Schreiber Foods Inc., a Wisconsin-based dairy company, has recalled over 800,000 units of cream cheese products due to potential salmonella contamination. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published a notice about the recall, stating that the affected products were sold at major retailers such as Hy Vee, Kroger, and Piggly Wiggly. Other retailers that sold the contaminated cream cheese include Dutch Farms, Fareway, Happy Farms, Our Family, Schnuck, Essential Everyday, and Dunkin.
The FDA classified the recall as a Class II, which means that it could cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences. Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause various symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, fever, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Most people recover from an infection within a week without any treatment. However, certain individuals, such as infants, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, are more susceptible to severe infections that may require hospitalization.
In rare cases, salmonella can lead to more severe complications, such as infections in the blood, joints, nervous system, brain or spinal fluid, and urinary tract. These complications can be life-threatening and may require immediate medical attention. Additionally, some people may develop reactive arthritis or experience eye irritation and pain during urination after a salmonella infection.
This recall comes in the midst of another salmonella outbreak in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that cucumbers contaminated with salmonella bacteria are believed to be responsible for an outbreak across 25 states and Washington, D.C. Fresh Start Produce, a Florida company, recalled whole cucumbers shipped to certain states between May 17 and May 21 after testing detected salmonella in one of their cucumbers.
As of now, 162 illnesses have been reported in connection with this outbreak, with 54 individuals requiring hospitalization. The CDC is conducting further testing to determine if the strain of salmonella found in the cucumber is the same one causing the outbreak. Consumers are advised not to consume the recalled cucumbers and should check with the store where they purchased them to see if they are part of the recall.
In addition to these recalls, there was also a recent alert by the FDA regarding black pepper. UBC Food Distributors of Dearborn, Michigan, recalled Baraka Ground Black Pepper sold nationwide due to a salmonella risk.
It is important for consumers to stay informed about these recalls and take the necessary precautions to avoid consuming contaminated products. Washing items and surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled products with hot, soapy water or using a dishwasher is recommended. By staying vigilant and following these guidelines, individuals can protect themselves and their families from potential health risks associated with salmonella contamination.
