Butter 325ml/11 oz (UPC Code 0-71464-01918-1)
Protein PLUS Banana Honey Almond Butter 450ml/15.2 oz (UPC Code 0-71464-01893-1)

The recall also affects the following Mocha Cappuccino products.

Mocha Cappuccino Perfectly Protein 450ml/15.2oz — Best by: 9/2/16 (UPC Code 0-71464-30051-7)
Mocha Cappuccino Perfectly Protein 946ml/32oz — Best by: 8/2/16 and 8/3/16 (UPC Code 0-71464-30050-0)

Bolthouse Farms is advising people not to drink these beverages and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. For more information call 1-866-535-3774 between 6:00am to 7:00pm PST, Monday to Friday or visit Facebook.com/BolthouseFarms.



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