The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated the recall of several seasoning products to a Class I status, the most severe level, after reports of potential salmonella contamination from manufacturers Newly Weds Foods and Kerry, Inc.

Recall Details

On May 2, Newly Weds Foods, a Chicago-based company, initiated a recall for 4,685 lbs of its Steak and Burger Seasoning products, packaged in 5lb cases, distributed in Florida, Illinois, and Texas. The following day, Wisconsin-headquartered Kerry, Inc. recalled several of its seasoning products, including 77 bags of Cheddar & Sour Cream seasoning and 13,341 bags of Sun Nat HV Cheddar #3 seasoning. These products were distributed across Arizona, California, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Maryland, and Canada.

Affected Products and Lot Numbers

Newly Weds Foods:

• Product: Steak and Burger Seasoning
• Lot Number: MS330883

Kerry, Inc.:

• Cheddar and Sour Cream Seasoning: Lot numbers 8092105, 8127605, 8091886
• Sun Nat HV Cheddar #3 Seasoning: Lot numbers 7913195, 7922168, 7930265, 7930281, 7930294, 7978577, 7982626, 7984670, 7984677, 7989993, 7989997, 7990004

Health Risks

Salmonella bacteria, commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals, can contaminate food through contact with animal feces. This contamination is often associated with raw meat, poultry, seafood, raw or undercooked eggs, and unpasteurized dairy products. Consuming salmonella-contaminated products can lead to salmonellosis, a gastrointestinal illness.

Symptoms of Salmonellosis:

• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Abdominal cramps
• In severe cases: aches, headaches, lethargy, blood in urine and stool, and potentially death

Most people develop symptoms between 12 and 72 hours after infection and recover without treatment within four to seven days. However, salmonellosis can be more severe in some cases, requiring medical attention. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 450 Americans die annually from acute salmonellosis.

FDA Classification

The FDA has classified this recall as Class I, indicating a “reasonable probability” that the consumption of these products could cause serious adverse health consequences or death. This classification underscores the urgency of the recall and the importance of avoiding these products.

Actions for Consumers

Consumers who have purchased the affected products should check the lot numbers and return any contaminated items to the place of purchase for a full refund. If you suspect you have consumed contaminated products and are experiencing symptoms of salmonellosis, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

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