Why food recalls are increasing
E. coli, metal and even a dead bat have been found in recalled foods. In fact, food recalls are increasing. Still, this could actually be a good sign. Here's why.
Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
The Centers for Disease Control announced Thursday that it has expanded its recall of sausage products due to salmonella contamination, including a new brand sold at Costco.
The CDC said the recall has been expanded to include all lots of “Busseto Foods Charcuterie Sampler” sold at Sam's Club. Originally, a lot code was recalled and all lots sold at Costco were added to the “Fratelli Beretta Brand Antipasto Gran Beretta.”
The CDC said the outbreak resulted in 23 new illnesses and five new hospitalizations, bringing the total to 47 and 10, respectively, in 22 states. The center warned that these numbers were likely undercounts.
The illnesses associated with the Fratelli Beretta brand were discovered by the Washington State Department of Health.
The CDC recommends throwing away all packaging of affected products and washing all surfaces that came into contact with the packaging with hot water and soap.
Which items are affected?
CDC investigators are investigating any additional items that may be affected by the recall. Currently the recall includes:
Charcuterie Sampler from Busseto
- Has prosciutto, sweet soppressata and dry coppa
- Sold at Sam's Club
- Comes in a double pack (2 x 9 ounces)
- Any batch code
Antipasto Gran Beretta from Fratelli Beretta
- Includes Black Pepper Coated Dry Salami, Italian Dry Salami, Dry Coppa and Prosciutto
- Sold at Costco
- Comes in a twin pack (2 x 12 ounces)
- Any batch code
Symptoms and treatment of salmonella disease
According to the FDA, salmonella is a bacteria that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, the frail or elderly, and others with weakened immune systems. Signs of salmonella poisoning include:
- Bloody diarrhea or diarrhea that lasts more than three days and shows no improvement
- Diarrhea and fever over 102 degrees Fahrenheit
- Excessive vomiting, especially if it prevents you from keeping fluids down
- Signs of dehydration, including dry mouth and throat, infrequent peeing, and feeling dizzy when standing up
- Stomach cramps
These symptoms most commonly occur between six hours and six days after exposure. Although most people recover within four to seven days, people with weakened immune systems, including children under five and adults over 65, may experience more serious symptoms that require medical treatment or hospitalization.