A new recall has been issued, this time for two types of beef franks produced and sold by John Morrell and Co., a Cincinnati, Ohio-based company. So far nearly 210,606 pounds of ready-to-eat hot dog products have been recalled over concerns that they might be contaminated with “extraneous materials, specifically metal,” according to the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).
Grilling season is upon us, but you might want to double check that package of hot dogs in your refrigerator. A new recall has been issued, this time for two types of beef franks produced and sold by John Morrell and Co., a Cincinnati, Ohio-based company. So far nearly 210,606 pounds of ready-to-eat hot dog products have been recalled over concerns that they might be contaminated with “extraneous materials, specifically metal,” according to the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).
It’s important to note, however, that the recall only pertains to two particular brands, and only lots produced on January 26, 2017:
- 14 oz. sealed film packages containing “Nathan’s SKINLESS 8 BEEF FRANKS,” with a Use By date of Aug. 19, 2017.
- 16 oz. sealed film packages containing “Curtis BEEF MASTER Beef Franks,” with a Use By date of June 15, 2017.
Additionally, as CBS Sacramento pointed out, “the products subject to recall bear establishment number EST. 296 on the side of the package,” and were shipped nationwide to a variety of retailers.
But how was the problem discovered in the first place? Well, the company became aware of the possible contamination after receiving three separate complaints from consumers who claimed they found bits of metal “in the beef frank product packages.” Following the complaints, FSIS was notified on May 19th to look into the matter. Why FSIS? Well, FSIS “routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify” that there is actually cause to issue a recall. From there, the recalling company can properly inform their customers while FSIS ensures that “steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers.”
Fortunately, there have been no reported incidents of “adverse reactions or injury due to the consumption” of the recalled products. However, consumers who fear they might have consumed the recalled product and are experiencing adverse reactions or injury are advised to seek attention from their health care provider. Similarly, consumers “who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them” and should either throw them away or return them for a refund.
Consumers with further questions or concerns related to the recall can always call and speak to a customer service representative at 1-877-933-4625. Additionally, consumers can “Ask Karen,” the FSIS virtual representative available 24 hours a day at AskKaren.gov or via smartphone at m.askkaren.gov to discuss any other food safety related questions, according to CBS Sacramento.
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