Pesticide Residues in Food Do Not Tell the Full Story on Hazards and the Importance of Organic – Beyond Pesticides
Posted: May 5, 2024 at 2:39 am
(Beyond Pesticides, May 1, 2024) According to a new analysis by Consumer Reports, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Pesticide Data Program (PDP) Annual Summary has once again failed to accurately portray the safety of some of the most commonly sold fruits and vegetables in the United States. A review of seven years of PDP data show that 20% of the foods tested pose a high risk to the public and 12 specific commodities are so dangerous that children or pregnant people should not eat more than one serving per day, according to Consumer Reports analysis. Consumer Reports contend that U.S. Environmental Protection (EPA) pesticide residue tolerances are too lenient. To better evaluate potential health risks associated with various foods, Consumer Reports applied stricter residue limits than the EPA tolerances (see here for CRs analytical methodology). Notably, USDA certified organic food products are not permitted to be produced with the pesticides identified by the report. Pesticide residues found in organic, with rare exception, are a function of the off-target chemical-intensive agriculture pollution through pesticide drift, water contamination, or background soil residues.
The Consumer Reports results fly in the face of the rosy outlook reported by the USDA in its 2022 PDP Annual Summary, which found that 99% of the fruits and vegetables the agency tested had residues below the established [EPA] tolerances. Agencies typically point to acceptable or legal residues as protective of health and the environment, despite potential adverse effects associated with inadequate assessment of health outcomes, such as endocrine disruption, vulnerable population groups, exposure to mixtures and synergistic interactions, and more.
Beyond Pesticides reported in February that EPAs methodology for calculating acceptable levels of pesticides in food has long been criticized as inadequate. Scientists at Consumer Reports note that EPAs calculations of tolerable levels of pesticides in food are at least 10 times higher than they should be to adequately ensure the health and safety of the public and the countrys ecosystems. According to Consumer Reports, EPA has never applied the tenfold safety factor to certain pesticides required as by the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996 to protect vulnerable populations. [Readers and the public can reference Beyond Pesticides database Eating with a Conscience, which identifies the multiple pesticides that can be used on individual crops and the resulting exposures not only to consumers, but to farmworkers, farmers, neighboring communities, and the environment.]
Michael Hansen, PhD, senior scientist at Consumer Reports, states, The way the EPA assesses pesticide risk doesnt reflect cutting-edge science and cant account for all the ways the chemicals might affect peoples health, especially given that people are often exposed to multiple pesticides at a time.
To ensure the most up-to-date information, the list of pesticides to which the tenfold safety factor is applied by Consumer Reports is based on the latest scientific findings in the Endocrine Disruption Exchange, a database maintained by TEDX, a nonprofit research institute that uses publicly available scientific research to identify chemicals with at least one study demonstrating endocrine-disrupting properties. The tenfold safety factor is also applied by Consumer Reports to the list of endocrine disruptors identified by the European Commission. Consumer Reports analysis not only applies the tenfold safety factor to appropriate chemicals, but it also calculates the relative risk of each food based on the average amount, frequency, and number of pesticide residues found on each food type, and the relative potential of the pesticide to negatively affect human health. Together, this information was used to develop a ranking system from Very Low Risk to Very High Risk.
Of the 59 fruits and vegetables included in the analysis, which includes data from 2016-2024, 22 foods are identified as Moderate Risk or higher, including seven that were Very High Risk. This is based on data analyzed from nearly 30,000 samples taken between 2016-2024. With this methodology, it is advisable that some people limit their food consumption to no more than one-half serving per day for many commonly eaten vegetables, such as bell peppers, blueberries, potatoes, and strawberries.
Watermelon and green beans were identified as some of the highest risk foods. Watermelon carries a small but serious risk of contamination with oxamyl, a highly toxic insecticide. [See Beyond Pesticides Gateway on Pesticides here]. Similarly, while only four percent of domestically grown green beans from chemical-intensive agriculture tested positive for the insecticide acephate or one of its breakdown products, the levels found were up to 100 times higher than considered acceptable by Consumer Reports scientists. Perhaps more alarming is the fact that acephate has been illegal for use in green bean cultivation since 2011. (See here for Beyond Pesticides coverage.)
Consumer Reports analysis highlights the inadequacy of the PDP to adequately convey the potentially serious impacts of continuing to use toxic pesticides in the production of food. Beyond Pesticides has reported on the misleading nature of the PDP annual summary and how certain mainstream organizations, such as Blue Book Services/Produce, cover the annual update by reinforcing USDAs depiction of pesticide exposure in produce as safe.
