From: FDA-DIV. OF FED-STATE RELATIONS
[mailto:DFSR@ORA.FDA.GOV] RECALL - FIRM PRESS RELEASE Warren, Michigan May 18, 2004-Variety Foods Inc. is conducting a voluntary recall on its distribution of Natural Raw Whole Brown Almonds used in its Pic-A-Nut Brand and Sunray Food Brand. The products in question are Natural Raw Whole Brown Almonds, Cashew-Almond-Raisin Mix, Energy Mix, Fruity Nut Mix, Nutty Mix and Fitness Mix with the best before/code date of 8/4/04 through 5/31/05. The reason for the recall is because the possibility of salmonella contamination of the Natural Raw Whole Brown Almond. This recall does not affect roasted whole brown almonds, sliced or slivered almonds under the Pic-A-Nut or Sunray brand label. Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e, infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis. In light of a recent West Coast report one of the largest growers/shellers of almonds in California (Paramount Farms) announced a voluntary recall of Natural Raw Whole Brown Almonds. The reason Paramount Farms announced a voluntarily recall on Natural Raw Whole Brown Almonds is because of precautionary action after learning from the Food and Drug Administration that there are eighteen cases of illness from Salmonella Enteritis in Alaska, Arizona, Oregon, Washington and Utah. Also, one case has been reported in Michigan. Variety Foods Inc. purchases whole natural brown raw almonds from different growers/shellers from California for the purpose of rebagging the product under the Pic-A-Nut brand label and the Sunray Food brand label. During the time period in question, Variety Foods had purchased Natural Raw Whole Brown Almonds from Paramount Farms. Variety Foods Inc. having bought almonds from one of our shellers and growers (Paramount Farms) in California, is taking a proactive and aggressive approach to recovering the Natural Raw Whole Brown Almonds in the Pic-A-Nut and Sunray packaging. This is to assure our customers and consumers of the quality and safety of our products. We're working diligently with the FDA and state health officials to make sure that any product that has not yet been consumed is returned. Variety Foods Inc. distributes eighty percent of this product in Michigan with some distribution in Ohio and Indiana. There is no distribution in Canada. This is Variety Foods Inc. first ever voluntary recall in our 75 year history. As a precaution to our loyal customers and their well being we are issuing this voluntary recall. Integrity, character and customer responsibility will remain that fabric of our company as nuts will remain a symbol of good health. Customers shouldn't consume Natural Raw Whole Brown Almonds in the Pic-A-Nut and Sunray package. Customers who purchased products with these best before dates/code dates should return the product to Variety Foods Inc. for a full refund of the purchase price plus postage if mailed to Variety Foods Inc. Consumers who have questions about the recall may call Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. EST time toll free at 800-842-1222. Sincerely, ################## |