Thousands of Pounds of Meat Products Recalled Over Allergic Reaction Fears

According to News Week, Several thousand pounds of meat products have been recalled due to potential contamination with undeclared allergens. Tu Gusto, LLC, based in Florida, has initiated a recall of approximately 7,630 pounds of frozen meat and poultry croquette products that may contain soy, sesame seed, and wheat allergens, as announced by the U.S. Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).

Details of the Recall

The affected products were produced between April and October 2024 and were distributed to retail stores and restaurants in Florida and Texas. The specific items subject to the recall include:

• 32-oz. box containing “A TU GUSTO PALADAR POLLO (CHICKEN) CROQUETAS (CROQUETTES).”
• 32-oz. box containing “A TU GUSTO PALADAR CHORIZO (SAUSAGE) CROQUETAS (CROQUETTES).”
• 32-oz. box containing “A TU GUSTO PALADAR PESCADO (FISH) CROQUETAS (CROQUETTES).”
• 32-oz. box containing “A TU GUSTO PALADAR JAMON (HAM) CROQUETAS (CROQUETTES).”

Origin of the Issue

The recall was prompted during FSIS surveillance activities at a retail location, where discrepancies in labeling were identified. An investigation revealed that the products originated from a facility lacking an FSIS inspection grant and bore undeclared allergens on their labels. As a result, these items were manufactured without proper FSIS inspection and were inaccurately labeled.

According to the FSIS, “The products subject to recall bear a USDA mark of inspection, containing the establishment number ‘EST. 11154,’ which was wrongly used by the recalling firm. The plant associated with ‘11154’ had no knowledge it was being used by the recalling firm.”

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Consumer Safety Advisory

Consumers who have purchased the recalled products are urged not to consume them and to dispose of them immediately. Undeclared allergens can lead to severe allergic reactions, as there are nine major allergens recognized by food authorities: milk, soybeans, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and sesame. All of these must be declared on food packaging as mandated by the FSIS and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Symptoms of food allergy reactions can range from mild to severe, including hives, rashes, swelling, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and respiratory issues such as coughing or wheezing. In extreme cases, allergic reactions can escalate to anaphylaxis, which may involve swelling of the throat, difficulty breathing, and loss of consciousness.

What to Do if You Experience Symptoms

If you experience illness due to an undeclared allergen in a food product, it’s crucial to seek medical help to address your symptoms and ensure your safety. Darin Detwiler, a professor of food policy and corporate social responsibility at Northeastern University, recommends notifying the FDA and local health departments about your illness or allergic reaction, which can help prevent others from becoming ill.

Detwiler also advises consumers to retain the packaging and any remaining product, as this information can be vital for any investigation and potential legal action.