USDAs PDP and EPAs risk assessment measures fail to account for vulnerable subpopulations, such as farmworkers, people with compromised health or preexisting health conditions, and children (see here and here). Beyond the residues of pesticides in and on food, exposure to pesticides used in crop production results in disproportionate risk and harm to farmworkers, their families (including children who are working as farmworkers), and fence line communities living near farms. [See here for coverage of a January 2024 report led by Nathan Donley, PhD, environmental health science director at the Center for Biological Diversity and Robert Bullard, PhD, executive director of the Robert D. Bullard Center for Environmental and Climate Justice at Texas Southern University in Houston].
Similarly, the PDP Annual Report also fails to adequately promote the benefits of organically grown produce. Consumer Reports found that nearly all organically grown food tested had low or very low pesticide risk and only spinach and potatoes posed a moderate risk among domestically grown varieties. Beyond Pesticides notes, organic food products have been found to have zero contact with pesticides unless due to pesticide drift from other farming operations.
Consumer Reports first began reviewing PDP data and presenting its own analysis in 2020. Since then, it has recommended that the public eat an organic diet whenever possible and has advocated for change in how pesticides are used and regulated. Not only is the production of organic food better for human health and the environment than chemical-intensive production, but emerging science reveals also what organic advocates have been saying for a long timein addition to lacking the toxic residues of conventional foods, organic food is more nutritious.
A study published by The Organic Center reveals that organic food is higher in certain key areas, such as total antioxidant capacity, total polyphenols, and two key flavonoids, quercetin and kaempferol, all of which are nutritionally significant (read a summary in the Beyond Pesticides Daily News Blog). Another study published in the Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry looked specifically at the total phenolic content of marionberries, strawberries, and corn, and found that organically grown products contained higher total phenolics. Phenolics are important for plant health (defense against insects and diseases), and human health for their potent antioxidant activity and wide range of pharmacologic properties including anticancer, antioxidant, and platelet aggregation inhibition activity. For more on the health benefits of organic agriculture, see here.
Organic agricultural practices, which reject the use of harmful pesticides, are capable of the benefits the Rodale Institute Farming Systems Trial is demonstrating. Not only does organic food remove the risk of ingesting toxic chemicals, it eliminates the risk posed to farmworkers and the environment. Such practices protect human and animal health, and support functional ecosystems and biodiversity. Widespread adoption of organic and certified organic regenerative agriculture can also lift human agro-activity out of its current chemical dead-end. The public has an important role to play in this transition: learn more about organic agriculture, advocate for it, and vote for organics by creating market demand for organic food.
All unattributed positions and opinions in this piece are those of Beyond Pesticides.
Sources:
Produce Without Pesticides, Consumer Reports, April 18, 2024 6 Fruits and Vegetables Loaded With Pesticides, Consumer Reports, April 18, 2024 Consumer Reports recently conducted its most comprehensive review of pesticides in 59 US fruits and vegetables, The Guardian, April 18, 2024 Healthy or high risk? New analysis warns of pesticide residues on some fruits and veggies, New Lede, April 18, 2024 Agricultural Justice, Beyond Pesticides website Gateway on Pesticide Hazards and Safe Pest Management, Beyond Pesticides website
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Outbreak of E. coli linked to organic walnuts – Coast News
Posted: at 2:39 am
REGION A multi-state food safety alert was issued Wednesday for an E. coli outbreak possibly linked to halves and pieces of organic walnuts sold in bulk bins at natural food stores and food co-ops in Southern California and elsewhere.
The Gibson Farms walnut pieces were distributed at stores in cities including Carlsbad, Encinitas, Escondido, San Diego, San Marcos and Vista, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The walnuts have expiration dates between May 21, 2025, and June 7, 2025.
So far, 12 people have reported possible E. coli illnesses and seven hospitalizations in California and Washington, the CDC said. Gibson Farms, based in Hollister, has initiated a product recall, the public health agency said.
The walnuts were sold in at least 19 western states.
The CDC said almost all the sick people reported purchasing the organic walnuts from bulk bins in food co-ops or natural food stores.
Local stores affected include:
A list of all affected stores is available at fda.gov/media/178182/download?attachment.
