Mass Meat Recall: Thousands of Pounds Pulled Over Allergy Concerns
According to News Week, Several thousand pounds of frozen meat products have been recalled by Tu Gusto, LLC, based in Florida, due to concerns that they may contain undeclared allergens. The U.S. Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced the recall, affecting approximately 7,630 pounds of meat and poultry croquette products.
Affected Products
The following products are subject to the recall, all sold in 32-ounce boxes:
- A TU GUSTO PALADAR POLLO (CHICKEN) CROQUETAS (CROQUETTES)
- A TU GUSTO PALADAR CHORIZO (SAUSAGE) CROQUETAS (CROQUETTES)
- A TU GUSTO PALADAR PESCADO (FISH) CROQUETAS (CROQUETTES)
- A TU GUSTO PALADAR JAMON (HAM) CROQUETAS (CROQUETTES)
These products were produced between April and October 2024 and were sold in retail stores and restaurants in Florida and Texas.
Reason for Recall
The issue was discovered during FSIS’s surveillance activities at a retail location, where discrepancies in labeling were noted. An investigation revealed that the products originated from a facility that lacked an FSIS inspection grant and contained undeclared allergens on their labels. As a result, these items were manufactured without FSIS inspection and were incorrectly labeled.
Misuse of USDA Inspection Mark
The recalled products bear a USDA mark of inspection, incorrectly using the establishment number EST. 11154. The FSIS explained that the plant associated with this number was unaware it was being used by the recalling firm.
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Allergen Information
Consumers who purchased these products are urged not to eat them and to dispose of them immediately.
The FSIS identifies nine major allergens that must be declared on food packaging:
- Milk
- Soybeans
- Eggs
- Fish
- Crustacean shellfish
- Tree nuts
- Peanuts
- Wheat
- Sesame
Failure to declare these allergens can lead to severe allergic reactions.
Health Risks and Symptoms
Food allergy reactions can result in symptoms such as:
- Hives and rashes
- Swelling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramping
- Coughing or wheezing
In serious cases, allergic reactions can lead to anaphylaxis, which is characterized by:
- Swelling of the throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Loss of consciousness
Steps to Take if You Experience Symptoms
If you become ill due to an undeclared allergen in a food or drink product, Darin Detwiler, a professor of food policy and corporate social responsibility at Northeastern University, advises the following steps:
- Seek Medical Help: Address your symptoms to ensure your health and safety.
- Report Your Illness: Notify the FDA and local health departments about your allergic reaction to help prevent further incidents.
- Preserve Evidence: Keep the packaging and any remaining product, as they may be important for any investigation and potential legal action.
Consumers are advised to remain vigilant about allergen labeling to protect their health and safety.
