Home -> Law Blog Directory -> Health Law Blogs -> Food Safety News

Health Law

: Food Safety News

NY Finds Salmonella In Black Pepper

By Dan Flynn and Suzanna Schreck

A routine inspection by the New York Department of Agriculture has prompted a Maryland company to recall its 3.5 oz. jars of Black Pepper Double Gold Fish for possible Salmonella contamination.

Cheverly, MD-based MY-A & CO. recalled the product that comes in plastic jars with no product codes.  It was distributed in retail stores in 11 states, including Georgia, Texas, Illinois, Virginia, North Carolina, Ohio, New York, Massachusetts, Maine, Florida, and Maryland.

New York agricultural inspectors found the presence of Salmonella in some of the 3.5 oz jars.

The recall is apparently not connected to other black and red pepper recalls linked to the nationwide outbreak of Salmonella Montevideo.

Salmonella is an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, especially in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms include fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, and vomiting and abdominal pain.

The Salmonella organism can get into the bloodstream, producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections or infected aneurysms including endocarditis and arthritis.

No illnesses have been associated with this recall.

Consumers who have purchased the 3.5oz jars of Ground Black Pepper are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.  Consumers with questions may contact the company at (301) 322-1237 and ask for Jessica Moynihan.

Full post as published by Food Safety News on April 16, 2010 (boomark / email).