Continued here:
Organic Cheese Market to Reach $16,302.2 Million, Globally, – GlobeNewswire
Posted: at 2:39 am
Wilmington, Delaware, May 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled,Organic Cheese Market By Type (Cheddar, Mozzarella, Swiss, Parmesan, Feta, and Others),Form (Slice, Blocks, Cubes, Spreads, and Others), andDistribution Channel (Retail Distribution, Food Service Outlets, Food Processing Companies, and Clubs): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032.According to the report, the globalOrganic cheese marketgenerated $7.3 Billion in 2022 and is anticipated to generate $16.3 Billion by 2032, witnessing a CAGR of 8.5% from 2023 to 2032.
Download PDF Brochure: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/A15492
Prime determinants of growth
The organic cheese market has experienced robust growth driven by several key factors. Increasing consumer awareness and preferences for healthier and sustainable food choices have led to surge in demand for organic products, including cheese. Consumers are increasingly concerned about the use of synthetic chemicals, hormones, and antibiotics in conventional dairy farming, prompting a shift towards organic alternatives. In addition, the growing trend of adopting environmentally friendly and ethical practices has further fueled the organic cheese market. Consumers are increasingly valuing products that prioritize animal welfare, sustainable farming methods, and minimal environmental impact.
Rise of specialty and gourmet food trends has also contributed to the growth of the organic cheese market. Discerning consumers seeking unique and high-quality flavors are drawn to the diverse range of organic cheese options available. Furthermore, regulatory support and certifications for organic farming and production have bolstered consumer confidence in the authenticity and quality of organic cheese products. As a result, both established and emerging players in the food industry are expanding their organic cheese offerings to capitalize on this burgeoning market, fostering its sustained growth.
Report coverage & details:
The cheddar segment to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period
By type, thecheddarsegment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for one-third of the global organic cheese market revenue, and is estimated to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period. Demand for organic cheese is increasing due to growing consumer awareness and health concerns. Consumers are increasingly aware of the environmental and health benefits of organic cheese, which is driving demand for these products. Hence, these factors are fueling the cheddar segment in the organic cheese market. However, the others segment is projected to attainthe highest CAGR of 9.0% from 2023 to 2032.
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The slice segment to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period
By form, the slice segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for more than one-third of the global organic cheese market revenue, and is estimated to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period.The demand for the slice segment in the organic cheese market is rising due to its convenience and versatility. Organic cheese slices provide consumers with a convenient and easy-to-use option for sandwiches, burgers, and snacks. The pre-sliced format eliminates the need for additional preparation, making it a popular choice for busy individuals. However, the others segment is projected to attain the highest CAGR of 9.6% from 2023 to 2032.
The retail distribution segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period.
Bydistribution channel, theretail distributionsegment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for nearly two-third of the global organic cheese market revenue, and is estimated to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period.The demand for retail distribution in the organic cheese market is rising due to increased consumer accessibility and convenience. Retail channels, such as supermarkets, specialty stores, and organic food stores, provide a one-stop shopping experience, making it easier for consumers to access a variety of organic cheese options. However, theclubssegment is projected to attain the highest CAGR of 9.9% from 2023 to 2032.
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Europe to maintain its dominance by 2032
Region-wise, Europe held the highest market share in terms of revenue in 2022, accounting for more than one third of the global organic cheese market revenue.The demand for organic cheese in Europe is rising due to a combination of factors. European consumers exhibit a strong preference for organic and sustainable food options, driven by heightened awareness of health and environmental concerns. Stringent organic farming regulations and certifications within the European Union assure consumers of the authenticity and quality of organic products.In addition, the LAMEA region is also expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 9.7% from 2023 to 2032 and is likely to dominate the market during the forecast period.
Leading Market Players: -
The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the global Organic cheese market. These players have adopted different strategies such as new product launches, collaborations, expansion, joint ventures, agreements, and others to increase their market share and maintain dominant shares in different regions. The report is valuable in highlighting business performance, operating segments, Distribution Channel portfolio, and strategic moves of market players to showcase the competitive scenario.
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Organic Cheese Market to Reach $16,302.2 Million, Globally, - GlobeNewswire
Organic bulk walnuts sold in natural food stores tied to dangerous E. coli outbreak – El Paso Inc.
Posted: at 2:39 am
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Organic bulk walnuts sold in natural food stores tied to dangerous E. coli outbreak - El Paso Inc.
Earthbound Farm adds five salad kits, Limited Harvest Wild Red Arugula blend – Produce Blue Book
Posted: at 2:39 am
SALINAS, CALIFORNIA (May 2, 2024) Earthbound Farm BB #:154001, the largest U.S. farmer and producer of organic salads, is celebrating 40 years of organic farming with new offerings including its line of Organic Salad Kits featuring dressings made with 100% organic avocado oil and its Limited Harvest Wild Red Arugula blend. These new products will augment Earthbound Farms portfolio with additional fresh, flavorful, and healthy options for consumers to grow the salad category.
