Following confirmation from regulators of a positive test for salmonella on curly parsley in Quebec and cilantro in Detroit, J&D Produce Inc.is initiating a precautionary, voluntary recall of these two items packed Nov. 30-Dec. 6 and, to further ensure public health, additional produce commodities. There have been no reported

illnesses. 

             Salmonella is an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy people infected with salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.

             “It’s imperative to protect public health, even if that means being overzealous in expanding the scope of the products we’re calling back,” said James Bassetti, president of J&D Produce Inc. “We will work closely with regulators, health officials and our customers in bringing back the products.

             “Meanwhile, we’ve already implemented immediate measures to make sure we minimize the likelihood of this re-occurring.” For example, upon learning of the test in Quebec, Bassetti ordered the shut down of all production lines; re-sanitized the production lines; increased manual inspections; and implemented additional product rinse steps. Bassetti said he has also brought in outside consultants to review and advise the company on additional microbiological sampling and its food safety protocols.

             “We have a good track record, but we’ll bring our expectations and standards to even higher levels,” he said.

             The tests on the curly parsley and cilantro were conducted independently by regulators.  The two commodities were packed in the same facility on the same production line. Out of caution, Bassetti said, the company decided to include additional commodities processed from the same line.

             “We’re all seeing increased inspections by regulators and health officials here in the U.S. and Canada, and that’s positive because it helps further ensure public health,” Bassetti said. “We will do a better job, and we’ve already begun improving our systems.”

             It is possible that a small amount of product may have already been purchased by consumers, and anyone who has purchased any of the products with the expiration dates listed should dispose of the product or return it to the store where purchased for a full refund. For additional information, call 956.380.0353 or email us at QA@littlebearproduce.com.

 

             Products are packed under the Little Bear brand.

 

 

J&D PRODUCE ANNOUNCES PRECAUTIONARY,

VOLUNTARY RECALL OF FRESH GREENS