Created on Thursday, 09 April 2009 15:09
Contact: Collette DuValle, 317-373-2391
STATE HEALTH OFFICIALS WARN HOOSIERS OF PISTACHIO PRODUCT RECALLS
INDIANAPOLIS – The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the California Department of Public Health are investigating Salmonella contamination in pistachio products sold by Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella Inc, California.
The FDA is working closely with the pistachio industry and recommends consumers avoid eating pistachio products until further information is available about the scope of affected products. A searchable database of recalled products can be found at: www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/pistachiorecall/index.cfm
Most people infected with Salmonella develop diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps 12 to 72 hours after infection. The illness usually lasts four to seven days. Although most people recover without treatment, severe infections may occur. Infants, elderly persons, and those with impaired immune systems are more likely than others to develop severe illness.
According to the FDA, the company has issued a voluntary recall involving approximately 1 million pounds of its products. Because the pistachios were used as ingredients in a variety of foods, it is likely this recall will impact many products. In addition, the investigation at the company is ongoing and may lead to additional pistachio product recalls.
The FDA reports contamination involves multiple strains of Salmonella. Thus far, several illnesses have been reported by consumers that may be associated with the pistachios. It is not yet known whether any of the Salmonella strains found in the pistachio products are linked to an outbreak. The FDA is conducting genetic testing of the samples to pursue all links.
To date, there are 77 products on the FDA recall list, including ice cream products, pistachio products, and snack food products. For information about Salmonella and the current recall, go to www.statehealth.in.gov
