In the news

A study conducted by Consumer Reports and published in the J. Food Protection was undertaken to determine the incidence of L. monocytogenes in counter-sliced turkey deli meat obtained from independent delis in New York City. Turkey deli meat, counter-sliced on-site, was collected from 118 independent delis in NYC. Two samples from separate delis were confirmed positive for L. monocytogenes (1.69%). Both isolates were obtained from delis that did not have the top inspection grade. Genomic sequences of one of the samples revealed a close match to a cluster of 6 clinical isolates, which were part of the ongoing multi-state listeriosis outbreak in 4 different states.  This study suggests that these delis can potentially serve as L. monocytogenes contamination sources or contribute to downstream foodborne listeriosis. Small and independent delis are less likely to follow proper sanitation procedures, including slicer inspection, leading to a higher likelihood of these delis being a reservoir for Listeria monocytogenes growth and cross-contamination.    @ https://meridian.allenpress.com/jfp/article-abstract/doi/10.4315/JFP-20-335/448196/Occurrence-of-Listeria-monocytogenes-in-Counter?redirectedFrom=fulltext

The FDA announced on its website that Dole Fresh Vegetables, Inc. voluntarily recalls a limited number of cases of organic romaine hearts. The recall is being conducted due to a possible risk from E. coli in Dole™ Organic Romaine Hearts 3pk, and Wild Harvest Organic Romaine Hearts 12oz bag. No illnesses have been reported to date in association with the recall. The products were distributed in AZ, HI, IA, IL, IN, KS, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, and VA. The products were harvested and packed nearly four weeks ago and should no longer be in commerce.  An isolated package of Dole™ Organic Romaine Hearts – 3pk yielded a positive result for pathogenic non-O157 E.coli STEC in a routine sample collected at a retail store by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. @ https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/dole-fresh-vegetables-announces-limited-recall-organic-romaine-hearts

The CFIA announced that My Grandfather’s Farm in Westville, Nova Scotia recalled My Grandfather’s Farm brand Pumpkin Pie Jam from the marketplace because it may allow Clostridium botulinum growth. This recall was triggered by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) test results. There have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of this product. The recalled products come in 250-milliliter jars and do not have a UPC number. The labels on the affected products are dated Sep. 10, 2020. @ https://www.inspection.gc.ca/food-recall-warnings-and-allergy-alerts/2020-11-20/eng/1605894173720/1605894179669

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency announced the recall of Thornloe White Cheese Curds due to generic E. coli. The presence of E. coli contamination can result in risks of Gram-negative bacterial infection. The Ontario establishment recalled certain lots of Cheddar White Cheese Curds, Dill White Cheese Curds, Caramelized Onion White Cheese Curds, and Herb & Garlic White Cheese Curds. @ https://healthycanadians.gc.ca/recall-alert-rappel-avis/inspection/2020/74377r-eng.php