Warning Issued! March Food Recalls You Need to Know About

A series of food recalls were announced across the United States in March , potentially impacting millions of consumers. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) have flagged multiple products for safety concerns ranging from allergen mislabeling to bacterial contamination.

Why These Recalls Matter

Food allergies and foodborne illnesses pose serious health risks, affecting millions of people each year. The FDA has identified nine major allergens in the U.S., including milk, eggs, fish, wheat, soybeans, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, and sesame. In addition, the agency estimates that around 48 million cases of foodborne illnesses occur annually.

Also Read – Fish Recall Triggers Health Warning in 9 States

Notable Recalls from March

Authorities have compiled a list of food products pulled from shelves due to potential health hazards. Some of the most significant recalls include:

  • Sesame Paste Contamination: On March 6, Turkana Food Inc. recalled Aleppo brand tahini sesame paste due to possible salmonella contamination. The product was distributed in multiple states, including California, New York, Texas, and Florida.
  • Listeria in Alfalfa Sprouts: Jack and the Green Sprouts, Inc. issued a recall on March 8 after discovering a potential listeria contamination in their alfalfa sprouts. The affected products were sold in Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.
  • Canned Tuna Botulism Risk: Various brands of canned tuna, including Genova, Van Camp’s, H-E-B, and Trader Joe’s, were recalled on March 10 due to a manufacturing defect that could lead to botulism. The recall covered a broad distribution area, spanning over 20 states.
  • Bamboo Shoots Contamination: On March 12, AKT Trading Inc. recalled prepared bamboo shoots distributed in Costa Mesa, California, due to a risk of botulism.
  • Uninspected Beef Tallow: FSIS reported on March 12 that approximately 33,899 pounds of beef tallow products from Common Sense Soap, sold under the “Lady May Tallow” label, were distributed without proper USDA inspection.
  • Mislabeling of Raisin Bran Muffins: Broadway Bakery (JE Bakery LLC) issued a recall on March 14 for raisin bran muffins sold in the Minneapolis-St. Paul region. The packaging failed to disclose certain allergens.
  • Undeclared Nuts in Chocolate: A recall was issued on March  15 for Mauna Loa Milk Chocolate Covered Macadamias in Southern California due to undeclared almonds.
  • Allergen Contamination in Snack Packs: On March 19, Naturipe Snacks recalled its “Berry Buddies” and “Berries & Pancakes” bento boxes due to undeclared wheat and eggs. The products were sold in several states, including Ohio, Kentucky, and Tennessee.
  • Snack Mix Allergen Risks: On March 20, Las Ollas brand “Botana Mix Snacks and Delights” were recalled due to undeclared sesame, soy, wheat, and artificial food coloring. The product was sold in Texas.
  • Undeclared Allergens in Biscuits and Wafers: ZB Importing LLC recalled Ulker brand snack rolls, biscuits, and wafers on March 18 due to undeclared wheat, egg, and milk allergens. These products were sold in Canada and more than 30 U.S. states.
  • Milk in Dark Chocolate Snacks: On March 21, Kayco recalled Glicks brand “Dark Chocolate Conettos” due to an undeclared milk allergen. The recall primarily affected consumers in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.
  • Frozen Supplemental Shakes Linked to Listeria Outbreak: On March 23, the FDA issued a recall for ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial brand frozen supplemental shakes, produced by Lyons Magnus, due to possible listeria contamination. This outbreak has reportedly caused 38 illnesses and 11 deaths.
  • Caesar Wraps with Undeclared Anchovy: FSIS announced a recall on March 23 for over 300 pounds of ready-to-eat chicken caesar wraps from LPK1. These products, sold in vending machines at Washington state office buildings, contained undeclared anchovy.

Public Response and Company Statements

The FDA addressed the listeria-related recall of supplemental shakes on social media, providing updates on the outbreak investigation. Meanwhile, Lyons Magnus issued a statement expressing concern for consumer safety and detailing immediate actions taken to halt distribution from the affected facility.

Looking Ahead

Food recalls are an ongoing occurrence, with new alerts being issued regularly. Consumers are encouraged to check the FDA and USDA websites for the latest updates. If a recalled product is found in your home, it should be returned or discarded immediately. The FDA emphasizes its commitment to working with food producers to ensure public safety, using both voluntary and mandatory recall procedures when necessary .

Lailyah Duncan

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