Avocado oil is growing in popularity and consumers are increasingly seeking healthier oils for their salad dressings. These flavorful kits will address consumers desires for healthier dressing options while also providing smaller format organic kits to accommodate evolving consumption occasions. In addition to the use of organic avocado oil, Earthbound Farms Organic Salad Kits feature a variety of fresh ingredients including crisp greens, colorful vegetables, and premium toppings. Each single-serve salad kit is curated to provide a delicious and satisfying experience, perfect for busy individuals and families alike who are looking for convenient meal options without compromising on taste or nutrition. They come in a diverse array of flavors and textures such as a smoky Chipotle Ranch, sweet Golden Balsamic, creamy Truffle Caesar and more.
Our five NEW Organic Salad Kits with avocado oil dressings include:
These new Earthbound Farm products will be available at select grocery stores in May with a nationwide expansion throughout the remainder of 2024.
At Earthbound Farm, were always looking for innovative ways to offer the freshest, most appetizing organic produce options available, said Jenny Panziera, Director of Product for Organic and Earthbound Farm. This new line of salad kits was intentionally crafted to deliver a delightful blend of flavors and textures with the added benefit of dressings made with pure organic avocado oil, providing consumers with convenient, nutritious meal solutions.
Our next new product is the Earthbound Farm Limited Harvest Wild Red Arugula. This premium variety is unique to Earthbound Farm and offers consumers a spicy, bold, and peppery flavor profile with distinct red veining. The packaging design honors Earthbound Farms first salad bags that helped expand access to fresh organic greens nationwide.
This limited harvest item joins our robust portfolio of organic greens and will be available May 2024-October 2024.
Earthbound Farms first package (left) inspired its most recent Limited Harvest package (right)
We are proud of Earthbound Farms pioneering spirit and impact over these 40 years, said T. Bruce Taylor, Vice President of Organic and CEA for Taylor Farms. Today, were excited to continue to lead with flavorful products and sustainable farming practices that encourage more consumption of healthy, fresh produce.
ABOUT EARTHBOUND FARM
Earthbound Farm is North Americas largest grower and packer of organic fresh vegetables. Earthbound Farm is passionate about increasing access to organic produce while remaining grounded in a commitment to quality, innovation, sustainability, and food safety. Earthbound Farm is family-and farmer-owned and based in The Salad Bowl of the World, Salinas, California. For more information, delicious recipes, and more, visitwww.earthboundfarm.comand follow Earthbound Farm onInstagram,Facebook,andTikTok.
Originally posted here:
Earthbound Farm adds five salad kits, Limited Harvest Wild Red Arugula blend - Produce Blue Book
Macadamia nuts from the slopes of Mt Kenya – Triodos Investment Management
Posted: at 2:39 am
Hivos-Triodos Fonds has provided a value chain loan to LIMBUA. This company processes and exports organically produced macadamia nuts, sourced from more than 9,000 smallholder farmers in Kenya. The loan allows LIMBUA to pay the farmers fairly and immediately upon delivery of their produce.
Market leader with local presence Since its foundation in 2009, LIMBUA has grown into one of the market leaders for organic macadamia nuts. The more than 9,000 smallholder farmers who deliver their produce to LIMBUA manage traditional agroforestry farms of one to two acres on the slopes of Mount Kenya, cultivating a mix of macadamia, avocado, mango and coffee trees.
The company has three local factories that process macadamia nuts and other smallholder products such as avocados and mangoes; the factories employ more than 800 people (FTE) of which 50% are women. Being located close to the farmers creates ownership among smallholder communities, reduces transport costs and helps preserve freshness and quality of the raw materials. Its innovative drying system and nut cracking system ensure high-quality nuts with low breakage ratios. LIMBUA aims to further green its operations by turning nut shells into biowaste and installing rooftop panels.
Access to premium markets LIMBUA has acquired the IFS and BRC Food Security certifications for the factories. The farmers base is certified under the standards of organic (EU-organic, NOP-organic and BioSuisse), Fair for life, ROC (organic regenerative certification) and Demeter (biodynamic). These certifications open up access to premium markets where consumers are willing to pay higher prices and promote long-term environmental sustainability, such as soil health and biodiversity conservation.
