Health authorities have recently issued a critical walnut recall. Flagstone Foods, LLC, is recalling its 6.5oz Emerald Kettle Glazed Walnuts after undeclared peanuts, almonds, and pecans were found in the products. The recall targets packages with a best-of date of June 28, 2025.
This recall stems from consumer complaints received in Florida, although no injuries or illnesses have been reported to date. The presence of undeclared allergens poses a severe risk, particularly to individuals with nut allergies who may experience life-threatening reactions upon exposure.
Health officials stress the importance of consumers verifying their purchased walnut products against the recall advisory. Consumers are advised not to open the packages and instead to return them to where they were purchased, such as Publix, to receive a full refund.
#GibsonFarms #recalls walnuts due to possible #E. coli 0157:H7 contamination.
— California Department of Public Health (@CAPublicHealth) May 3, 2024
Additional Recalls Highlight Broader Issues
This recent walnut recall is not an isolated incident. In August, the FDA issued multiple recalls for various products, including cinnamon cookies and fish, typically due to undeclared allergens and potential contamination risks. Too Good Gourmet recently recalled Dunking Cookies Chocolate Chip due to undeclared milk, affecting multiple states.
“The recall was the result of routine sampling which revealed that the finished products contained the bacteria,” a press release issued on July 22 reads. “Stutz has ceased the production and distribution of this product as FDA and Stutz continue their investigation. No other sizes, varieties, or other packaging of Shelled Walnuts are included in this recall.”
North Fish USA Inc. recalled Cold Smoked Capelin due to possible Clostridium botulinum contamination, demonstrating the broad spectrum of food safety issues present in recent months. More alarmingly, a CDC investigation linked a listeria outbreak to Boar’s Head deli meat, resulting in 43 illnesses, 43 hospitalizations, and three deaths.
Walnut lovers should check their pantries after a voluntary recall was issued for Gibson Farms California shelled walnuts, organic light halves and pieces:https://t.co/hVdbjHyoVG
— KHON2 News (@KHONnews) May 1, 2024
Consumer Safety and Preventative Measures
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a Class I recall for Stutz Packing Company’s Shelled Walnuts due to Listeria monocytogenes contamination. This classification indicates a “reasonable probability” that the product could cause serious health consequences or death.
“These foodborne illnesses are dangerous in that they can have severe health impacts on people, including vomiting, diarrhea, fever and, in severe cases, brain infections and blood infections,” Michelle Anstey, a food safety expert from NSF, previously told Newsweek. “They can be especially dangerous for those who are immunocompromised, including pregnant women, children and older adults.”
The Stutz Packing Company recall affects two lot codes and distributed products across Arizona and Texas, totaling 2,538 cases. Listeria contamination was discovered through routine sampling, prompting immediate cessation of production and distribution.
Food safety remains a critical issue, underscored by ongoing recalls and contamination alerts. Consumers must remain vigilant, staying informed of the latest advisories and taking prompt action when necessary to safeguard their health.
