Over 140,000 Pounds of Deli Meat Recalled Nationwide—Here’s What to Know - EatingWell

Active Recall: Approximately 143,416 Pounds of Ready-to-Eat Bologna

The United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has announced an active recall of approximately 143,416 pounds of ready-to-eat bologna due to misbranding on multiple products. The recall affects a significant quantity of food products sold across various retailers and restaurants.

What is the Reason for the Recall?

The main reason for the recall is the presence of misbranded labeling on the affected products. According to the FSIS, some labels on the bologna products were not in compliance with federal regulations. Specifically, the labels did not meet the requirements set forth by the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service, which are designed to ensure that meat products are accurately labeled and presented to consumers.

Impact of the Recall

The recall of approximately 143,416 pounds of ready-to-eat bologna has significant implications for consumers, retailers, and food manufacturers. The affected products were sold in various states across the country, including California, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Michigan, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.

Product Description

The recalled bologna products are specifically labeled as "Bella's Italian Style Bologna" or "Bella's Classic Bologna." They were packaged in vacuum-sealed bags or plastic containers and had a product code range of 2020-2023. The affected products can be found in various forms, including sliced meats, chopped bologna, and ready-to-eat bologna.

Risk Associated with the Recall

Consumers who have purchased the recalled bologna products are at risk of foodborne illness due to the potential presence of misbranded labeling on the packaging. Inadequate labeling can lead to a lack of understanding about the product's ingredients, handling procedures, and storage requirements, which can compromise food safety.

Recommendations for Affected Consumers

If you have purchased any of the recalled bologna products, it is essential to take immediate action to protect your health and safety. Here are some recommendations:

• Discard the Product: Immediately discard any recalled bologna product that has not been frozen at 0°F (-18°C) or below.
• Check for Other Recalls: Check the USDA's website for any other recalls affecting products sold in your area.
• Consult with Your Healthcare Provider: If you have concerns about foodborne illness or suspect you may have consumed a recalled product, consult with your healthcare provider immediately.

Recommendations for Retailers and Food Manufacturers

Retailers and food manufacturers who have received the recalled bologna products must take proactive steps to address this issue. Here are some recommendations:

• Return the Products: Immediately return all recalled products to the supplier or manufacturer.
• Conduct a Safety Inspection: Conduct a thorough safety inspection of your facilities, equipment, and products to ensure compliance with federal regulations.
• Communicate with Consumers: Inform consumers about the recall and provide guidance on how to handle the affected products.

Conclusion

The active recall of approximately 143,416 pounds of ready-to-eat bologna is a significant food safety concern that requires immediate attention from consumers, retailers, and food manufacturers. By taking proactive steps to address this issue, we can minimize the risk of foodborne illness and ensure that food products are accurately labeled and presented to consumers.

Key Takeaways

• Misbranding: The recall affects products with misbranded labeling on multiple forms.
• Quantity: Approximately 143,416 pounds of ready-to-eat bologna were affected by the recall.
• States Affected: Products were sold in various states across the country.
• Risk: Consumers are at risk of foodborne illness due to potential misbranding on packaging.
• Recommendations: Discard recalled products, check for other recalls, and consult with healthcare providers if necessary.

Next Steps

The USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary. If you have any questions or concerns about this recall, please contact your local FSIS office or the company that supplied the affected product.