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Macadamia nuts from the slopes of Mt Kenya - Triodos Investment Management
Ourganic Farms Find Success Through Family Recipe for Sauerkraut – Shepherd Express
Posted: at 2:39 am
Brittany Kehl, who co-founded Ourganic Farms with her partner, Neal Zastrow, says their raw fermented sauerkraut became their signature product by accident.
Kehl uses organic and permaculture farming methods to grow heirloom tomatoes, peppers, asparagus, cabbage and fruit trees on Zastrows familys former dairy farm in Watertown. The couple also raises cattle and chickens. When Kehl first began selling her items at the Watertown Farmers Market four years ago, she didnt have much to offer beyond asparagus, eggs and seedlings.
Zastrow then suggested to Kehl that she take some of their sauerkraut to the market. Neal has been making sauerkraut for years from a family recipe that dates back to the 1800s. Its all fermented in stone crocks, Kehl says. It flew off the table the first week we introduced it at the market.
The couple soon expanded their line beyond their original recipe and developed other sauerkraut flavors: a Bavarian style caraway, Apple Cider & Fennel, and the one that became their biggest hitGarlic & Cracked Pepper.
Garlic and black peppercorn are the most commonly used spices in the world, Kehl says, and thus, those flavors pair well with many dishes. The fermentation process transforms flavors and adds complexity.
Sauerkraut and brats go hand-in-hand, but Kehl also suggests draining the sauerkraut and adding it to grilled cheese or any deli-style sandwich. It also makes a good salad topper. Some Ourganic Farms customers told her they drain it and use it to top pizza.
Its more than a condiment. We often just plop it on our plates and use it as a side dish, Kehl adds. While she doesnt make any health claims, fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi and pickles have gained popularity in recent years for their probiotic properties and acidic enzymes that help the body digest hard-to-break- down foods like red meat.
Humans have fermented foods since ancient times for flavor and natural preservation. Kehl notes that just about any food can be fermented, and as her garden grows, so does the Ourganic Farms product line. She has added canned items such as jalapeno peppers. She grows much of the cabbage for the sauerkraut and also sells cabbage seedlings at farmers markets. Her heirloom tomatoes include German Pink, a beefsteak-style variety known for a sweeter, lower acidic flavor.
Kehl primarily grows indeterminate heirloom tomatoes, which are varieties that grow tallsix feet or higherand produce through the first frost. (Determinant tomato plants tend to stay smaller and need little to no pruning.) She uses cattle panels as a trellis and trains the tomato vines to grow up the panels, which allows for better air and sun exposure.
Ourganic Farms has 29 fruit trees including peach, plum, apple and cherry. Kehl and Zastrow also raise cattle and chickens. They may add additional sauerkraut flavors including hotter productsKehl says many customers have requested more heatand will continue to build the vendor-customer relationships that foster in farmers market settings. You cant get that kind of personalized interaction through social media.
This summer, Ourganic Farms will rotate between the Lake Mills and Menomonee Falls markets on Wednesdays. Theyll be at the Oconomowoc Summer Farmers Market each Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon, and theyll also appear at the Beloit Farmers Market. Sauerkraut can be ordered online through ourganicfarmswi.com/buy-online and is available at local retailers in Watertown, Oconomowoc, Big Bend and Eagle. Kehl hopes to expand into Milwaukee retail markets in the near future.
I started as a fluke, but often beautiful things happen unexpectedly, Kehl concludes.
Sheila Julson is a freelance writer who enjoys capturing the stories behind Milwaukees happening food, beverage and urban farming scenes. She also pens articles about holistic health, green living, sustainability and human-interest features.
May 03, 2024
10:31 a.m.
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Ourganic Farms Find Success Through Family Recipe for Sauerkraut - Shepherd Express
Celebrating the best of Europe’s organic sector: Apply now to win the 2024 award! – European Union
Posted: at 2:39 am
With 2024 marking the third year of the EU Organic Awards, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) is urging businesses to put themselves forward for these prestigious prizes and take advantage of the growing interest across Europe in organic food and farming.
Since their establishment in 2022, the EU Organic Awards have offered operators in the sector a visibility platform to highlight excellence and innovation as the European Union looks to increase the amount of farmland under organic cultivation to 25 per cent by 2030.
The deadline for applications is 12 May 2024 and submissions can be made online via the EU Organic Awards website, through an easy to fill-in application form available in all EU languages.
The awards are organised by European Commission, with the EESC, the European Committee of the Regions, COPA-COGECA and IFOAM Organics Europe.
The EESC supervises the nomination, shortlisting and award process for three categories: best organic food processing SME, best organic food retailer and best organic restaurant/food service.
