Thousands of pizza and focaccia breads recalled in US over metal contamination

Thousands of ready-to-eat pizza and focaccia products distributed across 10 US states have been recalled over potential metal contamination, according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). No injuries have been reported in connection with the recall.

North Carolina-based Bakkavor voluntarily initiated the recall on 19 January after identifying an issue linked to slow-roasted tomatoes supplied by an ingredient vendor. The FDA later classified the action as a Class II recall, meaning “use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.”

Around 23,459 cases of roasted tomato and Parmesan focaccia bread have been affected. These products were sold under several retail brands, including Frederik’s by Meijer, Harris Teeter, Trader Joe’s and Fresh & Simple.

An additional 2,337 cases of HelloFresh Basil Pesto and Mozzarella Pizza – each containing 15 packages – were also recalled. According to an FDA notice, the products were withdrawn due to “metal fragments in bread”.

Other impacted lines include Frederik’s by Meijer Slow-Roasted Tomato & Shredded Parmesan Cheese Focaccia Bread, Fresh & Simple Roasted Tomato & Parmesan Focaccia sold by Food Lion, and Trader Joe’s Focaccia Bread with Roasted Tomato & Parmesan.

The recall affects four pizza lot numbers and more than a dozen focaccia bread lot numbers, with use-by dates ranging from 27 April to 15 October. The FDA has published a full list of affected products here.

Distribution spans Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Michigan, North Carolina, New Jersey, Texas and Virginia, with some products shipped directly to consumers through HelloFresh meal kits.

Consumers are advised to dispose of the affected products or return them to the place of purchase for a refund.