Hundreds of thousands of pounds of frozen chicken nuggets have been recalled by Perdue Foods due to concerns of metal fragment contamination. The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) made the announcement on Friday, revealing that approximately 167,000 pounds of frozen nuggets could potentially contain “foreign materials, specifically metal.”
The recall was initiated after customers reported finding “metal wire embedded in the product.” Following the complaints, the agency discovered that the contaminated goods were produced on March 23rd. While no injuries or illnesses have been reported thus far, the FSIS expressed concern that some of the products might still be in consumers’ freezers.
In a statement, Perdue’s senior vice president of food safety and quality, Jeff Shaw, explained that the material in question was a thin strand of metal wire that was accidentally introduced during the manufacturing process. As a precautionary measure, Perdue decided to voluntarily recall all packages of the affected products.
The recalled Perdue products can be identified by the plant number “P-33944” and “Best if Used By” dates of March 23, 2025. Three specific products were included in the recall: the 22-ounce plastic package of Perdue Simply Smart Organics Breaded Chicken Breast Nuggets, the 29-ounce package of Perdue Chicken Breast Tenders, and the 22-ounce package of Butcherbox Organic Chicken Breast Nuggets. These products were all manufactured in the same plant on the same day.
Consumers are urged to carefully check their freezers for these specific packages and avoid consuming the product if found. Instead, they should either dispose of it, return it to the point of purchase, or contact Perdue at 866-866-3703 for a refund.
Food recalls like this one highlight the importance of rigorous quality control measures in the food manufacturing industry. Accidental contamination can potentially pose serious health risks to consumers. By promptly recalling the affected products and providing refunds, Perdue is demonstrating a commitment to consumer safety and satisfaction. It is crucial for consumers to stay informed about such recalls and take appropriate action to protect themselves and their families.
This incident also emphasizes the need for continued vigilance in the food industry to prevent contamination. Manufacturers should regularly assess their production processes and implement measures to minimize the risk of foreign materials entering their products. Ongoing training and quality control checks can help identify and address potential issues before they lead to widespread recalls.
For consumers, it is advisable to regularly check for product recalls and stay updated on any safety concerns related to the food they consume. The FSIS and other regulatory bodies play a crucial role in monitoring and ensuring the safety of the food supply chain. By promptly reporting any issues or concerns, consumers contribute to the overall integrity of the food industry and help protect themselves and others from potential harm.
In conclusion, the recall of Perdue Foods’ frozen chicken nuggets due to metal fragment contamination serves as a reminder of the importance of quality control in the food manufacturing industry. Consumers should stay vigilant, check for recalls, and take appropriate action to ensure their safety.