The EU Organic Awards give a recognition to the innovation, passion and dedication of those who truly champion organic food and production in the EU and bring it closer to everyday consumers, says EESC President Oliver Rpke.
Last years winners from the categories for which the EESC supervises have also joined forces to encourage businesses to seek recognition.
Kevin Scully, whose business The Merry Mill was awarded the prize for the best organic food processing SME, urged companies to nominate themselves: I recommend other businesses to apply for the Organic Awards because its very good for a companys profile and brings a great endorsement.
Paul Kolarik, head of Austrian eatery Kolarik im Prater that won the best organic restaurant award, said: Winning the Organic Awards generated great interest in our business from the national media. Thanks to the awards, new collaborations have also emerged and many political representatives became aware of our commitment to the organic and sustainability sector.
The 2023 winner of the best organic food retailer category was Gut Wulksfelde, whose manager Hauke Rsblt said: We believe that organic farming is the right path for the future of agriculture.
The awards ceremony takes place on 23 September 2024, which is the EU Organic Day. (ks)
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Celebrating the best of Europe's organic sector: Apply now to win the 2024 award! - European Union
Two Food Recalls: Gibson Farms Voluntarily Recalls Organic Light Halves and Pieces Shelled Walnuts and Sliced … – Prescott eNews
Posted: at 2:39 am
On 04/26/2024, Gibson Farms recalled Organic Light Halves and Pieces shelled walnuts because Gibson Farms received information that they may have the potential to be contaminated with E. Coli 0157:H7. E. coli O157:H7 causes a diarrheal illness often with bloody stools. Although most healthy adults can recover completely within a week, some people can develop a form of kidney failure called Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS). HUS is most likely to occur in young children and the elderly. The condition can lead to serious kidney damage and even death.
The Organic Light Halves and Pieces shelled walnuts were sold to distributors located in CA, WA, and AZ. Gibson Farms Organic Light Halves and Pieces shelled walnuts were sold in bulk boxes in Net Wt. 25 lbs. quantities and can be identified by lot 3325-043 & 3341-501 with expiration dates 5/21/25 & 6/7/25.
Gibson Farms, Inc. has voluntarily recalled the product(s) after being notified by the CDC of 12 recorded illnesses allegedly linked to the consumption of organic halves and pieces shelled walnuts. A full investigation is currently under way to determine the potential source of the contamination.
Gibson Farms requests consignees to hold and discontinue selling their existing stock of lot 3325-043 and lot 3341-501 and return any remaining inventory of the recalled products to our local warehouse Gibson Farms 1190 Buena Vista Rd Hollister Ca 95023.
Consumers with questions may contact the company at Veronica Cheatham 831-637-3512 or email foodsafety@gibsonfarmsinc.com8:30 am-4:40pm PST Monday through Friday
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ConSup North America Inc. recalled approximately 85,984 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) sliced prosciutto ham product produced in Germany without the benefit of equivalent inspection, the U.S. Department of Agricultures Food Safety, and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced on Wednesday, April 24, 2024.
The RTE sliced prosciutto ham item was produced on various dates from Sept. 25, 2023, through March 6, 2024. The following product is subject to recall [view labels]:
These items were shipped to retail locations nationwide.
The problem was discovered when Germanys Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety notified FSIS that H. Klmper GmbH & Co. KG, a Germany establishment, produced a portion of the identified lots without the benefit of equivalent inspection and exported them to the U.S. for distribution.
There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about a reaction should contact a healthcare provider.
Consumers who have purchased this product are urged not to consume it. This product should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase. Consumers with questions about the recall can contact Luann Servidio, Director of Imports, ConSup North America Inc., at 973-628-7330 or L.Servidio@consup.us.
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E. Coli outbreak linked to organic walnuts – Audacy
Posted: at 2:39 am
A multi-state food safety alert was issued Wednesday for an E. coli outbreak possibly linked to organic walnut halves and pieces sold in bulk bins at natural food stores and food co-ops in Southern California and elsewhere.
The Gibson Farms walnut pieces were distributed in Brentwood, Compton, Culver City and in San Diego County, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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The walnuts have expiration dates between May 21, 2025 and June 7, 2025.
So far, six people have reported possible E. coli illness in California, the CDC said. Gibson Farms, based in Hollister, has initiated a product recall, the public health agency said.
The CDC said almost all the sick people reported purchasing the organic walnuts from bulk bins in food co-ops or natural food stores.
A list of affected stores is available at fda.gov/media/178182/download?attachment.
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