Recall Roundup: Spotlight on pathogens

Pathogens

In the US, UBC Food Distributors is recalling ground black pepper that is sold under the Baraka brand name as certain batched of this product have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

The recalled product comes in 7oz plastic containers with a UPC code of 8 22514 26626 6. The expiration date to look out for is 6 January 2026.

Products being recalled were distributed across the US to retail stores. The company has claimed that there have been “no illnesses” reported to date in relation to this matter.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has updated consumers via its website that production of the ground black pepper has been suspended during the investigation.

Advice to consumers states that those who have purchased the recalled product should return it to the store of purchase for a full refund.

Calls made for actionable steps to combat the rising threat of antimicrobial resistance

Meanwhile, elsewhere in the US, Fresh Start Produce Sales Inc has announced that is recalling whole cucumbers that were shipped to a select few states as they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

The whole cucumbers were shipped between 17 May and 21 May 2024 and were shipped in bulk cartons directly to distribution centers, wholesalers, and food service distributors in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.

Consumers should look out for whole cucumbers that are “dark green, approximately 1.5 – 2.0 inches in diameter, and 5-9 inches long”. The company has highlighted that both mini cucumbers and English cucumbers are not included in this recall.

Consumers have been advised that, although these cucumbers are “unlikely in the marketplace”, anyone that is in possession of one should “not consume it and should destroy it and discard it”. Alternatively consumers can return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.