Over 31,000 pounds of chicken products recalled for possible contamination

Over 31,000 pounds of chicken products recalled for possible contamination

Murry's Inc. is recalling nearly 32,000 pounds of chicken products shipped nationwide for possible contamination with Staphylococcal enterotoxins.

A statement issued Saturday from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s Food Safety and Inspection Service addresses a high risk recall for nearly 32,000 pounds of chicken products shipped nationwide for possible bacterial contamination.

Pennsylvania-based food company Murry’s Inc. recalled approximately 31,689 pounds of gluten free breaded chicken products potentially contaminated with toxin-producing Staphylococcal enterotoxin, which can result in food poisoning. These enterotoxins can cause illness in as little as 30 minutes, triggering symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea.

According to the statement, the products subject to recall have a best by date of Aug. 9, 2015, bear the establishment number “P-516” inside the USDA mark of inspection, and include the following two products: 12-oz. boxes of Bell & Evans Gluten Free Breaded Chicken Breast Nuggets and 10.5-oz. boxes of Bell & Evans Gluten Free Breaded Chicken Breast.

The problem was discovered by the Colorado Department of Agriculture at a Federal Emergency Response Network lab during retail surveillance funded by the USDA. The Food Safety and Inspection Service conducted traceback activity following notification of the positive test result.

PBS reports that traces of the toxin were found in one box and that one box was enough to play it safe with consumers. “Even having knowledge of one box being contaminated, we felt a voluntary recall would be necessary,” said Murry’s Inc. Chief Executive Officer Ira Mendelson in a phone interview with PBS NewsHour Weekend on Sunday.

The USDA states that there have been no reports of adverse reactions due to consumption, but anyone concerned should contact a health provider. Officials also recommend a variety of methods to prevent Staphylococcal contamination, including keeping kitchens clean and food-serving areas sanitized, keeping hot foods hot (over 140 degrees Fahrenheit) and cold foods cold (under 40 degrees Fahrenheit), washing hands vigorously with soap before handling food, and avoiding contact of food with any open sores or wounds.

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