The recall, affecting over 7 million pounds of shredded cheese, is a joint effort between the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) and the affected company. Foremost Farms USA, a leading dairy processor, announced the voluntary recall after discovering metal fragments in some of their shredded cheese products.
Recalled Products and Retailers
The affected products include various flavors and sizes of shredded cheese sold at Aldi, Target, and Walmart stores across the country. The FSIS has identified specific product codes and batch numbers that are subject to the recall. Consumers are advised to check the packaging of their shredded cheese for any of the following codes: 3022201111, 3022201112, and 3022201113.
Customers can contact Foremost Farms USA directly to determine if their purchased products are part of the recall. The company has established a special hotline for consumer inquiries and concerns. The hotline number is 1-877-312-3334.
Consumer Safety and Action
The FSIS stressed that consumers should not consume any of the affected shredded cheese products due to the risk of metal fragments. Instead, consumers are advised to return the products to the store where they were purchased for a full refund.
Parents and caregivers are particularly warned to check their households for any of the recalled products, especially in areas where children may be consuming the shredded cheese. The FSIS has also emphasized the importance of proper food handling and storage to prevent any potential foodborne illnesses.
Investigation and Response
The FSIS is investigating the cause of the metal fragments in the shredded cheese products. Foremost Farms USA has stated that they are cooperating fully with the investigation and are taking corrective measures to prevent any similar incidents in the future.
The recall is an example of the ongoing efforts by regulatory agencies and food manufacturers to ensure the safety and quality of the food supply. The FSIS encourages consumers to report any food safety concerns or suspicions to the FSIS Consumer Complaint Coordination Center at 1-888-MPH-3339.
In the meantime, consumers are urged to remain vigilant and check their purchases for any of the recalled products. The recall is a timely reminder of the importance of proper food handling, storage, and consumption.
By taking proactive steps to ensure food safety, we can prevent foodborne illnesses and protect our communities. The recall is a success story in food safety and a testament to the collaborative efforts of regulatory agencies, food manufacturers, and consumers.
As the investigation continues, consumers are advised to stay informed and follow any further guidance from regulatory agencies and food manufacturers.
By prioritizing food safety and quality, we can build trust in the food supply and ensure the well-being of our communities.