In the news

The FDA and the CDC continue their investigation into the Cronobacter sakazakii outbreak in infant formula. produced by Abbott Nutrition in Sturgis, Michigan. The investigation revealed that all ill patients consumed powdered infant formula produced in Abbott’s facility in Sturgis, Michigan. Currently, there are four hospitalizations with two death connected to this outbreak (MN (1), OH (2), TX (1)). Salmonella Newport, which was initially part of the investigation, was removed. It appears not to be related to infant formula products currently under recall. At this time, local and state health authorities don’t need to report infections from Cronobacter. Stop Foodborne Illness (STOP) demands that the FDA and CDC add the Cronobacter sakazakii to the Nationally Notifiable Disease List. https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/fda-investigation-cronobacter-infections-powdered-infant-formula-february-2022?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

The CDC, public health and regulatory officials in several states, and the FDA investigated a multistate outbreak of E. coli O157:H7. Epidemiologic and traceback data showed that Simple Truth Organic brand and Nature’s Basket brand Organic Power Greens where the cause of the infection. As of March 3, 2022, this outbreak is over. A total of 10 people infected with the outbreak strain of E. coli O157:H7 were reported from four states (Alaska (2), Ohio (1), Oregon (1), and Washington (6)). WGS showed that bacteria from sick people’s samples were closely related genetically. WGS showed that this outbreak strain is similar to strains that have previously caused outbreaks linked to consumption of romaine lettuce. @ https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/2021/o157h7-12-21/details.html

March 4, 2022– The USDAFSIS reported that Boyd Specialties, LLC (Colton, California) recalled approximately 1,634 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) jerky products that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. The multiple jerky products were produced on February 23, 2022. These items were shipped to retail locations in Alabama, California, Connecticut, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Texas. FSIS discovered the problem during follow-up procedures after a routine FSIS product sample confirmed positive for Listeria monocytogenes. There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to the consumption of these products. @ https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/boyd-specialties-llc-recalls-jerky-products-due-possible-listeria-contamination

March 03, 2022- The FDA finalized guidance to help companies quickly and effectively remove recalled products from the market. The guidance describes steps companies should take before a recall is necessary, to develop recall policies and procedures that include training, planning, and record-keeping to reduce the time a recalled product is on the market and, thus, limit the public’s exposure to risk. A recalling company may act on its own initiative, or the FDA may inform the company that a distributed product violates the law and recommends recalling it. The FDA has the authority to require recalls. Because recalls can affect the entire supply chain, including downstream suppliers, wholesalers, or vendors, the FDA recommends that companies develop recall procedures to inform their entire distribution chain quickly. As a result, consignees can rapidly identify affected lots and recall downstream products when necessary.  @ https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-urges-companies-be-recall-ready-protect-public-health-part-final-guidance-voluntary-recalls?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery